Eden Gardens State Park

While we were staying in Miramar Beach, we met up with Barb, her son Nick, and their sweet dog Rocky for a visit to Eden Gardens State Park in Santa Rosa, FL. As soon as you start wandering the grounds, you come across the Wesley House—a beautifully restored 1897 mansion that’s open for tours. Sadly, we showed up on a day it was closed, but the staff was busy decking the place out for Christmas, so at least we got a little peek at their holiday magic in progress.

The park has about a mile of easy walking paths, and we took our time exploring them. Along the way we found a pretty fountain, peaceful water views, and what felt like miles of dreamy Spanish moss dripping from the trees. The gardens are filled with camellias and azaleas, and Barb told us they host a big camellia festival in February when everything is in full bloom. Since we’re planning to be back on the Gulf Coast around that time, we’re really hoping to return and see the place all dressed up in flowers.