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Seasonal + Events

A Guide to Emerald Coast Wine Festivals: Sip, Savor, and Celebrate

The Emerald Coast is not only famous for its stunning beaches, but it’s also home to some of the South’s most anticipated wine festivals. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along the scenic 30A, there’s a wine festival for everyone to enjoy. These festivals combine the best of wine, food, music, and local culture, making them perfect for group gatherings or a weekend getaway. Here’s your guide to the top wine festivals along the Emerald Coast, where you can sip, savor, and celebrate in style. 1. South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival (April) One of the largest and most well-known wine festivals on the Emerald Coast, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Held in Miramar Beach, this four-day event offers more than 600 wines for guests to sample, as well as a variety of food tastings, seminars, and live entertainment. The Grand Tasting is the highlight of the event, featuring gourmet bites from local chefs and wineries from around the world. Why It’s Special: Incredible selection of wines and food, live music, and unique wine seminars. Location: Miramar Beach, FL Relevant Link: South Walton Wine & Food Festival 2. Sandestin Wine Festival (April) Known as the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals,” the Sandestin Wine Festival is another premier event that draws wine lovers from near and far. Taking place at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, this festival offers tastings of hundreds of wines, live music, and an opportunity to explore the vibrant Baytowne Wharf community. It’s a great option for groups, as the festival’s relaxed yet lively atmosphere ensures everyone has a fantastic time. Why It’s Popular: Its long-standing reputation as one of the Emerald Coast’s top wine festivals, complete with wine dinners, auctions, and coastal views. Location: Sandestin, FL Relevant Link: Sandestin Wine Festival 3. Harvest Wine & Food Festival (October) Held in the heart of 30A, the Harvest Wine & Food Festival celebrates the arrival of fall with fine wines, culinary delights, and picturesque coastal views. The festival focuses on high-end wines and intimate experiences, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more sophisticated event. Set in the charming WaterColor community, this festival is smaller than some of the spring events but no less impressive. Why It’s Unique: Focus on high-quality wines and gourmet food in a relaxed, scenic setting along 30A. Location: WaterColor, Santa Rosa Beach, FL Relevant Link: Harvest Wine & Food Festival 4. 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach (March) For a truly luxurious wine festival experience, the 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach delivers elegance in every detail. Set in the gorgeous Alys Beach community, this festival is known for its exclusivity and the high caliber of wines offered. The event includes tastings, dinners, and live music, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Gulf. It’s an intimate event that offers a more refined atmosphere, perfect for wine connoisseurs. Why It’s Luxurious: Exclusive wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and the stunning architectural backdrop of Alys Beach. Location: Alys Beach, FL Relevant Link: 30A Wine Festival 5. Seeing Red Wine Festival (November) Held annually in the charming town of Seaside along 30A, the Seeing Red Wine Festival is one of the longest-running wine events on the Emerald Coast. This festival offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still featuring excellent wines, chef-driven dishes, and a vibrant community vibe. The event includes wine dinners, a grand tasting, and local food pairings, making it a fantastic way to spend a weekend in 30A with friends and family. Why It’s a Local Favorite: Long-standing festival in the heart of Seaside, with a focus on local and regional wines and foods. Location: Seaside, FL Relevant Link: Seeing Red Wine Festival Where to Stay: Legacy Beach Homes After a full day of wine tasting, you’ll want a comfortable, spacious place to relax. That’s where Legacy Beach Homes comes in. At Legacy Beach Homes, we offer the Emerald Coast’s largest collection of newly-built, large vacation rentals, perfect for multi-family vacations or large group getaways. Whether you’re attending a wine festival in Destin, Miramar Beach, or 30A, our vacation homes provide the perfect home base for your group. Our properties feature large 8-bedroom homes that sleep 20+ guests and side-by-side homes that accommodate 50+ guests, ensuring that everyone in your group has plenty of space. With easy beach access, private pools, and complimentary golf carts and paddleboards, your stay at Legacy Beach Homes will be as luxurious as the wine festivals you’re attending. Plus, our 5-star hosts ensure an outstanding experience from start to finish, and we don’t charge any third-party fees, so you can enjoy your vacation without the extra hassle. If you’re looking for the ultimate group vacation rental along the Emerald Coast, Legacy Beach Homes is here to make your stay unforgettable.   #EmeraldCoastWineFestivals #DestinWineFestivals #MiramarBeachWineFestivals #30AWineFestivals #SouthWaltonWineFestival #LegacyBeachHomes #LargeGroupVacationRentals #MultiFamilyVacationRentalHomes #MultiGenerationVacationRentalHomes #DestinLargeBeachRentals #MiramarBeachLargeVacationRentals #30ALargeBeachVacationHomes #BeachVacationRentalsForLargeGroups #FloridaLargeBeachVacationHomes #8BedroomBeachHomes #SideBySideBeachRentalsForLargeGroups #vacationrental #multigenerationvacation #multifamilyvacation #groupvacationflorida

Emerald Coast Events and Happenings: What to Look Forward to Year-Round

The Emerald Coast, with its stunning beaches and coastal charm, is not just a paradise for sunbathers and beachgoers—it’s also home to vibrant events and exciting happenings throughout the year. From festive celebrations and food festivals to live music and local arts, Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A are filled with activities for all ages. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or planning a large group getaway, there’s always something happening along the Emerald Coast. Here’s what you can look forward to year-round. 1. Destin Seafood Festival (October) If you’re visiting Destin in October, don’t miss the Destin Seafood Festival. This iconic event is a local favorite that celebrates the rich fishing heritage of the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Held along the Destin Harbor, it features fresh seafood, live music, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. From Gulf shrimp and oysters to fresh fish tacos, the seafood at this festival is unbeatable. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the waterfront while savoring the best flavors of the Emerald Coast. 2. 30A Songwriters Festival (January) Each January, music enthusiasts flock to 30A for the 30A Songwriters Festival, a weekend of live performances by over 200 talented songwriters. Held in venues scattered throughout Santa Rosa Beach and the 30A area, this festival showcases intimate performances from Grammy-winning artists and up-and-coming talent. The blend of soulful melodies and the laid-back coastal vibe make it a perfect way to kick off the year. 3. South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival (April) Wine and food lovers won’t want to miss the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival held in April. Located at Grand Boulevard near Miramar Beach, this four-day event offers wine tastings, food pairings, and gourmet experiences. With hundreds of wines to sample and delicious dishes prepared by renowned chefs, it’s a perfect pairing of luxury and coastal beauty. Live entertainment and culinary demonstrations make this festival a must for anyone who appreciates fine wine and food. 4. Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival (June) Arrr, matey! Every June, Fort Walton Beach (just a short drive from Destin and Miramar Beach) transforms into pirate central for the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival. This lively and family-friendly event features a pirate invasion, parades, fireworks, and entertainment galore. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, don your best pirate gear and join in on the swashbuckling fun. 5. Sandestin Wine Festival (April) April also brings the Sandestin Wine Festival, one of the largest and most prestigious wine events on the Emerald Coast. Held at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, the festival offers grand wine tastings, champagne cruises, and gourmet food pairings. Whether you’re staying in nearby Destin, Miramar Beach, or Santa Rosa Beach, this event is a wonderful way to enjoy an upscale experience while savoring the finest wines from around the world. 6. Destin Fishing Rodeo (October) October in Destin also means it’s time for the Destin Fishing Rodeo, a month-long tournament that attracts anglers from all over. Whether you’re competing or just watching, the daily weigh-ins at the Destin Harbor are exciting events for all ages. You’ll witness impressive catches of fish like grouper, marlin, and snapper. It’s a fantastic celebration of Destin’s fishing culture. 7. Harvest Wine & Food Festival (October) Santa Rosa Beach welcomes wine lovers in October for the Harvest Wine & Food Festival, another notable event in the 30A area. Held in WaterColor, this event celebrates the flavors of the season with a blend of wine, food pairings, and entertainment. The Grand Tasting is a festival highlight, offering a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for sipping and savoring along the coast. 8. Mardi Gras Celebrations at HarborWalk Village (February) If you’re in Destin during Mardi Gras season, head to HarborWalk Village for their lively Mardi Gras parade and celebration. The event includes live music, colorful floats, and, of course, plenty of beads! It’s a family-friendly way to enjoy the spirit of Mardi Gras right here on the Emerald Coast. Plan Your Stay with Legacy Beach Homes At Legacy Beach Homes, we love sharing the vibrant culture and events of the Emerald Coast with our guests. Whether you’re planning a getaway to enjoy the Destin Seafood Festival, a large group vacation for the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, or a family reunion during the 30A Songwriters Festival, we’ve got the perfect vacation home for your stay. Legacy Beach Homes offers the Emerald Coast’s largest collection of newly-built, large vacation rentals perfect for multi-family vacations, reunions, and large group getaways. All of our Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A homes are specifically designed for large groups, with features like 8-bedroom beach homes that can sleep 20+ guests. Many of our side-by-side homes can accommodate up to 50 people, making them ideal for large family reunions or multi-generation vacations. With easy beach access, private pools, and amenities like free golf carts and paddleboards, you’ll experience the best of the Emerald Coast in luxury. Ready to book your next vacation? Visit Legacy Beach Homes to explore our collection of large beach rentals for your group and experience everything the Emerald Coast has to offer! #EmeraldCoastEvents #DestinEvents #MiramarBeachEvents #30AEvents #SantaRosaBeachEvents #EmeraldCoast #DestinFishingRodeo #SouthWaltonWineFestival #LegacyBeachHomes #LargeGroupVacationRentals #MultiFamilyVacationRentalHomes #MultiGenerationVacationRentalHomes #DestinLargeBeachRentals #MiramarBeachLargeVacationRentals #30ALargeBeachVacationHomes #BeachVacationRentalsForLargeGroups #FloridaLargeBeachVacationHomes #8BedroomBeachHomes #SideBySideBeachRentalsForLargeGroups #VacationRental #MultigenerationVacation #MultifamilyVacation #GroupVacationFlorida

Holiday Getaways for Large Groups on the Emerald Coast

Planning a holiday getaway with a large group on the Emerald Coast can create unforgettable memories for family and friends. Whether you’re gathering for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or the Fourth of July, the stunning coastline of Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A offers plenty of activities and group-friendly dining options to make your holiday celebration one to remember. Here’s a guide to organizing a festive, hassle-free holiday vacation, complete with tips for holiday-themed activities and group dining. 1. Christmas on the Emerald Coast Christmas on the Emerald Coast is a magical experience, with beautiful lights, holiday parades, and festive markets. For large groups, staying in a spacious beach home allows everyone to be together while enjoying the cozy warmth of the season. Festive Activities: Destin Harbor Christmas Lighted Boat Parade: One of the most popular holiday events in Destin, this annual boat parade lights up the harbor with festively decorated boats. Afterward, gather with your group to watch the fireworks show. Santa’s Arrival at Baytowne Wharf: The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Miramar Beach hosts an array of holiday activities, including ice skating, light displays, and even Santa’s arrival by horse-drawn carriage. 30A Holiday Markets: Along 30A, you’ll find holiday markets filled with unique gifts and handmade crafts. It’s a great way to shop for holiday gifts while supporting local artisans. Group-Friendly Dining: Many restaurants along the Emerald Coast offer holiday-themed menus, perfect for group dining. For Christmas dinner, consider: Vue on 30A: This waterfront restaurant offers beautiful views and a holiday menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Website: Vue on 30A Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar: Located in Destin, Cuvee offers a cozy yet upscale environment, ideal for holiday gatherings with family and friends. Website: Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar After a day of holiday fun, head back to your Legacy Beach Home, where you can celebrate the season in a spacious, luxurious setting. Visit Legacy Beach Homes to explore our beautiful vacation rentals, perfect for large groups. 2. Thanksgiving on the Emerald Coast Thanksgiving on the Emerald Coast provides the perfect blend of warm weather, delicious dining, and opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you prefer cooking a Thanksgiving feast in a fully equipped kitchen or dining out, the Emerald Coast has it all. Festive Activities: Thanksgiving Day 30A 10K & Fun Run: Start your Thanksgiving with a family-friendly 10K or 5K race along 30A. This scenic run is a great way for large groups to bond and stay active before indulging in Thanksgiving dinner. Website: 30A Thanksgiving 10K Beach Bonfires in Santa Rosa Beach: After your Thanksgiving meal, gather around a cozy beach bonfire in Santa Rosa Beach. Many local companies, such as La Dolce Vita, will set up a bonfire and provide seating, allowing your group to relax and enjoy the evening together. Group-Friendly Dining: If you’d rather skip the cooking, there are several great restaurants offering Thanksgiving feasts: Harbor Docks: This Destin institution serves a free Thanksgiving meal to the community, making it a great option for those who want to give back and enjoy a delicious meal. Website: Harbor Docks Café Thirty-A: A favorite in Santa Rosa Beach, Café Thirty-A hosts a lavish Thanksgiving dinner with all the traditional fixings. Website: Café Thirty-A Staying at Legacy Beach Homes offers the added benefit of being able to cook a home-cooked meal for your group, with large kitchens that make preparing Thanksgiving dinner a breeze. 3. Fourth of July Celebrations on the Emerald Coast The Fourth of July is one of the most exciting times to visit the Emerald Coast, with fireworks, beach parties, and patriotic events taking place all along the coast. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or 30A, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate with your group. Festive Activities: Destin Fireworks over the Harbor: Every Fourth of July, Destin Harbor lights up with a spectacular fireworks display. Book a pontoon boat or find a spot on the beach to watch the show with your group. Red, White, and Baytowne: The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Miramar Beach hosts a family-friendly Fourth of July celebration with live music, kids’ activities, and a grand fireworks display over the lagoon. Seaside Fireworks: 30A’s Seaside community hosts one of the area’s most beloved Fourth of July events, featuring a patriotic parade, live music, and a breathtaking fireworks show on the beach. Group-Friendly Dining: For a Fourth of July cookout, consider grabbing fresh seafood from local markets like Sexton’s Seafood in Destin or Goatfeathers Seafood Market in Santa Rosa Beach. These markets offer the freshest seafood perfect for grilling with your group at one of Legacy Beach Homes’ spacious vacation rentals. Alternatively, if dining out is more your style, many restaurants host Fourth of July parties with festive food and drinks: The Bay: Located on 30A, The Bay is a great spot to enjoy casual dining with waterfront views, perfect for group gatherings. Website: The Bay Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: With a prime location on Destin Harbor, Boshamps offers fresh seafood and Southern favorites, making it a fun and festive place to dine with large groups. Website: Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House Plan Your Holiday Getaway with Legacy Beach Homes Whether you’re planning a Christmas retreat, Thanksgiving gathering, or a Fourth of July celebration, Legacy Beach Homes is the ideal place for large groups to stay on the Emerald Coast. With the largest collection of newly-built vacation homes in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A, our properties are designed for multi-family and multi-generation vacations. Our homes feature spacious living areas, 8-bedroom beach homes that sleep 20+ guests, and side-by-side homes that can accommodate groups of 50 or more. With amenities like private pools, golf carts, paddleboards, and easy beach access, Legacy Beach Homes ensures that your holiday vacation is both relaxing and memorable. Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to book your holiday getaway and start planning your perfect vacation on the Emerald Coast. Hashtags: #EmeraldCoastHolidayGetaways, #DestinChristmasVacation,

The Best Places to View Fireworks on the Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast, with its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, is the perfect destination for enjoying dazzling firework displays year-round. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along 30A, you’ll find spectacular spots to catch fireworks displays almost every week. From weekly summer shows to holiday celebrations, here are the top places to view fireworks on the Emerald Coast. 1. HarborWalk Village – Destin One of the most popular places to view fireworks in Destin is at HarborWalk Village. Every summer, HarborWalk Village hosts weekly firework shows, lighting up the sky over Destin Harbor. These fireworks displays are usually scheduled for Thursday nights during the summer, but they also host larger shows on holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day. Best Viewing Locations: The main boardwalk area at HarborWalk Village offers stunning views of the fireworks. Arrive early to grab a spot along the water or at one of the restaurants with outdoor seating, such as Harry T’s Lighthouse. Boat Tours: For a unique experience, consider booking a boat tour that takes you into the harbor for an up-close view of the fireworks. Time Needed: 2-3 hours for exploring HarborWalk and enjoying the show Website: HarborWalk Village Cost: Free to watch; food and boat tours vary in price. 2. Baytowne Wharf – Miramar Beach In Miramar Beach, The Village of Baytowne Wharf is another fantastic spot for viewing weekly fireworks. During the summer months, Baytowne Wharf hosts Boomin’ Tuesdays, a weekly fireworks show over the lagoon. These displays offer a festive atmosphere, with live music, family-friendly activities, and excellent waterfront views. Best Viewing Locations: Anywhere along Baytowne Wharf’s boardwalk offers great views, but the area near the Baytowne Marina is particularly scenic for watching the fireworks reflect off the water. If you want to enjoy a sit-down dinner while watching the show, Hammerhead’s Bar & Grille is a great option for outdoor dining. Time Needed: 2-3 hours to explore the village and enjoy the fireworks Website: Baytowne Wharf Cost: Free to attend the fireworks; dining prices vary. 3. Seaside – 30A In the heart of 30A, the charming beach town of Seaside also hosts regular firework displays during major holidays, including Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve. Seaside’s fireworks shows light up the sky over the Gulf of Mexico, providing a breathtaking backdrop to your evening on the beach. Best Viewing Locations: Seaside Beach Pavilion is one of the best spots to lay out blankets or beach chairs and watch the fireworks. Arrive early to grab a prime spot on the sand. Bud & Alley’s rooftop bar offers great views of both the fireworks and the beach if you’re looking for a more social setting. Time Needed: 2-4 hours if you’re spending the evening in Seaside Website: Seaside Cost: Free to watch; dining and drinks vary in price. 4. Alys Beach – 30A Another top spot along 30A for fireworks is Alys Beach, which hosts incredible fireworks displays during major holidays and events, such as the Fourth of July and Digital Graffiti Festival. The combination of Alys Beach’s modern architecture and the fireworks over the Gulf makes for a striking visual experience. Best Viewing Locations: The Alys Beach Amphitheatre is a popular spot for viewing fireworks, often paired with live entertainment or events. Grab a spot on Alys Beach’s white sands for a more intimate and picturesque view of the fireworks. Time Needed: 2-3 hours Website: Alys Beach Cost: Free to attend, although some events may require tickets. 5. Okaloosa Island – Santa Rosa Island Okaloosa Island, located between Destin and Fort Walton Beach, is another excellent spot for weekly fireworks. During the summer, you can catch fireworks every Wednesday night over the Okaloosa Island Pier. These fireworks are visible from multiple locations, including the beach and nearby waterfront restaurants. Best Viewing Locations: The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island offers a front-row seat to the fireworks with beachside restaurants like The Crab Trap providing excellent views. Set up chairs on Okaloosa Island Beach for an unforgettable beachside firework display. Time Needed: 2-3 hours Website: The Boardwalk Okaloosa Island Cost: Free to attend; dining prices vary. 6. Fourth of July Fireworks on the Emerald Coast If you’re visiting during Fourth of July, you’re in for a treat! The Emerald Coast hosts some of the best firework shows in Florida, and many areas put on special events. Popular locations include: Destin Harbor: The largest fireworks show in the area, launched from East Pass. Seaside: A family-friendly parade followed by fireworks on the beach. Fort Walton Beach Landing Park: A patriotic fireworks show that lights up Santa Rosa Sound. Arrive early to any of these locations to secure your spot, as Fourth of July fireworks attract big crowds. 7. Special Events and Holiday Fireworks Beyond the summer season, many spots along the Emerald Coast host fireworks for special events and holidays like New Year’s Eve, Labor Day, and Memorial Day. Whether it’s a holiday weekend or a special festival like the Emerald Coast Poker Run, you’re bound to find fireworks lighting up the sky. Check event calendars for Destin, Miramar Beach, 30A, and Santa Rosa Beach to see when the next fireworks display will happen. Fireworks are frequently paired with local festivals and concerts, adding to the fun. Stay at Legacy Beach Homes for the Best Fireworks Viewing Locations At Legacy Beach Homes, we offer the perfect vacation homes for large groups visiting the Emerald Coast. Our spacious beach homes in Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A provide easy access to the best firework shows, whether you’re watching from a beachfront property or taking a short walk to the fireworks viewing locations. With our 8-bedroom vacation homes that sleep 20+ guests and side-by-side homes for even larger groups, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Enjoy private pools, easy beach access, and amenities like golf carts and paddleboards, making your beach vacation stress-free. Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to plan your next group getaway and catch the

Enjoying the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (2024)

Dust off your sunglasses and pack your swimsuit because Destin, Florida, is calling!  This vibrant beach town transforms into an angler’s paradise every June during the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic. You may come for the fresh catch, but Destin’s allure extends far beyond the roar of the weigh-ins. Imagine thrilling deep-sea fishing excursions by day, cheering on passionate anglers at night, and unwinding on pristine sugar-white beaches in between. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a family seeking a memorable summer escape, Destin offers an unforgettable experience during the annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic. Let Legacy Beach Homes be your guide to why Destin should be your next vacation destination! Read on for everything you need to know about the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic -– where anglers and million-dollar dreams collide! About the 2024 Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) is a legendary world-class fishing tournament in South Walton that has become synonymous with big catches, fierce competition, and a vibrant atmosphere. Held annually in Miramar Beach, Florida, the ECBC attracts close to 100 boats and hundreds of anglers, all vying for a piece of the massive $2 million+ purse. This prestigious sportfishing event isn’t just for seasoned professionals; it welcomes anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a curious first-timer, the ECBC offers an electrifying experience. A History Of Thrilling Competition and Conservation The ECBC’s story began in 2003, and it has grown into a cornerstone of the Gulf Coast tournament circuit. The first year saw 45 teams competing for a total cash prize of over $329,000. Over the years, participation and payouts have steadily increased, with 2023 hosting 80 teams, 486 anglers, and a whopping $1,810,250 awarded. The highest jackpot ever recorded was a staggering $2,040,200 in 2018, showcasing the tournament’s immense appeal. The ECBC is not just about catching the biggest fish. It also prioritizes conservation efforts. The tournament operates under a “modified release” format. While blue marlin weighing a minimum of 110” can be weighed and brought in, all other billfish, like white marlin, sailfish, and spearfish, must be carefully released. This approach ensures these magnificent creatures’ sustainability and the marine ecosystem’s overall health. The dedication to conservation is further emphasized by the awarding of a perpetual trophy to the team with the most released billfish. This recognition highlights the importance of responsible fishing practices. Registration And Schedule Of Events For The ECBC 2024 The 22nd annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) promises another exciting year of fierce competition and thrilling catches. Here’s what you need to know about registering and participating in the 2024 event, happening from Wednesday, June 19th to Sunday, June 23rd. How to Register Get a head start and register your boat and team by May 31st, 2024. This allows you to participate in the Early Bird Draw, offering a cool $1,000 cash prize and free dockage at the Baytowne Marina during tournament week. Head over to the ECBC website for registration details and forms. There is a base entry fee of $6,000. Schedule of Events Wednesday, June 19th: Registration Thursday, June 20: Jackpot Entry & Tournament Start Remaining Days About the Baytowne Marina in Miramar Beach The ECBC takes place at Baytowne Marina in Miramar Beach, a world-renowned destination known for its pristine beaches, luxurious accommodations, and a plethora of recreational activities. This provides the perfect blend of exhilarating competition and a relaxing family vacation. It’s more than just a single tournament. It’s the gateway to several prestigious fishing series, including the Florida Panhandle Billfish Series, the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship, and more. Anglers can earn points and recognition in these additional circuits. Anglers get to test their skills against some of the most magnificent gamefish in the Gulf of Mexico, including the awe-inspiring blue marlin. While the competition heats up on the water, families and friends can enjoy the various offerings in the area, from championship golf courses to vibrant entertainment options. The highlight of the tournament is undoubtedly the spectacular night-time weigh-ins held at the Baytowne Marina. These free public events are thrilling for spectators. Witnessing the colossal catches brought in by proud anglers creates an electric atmosphere, making the ECBC a must-visit event for anyone in the area. Big Money, Big Dreams: The ECBC Payout Structure The ECBC has a massive cash purse exceeding $2 million, making it one of the most lucrative fishing tournaments globally. There are over 27 optional entry levels, allowing anglers to tailor their participation and potentially win a significant share of the prize money. The tournament rewards excellence in various categories. The heaviest weighed blue marlin, dolphin, tuna, and wahoo all secure cash awards. Additionally, top teams in the Release and Crew divisions are recognized for their expertise in catch-and-release techniques and overall team performance. Individual anglers are also celebrated, with awards presented to the top overall, release, lady, and junior participants. The ultimate recognition goes to the top overall release team, whose name is etched on the prestigious Magnificent Blue Perpetual Trophy – a symbol of dedication to conservation and exceptional sportsmanship. Record Catches The ECBC has witnessed some awe-inspiring catches throughout its history. Things To Do Near Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Enjoy Destin’s Beaches June is a great time to visit Destin for the beaches. The weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Go Parasailing Destin is a popular parasailing destination. With the warm sun on your skin, June is a great time to experience the thrill of soaring above the water. Go On A Dolphin Cruise Take a dolphin cruise and see these amazing creatures up close in their natural habitat. Many companies offer dolphin-watching tours in Destin, and June is a great time to see them. Go Deep-Sea Fishing As we know, Destin is a world-renowned deep-sea fishing destination, and June is a great time to catch a variety of fish, including marlin, tuna,