Summer Kick-Off on the Emerald Coast

Imagine the breathtaking beauty of the Emerald Coast, where golden sunshine, soft sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters create the perfect backdrop for heartfelt memories. Start planning your Summer getaway today and choose from a variety of incredible destinations and must-see events and activities.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun, the Emerald Coast serves up an unforgettable start to your Summer.

 

The Perfect Time to Visit the Emerald Coast

Perfectly poised between Spring's gentle breezes and Summer's vibrant rays, May and June open the door to an enchanting shoulder season getaway. From lively Gulf-front celebrations to an array of kid-friendly activities, this golden season presents a unique opportunity to enjoy pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and a variety of attractions.

Kick Off Summer with These Must-See Events and Activities

May 2025


May 3
13th Annual Paddle at the Park

Hosted in Fort Walton Beach, the 13th Annual Paddle at the Park is a popular event that invites stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts to compete while celebrating Henderson Beach State Park’s natural beauty.

 

May 3 – 4
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival 

The 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival will take place on May 3-4, 2025, featuring over 100 juried artists, $10,000 in prizes, interactive art exhibits, live music, and activities for all ages.

 

May 12 – 17
Florida Jeep Jam

Get ready for the 10th Annual Florida Jeep Jam in Panama City Beach from May 12-17, 2025, where over 2,000 Jeeps will gather for thrilling obstacle courses, scenic off-road excursions, iconic beach crawls, and a parade of accessorized Jeeps along the stunning white sands.

 

May 20
Bubbly Baytowne

The 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival will take place on May 3-4, 2025, featuring over 100 juried artists, $10,000 in prizes, interactive art exhibits, live music, and activities for all ages.

 

May 16 – 17
Digital Graffiti Festival

The Digital Graffiti Festival in Alys Beach is a unique event where global digital artists transform the town's pristine white walls into luminous canvases, celebrating innovation in visual storytelling for an immersive art and technology experience.

 

May 16 – 18
Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

Arg, brace yourselves for a swashbucklin' weekend as a fearsome crew of pirates is takin' over Fort Walton Beach with grand battle reenactments, celebratory fireworks, and a Torchlight Parade down Eglin Parkway.

 

May 24 – 25
Memorial Day Celebration

Kick off your Summer with a family-friendly Memorial Day Celebration at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, featuring live music all weekend, fun activities for kids on Sunday, and an exciting fireworks show!

 

June 2025

June 16
Topsail Hill Preserve Guided Plant Walk

Join Master Gardener Bill Kuenstler for a free Guided Plant Stroll at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, starting at Tram Stop #2—free with regular park admission!

 

June 18 – 22
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

The 23rd annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, hosted at the renowned Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort during the peak of the Gulf Coast's blue marlin season, promises to set a new standard for world-class sportfishing tournaments.

 

June 25 – 28
Bay Point Billfish Open

Cast your line and experience the excitement of the Bay Point Billfish Open, the premier sportfishing tournament located at Point South Marina in Bay Point, featuring delicious food, lively music, and thrilling fishing adventures.

 

Reoccurring Events – Emerald Coast Summer 2025

 

First Friday of the Month
30A Art Walk

The 30A Art Walk, held at the charming art galleries of Seaside and Grayton Beach, offers a perfect opportunity to explore unique creations by local artists, engage with the creators themselves, and enjoy a delightful evening filled with vibrant community spirit.

 

Every Sunday
30A Farmers Market

The 30A Farmers Market, open year-round from 9 AM to 1 PM at 28 N. Barrett Square, is the sweetest little Sunday tradition, where you can stroll through and discover fresh produce, homemade goodies, and charming local finds—making it the perfect way to start your Sunday!

 

Saturdays, May 23 – August 9
Summer Lawn Games

Get ready for unforgettable evenings at Grand Park, where you can gather the whole family to enjoy Summer Lawn Games featuring activities like corn hole, giant lawn chess, checkers, and more, from 5 PM to 8:30 PM every evening starting May 23.

 

Summer Rental Availability

Stay with 360 Blue to experience the ultimate Summer escape along the stunning Emerald Coast. Our luxurious vacation homes provide the perfect home base with exciting local events and activities happening all season long. It’s time to start planning your dream getaway and create lasting memories!

 

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