I visited a beach town in Florida’s ‘Hamptons of the South.’ It felt charmingly European, but I found better spots nearby.

• Rosemary Beach is in the 30A region of Florida’s panhandle that’s becoming a beloved tourist spot.
• The town is known for its cobblestone streets and European vibes. I found it charming but pricey.
• I’d return, but Rosemary Beach wouldn’t be the first place I’d want to stay in 30A.

Although I’ve lived in Florida for many years, I only recently visited Rosemary Beach.

It’s known for its distinctly European feel with its gas street lamps, cobblestone streets, outdoor cafés, and colonial-inspired architecture. It’s also one of many towns in 30A, the beach-filled stretch between Panama City and Destin that many call “the Hamptons of the South.”

But although the area reminded me of Cannes or Florence, it wasn’t the highlight of my trip to 30A.