When everyday life starts to become routine, it may be time for your next exciting getaway. If a trip to paradise is on your bucket list, then you need to visit Santa Rosa Beach, FL! This tropical oasis boasts some of the most beautiful sugar-white beaches in the world, boundless recreation, and a variety of amazing restaurants. The best part? It’s only a four and a half hour drive from New Orleans! Here’s what you need to know about traveling from New Orleans to Santa Rosa Beach.

If you are planning a trip from New Orleans to Santa Rosa Beach, you’re in luck - the journey is just as wonderful as the destination! Be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide to learn about the best attractions in Santa Rosa Beach. It’s filled with local tips about where to eat, what to see, and things to do during your stay!

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Your Guide to Traveling From New Orleans to Santa Rosa Beach

The route from New Orleans to Santa Rosa Beach is just 4 hours and 23 minutes via I-10 E. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront views as you wind past bays, bayous, and rivers along the way. The 293-mile route also takes you past the scenic Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge and through Mobile, Alabama. This is a great halfway point to stop for lunch and refuel. If you enjoy French cuisine, we recommend stopping by Dauphins in Mobile. Their Shrimp Creole is to die for! If you prefer to grab a quick bite to eat, Pizzeria Delphina is another excellent choice. From pizza and sandwiches to pasta and seafood, there are a wide variety of tasty options to choose from.

After a delicious meal in Mobile, make sure you stop by the USS Alabama WWII battleship in the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. This impressive warship is right down the road from Mobile and on your way to Santa Rosa Beach. Also nicknamed “The Heroine of the Pacific,” the 45,000-ton battleship was awarded nine Battle Stars during its time at sea. Whether you are traveling solo or with your friends and family, this historic landmark is a must-see! Once you get back on the road, the rest of the drive to Santa Rosa Beach goes by in the blink of an eye. When you begin to see sugar-white beaches and palm-lined roads, you have officially arrived in paradise!

Things to Do in Santa Rosa Beach, FL

When it comes to vacations in Santa Rosa Beach, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is what to do first. If you are ready to hit the beaches, there are endless ways to have fun on the water. Dive into the Gulf, shred some waves, or go on a thrilling paddleboarding excursion through the coastal dune lakes. Or, perhaps you’d like to visit one of the spas. There’s nothing like a soothing massage to help you unwind after a day on the road.

When you start to work up an appetite, head over to one of the world-class restaurants for a savory meal. Then, take your time browsing through the one-of-a-kind boutique shops and art galleries in town. When the sun sinks low into the horizon, gather around a beach bonfire and roast s’mores while you recount the day’s memories. Or, go to one of the beach bars for a fun night of drinks, dancing, and music. With so many exciting things to do in Santa Rosa Beach, the possibilities are endless. You won’t see it all in one day!

Where to Stay in Santa Rosa Beach

From oceanfront condos to spacious retreats, Royal Destination has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. Our luxurious vacation rentals feature top-notch amenities and are just minutes from the best attractions on Santa Rosa Beach. With stunning Gulf-front views, 644 Blue Mountain Road is the ideal choice for your stay. This idyllic beach cottage has been fully remodeled and offers direct beach access. If you are traveling with the whole family, Forever Grateful is another excellent choice. No detail has been overlooked in this spectacular Gulf-front home, which can comfortably accommodate 26.

While the beach is amazing, the time that you spend with your loved ones is what matters the most. Our experienced staff is dedicated to providing excellent service to ensure that your trip is an unforgettable one. We take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your time together! Contact us today to start planning your South Walton beach vacation. We can’t wait to hear about the adventures you had along the way!