“The true beauty of music is that it connects people.” – Roy Ayers
Truer words have never been spoken! Music connects people, and it is part of what makes Scenic Highway 30A in Northwest Florida so unique and well-loved. Not only does this Emerald Coast paradise boast some of the best beaches in the country and the most incredible views in the world, it also brings people together through a variety of live music venues and events. Strangers become friends when you’ve experienced the joy of live music together!
Whether you’re a visitor or local of 30A, knowing where to enjoy live music is key to elevating your 30A experience. Check out this guide of local music venues, large music venues, and popular events so you can start enjoying the live music on 30A ASAP.
Local Music Venues
AJ’s Grayton Beach
Located in Grayton Beach, AJ’s is a restaurant that combines a diverse menu, live music, and laid-back atmosphere. The menu features fresh seafood and American cuisine, while patrons can also choose their favorite drink from the full bar. Offering a number of music events, live music is an integral part of the restaurant’s upbeat vibe. AJ’s hosts Karaoke Night on Tuesdays, Open Mic Night on Sundays, and live music most nights. Come for the food, stay for the entertainment!
Edward’s Fine Food & Wine
Edward’s Fine Food & Wine is an upscale fine dining establishment in the prolific Rosemary Beach. This restaurant features an incredible menu of dishes made with fresh seafood and local ingredients, as well as over 100 wines. What makes this hotspot stand out above the rest? Live music is featured in the outdoor seating area almost nightly, especially during the summer peak season. Good food, fine wine, and live music has never looked better!
Grayton Beer Brewpub
Local beer and live music…yes, please! Grayton Beer Brewpub is a restaurant, bar, and brewery located in Grayton Beach. The brewpub includes indoor and outdoor seating, three bars, and a delicious bar menu. It also offers live music, so patrons can take advantage of the lively atmosphere while popping open a cold one.
Local Catch Bar & Grill
Local Catch Bar & Grill is a 30A staple. The Blue Mountain Beach restaurant features mouthwatering dishes that combine Baja and Creole influences. With different daily specials, you’ll have to come back time and time again to try it all! Live music adds to the already catchy atmosphere of this bar and grill. Specifically, the Local Catch Bar & Grill hosts Sunday Funday every week, where visitors can fill their bellies and tap their toes between 4 and 7pm! Sunday Funday features Forrest Williams Band and, occasionally, other local bands. Don’t miss out on this weekly tradition!
NEAT
Located in Alys Beach, NEAT is a tasting room for visitors to discover handcrafted beverages, draft beers, wines, and specialty cocktails. Of course, a wine tasting is always better with music. That is why NEAT provides a Tuesday Wine and Song Nights from 5-7pm. These events showcase select wines paired with live music for a truly enchanting experience.
Redfish Taco
Get your taco and live music fix in one place! Redfish Taco is located in Blue Mountain Beach. It offers a gourmet taco menu, in addition to margaritas. As it is only steps from the beach, it is easy to hop on over to this joint and grab your favorite taco and drink. Live music is featured almost every night, making it a fun spot to enjoy with your crew after a day at the beach.
Pescado Seafood Grill and Rooftop Bar
Fresh seafood, phenomenal beach views, and live music are what Pescado Seafood Grill and Rooftop Bar are all about. This restaurant sits overlooking the sugary coastline of the Gulf, providing breathtaking views for patrons. The menu of fresh seafood, high-end wines, and craft cocktails simply add to the luxurious atmosphere. Pescado Seafood Grill and Rooftop bar hosts a weekly Sunday Brunch, which includes a combination of delicious food, mimosas, and live music. Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome to come and enjoy the party!
Large Music Venues
Seaside Amphitheater
The Seaside Amphitheater is located in exquisite Seaside, a small town that is famous for its quintessential coastal village look and its prominence as the setting of the Truman Show. The amphitheater is considered one of the hottest spots for outdoor events in South Walton, according to annual surveys. The sloping lawn faces a large stage, so you can see the stage and enjoy the music no matter where you sit. Grab a bench or lawn chair, picnic blanket, your friends and family, and be prepared to have a good time.
The Gully Amphitheater
Conveniently situated in Gulf Place on 30A, the Gulley Amphitheater is a large outdoor venue that is home to a variety of annual festivals and music concerts. With a lush lawn and tropical setting, there is no better place to enjoy a live music event than this coastal amphitheater.
Boathouse at WaterColor
The Boathouse located in WaterColor near Western Lake provides an incredible outdoor setting for outdoor events. This large venue not only offers outdoor movie events and plays, but also live music and concerts for 30A visitors and locals to enjoy. In 2017, the Boathouse even hosted a 30A Sessions concert, which featured Lady Antebellum.
Live Music Events
30A Songwriters Festival
The 30A Songwriters Festival will be celebrating its eleventh year in January 2020! This musical event is set among multiple music venues on 30A. It brings over 175 artists from around the world, who share their musical talents in lively and colorful performances all weekend long. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County to support those pursuing the arts. Don’t miss this awesome opportunity to hear amazing artists and fill your soul with live music!
Seabreeze Jazz Festival
Although not located on 30A, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival is a fun annual music event that has been celebrating smooth jazz for over 20 years. The festival is held at Pier Park in Panama City Beach – just down the road from 30A. Event activities include jazz cruises, nightly performances, and more. Set to take place in April of 2020, this is a great event that you don’t want to skip!
Well, what do you think – are you ready to dance to some live music on 30A? Be sure to check out these venues and events, or find other live music hotspots along 30A! And if you haven’t already, be sure to book your stay at one of our South Walton vacation rentals.
