Get ready for stars, stripes and sunshine along the Emerald Coast! With beautiful beach days and evenings filled with fireworks shows, these coastal communities offer numerous restaurants, events and activities to enjoy over the holiday weekend. Here’s everything you need to know for a festive July 4th by the beach!
Where to Watch Fireworks
What’s a July 4th celebration without fireworks?! There are plenty of places along the coast where you can watch them light up the night sky. Here are a few locations where you can catch a spectacular show:
The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Celebrate July 4th in Sandestin with Red, White & Baytowne from 7pm to 9:15pm. This free event features live music from Donovan Keith on the Events Plaza Stage followed by a fireworks display that will light up the sky at 9:15pm. There will also be activities for kids including crafts, face painting and balloon sculpting.
Destin Commons. Kick off the holiday on July 3rd with the 10th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival at Destin Commons, which benefits local charities. Family-fun activities and live music will start at 5pm and the barbecue tasting will begin at 5:30pm. Enjoy $1 samples from the area’s best restaurants and BBQ groups and vote for your favorite as the People’s Choice winner! The event will conclude with an Independence Day firework extravaganza.
Destin Harbor. These fireworks will be set off from the West Jetties Beach and will start at 9pm. You’ll have the best view from Norriego Point!
Seaside. Looking for a show along 30A? These festive fireworks are set off from a barge in the Gulf of Mexico and can be seen from Seaside’s beach or events stage.
Where to Eat
Fuel up for your patriotic parties with some of the area’s best cuisine! From seafood and sweets to breakfast favorites and everything in between, the Gulf Coast is home to numerous restaurants that the whole family will enjoy.
Airstream Row in Seaside. If you’re looking for some casual fare along 30A, check out these Airstream trailers in Seaside. Nothing says 4th of July like a hot dog and Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs serves up some of the best! You can also cool down with a red, white and blue shave ice from Frostbites. Other favorites include The Meltdown on 30A, Mr. Gyro Hero, Crêpe du Soleil, The Green Stream and Barefoot BBQ.
Sunset Bay Café. This breakfast and lunch spot is located within the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. Enjoy gorgeous views of the Choctawhatchee Bay as you indulge in Eggs Benedicts, Blackberry Waffles, Shrimp & Grits and other delicious dishes. As one of our Added Fun Partners, My Vacation Haven guests will receive 10% off their meal at Sunset Bay Cafe. It’s a tasty way to kick off the July 4th festivities!
Vue on 30A. A trip to the coast calls for beachside dining! Voted “The Best Place to Watch a Sunset” by Destin Magazine, Vue on 30A serves up stunning views along with mouthwatering dishes available on their brunch, lunch and dinner menus. MVH guests will receive one complimentary featured cocktail or glass of wine up to $10 with purchase of entrée. Cheers to a wonderful July 4th!
The Village Door Restaurant. Enjoy a tasty meal before the fireworks in Sandestin at Village Door. This premier seafood and barbecue restaurant boasts a comfortable atmosphere on the bay, friendly staff, delicious drinks, great food and live music every day. As a My Vacation Haven guest, you can receive a free entrée with the purchase of two adult entrées.
What to Do
Whether you’re visiting over July 4th weekend or a different time of year, there is always a vast selection activities that both kids and adults will love. Here are a few ways to spend your vacation days:
Relax by the beach.
Have a backyard barbecue at your vacation rental.
Enjoy a pool day (these vacation rentals have private pools!).
Go for a bike ride and see the patriotic decorations around town.
Beach bonfire with s’mores, of course.
Take a walk along the beach at sunset.
Stand up paddle boarding.
Rent a pontoon boat and visit Crab Island. July 4th is one of the busiest days, which makes for a lively celebration!
Enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment for the whole family at The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin.
Are you ready to pack your red, white and blue clothing and celebrate Independence Day along the coast? From Destin to 30A, My Vacation Haven can help you find the perfect place to stay over the holiday weekend. We have a variety of homes and condos just steps away from the patriotic events. Give us a call at 850-608-6078 and our friendly team will be happy to assist you!