Mary Esther Real Estate > Mary Esther Community Info

In 1842, Jesse Rogers and his family became Mary Esther's first settlers when they drove a cattle herd from Louisiana to the shores of Santa Rosa Sound. During the following decade, a minister and teacher, John Newton, also settled in the area and established a school and a post office. The city is said to get its name from some combination of Newton's wife and daughters' names.

Residents of Mary Esther have access to plentiful recreation and entertainment opportunities, from all of the activities the water has to offer to BBQs in one of the city's 10 parks to a visit to the many attractions in the surrounding area. Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park in Destin, for example, offers thrills for people of all ages, from three mini-golf courses to three high-thrill rides. More subdued fun can be had at the Destin History & Fishing Museum, which explores the Gulf of Mexico, or at the Emerald Coast Science Center, which is a children's fantasy museum of science.

Everyone will also love the opportunity to view alligators for free at Gator Beach – you can view over 100 alligators and even feed them, all in a safe environment. Another popular attraction is Gulfarium, a marine park that houses a number of fascinating marine creatures and provides a gulf-side view of their antics! As this area is home to many military installments, the U.S. Air Force Armament Museum may also be of keen interest to visitors and residents alike.

From the 24 miles of pristine beaches to the feeling of contentment that easily envelops a newcomer, Mary Esther and surrounding communities offer only the best of life!