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Ultimate Guide to Seaside, Florida: Things to Do, Dining & Shopping
A Coastal Gem with Endless Delights!
For such a small beachside town, Seaside is teeming with things to do, places to shop and secret spots to discover. Consider this your ultimate guide to Seaside.
Seaside at a glance
- Founded: 1981 by Robert and Daryl Davis, on 80 acres Davis’s grandfather J.S. Smolian bought in 1946
- Claim to fame: the birthplace of New Urbanism — shops, restaurants, schools and homes all within a short walk
- On screen: filming location for The Truman Show (1998) — see the filming spots
- Town center: the Seaside Amphitheater’s grassy bowl and limestone stage host outdoor movies, concerts, and the Farmers Market (Saturdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m. year-round, plus Tuesdays in June–July)
- Parking: paid parking in town, with a complimentary shuttle from the designated lot off Highway 331 South
Seaside is especially well suited to families, with parks, green spaces for children, shops, restaurants and the beach all within easy walking distance. Guests staying in Seaside vacation rentals have access to the private beach pavilion associated with their rental, while members of the public may access the beach through Coleman Pavilion by reserving beach chairs through Cabana Man. Paid parking is available in town, and a complimentary shuttle runs from Seaside’s designated lot off Highway 331 South.
The Little Town that Could
Seaside began as a dream of town founder Robert Davis’s grandfather, J.S. Smolian, who bought the 80 acres in 1946. Davis inherited the land in 1978 and, with his wife, Daryl Rose, set out to create something special along this stretch of coastline.
They explored small Southern towns, sought out ambitious architects and designed a groundbreaking form of development that harkened back to simpler times. Known as New Urbanism, this approach creates communities where places of worship, schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and homes are all within a short walk. It recalls life before cars ruled our daily routines.
The result was soaring demand for homes in Seaside. Real estate prices climbed as available plots were quickly purchased.
What was it like in SEASIDE 40 years ago?
30A’s Mike Ragsdale spoke with surfer and restaurateur Dave Rauschkolb.
Seaside: Then and Now
Check out this video to see how Seaside grew from a bold New Urbanist vision into the beloved beach town it is today, with interviews and historical insight that bring its story to life.
What’s there to do? Everything!
For a small beachfront community, Seaside offers a remarkable number of things to do, if you decide to get up off your beach towel, that is. There’s swimming, tennis, walking trails, biking, shopping, dining, live concerts, theatre productions, outdoor movies and more.
To make life a little simpler, we’re dividing Seaside’s retail, dining and entertainment areas into three sections: Beachfront, Amphitheater and Ruskin Place.
Beachfront is the Gulf-front area south of 30A. Amphitheater refers to the shops, restaurants and entertainment surrounding the grassy amphitheater. Ruskin Place is a quieter, artsy district that connects the town center to the Seaside Chapel. Together, they form something like an upside-down T.
Surrounding all of this are beach cottages of varying sizes, colors and shapes. The homes are connected by a maze-like network of white-sand paths and white picket fences. At the end of a fun day at the beach, grab a flashlight and go exploring. Seaside at night is every bit as magical as it is during the day.
Beachfront
Seaside’s beach is reached through private beach pavilions serving different neighborhoods. Members of the public may access the beach through Coleman Pavilion, located between Pizza Bar and Bud & Alley’s, by reserving beach chairs through Cabana Man. Chair and umbrella rentals are available, and seasonal watersports rentals may also be offered. If you do nothing else while in Seaside, watch at least one sunset with the sand beneath your bare feet.
Dining
The Shrimp Shack offers fresh seafood with an unbelievable view. Once you pick up your order, head out back and follow a sand path to a Grecian take on an outdoor pavilion. The views are fantastic. The Shrimp Shack’s new Boardwalk Bar offers handcrafted cocktails, draft beer, and wine in a relaxed Gulf-side setting.
Bringing island vibes to the heart of Seaside, The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant is a tropical escape filled with bold flavors, craft cocktails, and a playful atmosphere. Chef Nikhil Abuvala blends Hawaiian, Filipino, Vietnamese and Gulf Coast influences into a globally inspired menu, featuring dishes like Ahi Crispy Rice, Cobia Poke and the must-try Maui Burger with rich soy brown gravy fries. The bar program is just as impressive, with fresh-pressed juices, macerated sugarcane and tiki classics served in beautiful, heavy-cut glassware, with no plastic cups here.
Bud & Alley’s restaurant is a multiple award-winning restaurant downstairs, with the laid-back Rooftop Bar upstairs offering unrivaled sunset views and a daily ringing of the bell at sundown.
Pizza Bar offers wood-fired pizzas, salads and pastas. Pizza Bar is now located roadside in Bud & Alley’s flagship building, alongside Taco Bar.
Taco Bar serves authentic border tacos, bold Latin flavors, margaritas and light bites. Its new location beside Pizza Bar makes it easy to enjoy both restaurants in one convenient spot.
Seaside’s shipping container dining trend gets a stylish twist at The C-Bar, a laid-back, upcycled hotspot next to Great Southern Café. This compact walk-up bar is the perfect spot to sip on a refreshing Great Southern mojito or enjoy a locally brewed craft beer. The full Great Southern Café menu is also available, so you can pair your Grits à Ya Ya with a tropical cocktail in a fun, casual setting. Whether you’re unwinding at the bar or grabbing a drink to go, The C-Bar is Seaside’s go-to spot for effortless coastal vibes.
Next door, 87 Central Square offers a welcoming outdoor setting for fine wine, beer, craft cocktails and imaginative fare. It is an inviting gathering place for special events, everyday dining or simply relaxing over drinks in the heart of Seaside.
Tucked away in a charming white cottage shaded by magnolia trees, Black Bear Bread Co.’s Seaside location brings artisanal breads, pastries, coffee and thoughtfully prepared breakfast and lunch dishes to the heart of town. Its signature sourdough is always a favorite.
A Seaside tradition since 1998, It’s Heavenly Shortcakes & Ice Cream delights visitors with classic Southern ice cream flavors, locally made Italian gelato and sorbet, house-made strawberry shortcakes and gourmet cookies. Guests can also enjoy hand-spun milkshakes, Lavazza coffee and espresso shots.
Nigel’s Bananas, tucked away in Ruskin Artists Colony, is a fun, laid-back spot serving Belgian chocolate-dipped frozen bananas and ice cream bars with a variety of toppings. Since opening in 2021, it has become a favorite for sweet treats, offering everything from rainbow sprinkles to toasted coconut. The menu also features breakfast items, craft soda floats and boozy sorbet floats, plus beer and wine for those looking to unwind.
A Seaside favorite since 1993, Pickle’s Burger & Shakes is known for its handcrafted burgers, crispy fried pickles and hand-spun milkshakes made with locally sourced ice cream. The menu also features a hearty breakfast with pancakes, breakfast tacos and biscuits with homemade gravy. Just steps away, Pickle’s Sandbar offers cocktails, draft beer and the full Pickle’s menu with Gulf views.
Lovingly attached to Great Southern Café, b.f.f. specializes in refreshing frozen beverages, including signature Bushwackers, Frosé and other creative concoctions. Using high-end spirits, freshly squeezed juices and organic mixes, b.f.f. offers a delightful grab-and-go bar experience in the heart of Seaside.
Located at 25 Central Square, B1, Seaside, Amavida Coffee & Tea is a family-owned café known for its specialty organic, fair-trade coffees and teas. With its own roasting facility nearby, Amavida emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices. Patrons can enjoy a variety of beverages alongside locally made pastries and quiches in a welcoming atmosphere.
Established on July 4th, 1988, Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudge has been a cornerstone of Seaside’s dessert scene for decades. This charming confectionery offers frozen yogurt, locally sourced soft-serve ice cream, ICEEs, homemade fudge and fudge-dipped novelties. Its updated offerings also include freshly made waffle cones, ice cream nachos and a specialty shake bar.
Amphitheater
The sloped sides of the amphitheater seem to beckon to children of all ages. No matter how much they’ve splashed and played in the Gulf, grass underfoot seems to invigorate everyone.
A limestone stage sits at the base of the amphitheater and hosts outdoor movies and concerts. Around the amphitheater, you’ll find a grocery store, clothing stores, jewelry boutiques, a bookstore, a record shop, a toy store, eyewear and more. Basically, almost anything you need can be found here.
Airstream Row
It’s hard not to smile when you’re ordering food from a window in a shiny Airstream.
Massive snow cones in a dizzying array of flavors and colors.
Cheese sandwiches like you’ve never tasted before.
Hot dogs made from grass-fed beef, homemade sauces, specialty toppings and more. These aren’t average hot dogs.
Barefoot BBQ serves hormone-free, steroid-free and antibiotic-free barbecue from a retro, tiki-style Airstream, with saucy sandwiches, classic sides and frozen drinks.
Seaside Pop! is a gourmet popcorn Airstream serving freshly popped treats in a variety of sweet and savory flavors.
Famous for the shrimp and grits, the award-winning Great Southern Cafe also has an excellent outdoor bar and a menu that takes Southern food to a new level.
Crepes made to order in a variety of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for carrying around while you explore.
Wild Nectar brings a fresh and nourishing option to Airstream Row, serving sandwiches, bowls, salads, smoothies and fresh-pressed juices.
New to Seaside, ‘drome serves dumplings, Asian-inspired street eats and inventive sips in a lively, casual setting.
A longtime favorite from the Seaside Farmers Market, Mr. Gyro Hero now serves its popular gyros and Mediterranean dishes from an Airstream on Airstream Row. The menu also includes vegetarian and kid-friendly options.
Post Office
Reportedly the most photographed post office in the United States, the Seaside Post Office is the perfect backdrop for family photos, or a place to drop a postcard in the mail. It is especially lovely in winter when it is decked out in holiday lights.
Shopping
From beachwear and books to gifts, accessories and locally inspired finds, Seaside offers plenty of places to browse between meals and beach time.
Located at 123 Quincy Circle in Seaside, Ophelia Swimwear is a premier luxury boutique specializing in designer swimwear and beachwear. It offers a curated selection of swimsuits, cover-ups, sandals, sun hats, beach bags and jewelry, catering to styles ranging from simple and chic to beachy glam.
The Seaside Style is the official lifestyle brand of Seaside, Florida, offering a curated collection of clothing, accessories, spa products, gifts, books, toys and pet items that reflect the town’s simple, timeless, comfortable and fun aesthetic.
This toy shop brings out the kid in all of us and is the perfect place to scoop up beach toys, diversions for the trip home or a little something extra to remember the trip by.
Formerly known as “Perspicacity,” Cabana by The Seaside Style was Seaside’s first retail store and has been reimagined to offer a curated selection of clothing, accessories and shoes embodying the essence of cabana living. Its collection features flowy caftans, colorful sparkles, distinctive prints and breezy linens for those seeking a blend of Old Hollywood glamour and Palm Beach chic.
Located at 2236 E County Highway 30A in Seaside, Florida, Ono Surf Shop offers a curated selection of swimwear, footwear, lifestyle clothing and beach accessories. Whether you’re looking for the latest in surf fashion or essential gear such as surfboards, boogie boards and skimboards, Ono Surf Shop has you covered.
Ono Surf Shop now also offers Ono Surf & Sip, a convenient grab-and-go stop for cold drinks, frozen treats, snacks and ice.
Brothers is one of Seaside’s newest retail additions, bringing another fresh shopping destination to the town center.
Headley Hat Co. offers a stylish selection of hats and accessories, making it easy to find the perfect finishing touch for a day in the sun.
Poeta is a new boutique addition to Seaside’s shopping scene, offering visitors another thoughtfully curated place to browse while exploring the town center.
Lala Links specializes in permanent jewelry, allowing guests to choose a custom-fitted piece designed to be worn as a lasting keepsake from their time in Seaside.
Town Square Shoes offers a range of footwear for exploring Seaside, heading to the beach or completing a relaxed coastal look.
SPORT by The Seaside Style brings together apparel, accessories and sporting style inspired by Seaside’s active, outdoor lifestyle.
The Seaside Pop-Up District introduces a rotating collection of brands, boutiques and limited-time shopping experiences, giving visitors something new to discover throughout the year.
The Seaside Farmers Market is held in the Seaside Amphitheater from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays throughout the year, with an additional Tuesday market in June and July. The market brings together local farmers, growers and artisans offering fresh produce, baked goods and specialty foods. Visitors can also enjoy live music while supporting local vendors.
Seaside’s grocery store is a delight to fans of The Truman Show. In addition to grocery staples, you’ll find daily lunch specials, muffins the size of your head and homemade cakes sold by the slice.
Buy a book already! Unplug, relax somewhere shady and let a story captivate your attention for a bit. Look for signed editions and check out the wonderful children’s section.
Head upstairs from Sundog Books and you’ll find a record and music store that has something for everyone. Don’t be shy. Ask for recommendations. The staff love to introduce people to new music.
Seaside Neighborhood School and Academic Village
Be sure to walk by Seaside Neighborhood School, the middle-school campus of The Seaside School, Florida’s oldest continuously operating public charter school. If you’re there during the school year you might see PE class out on the lawn or hear the school band rehearsing.
The adjacent Academic Village is an area for visiting speakers and guests of the Seaside Institute to stay and gather.
Ruskin Park is shaded by scrub oaks and protected by an ornate iron gate. Along the edges of the park are boutiques and art galleries housed on the ground floors of individual townhomes.
Newbill has been promoting the work of artists for more than 25 years in Ruskin Place and is Ruskin’s oldest art gallery. Owner Annette Newbill Trujillo credits the gallery’s long-lasting success to the relationships she has created with customers and her discerning eye for talent. Newbill carries handmade jewelry, sculpture, photography, folk art, handmade clothing, original paintings, garden art and more.
Huck & Harlowe is a dog outfitter offering stylish collars, leashes, apparel, treats, beach toys and other accessories for four-legged visitors and the pets waiting at home.
Looks Like Love Boutique offers a fashionable selection of women’s clothing and accessories for a range of ages and styles. Its frequently updated collection includes blouses, T-shirts, shoes and playful accessories.
Charleston Shoe Company specializes in stylish, comfortable women’s footwear designed to transition easily from daytime exploring to an evening out. Its versatile shoes are known for combining walkable comfort with polished style.
Wood + Wave is a locally owned women’s and men’s lifestyle boutique and gift shop. Visitors will find casual coastal clothing, accessories, jewelry and distinctive gifts in a relaxed Ruskin Place setting.
Onward Reserve is a men’s lifestyle and clothing store offering swimwear, polos, button-down shirts, sports coats, pants, leather goods, gifts and other elevated essentials for a relaxed coastal wardrobe.
Whitewash Boutique offers a hand-curated selection of women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories. The coastal boutique focuses on timeless, well-constructed pieces made from natural materials in an inviting and unpretentious setting.
A few other fun facts
Watch The Truman Show before you visit, then see how many filming locations you can recognize.
Every white picket fence in Seaside is different. No, really! Don’t believe us? Go for a stroll on the sand paths that connect all the homes and give them an up-close look. Kids will have fun finding all the little ways they differ from each other.
You can’t miss the wall-sized mural at Seaside’s purple wall at 25 Central Square. Learn all about this artistic tribute to Vincent Scully here.
Can you find the sundial? Tucked away along one of the walking paths is a large sundial. There is also a playground, along with pools for overnight guests.
