Planning a Christmas getaway to the Emerald Coast? Take a break from kitchen duties and immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a variety of dining options in Destin and along 30A. Whether you're craving a traditional Christmas feast, exotic flavors, or a casual meal with a view, these local restaurants offer something to suit every palate. From waterfront grills to cozy cafés, experience the joy of Christmas dining without the hassle of preparation or clean-up. Join us in exploring these must-visit Destin area restaurants open on Christmas Day, and make your holiday meal a memorable part of your vacation.

Primrose Restaurant

Christmas Hours 7 AM - 2 PM

Celebrate the festive season with a delightful Christmas Brunch at Primrose, located in the Henderson Resort. This special day brings together the joy of Christmas and the pleasure of a sumptuous brunch, all in a splendid setting. For $42 per adult, $24 per child, and free for those under 6, guests can indulge in a range of carefully curated dishes by the chef, designed to cater to all tastes. Adding to the festive spirit, there's a possibility of a surprise visit from Santa Claus himself, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone. While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended to ensure a spot in this popular event. Immerse yourself in the holiday cheer and create cherished memories with loved ones at Primrose's Christmas Day Brunch – a perfect blend of gourmet cuisine, festive ambiance, and warm hospitality.

Tailfins Waterfront Grill

Christmas Hours 8 AM - 8 PM

_{Image Courtesy The Good Life Destin}

Embrace the festive season with a splendid dining experience at Tailfins, a culinary gem known for its breathtaking Gulf views and dishes crafted from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Tailfins stands out as the ideal venue for a memorable Christmas dinner, especially for NFL enthusiasts. With ultra-wide screen TVs nearly everywhere, guests can savor a plate of succulent crab legs or enjoy a pint without missing a single play of the Christmas NFL games. The menu at Tailfins caters to diverse tastes, ranging from breakfast to dinner. Highlights include mouth-watering sushi, fresh dockside oysters, the signature Tailfin Stack, Crab Stuffed Mahi, and the spicy New Orleans Cajun Shrimp. For meat lovers, Johnny's Famous Kansas City Baby Back Ribs offer a hearty choice, while the Alfredo Pasta provides a comforting option. Tailfins is more than just a restaurant; it's a destination where every meal is an event, ensuring your Christmas is filled with great food, sports, and joy.

Havana Beach Bar & Grill

Christmas 8 AM - 2 PM, 5 PM - 9 PM, Roof Top 11 AM - 5 PM

This Christmas, immerse yourself in a culinary adventure at Havana Beach Bar and Grill, renowned for its imaginative blend of Caribbean and Gulf Coast flavors. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfectly suited for both intimate conversations and festive family dinners. With an inviting and comfortable layout, it offers an ideal setting for holiday celebrations. Weather permitting, guests have the option to dine alfresco, adding a touch of natural charm to their meal. For a more casual experience, the rooftop deck awaits with small plates and inventive cocktails, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, Main Street in Rosemary Beach, stunning sunsets, and a star-filled night sky. For those preferring to dine at their beach house, takeout is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While reservations are recommended, the large bar area welcomes walk-ins on a first-come, first-serve basis. At Havana Beach Bar and Grill, a memorable Christmas dining experience is guaranteed.

Harry T's Lighthouse

Christmas Hours 11 AM -10 PM

_{Image Courtesy The Good Life Destin}

This Christmas, step into the festive and whimsical world of Harry T's Lighthouse, nestled in HarborWalk Village. Every day feels like a holiday at this circus-themed establishment, originally opened to honor the renowned trapeze artist "Flying Harry T." The restaurant's decor, inspired by the grandeur of the big top, creates a fun, playful, and theatrical ambiance, perfect for a joyful holiday gathering. Its prime waterfront location offers stunning views of both the harbor and the Gulf, adding to the charm of your dining experience. Harry T's menu is a celebration of classic American cuisine, featuring an array of fresh seafood, succulent chicken, perfectly cooked steaks, and an assortment of salads. Complement your meal with a selection from their refreshing drink options. Join us at Harry T's Lighthouse for a Christmas filled with merry flavors, spectacular views, and an atmosphere that captures the magic of the season.

VKI Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

Christmas Hours 11 AM - 10 PM

Celebrate Christmas Day with an Asian twist at VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar in Santa Rosa Beach. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., this dining destination offers both reservations and walk-in options, ensuring everyone has a chance to savor their Christmas meal. Delight in an all-day dinner menu featuring authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its exquisite hibachi and sushi made with high-quality fresh ingredients, VKI Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar is a gem in the Santa Rosa Beach community. Whether you're looking for a dine-in experience or a take-out meal, the restaurant's convenient location, friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices make it an ideal choice. Don't miss the opportunity to add a unique and flavorful twist to your Christmas celebration at VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar.

Holi Indian Kitchen

Christmas Hours 11 AM - 2:30 PM, 5 PM - 10 PM

Celebrate Christmas with a culinary journey at Holi, open on Christmas Day for lunch (11 am-2:30 pm) and dinner (5-10 pm). Named after the vibrant Indian Festival of Colors, Holi embodies the spirit of new beginnings and unity, reflected in their offering of authentic Indian cuisine from various regions. Established in 2020, the restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere where every guest is treated with respect and equality. Whether you're seeking catering, a dine-in experience, or a take-out meal, Holi's menu promises a memorable feast, perfect for the holiday season. Embrace the festive cheer without the hassle of cooking, and let Holi's array of flavorful dishes, inspired by the joy and color of the Holi festival, add a unique and exotic touch to your Christmas celebration.

Related Article:

Destin New Years Eve Hot Spots

The best New Year's Eve celebrations will be held in popular Destin area entertainment hot spots. We've got the Village of Baytowne Wharf in the prestigious gated Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, HarborWalk Village in Downtown Destin.

The Ocean Club

Christmas Hours 12 PM - 7 PM

Experience a festive and flavorful Christmas Day at the Ocean Club, where a special menu awaits from Noon to 7:00 pm. Dive into a delectable selection, starting with soups like Seafood Gumbo or Crabmeat Bisque, followed by fresh salads and an array of tempting appetizers, including Fried Asparagus and Classic Shrimp Cocktail. The main course offerings are equally enticing, with options like Grouper Ocean Club, Filet Mignon, and Cajun Fried Turkey, each accompanied by vegetables, hot rolls, and butter. Remember, reservations are a must for this holiday feast. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in a Christmas meal that's as special as the day itself!

Margaritaville Restaurant

Christmas Hours 12 PM - 8 PM

It's always five o'clock in Margaritaville… even on Christmas day! As soon as you enter Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in HarborWalk village, you'll enter a relaxed, stress-free state of mind. In addition to amazing Gulf views, the popular restaurant boasts an island-inspired menu, outdoor seating, live music, and (of course) the best margaritas.

Marina Bar & Grill

Christmas Hours 12 PM - 6 PM

Celebrate Christmas with a tropical twist at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in HarborWalk Village, where it's always five o'clock. Step into this oasis of relaxation and leave your worries behind, as the laid-back atmosphere instantly transports you to a stress-free zone. Margaritaville offers not just breathtaking Gulf views, but also an island-inspired menu that perfectly complements the festive spirit. Choose to dine outdoors and bask in the scenic surroundings, enhancing your holiday experience. Live music adds to the ambience, creating a lively backdrop for your Christmas celebration. And, of course, no visit to Margaritaville is complete without sampling their famous margaritas, known to be the best around. This Christmas, let Margaritaville provide the perfect setting for a joyous and relaxed holiday meal, filled with good food, great music, and the unbeatable charm of island living.

Boathouse Oyster Bar

Christmas Hours 2 PM to Midnight

This Christmas, indulge in the laid-back charm of Destin's Boathouse Oyster Bar, a perfect spot to enjoy a cold drink and a dozen fresh oysters. Known for serving some of the best oysters and gumbo on the Emerald Coast, the Boathouse Oyster Bar offers a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, ranging from succulent seafood to classic burgers. The allure of this popular destination goes beyond its delicious food. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to the stunning views, the vibrant live music, and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that defines the oyster bar. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for a cozy place to unwind, the Boathouse Oyster Bar provides an ideal setting for a memorable Christmas day, combining great food, refreshing beverages, and an ambiance that perfectly captures the essence of a festive, beachside celebration.

Great Southern Cafe

Christmas Hours 4 PM to 9:30 PM

Celebrate Christmas at Great Southern Cafe in Seaside, FL, where the festive spirit meets Southern culinary charm. On this special day, the cafe's dinner menu features the acclaimed Grits a Ya Ya, lauded by 'Travel and Life' as Florida's best Southern dish. This mouthwatering creation combines blackened shrimp, Applewood-smoked bacon, spinach, mushrooms, and cream atop smoked Gouda grits. For a heartier feast, choose the bacon-wrapped filet mignon with sides or the luxurious mac and cheese with bacon and shrimp. Salad enthusiasts will enjoy the balsamic grilled salmon or Caesar with blackened shrimp. Complement your Christmas meal with selections from an extensive wine list, draft beers, and cocktails. Kids can relish their favorites from a specially crafted menu. Join Great Southern Cafe this Christmas for an unforgettable dining experience that embodies the warmth and flavors of the South.

After savoring the culinary delights of Destin this Christmas, continue the holiday cheer at your Ocean Reef Resorts vacation rental. Whether you choose to dine out at one of these exceptional local restaurants or prefer a cozy, homemade meal in your rental, your Christmas in Destin is bound to be a joyous and tasty affair. From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas filled with delicious food, warm memories, and the magic of the Emerald Coast.

Keep Reading:

New Destin & 30A Rentals For Christmas

For over four decades, we've specialized in turning beach getaways into cherished memories. Our new vacation rentals in Destin and on 30A are more than just properties; they are gateways to a Christmas filled with joy, laughter, and the magic of the Emerald Coast.