Nestled along the scenic Highway 30A in Florida, Alys Beach is a hidden gem that transports visitors to another world. With its striking white architecture, cobblestone streets, and lush Mediterranean-inspired landscaping, it feels more like a coastal village in Greece or southern Spain than a beachside town in the U.S.
On a recent visit, we had the pleasure of exploring the intentional and artful landscape design that makes Alys Beach so unique. Every street, courtyard, and plaza is carefully curated with plants that not only enhance the aesthetic but also thrive in Florida’s coastal climate. These selections are both low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, proving that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand.
A Lush Yet Resilient Plant Palette
Alys Beach’s plant choices are a testament to thoughtful design. The landscape is filled with Tuscan Blue Rosemary and Huntington Carpet Rosemary, their fragrant aroma drifting through the air, evoking a sense of relaxation and old-world charm. These plants not only provide a wonderful scent but also require minimal water and care, making them perfect for coastal environments.
Agave plants punctuate the spaces with their sculptural, spiky leaves, adding a striking contrast to the soft textures of succulents and creeping ground covers. Horsetail rush, with its modern, architectural appeal, lines pathways and planter beds, reinforcing the sleek elegance of the town’s design.
Among the larger plantings, olive trees and bamboo add to the Mediterranean feel, offering dappled shade and movement in the breeze. The dwarf silver saw palmetto brings a touch of native Florida, blending seamlessly with the more European-inspired elements.
The Serenity of Water Features
One of the standout features of Alys Beach’s landscape design is the incorporation of water elements. From grand urn fountains to long, narrow reflecting pools, the sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere. These features cool the surrounding areas and provide a tranquil contrast to the bright white buildings and sun-drenched pathways.
A Design That Transports You
Walking through Alys Beach, surrounded by white-washed walls, the scent of rosemary in the air, and the gentle trickle of water nearby, you truly feel transported to another country. The combination of Mediterranean plants, thoughtful hardscaping, and calming water features makes this town a dream destination for landscape lovers.
Our visit to Alys Beach was an inspiring reminder that landscape design can be both beautiful and resilient. With the right plant choices, even coastal environments can cultivate lush, inviting spaces that require minimal maintenance.
If you’re considering incorporating a Mediterranean touch into your own landscape, Prados Landscapes can help bring that vision to life. Inspired by Alys Beach’s design? Let’s create your own low-maintenance, drought-tolerant paradise.
For more inspiration, check out some of our favorite snapshots from the trip below!
