Destin Music Scene: Where to Hear Live Tunes by the Water
When you think of Destin, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Is it beach-front properties sitting along gorgeous emerald-green waters and white sandy beaches? Or is it jet ski excursions and relaxing boat rides in the bay? Often associated with being the best spot on the Gulf for watersports activities and Crab Island tiki boat rentals, it’s hard to believe that Destin is also a prime destination for hearing some good tunes and live music. Destin is an incredibly multifaceted vacation destination with tons of unique activities to choose from. In this blog, we’ll focus on the hottest spots to enjoy some live music (preferably on the beach) and provide insider information on the best local artists you can see here in Destin this summer! So, if you’re planning your next summer getaway to Destin, FL, follow along and mark your calendars with these memorable options.
Waterfront Bars and Restaurants with Live Music
Looking for seaside bars and restaurants that offer live music? You’re in luck! Destin is extremely saturated with waterfront restaurants that feature live music. Here’s a list of several excellent options you should consider for your next dining and listening experience.
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar and Grill
We had to start off the list with a traveler’s favorite, Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar and Grill is an eclectic bar and restaurant popular with locals and travelers. Not only does this restaurant offer nightly live music for five days out of the week, but it also features its very own alligator enclosure! If that isn’t enough to sell you, visit on Mondays and Wednesdays and try your hand at live music during their karaoke nights! Enjoy a live show and good eats. You won’t want to miss this unique dining experience.
AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar
Our next suggestion is the place to be for back-to-back performances all day during summer season. Located in Destin Harbor, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar has multiple live shows daily! Be sure to check out their website for details on who’s performing when and also check out their mouthwatering seafood menu!
Beach Concerts and Festivals in Destin
Sunset Concert Series
Live music at a venue is entertaining, no doubt, but what’s better than restaurant entertainment? Beach-front live music! Head on over to Destin’s neighboring beach town, Fort Walton Beach, every Wednesday at 6 pm for free beachfront live music. Hosted by The Island Resort, this event features new artists and bands every week, ranging from country, pop, rock, jazz, and more!
Boat-up Venues
The Edge Seafood Restaurant and Bar
Searching for the perfect happy hour spot to enjoy live music? Dock your boat and enjoy drinks and a show at this premier dining and entertainment venue. Not only does the Edge Seafood Restaurant and Bar provide daily live entertainment, but they also have a 21+ “SkyBar” with its very own live entertainment AND daily happy hours running from 11am- 6pm. Visitors will enjoy sipping on refreshing cocktails while taking in the panoramic views of the Edge’s stunning SkyBar!
Local Artists you Won’t Wanna Miss
Chuck Lawson
A regular performer at Aj’s Seafood and Oyster Bar, Chuck Lawson is a versatile artist who can do a little bit of everything. From the steel drums, to the acoustic guitar, and even DJ-ing, Chuck Lawson is a bit of a jack of all trades.
Casey Kearney
Casey Kearney, a pop and country cover artist based in Florida, will be traveling around the Florida Panhandle all summer, featuring catchy tunes and good vibes. Check out her website for latest tour dates!
Cadillac Willy
This beach-front rock band will feature live performances all over Destin this summer. While they often perform at the harbor-front, be sure to check out their website for details on restaurant venues, covers, and more!
Music Genres You’ll Love
While many artists and genres have grown in popularity in the city of Destin, there are a few that remain the most popular and relevant along the Emerald Coast. If you’re planning your next visit to Destin, and need advice on what to see, and what to avoid, we strongly encourage finding live music featuring country and rock bands. Lean into your countryside and enjoy covers and originals from Destin’s finest artists and bands. However, don’t be afraid to branch out! Although country and rock may be the most common genres you’ll encounter, there are tons of local artists that experiment with pop, jazz, hip hop, and more! Our advice? Catch a wide variety of performers and support your local artists!
Timing and Scheduling of Waterfront Performances
Schedules and performance times will likely vary depending on the event and the venue. Before you plan your visit to a restaurant or event, we recommend looking on their websites for the most up to date information on who’s performing, and at what time. Each restaurant has their own unique schedule, while some places may offer continuous performances seven days a week, others may only feature a few artists a couple of times a week. Some restaurants may also require covers for access to certain performances, so call ahead of time and make sure you’re prepared and informed about the event you will be attending!
Bring On the Good Vibes
Next time you visit the beautiful city of Destin, take advantage of as many opportunities as you can to turn out and support these up and coming and cherished local artists. Whether you’re attending beach-front music events, exclusive parties, or listening to your favorite artists from a local bar, you’re sure to have a fabulous time here in Destin, Florida.
