Red, White & Beach: How to Spend the 4th of July at 30A

ByRebecca Schwartz

Headed to the beach over the holiday? Want to know the best spots to see fireworks, parades, and fun festivities? Great news- I’m here to help you navigate the 4th at the most beautiful beaches in the US. Follow along for the best list of activities for the 4th of July at 30A. 

I’ve been vacationing at 30A for over 15 years, and it is one of my favorite spots to relax, soak in the sand and sun, and enjoy the beautiful Gulf waters. Going out of town on the holidays adds another layer of excitement, especially on the Fourth of July. There’s a certain buzz around town as people are eager to celebrate.

My Favorite Beach Supplies for Florida’s Gulf Coast

Tips

  • Book your vacation rental early!
  • Summer is 30A’s high season, so plan on staying for a whole week. Many places only offer Saturday-Saturday rentals during the summer. 
  • Expect large crowds, so be patient when navigating popular spots like Seaside.
  • Make reservations early, as restaurants will be packed 
  • Bring sunscreen and lots of it! 
  • Watch the flags on the beach each day for water conditions
  • Pack games for an indoor activity if you need a break from the sun or check out my suggestions on what to do if it rains!
  • Drink Water! A Florida summer is no joke! The beach will be cooler if there’s a breeze coming off the water, but the further away from the water, the more it can be sweltering (trust me, I’ve been on 30A the week of the 4th before). 
  • Pack your bikes or rent them so you can explore the region. 
30A

beautiful beaches of 30A, photo credit: R. Schwartz

30A Fireworks

Here are the best places for Sky-splitting spectacles of light and color-

  • Watercolor Beach
  • Seaside 
  • Alys Beach 
  •  North Beach Social in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
  • Baytowne Wharf 
  • Destin Harbor
  • Sandestin Hilton

Best July 4th Festivities on 30A

I’d suggest having an idea of what you want to do on the actual day, as the communities on 30A are rather small and have limited parking. Some, such as Grayton Beach, have shuttles, while other guests rely on bikes or golf carts to get around town. 

Rosemary Beach’s 4th of July Bike Parade & Celebration

Rosemary is fun spot to celebrate the 4th

Rosemary, photo credit: R. Schwartz

Rosemary is by far one of the most popular destinations in the region. Styled as a European village, visitors flock to the community year-round. Expect a large crowd!

For the 4th, the community hosts a Bike Decorating Contest and breakfast early in the morning, followed immediately by a patriotic bike parade and block party. This is a perfect family gathering for the holiday. 

If you don’t want to mess with driving, this event is ideal for guests in Rosemary, Alys, Inlet, and the east side of Seacrest.

Seaside Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks Spectacular

Seaside's Amphitheater Stage

Seaside’s Amphitheater Stage, photo credit: R. Schwartz

In the iconic Seaside community, you’ll discover a fun-filled day of celebrations. The day starts with a morning block party, including concerts, bike decorating, and a hot dog eating contest.

At dusk, guests can gather for a concert on the Amphitheater Stage and then enjoy a fireworks show over the beach. 

If you don’t want to mess with driving, this event is ideal for guests in Seaside, Watercolor, the Western side of Seagrove, and/or anyone with a golf cart staying in the central part of 30A.

Grayton Beach Parade

A patriotic parade is an exciting way to kick off the holiday. Decorate your bike, stroller, scooter, car or Jeep with red, white & blue! Head over to Red Bar the morning of the 4th to participate in a parade welcome to all!

Donut Eating Contest  at Alys Beach

Alys Beach

Alys Beach, photo credit: R. Schwartz

Looking for a fun and unique experience? Head to the Alys Beach amphitheater for a Red, White & Glazed Donut Contest. Hang around for a concert at 6 and fireworks!

Destin

If you are staying on the west side of 30A, you aren’t too far from Baytowne Marina in Sandestin. They offer a scenic sunset cruise complete with festive fireworks. If that doesn’t interest you, Baytowne Wharf hosts concerts and fireworks free of charge for visitors. 

In Conclusion: Red, White & Beach: How to Spend the 4th of July at 30A

I hope my guide to celebrating the 4th of July at 30A helps you plan your next beach holiday!

30A Resources
Best 30A Beaches
Best 30A Tours
Breakfast in 30A
Ice cream in 30A
Best Seafood on 30A
30A State Parks
30A Winter
30A Fall
Christmas in 30A
Spring Break on 30A
30A When it Rains
4th of July at 30A
How to Vacation at 30A on a Budget
Vacation Rentals on 30A for Families
Beach Packing List for Families
The Best Review of Seaside vs Watercolor, Florida
Ultimate Guide to Watercolor, Florida
Is Watercolor, Florida, Worth it? 12 Reasons why I love it
Best Things to do in Rosemary Beach
Which 30A beach is right for you?
Best things to do in Seaside



Rebecca is a wife, mom of 3, and avid traveler. She loves to plan trips for her family to exciting places in the US, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe. In addition, she loves to help family and friends plan their next great adventure. Most hate the planning and research process, and that is her passion. When she isn't traveling, she's a high school US History teacher in an Atlanta suburb.