If holiday shopping snuck up on you this year, you’re not alone and luckily, you don’t need to rely on shipping deadlines or big-box stores to finish strong.

• This Local’s Gift Guide is all about thoughtful, easy-to-grab gifts you can find right here at home while supporting the local businesses that make our community special.

We focused on gifts you can walk in and buy, book instantly, or enjoy all year long. From experiences and memberships to one-of-a-kind items you won’t find everywhere else. No worrying about packages arriving on time, just meaningful gifts with a local story behind them.

To make things simple, we’ve curated three separate guides: one for him, one for her, and one for the kids. Whether you’re shopping for a fisherman, a creative kid, or someone who loves all things coastal, these lists are designed to help you check everyone off your list all while being stress-free and supporting local.

For her

1. Artesano Boutique – Handmade Coastal Pottery by the Stokes Family ($65)

No two pieces are exactly alike. This handmade pottery makes a meaningful, lasting gift she’ll treasure long after the holidays.

2. Cottonwood Company – Vintage Bookshelf Classic Board Game ($42)

For the woman who loves game nights but also cares about how things look. These classic games double as beautiful décor when not in use.

3. Get The Coast – Endless Summer Crop Tee ($34)

A soft, easy-to-wear tee made for coastal days. Cute with jeans and a local favorite for anyone who wants to carry “endless summer” with them year-round.

4. Salty Scents – The Palms 3 Wick candle ($30)

One of those candles that instantly makes your whole home feel warm and cozy. With notes of citrus, palo santo, sandalwood, and amber, it’s locally handmade, clean-burning, and perfect for slow mornings or winding down at night.

5. Katie’s House of Flowers & Gift – Seasonal Wrapped Flowers Subscription ($30 – $60)

Fresh, seasonal flowers wrapped and ready to enjoy. A thoughtful gift that brings a little joy home again and again with no arranging required.

6. The Facial Feature Enhancement Studio – Facial Feature Enhancement Package ($899 – $999)

For the woman who wants to simplify her routine. This semi-permanent makeup option offers a soft, natural look that still allows for bolder makeup when she wants it.

For him

1. Adventure Marina Bait & Tackle – Penn Rival Offshore Combo ($149.99)

A tried-and-true Penn offshore rod and reel combo made for landing big catches. Adventure Marina has a huge selection of fishing combos, tackle, and boating supplies in stock. Located just over the Brooks Bridge on Okaloosa Island, next to High Tide Restaurant.

2. Healing Waves Therapeutic Massage – 60 minute session ($120-$160)

Get a gift card for the man who “doesn’t need a massage” but definitely does. Focused on easing aches, stress, and tight muscles.

3. RadBar – All you can play ($10)

A fun, laid-back spot to let loose. Classic arcade games, pinball, and drinks—an easy experience gift for the guy who likes to have fun without overthinking it.

4. Lou Lou Beans Gift Shop – Lab Vintage Tan Leather Trifold Wallet ($58)

Made from genuine leather with a small detail dog lovers will appreciate. This is an easy everyday upgrade for the guy whose best friend has four legs.

5. Get The Coast – Endless Summer Sunshirt ($45)

An everyday layer for fishing, boating, or just being outside. Breathable, sun-ready, and designed with coastal life in mind.

6. Timber Creek Distillery – Bourbon Blending Experience ($100 – $200)

A hands-on experience where he gets to blend his own bourbon and learn the process along the way. A fun, local gift that’s more than just another bottle.

For the kids

1. Charmology – Charms for Children ($10)

A meaningful gift that gives back. Each donation provides a charm-making kit to a girl ages 8–15, spreading creativity and confidence through a nonprofit founded by a local.

2. Emerald Coast Science Center – General Admission Pass ($15)

An experience gift that’s perfect for little explorers. Lots of hands-on activities, bright exhibits, and room to touch, play, and learn through fun.

3. Wildwood Garden – Terrarium Bar ($20+)

Kids get to build their own mini terrarium and take it home. A fun, hands-on activity that mixes creativity, plants, and play.

4. Gulfarium – Yearly Individual Membership ($130)

Perfect for your little animal lover. Unlimited visits all year long with dolphins, sea lions, and marine life – an experience they’ll get excited about again and again.

5. Pink Coyote Dessert Co. – Winter Pint Club ($62)

A fun gift for kids who love ice cream (and what kid doesn’t love ice cream!?). This winter membership includes a pint each month from January through March, giving them something sweet to look forward to long after the holidays.

6. All Things Fancy – Kids Craft Pass 2026 ($30)

A fun experience for creative kids. This pass is good for one future Kid Craft Night in 2026, featuring rotating projects like slime, painting, sewing, and seasonal crafts plus kids get to take their creation home.