30a.news

South Walton Florida April 6, 2024

11th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest Returns to Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin May 10-12

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate fiesta experience as the 11th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest returns for another unforgettable celebration of Tequila Love! Established as the second longest running Tequila & Taco Fest in the U.S., Tequila & Taco Fest promises an unparalleled culinary adventure coupled with live music, family-friendly activities and thrilling competitions. Spanning across three exciting days from May 10th to May 12th, Tequila & Taco Fest offers a diverse array of attractions to delight attendees of all ages. Kick-off Party: The festivities commence with the electrifying Brews, Blues & BBQ Kick-off Party on Friday, May 10th, hosted by Sandestin® Beer, Buffalo Chip Bourbon and Black Sheep Tequila (voted the best tequila in the world) at the popular Marina Bar in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort® at the Baytowne Marina overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. Revelers can dive headfirst into the festive spirit, live blues music, tantalizing BBQ, and an array of refreshing brews. This weekend isn’t always about Tacos! Main Event: Taco Extravaganza unfolds on Saturday, May 11th, at the iconic Village of Baytowne Wharf, transforming the picturesque locale into a taco lover’s paradise. With an impressive lineup on Saturday, May 11th from 1 to 4 p.m., the main event takes center stage. With 25 plus taco vendors competing for the esteemed title of “Best Taco in Northwest Florida” and a grand prize of $2,500 for first place, attendees are in for a culinary delight. The festival will also host Best Margarita Competition, vying for the coveted title and bragging rights. Aficionados... Read More
30a.news

South Walton Florida April 6, 2024

Tip a Glass at the 37th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival April 11-14

Thursday, April 11th – Sunday, April 14th | Friday 5-8 p.m. and Saturday 1-4 p.m. | The Village of Baytowne Wharf The 37th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival, voted “Best Event” by Visit South Walton and known as the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals,” will run Thursday, April 11, through Sunday, April 14th at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. The main events, the Grand Wine Tastings, Friday, 5-8 p.m., and Saturday, 1-4 p.m., showcase more than 500 domestic and international wines throughout the weekend. Patrons will have the opportunity to talk to vineyard owners and wine makers about their favorite appellations in all varieties, styles and price ranges, and perhaps try something new. A gourmet experience, courtesy of some of the best chefs on the Emerald Coast from popular local restaurants, will pair delectable bite-sized appetizers with their current glass selections – the Savor South Walton experience. A festival favorite, the Bubbly & Boozy tent, returns to the Grand Sandestin Lawn, featuring bubbles and specialty liquors. Local and regional music also set the vibe for fun days of discovery. All ranges of knowledge are encouraged to attend – wine novices to aficionados alike. Festival goers can taste wines from a comprehensive selection from all major producing countries in all varieties, styles and price ranges. Ticket holders also receive a beautiful Riedel glass etched to commemorate each year’s event for their tastings. Presented by Hotel Effie and Spa Lilliana, a featured event, Seas The Day on Saturday, April 13 from... Read More
30a.news

South Walton Florida April 5, 2024

Spring Fishing in South Walton

By Cali Hlavac As the vibrant colors of spring emerge, fishermen and families flock to our piece of paradise in the 30A/South Walton area for a spring fishing adventure. With the warming temperatures and inviting waters, springtime in South Walton offers anglers an unparalleled experience filled with a variety of species and thrilling catches. One of the most appealing aspects of spring fishing in our area is the weather. During this time of the year, temperatures range from the comfortable mid-60s to the mid-80s, creating an ideal environment for both fish and anglers alike. Spring brings the arrival of various species to the waters off the Emerald Coast, presenting anglers with a plethora of opportunities. Among the prized catches during this season are Cobia, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead and Mahi-Mahi. These species thrive in the Gulf of Mexico’s nutrient-rich waters, making them abundant targets for eager fishermen. To reel in these coveted catches, anglers employ a variety of tried-and-tested techniques tailored to each species. For red snapper, bottom fishing near natural reefs, wrecks and ledges proves highly effective. Using live bait such as cigar minnows, pinfish or squid can entice these elusive creatures to bite. King mackerel and Spanish mackerel, known for their speed and agility, are commonly targeted using trolling techniques. Anglers troll various lures and baits behind boats at different depths, mimicking the movement of baitfish to attract these predatory species. Mahi-mahi, with their vibrant colors and acrobatic displays, are often encountered near floating debris, weed lines,... Read More
30a.news

South Walton Florida April 5, 2024

A Beach Within Reach: Access May Look Different, But Still Accessible

Walton County is widely regarded and celebrated for its 26 miles of sugar-white sand paired with incredible turquoise waters. It’s truly a breathtaking sight and the reason that many of our residents were attracted here. Our beaches are what draws visitors here as well, generating an economic impact of more than $6 billion annually and supporting more than 40,000 jobs for our residents. Tourism is the No. 1 economic driver in Walton County. Historically, Walton County has had a mix of public and private beaches. What does that look like today? In many ways, it looks the same. There are still portions of beach that remain private (think of our resort areas like Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach or Seaside) and there are condos, single-family homes and other developments that have deeded access to portions of beachfront. With spring break upon us and the summer beach season rapidly approaching, it’s important to acknowledge there have been some changes along the beach. The most important change from a private beach standpoint is the ability for the public to now have access to beachfront that was inaccessible in many areas. Based on the county’s settlement agreement, the public now has access to the area 20 feet landward of the wet-dry shoreline – known as the transitory zone – for walking, running, jogging and entry into the water for swimming and other activities. This only applies to beachfront parcels that were part of the county’s customary use settlement agreement and summary judgment. The map... Read More
30a.news

South Walton Florida April 4, 2024

Lakeside Songwriters Concerts Underway!

Featuring a lineup of top-notch, popular talent, the Lakeside Songwriters Concert Series, Friday nights at Old Florida Fish House on 30A, continues with Michael Morgan on April 5th, Charles Esten on April 12th, Leslie Satcher and Kevin Mac on April 19th and Bryan White on May 3rd. Captivating audiences with his authentic approach to storytelling through song, William Michael Morgan (April 5) is a country music singer with Warner Bros. Nashville. One of his notable breakthroughs was the release of his debut single “I Met a Girl” in 2015. The song, known for its traditional country sound and Morgan’s sincere vocals, garnered widespread acclaim. In 2016, William Michael Morgan released his debut studio album, titled “Vinyl,” highlighting Morgan’s commitment to traditional country music. Charles Esten (April 12) is an American actor, comedian and singer best known for his role as Deacon Claybourne in the popular TV series “Nashville.” Esten’s journey into the entertainment industry began with improvisational comedy as a regular performer on the British and American versions of the improv show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” In “Nashville,” Charles Esten’s portrayal of Deacon Claybourne, a talented musician dealing with personal and professional challenges, earned him acclaim from both fans and critics, even with his musical abilities. Esten performed numerous songs on the show and has released several albums with a blend of country and rock influences. Leslie Satcher (April 19) has penned numerous songs for prominent country artists that often delve into the complexities of human emotions, relationships and... Read More