Despite the Crowds and Mandatory Paid Parking, Seaside is a Tourist Pleasure.
The town offers a diverse, somewhat crowded, but delightful dining scene with various culinary options to satisfy various tastes and preferences.
It All Started With A Visionary Dream
Seaside emerged from the visionary dreams of J.S. Smolian, the grandfather of Town Founder Robert Davis. Upon inheriting the 80 acres, Robert and his wife, Daryl, embarked on a mission to transform this stunning landscape into something truly extraordinary.
Their journey led them to explore charming Southern towns, collaborate with ambitious architects, and pioneer an innovative approach to development reminiscent of simpler times. This pioneering concept, known as New Urbanism, aimed to craft a community where places of worship, schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment, and residences were all conveniently within a 10-minute walk—a return to a time before automobiles dominated our lives.
The outcome was remarkable, as the demand for homes in Seaside skyrocketed. Real estate prices surged, with every available parcel of land swiftly finding a new owner, which created the crowded effect that Seagrove Beach does not have. It’s wise to stay in Seagrove and explore in Seaside. Seaside has lots to offer our guests along 30A.
Given its location on the Gulf of Mexico, Seaside is renowned for its fresh seafood. You can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, from perfectly grilled fish to succulent shrimp and crab. Some popular seafood spots in Seaside include The Great Southern Café and our personal favorite, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant. Outside of Seaside, you’ll see a fabulous Seagrove Beach restaurant, Surfing Deer. The Surfing Deer is a favorite among guests and locals of the Emerald Coast.
Beginning March 1, 2022, Seaside’s new hourly variable paid parking program will be in effect. Parking rates will vary by day, occupancy levels, and seasons. Just keep that tip in mind when driving and parking in Seaside.