Santa Rosa Beach/Gulf Breeze/Panama City Beach
So, for now, several years out, I think we have narrowed our choices to the following. My prediction is we end up in SRB, but there are good arguments for each location, not to mention areas around these locations. Below is a quick overview, but will also post about each place with more depth.
Santa Rosa Beach - This is currently our top choice. The main reason is that it appears to provide the best lifestyle. The nature in the area is beautiful and vast…. Point Washington State Forest, Bays, Bayou, lakes, ocean and the pristine areas like Seaside.
Gulf Breeze - the location is awesome. It is between the Sound and the Bay. Beaches are 15 minutes away. It is close to Pensacola Downtown and within an hour or two you have tons of options ranging from Orange Beach to 30A.
Panama City Beach - The main upside to PCB is that for our budget, we have the opportunity to be closest to the beach. Instead of 15 minutes or so, we could be at the beach in 5 minutes. Also, similar to GB above, a yard with a pool would not be out of the question and it close to 30A, St Andrews, and other beautiful nature. While Santa Rosa Beach would be top choice if we can find the perfect home in our price range, Panama City Beach (west) allows easy access to the east end of 30A and its closer to springs. It’s the top choice part B - more likely to find a home we like in our price range.