Your Offbeat Emerald Coast Valentine’s Guide 2025

Picture this: You’re sipping rosé on a hidden stretch of sand, the sky streaked with peach and lavender, laughing with your person about that time you both got caught in a surprise rainstorm chasing ice cream trucks in Seaside. That’s the Emerald Coast Valentine’s magic I’m talking about—no crowded restaurants, no clichés, just real moments. I’m Heather Curry, realtor, mom of three, and your go-to for ditching the predictable. Let’s skip the heart-shaped fluff and craft a day that’s 100% you.

For the “We Don’t Do Basic” Couple

Dinner with a Side of Ghosts
Crash the Festival of Fears haunted house (Feb 14th). Bond over zombie jump-scares, then debrief over smoky old-fashioneds at The Cellar Speakeasy—a hidden 1920s-style bar beneath Destin’s HarborWalk. Password: “Heather sent us.” (You’re welcome.)

Spearfishing Lessons & Beach Grilling
Yes, really. Salty Soul Adventures teaches couples how to hunt lionfish (they’re invasive—eco-warrior points!). Grill your catch right on the sand at sunset. BYOB and a blanket.

Secret Supper at The Henderson
Chef’s tasting menu in a courtyard lit by 500 fairy lights. Think: seared scallops with blood orange glaze, paired with stories about the Coast’s quirkiest home listings I’ve sold. How to book: DM me @heather_curry_realtor. I’ll text you the details. 🤫

For the Art-Obsessed (or Art-Curious)

Paint a Living Mural
Join muralist Allison Wickey in her Seaside studio. You’ll co-create a mini-masterpiece on reclaimed wood from Hurricane Michael. Messy, meaningful, and way cooler than a Hallmark card.

VIP Night at Gulfarium
Ditch dinner for penguins. Gulfarium’s after-hours access includes a 3-course meal and meet-and-greets with rescued African penguins. Only 12 couples per night—swoon.

30A Art Scavenger Hunt
Grab a map from The Studio Gallery and hunt for hidden public art. Find the tiny bronze turtle in Rosemary Beach? Win a free coffee at Amavida.

Foodie Fixes (No Stuffy Tables Required)

Taco ‘n’ Trivia Night
La Cocina’s backroom fiesta: Name every Taylor Swift song in 3 minutes, win pitchers of prickly pear margaritas. Bonus points for ’90s sitcom theme songs.

Oyster Shucking Class @ Baytown Wharf
Learn to shuck like a pro at Harbor Docks, then slurp your haul with mignonette shots. Romance level: Messy, salty, perfect.

Heather’s Steal-Worthy Hacks

• Skip 30A Traffic: Park at WaterColor Inn and bike everywhere. Trust me—you’ll save 45 minutes (and your sanity).

• Kid Swap Coalition: Team up with neighbors. You babysit Feb 13th; they take Feb 14th. Mom code forever.

• Local’s Sunset Spot: The quiet dock behind Stinky’s Fish Camp. Bring a Bluetooth speaker and a $12 bottle of bubbly.

Why This Works for Us

Valentine’s Day here isn’t just a date—it’s a reminder of why we love living on the Emerald Coast. Whether you’re hunting lionfish, laughing over tacos, or debating abstract art, these moments are the ones that turn houses into homes.

📞 Call/Text Heather: 850-240-7475
📧 Email: heather@echomecollective.com
🌐 Website: echomecollective.com
📸 Instagram: @heather_curry_realtor | @emeraldcoasthomecollective

P.S. Found a hidden beach or a mural that stole your heart? DM me—I’ll trade you my famous crab dip recipe. 🦀❤️