With sparkling turquoise waters and endless white sand beaches, the beach lover’s paradise of South Walton along Highway 30A (the strip of coastal highway from Destin to Panama City, FL) has plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy your summer vacation by doing absolutely nothing at all. And while absolutely no one would judge you for whiling away the summer days on a secluded strip of sand perfecting your tan and finishing that novel you’ve been putting off for far too long, there is a whole lot more to this magical strip of coastline than lazy beach days. The summer is truly when things heat up here on the Emerald Coast, and you won’t want to miss a minute of it.
Fat Tuesday
Every Tuesday throughout the summer (May 29 – August 14) the Harbor Walk Village turns into the Big Easy. A weekly parade of vibrantly colored floats, flamboyant costumes, and street performers brings this seaside village to life. Make sure to grab your beads and sample a famous Hurricane cocktail while you enjoy the live entertainment on the main stage!
Smoke on the Water BBQ Festival
The ultimate gathering of barbecue aficionados, connoisseur carnivores, and smoker savants, this fundraiser features the region’s most mouth-watering cuisine, prepared as you’ve never seen it before. The 8th annual festival will be held July 3, 2018, in Destin, Florida and will feature 19 different charity/local chef partnerships, each competing for the title of People’s Choice and Judge’s Pick. Attendees get to sample all the delicious BBQ-inspired fare, casting their vote and licking their fingers (hopefully not in that order). The event wraps up with a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf, and promises to be a night to remember.
4th of July Celebration
Destin Harbor continues the festivities on Independence Day with live music, food vendors, and beer gardens. The fun starts at 7pm and concludes with an electric fireworks display over the water, complete with accompanying music. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and bring the family!
Rivard of South Walton is the premier provider of vacation homes, beach bungalows, and cabin retreats on the Emerald Coast, with plenty of selection and incredible value up and down the South Walton coastline. Perfectly located in the heart of this beach paradise, staying in one of our fully-furnished and comfortable homes will immediately show you why South Walton isn’t just a destination, it’s a lifestyle. Browse our listings and make your reservation for the summer season, today!
