Spring Awakenings: April Adventures Along 30A, Santa Rosa Beach & Miramar Beach

As April arrives, the Emerald Coast shines like a gem waiting to be discovered. This spring, 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, and Miramar Beach promise to be spectacular, with their blossoming landscapes and pleasant Gulf breezes. Here are several reasons to visit in April, along with some things to do while you’re there!

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1. The Canvas of Nature Comes to Life

April turns 30A into a haven for artists. Sand dunes caressed by golden sunlight and lush flora frame the glittering turquoise waters. Take a stroll at one of the numerous state parks in the region, such Topsail Hill Preserve, where nature is in full bloom, or explore beautiful bike trails.

2. Highlights of the Season to Enjoy

As families prepare for summer, listen for the final hints of spring break excitement and the first sounds of more sedate getaways. Local gatherings that include food, entertainment, and live music outside include the Sandestin Wine Festival at Miramar Beach and Seaside’s monthly farmer’s market. Check out 5Tides for upcoming events and undiscovered treasures!

3. The Best Beaches Await – See our Blog Post about the Best Beaches on 30A

• Grayton Beach: A tranquil and rustic treasure, this beach features pristine white sand, glistening waves, and a relaxed vibe. Paddleboarding, kayaking, or just lounging in the sun are all excellent uses for it.
• Santa Rosa Beach: Known for its pristine shores and vibrant beach town vibes, this spot offers a little bit of everything—calm waters for families, chic dining spots, and vibrant art galleries nearby.
• Seaside Beach: Known for its pastel-colored homes and distinctive pavilions, the Watercolor and Seaside neighborhoods are as lovely as they come. Steps away, take a leisurely stroll along its shores or explore the bustling town plaza.
• Miramar Beach: This energetic beach is a mecca for thrill-seekers. It’s a water sports enthusiast’s delight, offering everything from parasailing to jet skiing.

4. Top Things to do by Date

April 1 (April Fool’s)

• Red Bar Jazz Band from 5:30 to 9:00pm at the Historic Red Bar at Grayton Beach. They perform Tuesdays through Saturdays in April.
• Huck & Lilly perform Live at the Seaside Amphitheater from 5:00 to 6:00pm – Bring a lawn chair or blanket, snacks and drinks, or visit one of the many shops and Airstream food trucks all around. Show is free to all ages. They perform Tuesdays and Thursdays in April.

April 2

• Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series from 7:00 to 9:00pm at the Village of Baytowne Wharf.  Event happens every Wednesday.  Brina a lawn chair or a blanket.

April 3

• Grand Boulevard Lawn Games from 5:00 to 8:30pm at Grand Boulevard Mall in Sandestin, FL. This event runs every Friday and Saturday in April through Friday, April 25.

April 5

• Grand Boulevard Farmer’s Market from 9:00am to 1:00pm on April 5 at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin.  This event runs every Saturday in April.
• Seaside Farmers Market from 9:00am to 1:00pm at the Seaside Amphitheater.  This event runs every Saturday in April.
• DeFuniak Springs Farmers Market from 8:00 to 12:00pm at Baldwin Avenue in DeFuniak Springs. This event runs every Saturday in April.

April 6

• Watersound Block Party from 2:00 to 6:00pm at the Watersound Town Center Pavilion.  The event features live music, face painting, balloon artists, a phot booth, and lawn games.
• SeaLight Festival – Located at Seascape Resort in Mirarmar Beach, FL. Thjis outdoor walk showcases over a thousand Chinese lanterns. Tickets need to be purchased at sealightfestival.com. This experience lasts about 45 minutes. Parking is $6. This event is open Thursday’s through Sunday through April 13, 2025.

April 9

• Seaside Rep Theater presents Snow White at Augustine Green in Rosemary Beach from 6:00 to 7:00pm. This event happens every Wednesday in April.

April 11-12

• Sandestin Wine Festival Grand Tasting from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Friday, April 11 and 1:00 to 4:00pm on Saturday, April 12.  Located at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Event information can be found here. Tickets are $90-$100 per person.

April 13

• AJ’s at Grayton Beach Brunch and Crawfish Boil from 1:00 to 5:00pm.  Crawfish boil starts at 12:00pm.

April 15

• DJ 30A at Seaside Amphitheater from 4:30 to 6:30pm.

April 17

• Bubbly Baytowne starts at 5:00 to 7:00pm.  Event Sip on sparkling wines while enjoying live entertainment and boutique shopping at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

April 18 – Good Friday

• Good Friday Concert at Alys Beach from 6:00 to 8:00pm at the Alys Beach Amphitheater – Bring chairs or blankets.  Food and beverage is available to purchase.

April 20 – Easter

• Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt at Sandestin – A family-friendly event featuring an Easter egg hunt, live music, kids’ crafts, and interactive games.  Egg Hunt starts at 12:30pm. Located at the Linkside Conference Center.
• Seaside Easter Celebration from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Seaside Amphitheater. Easter Bunny will be there along with live music and activities for the kids.
• Rosemary Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt – Celebrate Easter on Western Green in Rosemary Beach with an egg hunt, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and family activities. Egg hunt starts at 9:45am. Easter Bunny will also be in attendance.

April 21

• Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Guided Plant Walk from 9:00 to 11:00am at Topsail Preserve State Park located at the West End of 30A.

April 24 – 27

• South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival – Held at Grand Boulevard Town Center, this premier event features over 600 wines, gourmet food tastings, and live music. This event runs from 5:00 to 7:00pm on April 24, 5:30 to 8:00pm on April 25, 3:00 to 6:00pm on April 26, and 1:00 to 4:00pm on April 27.

April 28

• Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Spring Golf Classic starts at 8:00am at Eagle Springs Golf.  Shotgun start at 9:00am.  Located at 171 Country Club Ln, Defuniak Springs, FL 32435

5. Dine al fresco with coastal flavors

Whether it’s fresh-caught seafood or Southern-inspired dishes, the 30A region knows how to satisfy your palate.

6. Elevate Your Stay with 5Tides for the Perfect Escape or Vacation Getaway

Allow 5Tides to handle your accommodations. We make your stay in paradise as comfortable as possible, so you can concentrate on what matters most: enjoying the beauty of the Emerald Coast.

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Cheers!

– 5Tides