No trip to the beach is complete without numerous days and nights spent enjoying Scenic Highway 30A’s legendary live music scene. Based on votes from music enthusiasts and local aficionados, we’ve curated a list of the top spots that guarantee captivating performances and infectious live energy. So put on your barefoot shoes and dance your way through the best live music hot spots on 30A. (Looking for other 30A Hot Spots? Here’s the list of all 2023 winners!)
According to 30A fans, the world-famous Red Bar reigns supreme as 30A’s hottest live music venue. Located in the very heart of Grayton Beach (as well as the heart of Scenic 30A itself), this iconic venue captivates music lovers with its eclectic ambiance and soulful live performances. Whether you’re in the mood for blues, jazz, country or rock, The Red Bar always leaves you begging for an encore. Immerse yourself in the whimsical decor, funky local artwork, and the vibrant energy of a beach-happy crowd. With a lineup of talented musicians and a chalk-board menu of fan-favorite cuisines and cocktails, The Red Bar is the 30A mecca for lovers of live music.
Coming in a close second is Red Fish Taco, another lively eatery that knows how to serve up the local beats. Located in Blue Mountain Beach, this 30A hot spot offers a dynamic fusion of delicious food and captivating live performances. As you savor their mouthwatering tacos and sip on refreshing margaritas, talented musicians take the stage, serenading you with tunes that will make you dance the night away. With its laid-back atmosphere and coastal charm, Red Fish Taco has become a go-to destination for locals and visitors seeking a vibrant live music experience.
Claiming the third spot on 30A’s hot spot list is AJ’s Grayton Beach, a late-night venue that knows how to make waves with energetic performances. Whether you’re grooving to classic rock, country twang or reveling in the fresh sounds of emerging talents, AJ’s Grayton Beach promises a fun evening of music, dancing and drinks, served up with some good ‘ol Grayton Beach vibes.
While these top three 30A Hot Spots took center stage, there are many other remarkable venues that deserve recognition for their exceptional live music experiences. From sandy bars to family-friendly lawns, each of these nominees is certainly worth a listen!
Located directly on the bay at the foot of the 331 bridge, North Beach Social combines a lively bay-front beach setting with the electrifying energy of regular live music. Sip on craft cocktails and enjoy savory beach bites as you soak in the sounds of 30A’s many talented musicians (as well as visiting talents). With its undeniably fun and family-friendly atmosphere and stunning water views, North Beach Social sets the stage for an unforgettable day or evening of entertainment and relaxation.
For a dose of live music in a charming lake-side setting, look no further than Old Florida Fish House. Situated on Eastern Lake in the heart of Seagrove Beach, this beloved long-running venue offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and fantastic live performances. From local bands to touring artists, the stage at Old Florida Fish House always showcases a diverse range of musical talent, and the dance floor is always hopping.
With its prime cornerstone location on Scenic Highway 30A – directly across the street from Gulf Place and the beach – Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar has become a go-to spot for live music enthusiasts in search of decompression. This iconic eatery not only offers a mouthwatering selection of oysters and coastal cuisine, but also hosts daily live music performances that add to Shunk Gulley’s irresistible allure.
If you love craft beer AND you love live music, then head over to Growler Garage, just a few doors east of Shunk Gulley. This Harley-lovin’ roadside patio offers an impressive lineup of brews along with an equally impressive lineup of local musical talent. So grab a cold brew from their extensive tap list, listen to some live tunes and watch the 30A parade stroll and peddle right on by.
True to its familiar name, The Big Chill is the place to be if you’re seeking a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, served up with soulful tunes. Located on 30A near WaterSound Beach, Big Chill 30a has a kid-friendly lawn for concerts and televised jumbotron events. Surrounding the lawn are food and cocktail trucks of many varieties, as well as local merchants purveying apparel and gifts.
Famous for its excellence in seafood dining, Stinky’s Fish Camp also knows how to bring the house down with live music. Located in Dune Allen Beach, this iconic eatery routinely features musicians as talented as the chefs back in the kitchen. From bluegrass to country to rock-n-roll, Stinky’s Fish Camp offers a diverse lineup of live music that complements their mouthwatering seafood dishes. The Bait Shack next door is another local secret.
Situated on the picturesque Choctawhatchee Bay, The Bay restaurant combines breathtaking waterfront views with frequent live music performances. This popular venue offers a large outdoor stage area where local musicians serenade guests against the backdrop of the bay’s sparkling waters. Sitting in the sand by a bonfire while musicians belt out their best can be a surreal experience. Whether you’re enjoying their delectable seafood dishes (including sushi), ice-cold draft beer, craft cocktails, or simply soaking in the beautiful bay views, The Bay’s live music performances add an extra layer of sandy enchantment.
