Are you looking for things to do in Seaside Florida? I’ve got the inside scoop on the best things to do in this charming beach town!
I’ve been visiting the Destin area since I was a kid, and I also lived in Panama City Beach, so I know a lot about the best places to visit and things to do in Seaside.
This quaint town is every beach lover’s dream come true, boasting its glistening shore, sprawling white sand, and adorable pastel architecture.
This cozy small beach town in Florida will make you want to come back again and again with its relaxed atmosphere and abundance of things to do.
If you’re planning a trip to this little slice of paradise, read on for the best things to do in Seaside Fl.
But, before we start, let’s go over a few basics regarding Seaside Florida things to do.
In This Post:
Where Exactly Is Seaside, Florida?
Seaside is located on the Emerald Coast in Northwest Florida.
It sits along Highway 30A between the towns of Destin and Panama City Beach along Florida’s gulf coast.
What Is Seaside, Florida Known For?
Seaside, Florida is known for its pastel-colored houses with white picket fences, soft white sand beaches, and turquoise waters.
However, there is much more to this charming beach community than meets the eye. In addition to its natural beauty, Seaside is also home to a number of unique shops and galleries.
You can browse through local artisans’ work, pick up beach-themed souvenirs, or relax with a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes.
Last but not least, Seaside and its surrounding areas have been the backdrop for numerous films and commercials over the years, including The Truman Show.
Why Should You Visit Seaside, Florida?
Seaside, Florida offers something for everyone with its picturesque setting. The list of Seaside Florida things to do is endless.
The white sand beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, while the many shops and restaurants are ideal for those who enjoy a little retail therapy or dining out.
The Emerald Coast is also home to several state parks and nature reserves, making it the perfect place to explore the nearby great outdoors.
Plus, Seaside is located just a short drive from some of Florida’s most popular attractions, such as Destin and Panama City Beach so you’ll feel like you’re getting multiple vacations in one.
So, if you’re looking for a vacation destination that has it all, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better place than Seaside, Florida.
18 Best Things To Do in Seaside Florida
Spend Time at the Beaches
Obviously, the first item on this list of things to do in Seaside Florida is beach time.
The beaches in Seaside are among some of the best beaches in the USA with Caribbean-like blue water and soft white sand.
Stretching for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, these amazing beaches offer you a chance to relax in the sun, play in the waves, and build sandcastles.
The beaches here are also perfect for fishing, shelling, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, building beach sand sculptures, and more.
Last but not least, Seaside beaches are truly a piece of paradise with their palm trees and gently rolling waves providing a soothing sound.
👉 Some of the best beaches in Seaside and nearby areas for a fun day in the sun are Seaside Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Inlet Beach, Van Ness Butler Beach, Seagrove Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach.
Road Trip Along the Scenic 30A
A road trip along 30A is the perfect way to explore the Florida Panhandle, and it’s one of the most epic things to do in Seaside Florida.
Stretching for 24 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll get to see some of the best beaches in the Florida panhandle.
The scenic highway winds its way through quaint seaside towns and state parks, providing ample opportunity to shop and explore.
Not to mention, the drive itself is simply gorgeous with its turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
You simply can’t go wrong with a road trip along 30A with destinations like Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and more.
See the Seaside Post Office
One of the most unique things to do in Seaside Florida is to visit the Seaside Post Office.
Even though it was only built in 1985, the Seaside Post Office looks like it’s been around for centuries.
The charming building is white with red doors, and it looks like something you would see in a storybook.
The Seaside Post Office has become a significant landmark in the town and is greeted by visitors daily.
The locals argue that it’s one of the most photographed post offices in the world, and I’m inclined to agree.
Ride Bikes Around the Town
There’s no better way to explore the best things to do in Seaside Fl than on two wheels!
The town was designed with pedestrian and bike traffic in mind, and there are plenty of scenic routes to explore.
Seaside is a small town, so it’s easy to get around without getting lost.
And, if you do get lost, it’s okay because you’ll eventually end up at the beach or where you started.
If you want to take your biking to the next level, there are a handful of actual biking trails in the area.
So, if you’re looking for things to do in Seaside Florida that are both fun and active, be sure to add renting bikes to your list!
Grab a Drink at Bud and Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar
Bud and Alley’s Rooftop Bar is a must-visit spot when you’re in Seaside.
Its stunning Gulf views, delicious cocktails, and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
The bar is located on the top floor of Bud and Alley’s restaurant, which itself is a popular destination for its fresh seafood and beautiful setting.
It’s also one of the best places to get a sundowner. As the sun sets, the sky turns a beautiful shade of orange, making Bud and Alley’s Rooftop Bar the perfect place to watch the day come to an end.
There’s also a Bud and Alley’s taco bar and pizza bar to check out as well.
Sunset Walk on the Beach
Speaking of sunsets, one of the best things to do in Seaside Florida is to watch the sunset on the beach. There’s nothing quite like a sunset walk on the beach.
The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the smell of salt in the air, and the feel of sand between your toes all come together to create a magical experience.
As the sun sets, the colors change from deep blue to orange and pink, and the sky becomes streaked with gold.
You’ll never forget the sunsets on the beaches in Seaside.
Catch a Show at the Seaside Amphitheater
Seaside Amphitheater is a beautiful outdoor venue located in the heart of Seaside.
The Amphitheater hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and theatrical performances.
It is also a popular spot for weddings and other private events.
When the events end, you can take a short walk down to the beach or explore the surrounding shops.
If there’s an event going on you want to see, pack your lawn chairs and head over!
READ MORE: 14 Best Beaches in the Florida Panhandle With Powdery Sand and Emerald Waters
Marvel at the Chapel at Seaside
The Chapel at Seaside is one of my absolute favorite Seaside Florida things to do.
It’s a beautiful and unique place of worship that was created by an interfaith group of residents who wanted to create a space where people of all faiths could come together to worship.
The chapel oozes with elegance and simplicity with a traditional white exterior and a bright and airy interior.
Service is held every Sunday, and the chapel accommodates around 165 people.
In addition, the chapel offers a stunning setting for weddings and other special events.
Explore Point Washington State Forest
Located in south Walton county in Santa Rosa Beach, Point Washington State Forest is a sprawling 15,000-acre forest that is teeming with wildlife.
The forest is home to a variety of plants and animals, including gopher tortoises, salamanders, and Curtiss sandgrass.
The area also consists of sandhills, swamps, wet prairie, flatwoods, and more.
Plus, you can enjoy off-road bicycling and hiking within the state forest.
So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Seaside Fl that will get you out into nature, be sure to add Point Washington State Forest to your list!
READ MORE: Crab Island Destin: Complete Guide + 5 Fun Tours
Pop Into Sundog Books
An independent bookstore and a beach town — I dare you to name a better duo!
Sundog Books is an independent bookstore in Seaside, and it’s a bibliophile’s heaven.
With its cozy nooks and crannies, Sundog Books feels more like a home than a store.
The shelves are lined with books of all genres, and the staff is always happy to help you find your next favorite book.
Whether you’re looking for a new beach read or a classic novel, you’re sure to find it at this hidden gem.
Shop at the Seaside Farmer’s Market
The Seaside Farmer’s Market is a community gathering place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.
Located in the heart of Seaside at Seaside Amphitheater, the market is just a short walk from the beach.
Every Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, the market comes to life with the sounds of laughter and visitors.
The stalls are piled high with brightly colored locally grown fruits and vegetables, and the air is filled with the smell of fresh bread and pastries.
Relax at Ruskin Place
Ruskin Place is a tranquil oasis sandwiched between Seaside Chapel and Seaside’s Central Square (town center/town square).
Ruskin Place Park is surrounded by art galleries and boutiques, and it’s the perfect place to take a break from shopping and exploring.
Grab a book from Sundog Books and read it beneath the park’s towering oak trees.
The Nine Seaside, Florida Beach Pavilions
Seaside is home to nine distinct beach pavilions, which are important landmarks in Seaside and other beach towns on 30A.
There is a pavilion at the end of every street in Seaside, and it’s owned by that street’s homeowners association.
Each pavilion has its own distinct architecture, but they all share the same purpose — to be a hangout place for the community and serve as the beach’s gateway.
The nine pavilions are:
- Natchez Pavilion
- Pensacola Pavilion
- West Ruskin Pavilion
- Odessa Pavilion
- Wedding Pavilion
- Tupelo Pavilion
- Savanah Pavilion
- East Ruskin Pavilion
- Coleman Pavilion
Peruse the Art Galleries and Shops
Seaside is well-known for its art galleries and quaint shops.
Stroll down any of the streets in Seaside, and you’ll find yourself stopping into art gallery after gallery.
The artists who call Seaside home are inspired by the town’s natural beauty, and their work reflects that.
One such artist is Vincent Scully, one of Seaside’s early supporters. He passed away in 2022, and a massive mural at 25 Central Square commemorates his legacy.
You’ll also find an array of mediums represented in the galleries, including painting, photography, sculpture, and jewelry.
In addition to art galleries, Seaside is home to various unique shops.
From beach boutiques to upscale clothing stores, there’s a store where you can’t resist buying something.
Popping in from gallery to gallery is one of the most fun Seaside Florida things to do — especially on a rainy day.
READ MORE: 12 Adorable Small Beach Towns in Florida: the Sunshine State’s Hidden Gems
Eat Your Way Around Airstream Row
Sampling the food at Airstream Row is one of my very favorite things to do in Seaside Florida.
This row of Airstream trailers has been turned into gourmet food trucks, each with its unique atmosphere and menu.
Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue, grilled cheese, fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, hot dogs, or crepes, you’ll find it at Airstream Row.
It’s one of the coolest concepts for a food court or food truck I’ve ever seen, and it’s hard for me to pick a favorite airstream.
It’s worth visiting Airstream Row on an empty stomach so you can sample a little bit of everything!
Kayak on the Beach
One of the things I love most about Seaside is that it’s surrounded by nature.
There are several state parks and natural areas nearby, and one of the best things to do in Seaside Florida is kayaking.
You can rent kayaks and paddle boards from several different places in Seaside and then paddle your way around 30A.
I recommend renting your kayak from The Rental Shop 30A. Their prices are competitive, and their customer service is excellent.
The best time to go kayaking is in the morning because the waves are gentle and the water is calm. Later in the day, the winds pick up, and the waves can get a bit choppy.
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other marine life!
See the Truman Show House
Visiting the Truman Show house is one of the most popular things to do in Seaside Florida.
This house was used in the filming of the movie The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey.
If you’re a fan of the movie, then you’ll definitely want to check out this house. Even if you’ve never seen the movie, it’s still worth a visit.
The house is located at 31 Natchez Street and has the same colors and designs from the movie.
Be sure to take plenty of pictures!
Visit Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is one of the most beautiful places near Seaside. You can’t come to Seaside and not go here.
The park covers around 2,000 acres of land and includes a mile-long stretch of white sand beach.
Grayton Beach State Park is one of the top beaches near Destin, offering a number of nature trails that are perfect for birdwatching or simply taking a scenic stroll.
There’s also a boat ramp if you want to enjoy freshwater or saltwater fishing. You can also kayak or canoe through the salt marshes.
Seaside Florida Things to Do: What to Know Before You Go
Now that we’ve covered all of the top things to do in Seaside Florida, here are some helpful tips for planning your trip to this little beach oasis.
Best Time to Visit Seaside, Florida
The weather is lovely year-round in Seaside, but the best time to visit is between April and May.
The temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the days are long and sunny.
The spring break crowds and snowbirds have fizzled out by then so you can enjoy the beach without feeling crowded.
If you can’t make it during those months, late September through October is also a great time to visit Seaside.
The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds have thinned out as summer comes to an end.
No matter when you decide to visit, you’ll enjoy the beautiful weather in this beachfront town.
Where to Stay in Seaside, Florida
There are a number of great places to stay in Seaside, from condos and apartments to beachfront homes.
But, these options can come with a hefty price tag. As such, I recommend staying in Destin or Panama City Beach.
Not only will hotel prices be more reasonable, but you’ll also be within a quick 40-minute drive of Seaside.
Plus, you’ll have access to all the amenities these larger towns offer, such as nightlife and restaurants.
👉 Hotel recommendations for Panama City Beach: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach Beachfront | Hyatt Place Panama City Beach | Homewood Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach
👉 Hotel recommendations for Destin: Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Boulevard | The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa | Residence Inn by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard
Restaurants in Seaside
You’ll definitely be spoiled for choice when looking for restaurants in Seaside, and one of the best things to do in Seaside Florida is to indulge in the delicious food.
You’ll find something to suit your taste and budget with so many options.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from whether you’re in the mood for seafood, pizza, or something in between.
Besides Bud and Alley’s and Airstream Row, some of my favorite restaurants in Seaside are Meltdown On 30A, Great Southern Cafe, Scratch Biscuit Kitchen, Blue Mountain Creamery, and Seagrove Village Market.
Things to Do in Seaside Florida Summary
Seaside, Florida is the perfect beach vacation destination offering something for everyone.
Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach, kayaking, or exploring state parks, you’ll find so many fun things to do in Seaside Florida.
Have you been to Seaside? Let me know in the comments below!
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Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.