Things to Do, Where to Eat, and How to Celebrate in Destin & 30A
This year, trade cold weather and kitchen chaos for Gulf breezes and golden sunsets. Thanksgiving on the Emerald Coast is relaxed, scenic, and full of flavor—no matter how you like to celebrate. Whether you’re staying in a beachfront retreat or a cozy 30A cottage, here’s your guide to effortless holiday meals, festive things to do, and ways to make the week unforgettable.
Where to Get Thanksgiving Meals To-Go
Prefer to let someone else do the cooking? From local gems to trusted national favorites, these spots make it easy to enjoy a full Thanksgiving spread without lifting a finger.
North Beach Social – Santa Rosa Beach
A laid-back local favorite right on the bay, North Beach Social offers a full Thanksgiving feast to go (serves 4–6). Everything comes ready to heat and serve—perfect for your beach rental balcony or dining table.
Location: 24200 Hwy 331 South | northbeach.social
Farm & Fire – Santa Rosa Beach
Located above North Beach Social, Farm & Fire creates wood-fired takes on holiday classics. Their “Dinner for Four” package typically includes roasted turkey, dressing, gravy, classic sides, and pie.
Location: 24200 US-331 | farmandfiresouthwalton.com
The Perfect Pig – Seagrove Beach
Known for its Southern-style comfort food, The Perfect Pig’s “Everything But the Turkey” package lets you handle the bird while they prepare all the sides and desserts. Orders are usually picked up Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
Location: 4281 E County Hwy 30A | theperfectpig.com
Harbor Docks – Destin
A true Destin tradition, Harbor Docks hosts a free community Thanksgiving dinner every year, with donations benefiting local charities. Enjoy classic favorites, Gulf views, and good company.
Location: 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin | harbordocks.com/event/31st-annual-thanksgiving-feast/
Whole Foods Market – Destin
Looking for an organic, chef-curated meal you can pick up and heat at home? Whole Foods Market offers several complete feasts—from traditional turkey dinners to vegan and ham options—plus à la carte sides and pies.
Location: 4402 Legendary Dr, Destin | wholefoodsmarket.com/tips-and-ideas/holiday-menus
The Fresh Market – Destin
The Fresh Market’s holiday meal kits make entertaining easy. Choose from packages like the “Essential Holiday Dinner” or “Deluxe Holiday Dinner,” complete with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, cranberry relish, and dessert. Just pre-order online and pick up locally.
Location: 4495 Commons Dr W, Destin | thefreshmarket.com/thanksgiving
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store – Destin
If you love classic Southern comfort, Cracker Barrel offers both dine-in Thanksgiving meals and Heat n’ Serve Feasts to go. Expect turkey, dressing, gravy, sides, and pie—just reheat and enjoy.
Location: 34930 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin | crackerbarrel.com/holiday
Dine-In Thanksgiving Options
Prefer a table with a view? These local restaurants serve special holiday menus you can enjoy without lifting a finger.
- Marina Café – Waterfront dining in Destin offering an upscale Thanksgiving buffet.
- Brotula’s Seafood House – Casual harbor-side buffet with turkey, prime rib, and Gulf seafood favorites.
- Vue on 30A – Elegant, Gulf-front buffet in Blue Mountain Beach—ideal for families or couples.
- The Bay – Relaxed Thanksgiving lunch overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay with turkey, ham, and Southern sides.
Tip: Reserve early—these spots book up weeks in advance.
Thanksgiving Week Activities
Beyond the feast, there’s plenty to enjoy during Thanksgiving week on the Emerald Coast.
30A Thanksgiving Day 10K / 5K / 1-Mile Fun Run
Start the morning off right with a scenic run (or walk) through Rosemary Beach. It’s one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions.
30a10k.com
Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise
Dine aboard the Solaris Yacht departing from Baytowne Marina. Enjoy a chef-prepared holiday buffet with panoramic bay views—no cleanup required. sunquestcruises.com
Beach Time and Sunset Strolls
Mid-60s to 70s temps make for perfect beach walks and quiet moments on the sand. Bring a light sweater for the evening breeze and soak in the serenity.
Shop Local and Explore
Kick off the season with tree-lighting ceremonies, outdoor concerts, and coastal holiday markets at Gulf Place or Baytowne Wharf. Great for finding one-of-a-kind gifts and supporting local artisans.
Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving Getaway
- Pre-order early—many meal kits sell out weeks before Thanksgiving.
- Confirm pickup times—most to-go orders are ready Wednesday before the holiday.
- Reserve dine-in spots early—holiday buffets fill quickly.
- Plan activities around mealtimes—schedule your beach walk or family outing before the big feast.
- Pack layers—evenings by the Gulf can be breezy.
- Reheat smart—if staying in a rental, check oven and fridge space before ordering
Give Thanks, Coastal-Style
However you celebrate—whether carving turkey on your vacation-home balcony, joining the 30A 10K, or toasting sunset aboard the Solaris—Thanksgiving on the Emerald Coast is all about gratitude, family, and slowing down to savor the moment.
Here, the only thing more comforting than the food is the view.