I live here and will also be staying that week at Pickens. I suggest you drive down toward the entrance there are a few parking areas, then sit back and watch the show. Fireworks will be over toward the ballpark which you will be able to see great from the parking area. I suggest eat breakfast one day at Native Cafe there at the beach, but a must is McQuires Irish Pub. Just be warned the bathroom signs are backwards so when you go to the door that says men it points to the other door. The best food by far to me is The Five Sisters at Belmont and Deville st about 20 min drive from the beach. Be sure to see the IMAX movie while at the Naval Air Museum.