Seaside
When you walk around Seaside, you may feel like you are on a movie set. That is because you are. This neighborhood seems almost too perfect to be real and was the set of the movie the Truman Show starring Jim Carey. Pastel-colored houses with white picket fences line the streets and lush gardens and green spaces are featured throughout the community. Seaside is perhaps the crown jewel of the new urbanist movement that makes walking more desirable than driving.
In addition to its history, the town square is the hub of activity on 30A and some have offered it the moniker of “the sunset strip for teenagers” where kids congregate to live their best life. Rows of Airstream-style food trucks and a grassy amphitheater surrounded by shops and restaurants host a variety community events including performances by our local theater, the REP.
In 1946 JS Smolian bought 80 acres of land with the intention of building a summer getaway for his employees. While that never happened, he did bring his grandson every summer. His grandson, Robert Davis, grew up to be an award-winning architect and set out to develop the land his grandfather had purchased. In the 80’s Davis teamed up with Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk to begin planning the town. They traveled all over to discover the perfect blend of features that would become Seaside, a “new old town.” In 1984 Southern Living featured the town of Seaside and people began to take interest. It has grown and developed ever since into their vision of a classic neighborhood quickly becoming the heart of the South Walton region.
Things to do in Seaside
As the most well-known area on the 30A, you would expect Seaside to have plenty of things to do and it does not disappoint. There are so many dining choices you could eat at a new place every meal and go two weeks without repeating. The REP Theatre has built itself into a first-rate regional theater, attracting some of the finest talent from around the world. The REP’s theater professionals and a group of dedicated volunteers work together to entertain more than 25,000 people each year. If you are more of a home chef, Modica Market has been the premier gourmet grocer for over 30 years. And, of course, there are loads of shopping options as well. From fashion to art to beach goods, there is a store or two for everyone’s taste and you will most certainly go leave with more than you brought. Need a new Beach Read, pop into Sundog Books and explore their selection of local authors.
Seaside Restaurants and Shopping
Seaside has everything you need within a short walk, by design.
Breakfast & Brunch: Modica Market has a delicious selection of homemade pastries and breakfast sandwiches, but if enjoying a piece of seven-layer cake with your coffee is more your style, the strawberry cake is to die for. If you are in a hurry, pop into Amavida for a latte´ and scone.
Lunch: Need to feed a crowd and everyone is craving something different? Airstream Row has a variety of options. Beach Collective unanimously HIGHLY recommends Mr. Gyro Hero.
Supper: Watching the sunset with a martini at the rooftop bar of Bud & Alley’s is a charming way to end the day. The smoked tuna dip is delish! If you need a sweet nibble before heading off to bed wondering if this was all a dream, It’s Heavenly Shortcakes and Ice Cream, Frostbites or Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudgeworks has got you covered.
Retail Therapy: Get those credit cards out - it’s time to shop! Browse the beach chic selection of clothing, accessories, and shoes curated with Cabana living in mind. If you need to stock up on Seaside gear, Seaside Style has three stores to choose from. Did you forget to pack your favorite beach read? Stop by Sundog Books, a family-owned independent book store in the heart of Seaside featuring many local authors in addition to current bestsellers. Hands down our all-time favorite store on all of 30A is The Art of Simple. Owned by two of the most creative and cool locals, you’ll spend hours perusing their IG-worthy store.
Get More Information About Real Estate in Seaside
Sorry we are experiencing system issues. Please try again.
Social Cookies
Social Cookies are used to enable you to share pages and content you find interesting throughout the website through third-party social networking or other websites (including, potentially for advertising purposes related to social networking).