Farm-to-Table Along the Emerald Coast
Local farmers markets showcase coastal flavors and fresh food.
There are few subjects that delight the senses like food, and nothing beats the power of fresh. Communities everywhere are embracing sustainable, local sourcing movements and reaping the benefits of healthy, tastier food options.
The Emerald Coast is no exception, and residents and visitors to our area will find an abundance of farmers markets. From Fort Walton Beach and Destin to the communities of 30A, a variety of local artisans and growers can be found on a regular basis showcasing coastal flavors, fresh fruits and vegetables, uncommon blends, cheeses and more. And most are conveniently located near or in the middle of some of the area’s distinctive shopping districts.
Here are some of The Premier Property Group’s (PPG’s) top picks.
Rain or shine, the Seaside Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the community’s amphitheater hub. Located on scenic Highway 30A, the market showcases everything from organic meats, cheeses, vegetables, and fruits to handcrafted soaps and jewelry. Plenty of prepared offerings are available, so go ready to eat. Some of the market’s more unique offerings include organic duck, heirloom garden seeds and home-made pork rinds from free-range pigs.
The family of local growers, makers, and bakers that comprise the 30A Farmers Market can be found at locations across Okaloosa County each weekend year-round. Visitors will find a wide array of locally-grown fruits and vegetables and good eats on Sundays in the Rosemary Beach Town Center, and Saturdays at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and Palm Plaza in Niceville, all from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. From June 6-September 6, the 30A Farmer’s Market also operates in the front parking lot at our Seascape Office in Miramar Beach on Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market
Situated along the picturesque Intracoastal Waterway, the Fort Walton Beach (FWB) Landing Park is the destination for the Downtown FWB Farmers Market every 2nd and 4thSaturday from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Buyers can pick from a variety of fresh produce, eggs, meats, honey, coffee and other specialty items.
Fort Walton Beach is also home to the Okaloosa Farmers Market, which operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 7 a.m. -1 p.m. at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. Farmers and food crafters— many from the north end of the county—bring locally grown vegetables, fruits, honey and prepared items, such as jams, jellies, and salsas, for purchase by residents and visitors in the south end.