May on the Emerald Coast marks the start of summer’s return — where warm Gulf days meet lively evenings filled with music, events, and coastal charm. From relaxed mornings at local farmers markets along 30A to waterfront dining and harbor celebrations in Destin and Sandestin, the month offers something for every pace. With Mother’s Day, Memorial Day weekend, and a full calendar of outdoor experiences, May is the perfect time to soak in the lifestyle that makes this stretch of Florida so special.
30A
Rosemary Beach Farmers Market
May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm | Rosemary Beach Town Center
A Sunday staple featuring local produce, artisan goods, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Seaside Farmers Market
May 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm | Seaside Amphitheater
Midweek markets perfect for fresh finds, local vendors, and a morning stroll through Seaside.
Mother’s Day Brunch – WaterColor®
May 10 | 10:00 am–2:00 pm | WaterColor Inn & Resort
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a coastal-inspired brunch featuring seasonal dishes and Gulf-front views.
Mother’s Day in Rosemary Beach
May 10 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm | Rosemary Beach Town Center
A charming way to celebrate Mom with brunch at Edward’s, shopping, and a beautiful walk through town.
Live Music in the Amphitheater – Seaside
Wednesdays in May | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Seaside Amphitheater
Ongoing spring performances with local musicians creating a laid-back, community atmosphere.
Memorial Day Concert – Seaside
May 23 | 7:30 pm | Seaside Amphitheater
An evening of live music honoring Memorial Day weekend in the heart of Seaside.
Memorial Day Ceremony
May 25 | 9:00 am | Rosemary Beach
A meaningful coastal gathering honoring those who served.
30A Outdoor Movie Nights
May 2 | 7:00 pm | The Big Chill
Family-friendly movies under the stars with lawn seating and spring evening vibes.
Locals Last Stand – Watersound
May 17 | 2:00 pm–6:00 pm | Watersound Town Center
Live music, lawn chairs, and golden hour evenings in one of 30A’s growing community hubs.
30A Beach Bonfires
Throughout May | Evenings | Santa Rosa Beach
A signature coastal experience with sunset views, s’mores, and relaxed gatherings on the sand.
Outdoor Dining & Live Music Nights Along 30A
Throughout May | Evenings | 30A
Restaurants come alive with live music, fresh seafood, and open-air dining as summer approaches.
Destin
Destin Commons Farmers Market
May 3 & 17 | 9:00 am–2:00 pm | Destin Commons
A lively market featuring local vendors, fresh produce, handmade goods, and family-friendly fun.
Mother’s Day Brunch – Henderson Beach Resort
May 10 | 9:00 am–2:00 pm | Henderson Beach Resort
Celebrate Mom with a beautiful Gulf-front brunch, seasonal dishes, and a relaxed coastal setting.
Wellness at the Water – HarborWalk Village
May 9 | 2:00 pm–7:00 pm | HarborWalk Village
A celebration of women, wellness, and connection, just before Mother’s Day... HarborWalk Village invites you to an uplifting waterfront experience designed to help you reset, recharge, and reconnect.
HarborWalk Village Memorial Day Celebration
May 24 | 6:00 pm–9:00 pm | HarborWalk Village
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with live music, entertainment, and fireworks over the harbor.
Movies on the Boardwalk
May Tuesdays | 8:00 pm–10:00 pm | HarborWalk Village
Grab a towel and a spot o the sand for a new featured movie each week!
Sunset Concert Series – Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation
May Thursdays | 7:00 pm–9:00 pm
A beloved local tradition with live music, lawn seating, and golden-hour views.
Thursday Night Fireworks – HarborWalk Village
May Thursdays | 9:00 pm | HarborWalk Village
Weekly fireworks return for the season, bringing energy and excitement to the harbor.
Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Tournament
May 15–16 | Times Vary | Destin Harbor
A unique local tournament focused on conservation, fishing, and community engagement.
Sinfonia Jaws in Concert
May 15 | 7:30 pm | Destin-FW Convention Center
An elegant outdoor concert experience featuring live orchestral music in a stunning setting.
HarborWalk Live Music Series
Throughout May | Evenings | HarborWalk Village
Consistent live music along the harbor creates a vibrant, walkable nightlife atmosphere.
Boating & Harbor Cruises – Peak Season Kickoff
Throughout May | Daily | Destin Harbor
Dolphin cruises, sunset sails, and private charters ramp up as summer season begins.
Sandestin
Bubbly Baytowne
May 14 | 5:00 pm–7:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Sip complimentary champagne while strolling the Village shops during this favorite monthly social.
Cinco De Mayo at the Beach House
May 5 | 12:00 pm–5:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo beachside with great food, refreshing drinks, and live DJ vibes all afternoon. DJ Cory will be spinning bringing the energy while you soak up the views and enjoy the festivities.
Mother’s Day Brunch – Hotel Effie
May 10 | 10:00 am–2:00 pm | Hotel Effie Sandestin
Celebrate Mother’s Day with an elevated brunch experience featuring coastal cuisine and rooftop views.
Memorial Day Celebration – Baytowne Wharf
May 23-24 | 7:00 pm–9:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
A weekend of live music, family fun, and festive energy leading into summer.
Wednesday Night Concert Series
May 6, 13, 20, 27 | 7:00 pm–9:00 pm | Baytowne Wharf Events Plaza
Live music under the lights — a weekly favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks
May 26 | 9:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
A lively evening with DJ music followed by fireworks over the lagoon.
Rooftop Bingo Night – Hotel Effie
May Thursdays | 5:00 pm–7:00 pm | Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge
A fun, social evening with bingo, cocktails, and sunset views from the rooftop.
Sourdough Class with Vin’tij
May 17 | 2:00 pm–4:30 pm | Vintij Food & Wine
A hands-on culinary class perfect for food lovers looking to learn artisan baking techniques.
Scallywag Sunday (Pirate Show)
May 24 & 31 | 7:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
A fun, interactive pirate show for kids and families to enjoy in the Village.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend or settling into the season, May along the Emerald Coast invites you to slow down and enjoy it all. Celebrate with brunches, concerts, sunset strolls, and fireworks that light up the start of summer. From 30A to Destin to Sandestin, these moments are what coastal living is all about — and Coastal Abode is here to help you experience every one of them.
