Things to do on 30-A for Autumn Vacations in September and October
No matter the time of year, it’s always the right time to visit South Walton, Florida. We’re famous for our year-round, picture-perfect beaches, gentle sea breezes, and crystal-clear water. Our Scenic Highway 30A is also home to impressive art galleries, award-winning restaurants, quaint boutique shopping, gorgeous architecture, exciting events, and beautiful beachfront neighborhoods.
There’s never a dull moment in South Walton—and if you’re planning a trip in September or October, we have some great activities to share with you. From active races and water sports to delicious farmers markets and wine tastings to simply gazing upon the most spectacular sunsets you have ever seen, fall in South Walton has something for everyone.
To top if off, a fall vacation to South Walton means falling prices, and now’s the time to take full advantage of our fantastic off-season rates!
Read on for events happening late this summer thru fall and book your next South Walton beach vacation today. You can also discover and book 30A activities and attractions right from our activities page.
Get Your Heart Pumping
YOLO Board Paddle Palooza
The Paddle Palooza takes place at the North Beach Tortilla Co. on Saturday, September 28. Registration is at 8 AM and races begin at 9 AM. This super-fun, annual event has races and prizes for all ages.
Paddle your heart out in the warm, clear water that South Walton is famous for, then afterward enjoy local refreshments and entertainment. Don’t forget your limited edition YOLO Paddle Palooza T-Shirt— the perfect 30A keepsake.
SUP enthusiasts, rent a place at one of our lovely Santa Rosa Beach vacation rental homes to take part in the paddle.
30A Half Marathon & 5K
The 4th annual 30A Half Marathon & 5K weekend will kick off Friday, October 11, 2019, with a can’t-miss all-you-can-eat barbeque festival featuring live music from the Heritage Band. On Saturday, October 12 there’s a race expo with vendors and refreshments. Race day is on Sunday, October 13th—with a scenic out-and-back course, and prizes worth over $20,000 for elite runners!
All proceeds from the marathon and 5K go to The Sonder Project—whose mission is to “strengthen communities through food, security, clean water, housing, and education.”
Book a stay in one of our beautiful Gulf Place vacation rental homes to be close to the marathon action.
Get Your Yum On
Harvest Food & Wine Festival
Since 2005, the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) has donated $18 Million to Northwest Florida charities—and the Harvest Food & Wine Festival is their signature event. Held from October 24 to October 26 and featuring an assortment of wine & cooking seminars, multi-course dinners, tastings, and a silent auction, this impressive weekend-long event is not to be missed!
The Grand Tasting—highlighting harvest season at the beach—is the culmination of the festival. Many gourmet seafood tents and savory barbeque stations manned by some of the best restaurants along the Gulf Coast. There are also tasting stations featuring over 250 wines from around the world—and a craft beer and spirit tent, too. So delish!
Farmers Markets
Nothing says fall quite like a colorful farmers market filled with local produce and savory homemade treats. Saturdays from 8 AM to Noon, the Seaside Farmers Market brings together local, environmentally conscious growers and craftspeople. Pick some fresh vegetables, snack on some kettle corn, and enjoy the picturesque village of Seaside and the friendly neighbors as you browse the vendors.
Sundays from 9 AM to 1 PM, the 30A Rosemary Beach Farmers Market is an amazing farmers market with many high-quality vendors and local products to choose from. There’s grass-fed beef, farm-fresh eggs, local honey, fruits and vegetables, and creamy goat’s milk and cheese. Choose homemade baked goods like ciabatta bread, focaccia bread, sweet pastries, and pies. There’s also homemade jams, jellies, pickles, pesto, and salsa! And if that’s not enough, sample the organic bath products or pick up a homemade treat for your pet.
Get Out on the Town
Trivia Night at Grayton Beer Co.
Every Thursday from 6 PM to 8 PM the Grayton Beer Brewpub hosts a popular, local-favorite trivia night. Gather your super-smart, Jeopardy-loving group of friends together and stop by to test your knowledge against competing teams.
There’s beer pitcher specials, small-batch brews, and craft cocktails. For brain fuel, try the Smoked Snapper Dip or Beer Cheese Nachos. They recommend teams of six, and there are prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.
Rent one of our gorgeous vacation rental homes in Grayton Beach and try out Trivia Night.
Catch the Forrest Williams Band
No trip to South Walton is complete without seeing The Forrest Williams Band play. Blending acoustic guitar and harmonica, they’re the perfect 30A mix of laid-back beach music and down-home country.
See them every Sunday at Local Catch Bar & Grill in Santa Rosa Beach for Sunday Funday from 4 PM to 7 PM or every Thursday at Red Fish Taco in Blue Mountain Beach for Ladies Night from 8 PM to 11 PM. You can also see them on October 10 for the season finale of Concerts in the Village at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation in Destin.
Fall Into South Walton
It’s always a good time to visit South Walton. Our beaches are always beautiful and our sea breezes are always perfectly salty all year ‘round. Book a trip to see us in September or October and not only will you have a magical and memorable South Walton beach trip, but you’ll also save a ton!
Drop us a line or give us a call at 888.267.2121–we have friendly local experts to help you choose the perfect rental home for your needs and budget.
What are you waiting for? It’s the perfect time to book your 30A dream beach vacay today!