From beachfront bars to intimate venues, here's your guide to uncovering the best spots for live music in Destin, FL, this year.
This is the year to grab a drink, kick back, and let the rhythmic beats of live music set the perfect backdrop to your Emerald Coast experience. And where's the best place to soak it all in? Destin, where every melody captures the spirit of this lively coastal town!
Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Destin is also a haven for music enthusiasts. From soulful acoustic performances to high-energy bands, the city offers a diverse lineup of live music venues catering to every mood and musical preference. Whether you're looking for a laid-back vibe by the water or a buzzing atmosphere in the heart of town, Destin has it all.
Here's a little preview just for you:
- AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar: Waterfront spot with multiple stages, sunset views, and genres from rock to reggae.
- HarborWalk Village: Family-friendly hub with harbor views, street performers, and live local bands.
- Boathouse Oyster Bar: Local favorite for rock and blues with casual seafood dining.
- LuLu's Destin: Island vibes, live tunes, and family fun in a boat-accessible location.
- Club LA: High-energy venue for original rock and regional acts.
- Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: Casual waterfront dining with live outdoor music and stellar seafood.
- Margaritaville: Classic Jimmy Buffett spirit with cover bands, tropical cocktails, and harbor views.
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In this blog, I'll show you where to find Destin's best live tunes, from beachside jams to laid-back bars that keep the good times rolling.
Let's dive right in!
1. AJ'S SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR
Rock, Country, Reggae — Waterfront location with sunset views, multiple stages
AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar is the ultimate destination in Destin for a lively night out. This waterfront gem combines great food, refreshing drinks, and live music for a memorable experience. Known for its energetic vibe, AJ's attracts a mixed crowd of locals and tourists, offering stunning sunset views and multiple stages for entertainment. Whether you're in the mood for rock, country, or reggae, AJ's has live bands or DJs almost every night.
Don't miss Club Bimini upstairs, where you can dance the night away while enjoying the cool coastal breeze. Pair your evening with their signature fish tacos or other fresh seafood, and you're in for an unforgettable night.
What People Say:
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"We go here often to see the view, have a cool one, eat some fish tacos, and enjoy the live music. The inside is rustic, not a dump. The food is good – have the fish tacos. Drinks are cold and large. We really love the place. Not fancy – but fun and a great place to go to have a fun time. We especially like the live music. A GREAT place!"
2. HARBORWALK VILLAGE
Various Genres, Local Bands — Waterfront Location with Harbor Views, Multiple Venues
HarborWalk Village is Destin's go-to entertainment complex, perfect for family outings or casual nights by the water. This lively spot offers a mix of live music, bustling activities, and breathtaking harbor views. From local bands playing various genres to vibrant outdoor performances, there's always something happening at HarborWalk Village.
The family-friendly atmosphere is a highlight, with activities like train rides and ziplines to keep kids entertained while adults enjoy the music and the picturesque surroundings. With multiple venues and waterfront charm, it's an ideal spot to relax, dine, and soak up the energy of Destin's harbor scene.
What People Say:
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"Great people-watching opportunities, kids activities (train rides, ziplines, etc.), and live music were available. We stayed at a condo across the harbor, and the music from one of the venues kept us up late several nights, so people were definitely having a great time! Check it out!"
3. BOATHOUSE OYSTER BAR
Rock, Blues, Local Acts — Fresh Seafood and Casual Atmosphere
Boathouse Oyster Bar is a local gem in Destin, perfect for anyone seeking a laid-back vibe with fantastic live music. Known for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere, this spot attracts both locals and visitors looking to unwind.
Famous for its crawfish boils on Saturdays and regular live performances, the Boathouse is the place to enjoy rock and blues while savoring oysters, shrimp, and the daily catch. Whether it's a casual date night or a break from the typical chain restaurants, this spot delivers a truly authentic Destin experience.
What People Say:
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"Date night. At first, we weren't sure about this place. We decided to listen to the live music, have a beer, and split peel-and-eat shrimp to check it out, then decide whether to stay/go. Glad we did. Turned out to be one of the best dinners of the vacation week... Legit y'all. I will come back next time we're here!"
4. LULU'S DESTIN
Island Vibe, Various Genres — Family-Friendly, Boat Accessible
LuLu's Destin is the perfect destination for a fun, casual outing with family or friends. Nestled along the water with boat accessibility, this lively spot offers a vibrant island vibe, complete with live music and a beach area for kids to play.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food, LuLu's serves up a variety of crowd-pleasers, from shrimp tacos to quesadillas and hearty sides like their famous fried okra. Whether you're arriving by boat or car, this family-friendly gem offers great food, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
What People Say:
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"Our food was delicious! My husband ordered the shrimp tacos, and I ordered the chicken quesadilla! I also got a side of okra because it's my favorite! First off, the side could feed an army, and the ranch that they served with it was absolutely AMAZING!!!! Great service! Awesome atmosphere, and the live music is always a plus!!!"
5. CLUB LA
Original Rock, Regional Acts — Young Crowd, High Energy
Club LA stands out as Destin's only dedicated music venue, delivering a top-notch experience for rock enthusiasts. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, this venue features touring bands and regional performers, making it a must-visit spot for live music lovers.
With great drinks, good food, and a clean, inviting space, Club LA provides everything you need for an unforgettable night out. Whether you're catching a local act or a major touring band, the sound quality and lively crowd create an electric vibe that keeps fans coming back.
What People Say:
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"This place really is top-notch... If you love rock music, this is the place to see it. Drinks are great, food is good, music is awesome, people are friendly and nice, the place is very clean—it's everything you could ask for, really."
6. BOSHAMPS
Live Outdoor Music — Family-Friendly, Casual Waterfront Dining
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House is a Destin favorite for those seeking fresh seafood, live music, and stunning harbor views. With a laid-back atmosphere and an outdoor deck perfect for dining al fresco, this spot is ideal for family outings or a relaxing evening by the water.
Known for its regular live music schedule and a mouthwatering menu, Boshamps serves up dishes like their signature gumbo alongside other fresh seafood favorites. While they don't take reservations, the experience is well worth the wait. With valet parking and attentive staff, they make every visit memorable.
What People Say:
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"This place is awesome! Live music, great food, fantastic views, and VERY attentive staff. They don't take reservations, but are certainly worth the wait—and make sure you have the gumbo."
7. MARGARITAVILLE
Cover Bands, Island Music — Casual, Tourist-Friendly
Margaritaville brings the laid-back, island vibe of Jimmy Buffett to the heart of Destin. With multiple bars, two levels of outdoor seating, and live music on Saturday nights featuring the Three Bean Soup band, it's a perfect spot for tourists and locals alike to unwind and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Whether you're enjoying Happy Hour on the top deck or relaxing indoors during a rain shower, Margaritaville offers something for everyone. Kids can explore HarborWalk Village while adults sip on tropical drinks, and the whole family will love the tasty appetizers and lively ambiance.
What People Say:
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"Ventured here a couple of times! Happy Hour on the top deck with live music—great spot while the kids enjoyed milling around Harbor Village. Went back to kill some time while it rained. Virgin piña coladas and appetizers kept the teenagers happy for a bit."
Quick FAQ: Live Music in Destin
1. What's the best time of year to enjoy live music in Destin?
Live music is available year-round, but the peak season runs from spring through early fall. During summer, nearly every waterfront bar and outdoor venue features daily or nightly performances.
2. Are most live music venues in Destin family-friendly?
Yes. Many spots like HarborWalk Village, LuLu's Destin, and Boshamps welcome families. Adults can enjoy great music and drinks while kids play nearby or enjoy the views.
3. Is there a cover charge for live music venues?
Most venues offer free entry, especially restaurants and beach bars. Clubs like Club LA may charge a small cover for special concerts or touring acts.
4. What genres of live music can I expect in Destin?
Destin's music scene covers it all: rock, country, reggae, blues, and easy-listening acoustic sets. The variety changes nightly, keeping things fresh and fun.
5. Are there live music options right on the beach?
Yes! AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar, LuLu's Destin, and Margaritaville all feature live performances near the water, offering that perfect toes-in-the-sand vibe.
6. Do I need to make reservations at these venues?
Some, like Boshamps, don't take reservations but are worth the wait. For dinner shows or big-name performances, it's smart to call ahead or arrive early.
7. Are any venues pet-friendly?
Outdoor decks at a few places, such as LuLu's Destin and AJ's, welcome well-behaved dogs. Always check ahead, as policies can vary seasonally.
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