There is so much for you to do in the Sunshine State all year round, but the summer can be hot—what now? You came prepared, with tons of sunscreen, bathing suits, and hot-weather clothes. Still, the triple-digit temperatures are sometimes just too much. We love the long days of sunshine, great sunsets, cool breeze on our faces, and sand between our toes. However, finding summer-friendly activities before you visit the Sunshine State is a must. Check out the top 30A summer activities to beat the heat, stay cool, and have a fun time with your family.
Live Music
One of the best things to do with your friends or family this summer vacation is to listen to some live music outside as you sip on an ice-cold beer, eat fresh seafood, and watch the sun go down over the water. Head to the WaterColor Beach Club to listen to Monday’s live music to start your week off in the right way. Or check out Russ Whitten by the Lake at the Old Florida Fish House to keep the live music vibes going.
On Tuesdays, we love going to Huck and Lily’s Music Performance at the Seaside Amphitheater to support the local community and bring your kids to a family-friendly event. Once that ends, you can head to Red Fish Taco to listen to Casey Kearney Band or the Red Bar Jazz Band at the local just down the street.
If you are in 30A on a Wednesday, going to The Courtyard at Pescado is a must-do to listen to TJ and Brad. You can then check out the Palm Folly Hard Seltzer party, enjoying trivia with your best mates and slices of pizza to see who is the smartest in the group!
Thursday is the first day of the long weekend, so head to North Beach Social to listen to Donnie Sudnal and continue the live music given by going to the Big Chill to listen to live music on the stage. You can also visit the nearby Sandestin Wine Festival if you are keen to try some pinot noir and pinot gris in the hot weather.
Now that the weekend is finally here, tons of bars and breweries offer live music on Friday nights. We love going to AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar, Rum Runners Dueling Piano Bar, Peddlers Pavilion, and Fish Out of Water to listen to some of the best local musicians in the entire state of Florida.
On Saturdays and Sundays, go to Watersound Town Center to participate in the Block Party, Growler Garage for some tasty drinks, and The REP Theatre, all popular sports among tourists and locals alike.
Take Your Kids to the Waterpark
Not sure where to go with your kids for a family-friendly day with your young ones? We have the perfect idea in mind. We know that it can be too hot for kids to spend all day at the beach. That is why going to the nearby water park is the ideal way to cool off, have fun with your kids, teach your toddlers how to swim, and get a tan in the process.
Head to Big Kahuna in nearby Destin to see what people have been raving about for over 25 years. Slide down the slides, relax in the lazy river, and take a break from the crowded beach to head here and chill out. You can also visit Shipwreck Island in nearby Panama City Beach if you don’t mind taking a drive from chilled-out 30A to experience this incredible waterpark with tons of slides, rides, lounge chairs, pools, and wave pools.
Grab an Ice Cream Cone
Your kids will love you if you suggest getting an ice cream cone during a hot day in 30A, Florida. We love going to Pecan Jacks Ice Cream and Candy on Santa Rosa Beach for a treat. Pecan Jacks is right off the County Highway and features pralines, brittles, toffees, chocolates, gummi bears, sauces, and gift items to bring back home. We recommend getting the gourmet chocolate pecans box!
Another great spot to check out is Ice Cream Shoppe at 30A. The ideal spot to get a tradition comes with your choice of toppings to cool off during a hot day. This shop offers dozens of flavors and is open all day long so that you can head here any time for a mid-day break from the heat. We love the blueberry cheesecake and bourbon flavors for a sweet treat.
Finally, check out Coast Creamery and New Orleans-style Snoballs on Santa Rosa Beach. Are you in the mood for authentic gelato and sorbet? If so, this is the best place to stop on a hot summer day. Coast Creamery is open Thursday to Sunday after 4:30, so you can head here for a pre or post-dinner treat.
Book with 30A Beach Properties
Not sure where to stay for your upcoming vacation? 30A Beach Properties can help you find the best vacation rentals in Rosemary Beach for you and your group’s preferences, ranging from beachfront condos to Gulf front mansions.