📅 When
April 28, 2027 – May 2, 2027
📍 Where
1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
About this event
Rock by the Sea returns to The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach for its annual multi-day charity music festival. Since its founding, the event has raised over $1 million for children's charities and cancer research, making it one of the Gulf Coast's most meaningful music gatherings.
Held across five days on the shores of the Emerald Coast, Rock by the Sea features live performances from an impressive lineup of rock artists set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. The Boardwalk venue provides an ideal outdoor concert setting with the beach just steps away, restaurants and bars within easy walking distance, and sweeping water views.
Beyond the music, the festival carries a powerful philanthropic mission — every ticket sold contributes directly to charitable causes. Past beneficiaries have included children's hospitals, cancer research organizations, and local youth programs. Attendees come not just for the music but for the sense of community and purpose that defines the event.
Whether you're a die-hard rock fan or simply want to enjoy great live music while supporting a worthy cause on a beautiful Florida beach, Rock by the Sea delivers an unforgettable Emerald Coast experience every spring.
Best for: Rock music fans, families supporting charity, couples and friends looking for a meaningful Gulf Coast festival experience
What to expect: Five days of live rock music on an outdoor stage overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, with food vendors, bars, and the beach nearby. Acts typically range from classic rock tributes to nationally touring artists. The crowd is enthusiastic but family-friendly during daytime sets.
Planning tip: Book accommodations early — Fort Walton Beach fills up quickly in late April as spring break transitions to early summer. The Boardwalk area has ample parking but rideshares are a smart option if you plan to enjoy the full bar scene.
Cost: Ticket prices TBD; check rockbythesea.org for lineup and ticket announcements closer to the event
