What to do when the beach is too cold?
When you think of 30A/Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, your mind might immediately go to sugar-white sands and turquoise waters, but what happens when the winter chill sets in? Believe it or not, the Emerald Coast offers just as much charm and excitement during the offseason. While it may be a little too cold for a swim, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are my top five favorite things to do on 30A and in Destin during the winter months.
1. Experience the Live Music Scene
One of the best things about the 30A area is the abundance of live music. Even during the offseason, local restaurants and venues host talented artists. One of my personal favorites is Stinky’s Bait Shack on 30A, which offers live music almost every night. They’ve even added a comedy night, which is a fun twist! Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the live music scene because the crowds are smaller, making it more intimate and relaxing. Be sure to check out other local venues and support the incredible artists in our community.
2. Explore the State Parks
30A and Destin are home to some of the most beautiful state parks, and winter is the ideal time to explore them. My personal favorite is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, which is close to where I live. With hiking trails, bike paths, and even camping options, there’s so much to do here. The cooler weather makes it perfect for outdoor adventures with your furry friend or a leisurely bike ride. Pro tip: Locals can purchase an annual state park pass for unlimited access throughout the year. Whether you’re a resident or visiting, these parks are a must-see during the offseason.
State Park site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/topsail-hill-preserve-state-park
3. Attend Seasonal Events
The winter months bring a variety of unique events to the Emerald Coast. One highlight is the 30A Songwriters Festival held every January. This multi-day festival features incredible live performances by artists from all over. Having worked at this event in the past, I can say firsthand how special it is! Beyond the festival, there are Christmas markets, holiday shows, and more. This year, I attended a beautiful Christmas show at The Henderson in Destin, and it was magical. Each year, the number of events continues to grow, so keep an eye on local event calendars like 30A.com and Destin’s event page to plan your winter activities.
30A EVENTS
Events Along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A
DESTIN EVENTS
4. Visit Farmers Markets
If you love strolling through farmers markets, winter is the perfect time to visit. Unlike the busy summer months, the offseason brings cooler weather and much easier parking. Some of my favorite markets include those in Rosemary Beach and Grand Boulevard. From fresh produce to local artisan goods, there’s always something new to discover. I try to make it to a market almost every week during the winter because it’s such a relaxing and enjoyable experience. I’ll link my favorite farmers market locations below for you to check out.
5. Host or Attend a Beach Bonfire
Beach bonfires are a quintessential winter activity on 30A. There’s nothing like gathering around a warm fire with friends and family while enjoying the sound of the waves. My mom and I, as part of Sea Haus Realty, host an annual bonfire for our past clients, and it’s always a highlight of the season. If you want to host your own bonfire, you can either purchase a permit from Walton County or hire a company to set everything up for you. Be sure to plan ahead, as permits are limited. It’s a cozy and memorable way to enjoy the beach, even in the cooler months.
Final Thoughts
Winter on the Emerald Coast has its own unique charm, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. Whether you’re into live music, outdoor adventures, local markets, or cozy bonfires, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. are happy to help.
For more information on the activities mentioned, check out the links below:
