Fourth of July on 30A: Seaside & Alys Beach

Seaside: Star-Spangled Fun

Seaside's Independence Day extravaganza is a full-day festival:

• 9 AM–12 PM: A lively Block Party at Central Square kicks things off with face painters, caricaturists, stilt walkers, Huck & Lilly kids’ music, a bike-decorating contest, and even a hot dog‑eating showdown (Southern Living).

• 7 PM: The Sinfonia Gulf Coast takes the amphitheater stage.

• 8:30 PM: The grand fireworks display lights up the Gulf—Seaside’s largest .

Insider tip: Parking fills early—consider biking from Grayton Beach parking or using Seaside’s free shuttle . Expect crowds; arriving by 6 PM secures a good fireworks spot .

Alys Beach: Elegant Evening

Alys Beach offers a softer, stylish celebration:

• 9–11 AM: Donut‐eating contest at the Amphitheatre—a quirky, sweet kickoff (allfloridarestaurants.com).

• 6 PM: Live concert (Bay Kings Band or Ascension) sets the tone (FloridaPanhandle.com).

• 9 PM: Fireworks illuminate Alys Beach’s signature white architecture (Southern Living).

It’s a more reserved, family‑friendly celebration—a lovely contrast to Seaside's high-energy block party.

🍽️ Restaurant Reviews: A Culinary Fourth

1. George’s at Alys Beach

An upscale‑casual gem on Castle Harbour Drive, praised for its fresh coastal‑global menu. Delivered in a charming beach‑cottage setting with wraparound porches and a rooftop deck (Reddit, George's at Alys Beach).

• What to try:

  • Lobster‑crab‑shrimp quesadilla and blackened shrimp — lauded as “wonderful… best food and service anywhere in the Panhandle” (Tripadvisor).

  • Grilled grouper sandwich, stuffed sea bass, and calamari fries—highlighted in local reviews (Frommer's).

• Pro tips:

  • No reservations—arrive early or unwind on their rooftop deck while waiting (George's at Alys Beach).

  • Menus are split “Behave” (light, spa-inspired) and “Misbehave” (fried comfort eats) (visitsouthwalton.com).

2. Crêpes du Soleil (Seaside)

This charming Airstream‑style eatery on Airstream Row delivers freshly made sweet and savory crêpes—try the Crepes Suzette, chocolate mousse crêpes, or the savory Peppered Pig (Cuban-style) (discover30a.com). A delightful casual stop for brunch or a midday treat.

3. Seagrove Village Market Café

A local favorite in Seagrove (between Seaside and Alys)—known for hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and bakery/sandwich takeouts. It earned a spot in Southern Living’s “25 Best Restaurants on 30A” (Southern Living). Perfect for grab‑and‑go meals or fueling up before holiday adventures.

4. Louie’s Una Pizza (at The Big Chill, Seaside)

Located within The Big Chill in Seaside, Louie’s Una Pizza is the ultimate casual post‑beach spot. With bubbly crusts and creative toppings, it’s ideal for families unwinding after fireworks. (While not in major guidebooks, it’s beloved by locals and vacationers for relaxed, delicious meals.)

🌊 Local Vibe & Tips

• Seaside on July 4th can feel “a mad house”—crowded and intense, especially with families .

• But fireworks are visible all along the Gulf—so pick a nearby beach spot if you prefer a low‑key evening .

• Alys Beach feels curated and upscale, with some calling its architecture a little too perfect or “sterile utopia” (Reddit). Whether that’s charm or too polished depends on your taste.

📅 Your Perfect 4th-of-July Itinerary

1. Morning

   • Arrive early in Seaside for the Block Party and contests.

   • Grab brunch at Seagrove Village Market Café or Crêpes du Soleil.

2. Afternoon

   • Head to Alys Beach for the donut contest or simply relax.

   • Early dinner at George’s—try a blackened shrimp dish or lobster quesadilla.

3. Evening

   • Choose your fireworks vibe:

     • Seaside: High-energy, live concert, massive Gulf fireworks at 8:30 PM.

     • Alys: Elegant concert & fireworks under the stars at 9 PM.

     • Or cozy on the sand with a slice from Louie’s Una Pizza.

✨ Final Take

Whether you’re craving hometown festivities or a sophisticated sunset celebration, 30A delivers. Seaside brings the energy and grandeur; Alys Beach offers charm and calm. And no matter where you roam, the region’s dining—like George’s, Crêpes du Soleil, Seagrove Village, and Louie’s—promises delicious moments to savor. From fireworks to fresh seafood, your Fourth on 30A is sure to sparkle.

Happy Independence Day—and happy travels!