Discover The Sound Of Paradise At Live Music Destin Florida

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Hi there, music lovers! Are you tired of listening to Spotify playlists or watching virtual concerts from your couch? Do you crave the exhilarating experience of live music and the energy of a crowd? Then you’re in luck! In this article, I’ll be discussing the rich and diverse live music scene in Destin, Florida. From beachfront bars to outdoor festivals, there’s something for every taste and budget. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab a cold drink, and get ready to explore the vibrant world of live music in Destin.

By reading this article, you’ll discover the best venues in town to catch live music, whether you’re into rock, jazz, country, or blues. I’ll provide you with insider tips on how to get the most out of your experience, from parking and seating arrangements to drink specials and happy hours. You’ll also learn about some of the most exciting events and festivals all year round, including the Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show and the Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest. So, why settle for mediocre live music when you can have an unforgettable adventure in Destin?

If you’re looking for top-quality live music in a beautiful and lively setting, Destin, Florida is the place to be. In this article, I’ll introduce you to some of the finest musicians and performers, as well as the friendliest and most welcoming crowds in the Gulf Coast. You’ll discover how live music can improve your mental and physical health, and how it can make you feel more connected to others and to yourself. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the magic of live music in Destin.

The Top Live Music Venues in Destin Florida

Destin, Florida, is a city located on the Gulf of Mexico that attracts many tourists every year. One of the attractions in this city is the vibrant music scene that offers live music entertainment for visitors and locals alike. In this article, we will explore the top live music venues in Destin, Florida.

1. AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar

AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar is a popular seafood restaurant located in the heart of Destin, Florida. The restaurant has a long history of providing fantastic seafood for its customers, but it is most famous for its live music entertainment. AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar provides live music entertainment seven nights a week, which makes it an ideal spot for music lovers in this city.

Genre Diversity: AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar is known for hosting a variety of music genres, including rock, jazz, blues, country, and more.
Live Music Schedule: AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar has live music from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm every night, making it a perfect spot for dinner and music.
Famous Artists: The restaurant has hosted many famous musicians, including Ben Prestage and Gregg Allman, among others.
The Atmosphere: The restaurant is located on the harbor, which provides a fantastic view of the surrounding area that patrons can enjoy while listening to their favorite live music.
Capacity: The Live Music venue can accommodate up to 500 guests at a time

Aside from its music entertainment, AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar serves some of the best seafood in the area. Some of its popular dishes include oysters, crab legs, lobster tails, shrimp, and more.

Pros	Cons	Comparison
Wide range of music genres	High traffic	Music diversity vs. Accessibility
Famous artists performing regularly	Long waiting times	Convenience vs. waiting time
Beautiful waterfront views	Noisy because of high capacity	View vs. Capacity

If you’re into seafood and music, AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar is the perfect venue for you. It blends excellent food, fantastic music, and a beautiful atmosphere for a great experience.

Best Local Bands to Catch Live in Destin Florida

Destin, Florida is known for its pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and a vibrant live music scene. Whether you prefer beachside bars or upscale venues, this Gulf Coast destination has it all. If you are a music lover, you must visit Destin’s top local bars and clubs to catch some of the best live music performances in the region.

Top 5 Local Bands For Live Music

Destin is home to several talented bands, playing a variety of music genres, from country to rock and everything in between. Here are the top five local bands that you shouldn’t miss while in Destin.

Heritage
Heritage is a favorite of the locals and visitors alike. They are known for their energetic live performances and their unique style that mixes rock, reggae, and blues music. Founded by singer and guitarist, David Hall, Heritage is a four-piece band that is often seen playing at the Funky Blues Shack on the harbor or the Red Door Saloon in Santa Rosa Beach.
Dread Clampitt
Dread Clampitt is another band that is popular among the locals in Destin. They have played at several music festivals, including the famous Bonnaroo Festival. Their style of music is a unique blend of country, rock, blues, and folk music. They can often be found playing at the Hub on 30A or the Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin.
Boukou Groove
If you are looking for something different, Boukou Groove is a perfect choice. This band is known for its blend of funk, soul, and blues music. The group was formed by singer and songwriter Donnie Sundal, and guitarist Derwin “Big D” Perkins. They can be caught playing at the Funky Blues Shack, the Red Bar in Grayton Beach, or the LuLu’s restaurant in Destin.
Continuum
Continuum is a five-piece band that plays a variety of music genres, including rock, pop, and R&B. The band has been together for over 15 years, and they have built a loyal following in the area. They can be caught playing at the Boathouse Oyster Bar or the Bric à Brac in Destin.
The Wide Open
The Wide Open is a four-piece band that plays a mix of classic rock, country, and blues music. The band is led by singer and guitarist, Mike Whitty, and they are known for their high-energy performances. They can often be seen playing at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar or the HarborWalk Village in Destin.

Pros and Cons of Local Bands

When it comes to live music, there are two types of performances – those by local bands and those by touring artists. While both have their pros and cons, local bands have some unique advantages and disadvantages.

Pros	Cons
Local bands are often more accessible and affordable than touring artists. They have a close relationship with the local community and often collaborate with other local artists, creating a unique sound. They are flexible and can adapt their music based on the audience’s preferences. Local bands often have a more intimate and personalized venue setting, allowing the audience to interact with the band members.	Local bands may not have a national or international recognition, leading to a smaller audience pool. They may have a limited repertoire, which can make their performances repetitive for frequent concert-goers. Local bands may not have the same level of technical expertise or professional experience as touring artists. They may only play at pubs or small venues, limiting the quality of sound and lighting system.

Pros

Cons

Local bands are often more accessible and affordable than touring artists.
They have a close relationship with the local community and often collaborate with other local artists, creating a unique sound.
They are flexible and can adapt their music based on the audience’s preferences.
Local bands often have a more intimate and personalized venue setting, allowing the audience to interact with the band members.

Local bands may not have a national or international recognition, leading to a smaller audience pool.
They may have a limited repertoire, which can make their performances repetitive for frequent concert-goers.
Local bands may not have the same level of technical expertise or professional experience as touring artists.
They may only play at pubs or small venues, limiting the quality of sound and lighting system.

How to Find Local Bands in Destin

If you are looking for local bands in Destin, you have several options to choose from. Here are the best ways to find local bands in Destin.

Check Local Listings: Check out local listings such as the Northwest Florida Daily News, the Beachcomber newspaper, or Destin Magazine for upcoming music events.
Ask Local Residents: The locals are the best source of information about the local music scene. Ask bartenders or other locals for recommendations.
Visit Local Bars and Clubs: Local bars and clubs are a great place to listen and discover local bands. Check out popular venues such as the Funky Blues Shack, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar, or the Hub on 30A.
Follow Local Bands on Social Media: Most local bands have a Facebook page or a website where they post their upcoming gigs and events. Follow them on social media to stay updated.

Whether you are a fan of rock, country, blues, or reggae music, Destin has something in store for everyone. Exploring the local music scene is an experience that should not be missed while in the area. So, grab a drink, get comfortable, and enjoy some of the best live music performances in the Gulf Coast.

The Must-See Music Festivals in Destin Florida

Destin, Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and live music venues. With its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico, it has become a popular destination for music lovers in search of great live acts. If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State, you definitely don’t want to miss these must-see music festivals in Destin.

1. The Destin Seafood & Music Festival

The Destin Seafood & Music Festival is one of the most popular events in Destin that combines music and seafood. The festival takes place along the beautiful Henderson Beach State Park and the Boardwalk, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The festival is usually held in late September or early October.

The festival is a three-day event featuring live music performances, seafood vendors, and arts and crafts booths.
The festival showcases some of the best seafood in Destin, with vendors serving everything from fried shrimp and oyster to crab cakes and lobster rolls.
The festival also features a beer garden and a VIP area, where festival-goers can enjoy premium seating and an open bar.
Some of the biggest names in music have performed at the festival, including Tyler Farr, Locash, and the Eli Young Band.

If you love seafood and live music, the Destin Seafood & Music Festival is an event you won’t want to miss.

Pros	Cons
Great seafood and live music performances by some of the biggest names in the industry.	Can get crowded and busy, especially on the weekends.
Beautiful location along the Henderson Beach State Park and the Boardwalk.	Can be expensive, especially if you opt for the VIP area.
A wide range of arts and crafts booths and vendors.	Weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain or storms causing disruptions.

2. The Gulf Coast Jam

The Gulf Coast Jam is a three-day music festival held annually at the Frank Brown Park in Panama City Beach, Florida, which is just a short drive from Destin. The festival is usually held in early September and features some of the biggest names in country music.

The festival is a three-day event featuring live performances by some of the biggest names in country music
The festival features a range of activities and entertainment for attendees, including interactive games, beach volleyball, and food and drink vendors.
The festival also offers a VIP experience, which includes exclusive seating areas, private bars, and meet-and-greet opportunities with the artists.
Some of the biggest names in country music have performed at the festival, including Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, and Carrie Underwood.

If you love country music and are looking for a fun-filled weekend of entertainment, the Gulf Coast Jam is an event you don’t want to miss.

Pros	Cons
Three-day music festival featuring some of the biggest names in country music	The festival can be crowded, with lines for food and drinks and restroom facilities.
A range of activities and entertainment for attendees of all ages	The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain or storms causing disruptions.
An opportunity for attendees to meet and greet their favorite artists.	The festival can be expensive, especially if you opt for the VIP experience.

3. The Sandestin Wine Festival

The Sandestin Wine Festival is a four-day event that takes place every year at The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, Florida. The festival is usually held in mid-April and features a range of live music performances, wine tastings, and food and drink vendors.

The festival features more than 500 wines from around the world, as well as a variety of craft beers, spirits, and cocktails.
The festival features live music performances throughout the weekend, with a range of genres including jazz, blues, and rock.
The festival also features a range of food and drink vendors, as well as cooking demonstrations and seminars from world-renowned chefs and sommeliers.
Attendees can purchase tickets to a range of events, including wine tastings, seminars, and VIP experiences.

If you love wine, food, and live music, the Sandestin Wine Festival is an event you won’t want to miss.

Pros	Cons
Opportunity to sample more than 500 wines and attend seminars and cooking demonstrations from world-renowned chefs and sommeliers.	Can be crowded, especially during peak hours and popular events.
Live music performances throughout the weekend featuring a range of genres.	Tickets can be expensive, especially for VIP experiences and popular events.
A range of food and drink vendors offering a variety of cuisines and libations.	Can be challenging to navigate for first-time attendees.

In conclusion, Destin, Florida, is a mecca for live music, and these three must-see music festivals should be on any music lover’s travel itinerary. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Destin and get ready to enjoy some amazing live music, food, and drinks!

Discovering the Jazz Scene in Destin Florida

Destin, Florida, might be famous for its pristine beaches and year-round sunshine, but it also has a vibrant music scene with a particular emphasis on jazz. With numerous jazz bars, clubs, and festivals, it’s the perfect spot for music enthusiasts seeking live performances.

History of Jazz Music in Destin Florida

Destin Florida has a deep-rooted history in the jazz genre. The city has long been known for its lively jam sessions, musical performances, and jazz cruises. It has hosted many popular jazz performers and singers over the years, including Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington, among many others. Jazz music is an integral part of Destin’s cultural heritage, and it continues to thrive in the present day.

Jazz Bars and Clubs in Destin Florida

Destin is home to many unique jazz bars and clubs that offer an intimate setting for watching live jazz performances. Here are some of the best jazz clubs in the city:

The Village Door Music Hall: This establishment is a popular spot offering live music, cocktails, and an exciting nightlife experience. The venue showcases a range of genres, including rock, jazz, and blues.
The Red Bar: This establishment is a popular restaurant and bar that doubles up as a music venue. It features local talent, as well as national and international artists, performing a mix of jazz, blues, and rock.
Marina Cafe: This fine dining restaurant offers a beautiful waterfront view and live jazz music. The Marina Cafe is popular for its excellent food, wine, and music.
The Collective: This is a new addition to the jazz scene in Destin. It serves as a live music venue, art gallery, and bar. It offers a great range of live performances from local musicians to national and international artists.

Jazz Festivals in Destin Florida

Destin Florida hosts several fantastic jazz festivals throughout the year. These festivals attract both locals and visitors, and they offer the perfect opportunity to experience the local music scene. Below are some of the most popular jazz festivals in Destin:

Seabreeze Jazz Festival: This annual festival held in April is one of the most popular jazz festivals in Destin, and it attracts top jazz performers from around the world. The festival features a range of music styles, including traditional, smooth, and Latin jazz.
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Concert Series: This free concert series happens every year and features live jazz performances by local and national jazz musicians. The concerts are held during the summer months, and they take place on the lawn of the beautiful Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village.
Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival: This festival is an annual celebration of the pirate culture that has been part of the Destin lifestyle. It features live music and other activities, including live jazz performances by local musicians.

Pros and Cons of Jazz Music in Destin Florida

Here are some of the pros and cons of experiencing jazz music in Destin Florida:

Pros	Cons
The jazz bars and clubs offer an intimate setting for live music performances. Destin has a deep-rooted history and appreciation for jazz music. The Jazz festivals offer a wide range of jazz music styles. The jazz scene has been growing in popularity in Destin Florida over the years.	Some jazz bars and clubs might be considered too pricey. Traffic congestion in the city, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can make it a hassle to get to some of the jazz clubs. Some jazz bars and clubs have a limited capacity.

In summary, the jazz scene in Destin Florida is thriving, with numerous jazz festivals, bars, and clubs offering an excellent live music experience. While it can be expensive, the quality of the jazz music on offer more than justifies the expense. Destin remains committed to the promotion and preservation of jazz music, making it a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts of all ages.

Country Music in Destin Florida: Where to Listen and Dance

The sunshine state of Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant music scene. Destin is a hotspot for live music and country music enthusiasts will not be disappointed. From the iconic location of the Flora-Bama Lounge to the elegant harbor side venue of The Boathouse, there are plenty of places to listen to live country music in Destin. Here are five fantastic subheadings to explore where to listen and dance to country music in Destin Florida.

1. The Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar

The Flora-Bama is a world-famous beach bar that sits on the Alabama-Florida state line. It has been named the “Best Beach Bar in America” and is a must-see destination for country music fans. The bar is home to talented musicians who put on an unforgettable show with a distinct southern charm. The Flora-Bama offers live music seven nights a week, all year round. Visitors can enjoy an entertaining and lively atmosphere, coupled with delicious seafood and drinks.

The bar sits on the Florida-Alabama State line.
The Flora-Bama is a famous beach bar that has won numerous accolades including “Best Beach Bar in America” and”Outstanding Business Award” in 2019.
Live music is available seven days a week at the Flora-Bama with a mix of different genres.
The bar also offers delicious seafood and drinks to guests.

2. The Boathouse Oyster Bar

Situated on the harbor in Destin, The Boathouse is a lively and vibrant venue that features live country music, excellent food, and refreshing drinks. The Boathouse offers a comfortable and relaxed environment for its customers. The venue also doubles up as a sports bar with multiple televisions to watch your favorite sports match. However, the real showstoppers are their live musical performances held three nights a week, which features local and out-of-state country bands.

The venue is situated on the harbor in Destin.
The Boathouse Oyster Bar is a fantastic venue that features live music, excellent food, and drinks.
It offers a relaxed environment and acts as a sports bar with multiple televisions for watching sports matches.
The live musical performances held three nights a week feature local and out-of-state country bands.

3. The Red Door Saloon

The Red Door Saloon is an intimate and cozy venue located on highway 98. Its staff is friendly and welcoming, and they make sure that their customers have a good time. The Red Door Saloon offers a relaxed environment where one can enjoy live country music and dance the night away. Visitors can also expect excellent drinks, great service, and a fun-loving atmosphere.

The venue is situated on highway 98.
The Red Door Saloon is an intimate and cozy venue with a friendly staff.
The bar offers a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy live country music and dance.
Visitors can also expect excellent drinks, great service, and a fun-loving atmosphere.

4. AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar

Situated in the heart of Destin, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar offers live music every night of the week, featuring an exciting mix of country music and classic rock. The venue is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food, and top-notch service. AJ’s is a top choice for those who want to enjoy live music while indulging in delicious seafood.

AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is situated in the heart of Destin.
The venue offers live music every night of the week, featuring a mix of country music and classic rock.
AJ’s is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food, and top-notch service.
The bar is an excellent choice for visitors looking to enjoy live music and indulge in delicious seafood.

5. The Village Door Music Hall

If you are looking for a unique and upscale place to listen to country music, The Village Door Music Hall is a top pick. It is a stunning venue located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf, which offers custom cocktails, live music, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The Village Door allowed patrons to dine, drink and enjoy live performances, including country music acts. The venue also hosts comedy shows and dance parties.

The Village Door Music Hall is a unique and upscale venue located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf.
The bar offers custom cocktails, live music including country music, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy comedy shows and dance parties at the venue.

Comparison Table – Country Music in Destin Florida
Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar	The Boathouse Oyster Bar	The Red Door Saloon	AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar	The Village Door Music Hall
Famous beach bar with a mix of different genres	Vibrant venue with live country music, sport screenings, excellent food, and drinks	Intimate and cozy venue with a friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere	Lively atmosphere with an exciting mix of country music and classic rock	Upscale venue with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, featuring custom cocktails and live music including country bands
Located on the Florida-Alabama State line	Situated on the harbor in Destin	Situated on Highway 98	Situated in the heart of Destin	Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf
Winner of “Best Beach Bar in America” and “Outstanding Business Award 2019”	Perfect for sports lovers with multiple televisions	Excellent drinks, great service, and a fun-loving atmosphere	A top choice for those who want to enjoy live music and indulge in delicious seafood.	Venue with live performances, including country music acts, comedy shows, and dance parties.

In conclusion, Destin Florida is an excellent destination for country music lovers. From the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge to the intimate Red Door Saloon, there are plenty of options where visitors can enjoy live country music and dance the night away. Visitors can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and top-notch service in any of these five excellent venues.

FAQs: Live Music Destin Florida

What are the best places to hear live music in Destin Florida?

There are several great places to hear live music in Destin Florida, including The Funky Blues Shack, Aj’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, and The Village Door Music Hall. Each location offers a unique ambiance and features different genres of music.

When can I find live music in Destin Florida?

Live music is available year-round in Destin Florida. However, certain venues may have specific schedules for live music performances. It’s always a good idea to check the venue’s website or social media pages for upcoming events.

What genres of live music are typically available in Destin Florida?

Destin Florida offers a variety of live music genres, including jazz, blues, country, rock and roll, and pop. Some venues may specialize in a particular genre, while others offer a mix of different styles.

Are there any outdoor venues for live music in Destin Florida?

Yes, there are several outdoor venues for live music in Destin Florida, including HarborWalk Village and The Gulf on Okaloosa Island. Both venues offer beautiful views and a fun atmosphere to enjoy live music.

Do I need to make reservations to see live music in Destin Florida?

It’s not always necessary to make reservations to see live music in Destin Florida, but it’s recommended for popular venues and events. Check with the venue to see if reservations are required or recommended for the performance you want to attend.

Are there any free live music events in Destin Florida?

Yes, there are often free live music events in Destin Florida, especially during the summer months. HarborWalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf are two popular locations for free outdoor concerts.

What is the attire for live music events in Destin Florida?

The attire for live music events in Destin Florida varies by venue and event. Some events may require a dress code, while others are more casual. Check with the venue to see what attire is recommended.

Can I bring my children to see live music in Destin Florida?

Many venues in Destin Florida are family-friendly and offer live music performances suitable for all ages. However, some events may be 21 and up only. Check with the venue to see if their live music event is family-friendly.

What is the cover charge for live music events in Destin Florida?

The cover charge for live music events in Destin Florida varies by venue, artist, and event. Cover charges can range from free to $50 or more. Check with the venue to see what the cover charge is for the performance you want to attend.

Do any hotels in Destin Florida offer live music?

Yes, several hotels in Destin Florida offer live music performances, especially during the summer months. The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, for example, hosts weekly live music events at its beach bar.

Conclusion

Destin Florida is a paradise for music lovers, offering a variety of live music performances and venues year-round. Whether you’re seeking jazz, blues, country, or rock and roll, you’re sure to find a venue that suits your musical tastes. In addition to live music, there are plenty of other recreational activities in Destin Florida, such as fishing, boating, and beachcombing. Check out our other articles for more information on what to do in Destin Florida.

Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoy your time in Destin Florida!