Seaside is a beach town located along scenic Highway 30A in Northwest Florida.
This picturesque town is the gateway to every vacationer’s dream, boasting its glistening coastline, sweeping white sands, and charming pastel architecture in the community.
A cozy small town feels with a sense of community connectedness will make your seaside vacation unlike any other.
The coast is also home to many artisans who contribute to the beauty of the community; you can explore as many art spaces as possible in the city.
The city is reflected on the map with its architectural buildings that attract professional architects from different parts of the world.
Go through our list of the best and most fun things to do in Seaside (FL) if you plan a vacation here soon.
Fun Things to Do in Seaside (FL)
1. Go Surfing With Austin Magee’s Surf School
Austin Magee’s Surf School offers a one-hour private surf lesson which is ideal if you want personalized surfing instruction, this is the recommended lesson for holidaymakers wanting to be introduced to the world of surfing.
If you’re traveling with groups, you can also take advantage of their group surf lessons. However, you can still have private surf lessons with personalized surf instruction.
Prepare for an exciting ride on the waves and immerse yourself in the world of surfing – you can learn basic surfing skills such as positioning the surfboard, paddling, safety, and correct ways to stand up and land correctly on the water.
Note that all surf gear is included in the lesson, so you’ll need to bring your commitment to learning and excitement for a new adventure.
2. Participate in the Urban Street Food Crawl From Airstream Row
Don’t miss out on trying the food from the shiny Airstreams lined up in front of Seaside.
There are various food options, from cold treats to snacks and vegan options.
Airstream Row started when Case Cooper, who sold crushed ice at Frost Bites, was asked to move immediately and decided to park the old Airstream in front of Seaside to continue his business.
Many retailers chose to use the Airstream to locate their businesses along Case Cooper’s path, establishing the famous Airstream Row.
Walk down Airstream Row and order from the airstream window where your food is sold.
You can dine in front of the beach and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Airstream Row.
3. Appreciate Local Art at Red Bird Gallery
Art lovers will surely appreciate the extensive collection of unique art. The Red Bird Gallery exhibits a variety of artworks, such as paintings, clay art, jewelry, and other crafts.
Tricia Moore has run the gallery for over 12 years; she is the person behind the carefully selected artworks that are sure to spark your interest in creative expression.
There’s nothing like a souvenir from a local gallery, so take home a unique piece of art that resonates with you to commemorate your Seaside memories.
Things to Do in Seaside (FL) at Night
1. Don’t Miss a Show at Seaside Central Square Cinema
The Central Square cinema is an outdoor venue for family film events in the seaside amphitheater.
A Friday night movie is the perfect bonding experience for you and your family – the cinema offers shows for the whole family, so be sure to check out what’s on and head out for a movie night.
Don’t miss a show to get to know Seaside’s entertainment community, as the shows are free and open to the public.
Grab your popcorn and head to the Seaside Amphitheater for a unique movie-watching experience under the stars; both young and old will have a good time.
2. Grab a Meal at Great Southern Cafe
The Great Southern Cafe is an amazing restaurant with a lot of history, amazing delicacies, and great people to meet the owner.
Great Southern Cafe is no ordinary restaurant; it is a mix of world cuisine with southern culinary style and lots of local dishes.
They use only freshly sourced local ingredients from nearby farms and seafood from Mexico to prepare their meals; they will tickle your taste buds.
Some dishes include a dozen raw oysters, shrimp and grits, homemade key lime pie, biscuits and gravy, chicken sandwiches, flat fried calamari, Caprese salad, Mahi Mahi, French dip sandwiches, and more.
Great Southern Cafe prides itself on offering high-quality spirits, freshly squeezed juices, and other organic beverages.
The staff is friendly and nice when taking orders from customers and goes out of their way to make sure everyone is happy.
3. Have Some Coffee at Amavida Coffee & Tea
If you are a coffee lover, visiting Amavida Coffee & Tea is one of the best things to do in Seaside (FL).
Amavida Coffee & Tea has been brewing local seaside coffee for over a decade and offers customers a variety of espressos and lattes.
The business has grown mainly due to its long-standing traditions to inspire customers, suppliers, employees, and farmers’ trust and offer the best conditions and environment.
Imagine having a delicious cup of hot coffee or tea on a clear cold day along the beach; great!
Amavida Coffee & Tea offers the best mocha, latte, americano, cappuccino, hot chocolate, chai latte, matcha latte, iced mocha, iced chai latte, and more.
Things to Do in Seaside (FL) For Couples
1. Appreciate Glass Art at Fusion Art Glass and Fine Jewelry
Stroll into Seaside’s eclectic Art Glass Gallery and admire the unique creations of over 100 Fusion Art Glass and Fine Jewelry artists.
If you love unique art, then you should visit here. It is a place where you can walk around the gorgeous glass gallery and appreciate the eye-catching pieces on display.
Fusion Art Glass and Fine Jewelry offer a large selection of glass art objects, from functional to decorative crafts. They also have jewelry, ceramic and metal objects, coins, and more.
You can take home the artwork that resonates with you – whether it’s a small trinket or a colossal installation, they can ensure safe delivery.
Make sure to be careful while walking through the galleries, and don’t get too excited to get too close to the beautiful artworks, as they are prone to breaking if you bump into something.
2. Shop at Seaside Farmers Market
Support local growers and artisans who offer produce at the Seaside Farmers Market in downtown Seaside, Florida.
The variety of local produce at the farmers’ market is reasonably priced, so stop by and sample the freshest produce sold at the Seaside Farmers Market.
Almost all of the produce sold at the Seaside Farmers’ Market is healthy and sustainable options made by environmentally conscious vendors.
This year-round farmers market takes place every weekend in the seaside amphitheater, so be sure to stop by and enjoy the freshest local produce.
3. See the City With Tuk Tuk 30A
Are you up for an exceptional survey? The Tuk Tuk 30A has you covered and meets all explorers’ needs.
Tuk Tuk 30A offers travelers the perfect gateway as they travel through some of the best areas outside the city.
As much as you want to have fun, your safety is also their priority, and they offer you a fantastic and spectacular ride.
The driver or guide is certified and has extensive experience to ensure your safety during the trip and offers the best customer service.
Things to Do in Seaside (FL) For Kids
1. Let Them Play at Beach Sand Sculptures
Improve your sandcastle-building skills with Beach Sand Sculptures – a creative team of individuals dedicated to teaching the art of sand sculpting.
Experience engaging sandcastle lessons in Seaside for unique beach activities, so book your lessons with them.
Make memories with a unique family experience with a 2-hour sand sculpting lesson, and get ready to stretch your creative muscles while building your creation.
Building a sandcastle may require a lot of physical activity. However, it’s still a fun experience for young and old, where the whole family is sure to enjoy a unique bonding experience.
Don’t forget to bring your cameras and flash your proudest smile next to your incredible sandcastle creation.
2. Take Them to Van Ness Butler Beach
It wouldn’t be a day in Seaside without hanging out on the incredible beaches in the 30A area!
Van Ness Butler Jr. Regional Beach Access is located on the border of WaterColor and Seaside, with incredible scenery and amenities.
There are lifeguards in season, and it is wheelchair accessible with a ramp. There is a large free parking lot/restrooms across the street located at 20 Western Lake Drive.
Also located next to downtown with all the food trucks and shops!
3. Go Kayaking at Topsail Hill Beach
If you’re looking for adventure activities in Seaside, the nearby Topsail Hill Preserve is a unique place in Florida that offers the best of everything.
This Florida state park is the perfect place to enjoy all the area has to offer, including fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the Gulf of Mexico or biking along scenic routes.
The preserve covers over 1,000 acres and protects land and water resources. There are areas designated for camping, wildlife viewing, picnic tables, shelters, and a lighthouse.
Topsail Hill Preserve is also home to some of Florida’s most beautiful sand dunes.
It’s about a mile walk to the beach from the park entrance, but they have a trolley that comes by every 20-30 minutes to take you to the beach.
Indoor Activities to Do in Seaside (FL) For Adults
1. Check Out the Newbill Collection By the Sea
If you want to venture to other arty spots, this art gallery is a must-stop on your Seaside weekend getaway.
It is a quaint art gallery that offers a wide selection of fine crafts, original paintings, folk art, photographs, and garden sculptures.
The Newbill Collection by the Sea is tucked away from the downtown Seaside neighborhood along relaxing and quiet tree-lined streets.
Don’t forget to stop by to score unique finds from there!
2. Get a Good Massage at Beach Ready Spa
Beach Ready Spa is the best place for you in Seaside, and they sure know how to pamper you and give you all the treatments you desire.
After your session, you’ll leave like a king or queen with lots of smiles, feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
Beach Ready Spa offers a variety of massages, manicures, pedicures, and more in a unique way that will keep you coming back.
The staff at Beach Ready Spa are professional and knowledgeable about what they are doing and can tell which treatment is ideal for everyone.
3. Go Shopping at Focus Lifestyle Boutique
This is one of the most recognized stores in the city that offers you everything you need regarding fashion.
Focus Lifestyle Boutique offers a large selection of clothing for both men and women, including jewelry, stylish accessories, and more.
The goods on display are of excellent quality and long-lasting properties at an affordable price that you won’t find anywhere else.
Focus Lifestyle Boutique is well organized and always clean, with friendly staff who offer the best customer service.
Romantic Things to Do in Seaside (FL)
1. Spend Some Time by the Beach at Seaside Pavilion
Join a yoga class at the Seaside Pavilion, breathe in the soothing warm sea breeze, and exhale the stress while listening to the relaxing music of the waves crashing on the shore.
Classes will be weather dependent, so get there early on a beautiful sunny morning as capacity is limited to just 14 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
Brighten up your day with yoga surrounded by the soothing sound of waves, head to the pavilion, and don’t forget to bring your yoga mat and water.
2. Relax at Seaside Beach
Your vacation to Seaside wouldn’t be complete without basking in the sun surrounded by warm ocean breezes and gentle ocean waves, so put on your sunscreen and head to Seaside Beach for a fun day at the beach.
The sun-bleached sandy shores stretching out among the sparkling blue sea water in beautiful weather will tempt you to spend a day at the beach.
Whether you want to relax in the sun or try some exciting water sports, this place is perfect for your idyllic day of sun and fun.
In addition to the beaches, you can take a leisurely walk along the charming walking trails and check out the restaurants near the beach for great food or enjoy the beach nightlife.
3. Hang Out at Eden Gardens State Park
The park is characterized by its beautiful lush and delightful mostly indoor lawn and beautiful floral with lots of peculiarities to Florida.
It is open for tours of the entire facility, and you can also fish.
The State Park has lots of tall oak trees and the rhythmic sound of the breeze f you need a place to go to rest and think.
Free Things to Do in Seaside (FL)
1. Don’t Forget to take a Picture at Seaside’s Famous Purple Wall
As you stroll around Seaside Central Square, be sure to notice Vincent Scully’s famous mural-sized mural.
The mural is a reminder of Vincent Scully’s contribution as a historian and educator of art and architecture.
Vincent Scully is one of the early proponents of Seaside who believed in the potential of the beach town to thrive into a beautiful urban city and inspired many of the architecture students who developed the design of Seaside.
The wall-sized artistic portrait was created by world-renowned street artist Andrew Pisacane, also known as Gaia.
2. Worship at the Chapel at Seaside
Beyond Ruskin Place Park is the Seaside Interdenominational Chapel; this chapel welcomes everyone for some quiet time.
Its iconic architecture, picturesque setting, and sublime interior invite visitors to appreciate a relaxing place of worship.
The Chapel by the Sea is worth a stop when you visit the city. It is the perfect place to reflect and gather your thoughts; it is open to the public.
This ornate cathedral is located in a quiet residential area but is accessible from the main road and shopping district.
3. Take a Walk in Ruskin Park at Central Square
If you want to spend the day in a community center where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Seaside, Ruskin Park is the perfect place to visit.
Located just north of Seaside’s Central Square, this picturesque park is surrounded by art galleries and boutiques for a casual stroll through downtown Seaside.
If you get too tired to explore the city, you can sit under the canopy of towering oak trees lining the entire park.
Meet local residents and start a conversation when you stop at Ruskin Park – a great holiday should include meeting new people and building lifelong friendships.
Spot some fairies by looking at the north side of the square called “Fairy Forest” fairies are created from clay by local children and placed on hidden park perches.
The square also hosts events where you can enjoy live music and great food and meet incredible people.
Cheap Things to Do in Seaside (FL)
1. Read Something New at Sundog Books
This family-owned bookstore has been in business for over 30 years and is located in the heart of Seaside.
Bibliophiles will certainly appreciate this small bookstore’s extensive selection of book genres.
Ask the helpful bookstore staff to find the exact book you want if you want a specific book.
Be sure to head to this bookstore and be welcomed by the warm, homely atmosphere of the place.
2. Get Some Classic Vinyl Records at Central Square Records
Right above Sundog Books is Central Square Records – a little music corner to hang out.
Central Square Records is one of America’s premier classical music and vinyl record stores with a collection of released records.
They sell current albums and indie exclusive releases, so you’ll never miss out on what’s hot in the music scene.
You can also buy new and used vinyl records and vintage turntables, instruments, and other accessories.
This cozy music store also hosts live music events where the community can come together for a relaxed night of music.
3. Visit Seagrove Beach
Another of Scenic Highway 30A’s most popular beaches, Seagrove Beach, has several public beach access points, such as the San Juan Beach Access.
This beach is located right in the heart of Seagrove. San Juan Beach Access only has a small parking lot, so get there early.
This beach has limited amenities, but the gorgeous views of the bay make up for it!
Seagrove Beach is a great place for swimming or just relaxing on the beach with the family.
You can even make your night at the beach extra-special with a bonfire on the beach! (You can do this at Seagrove Beach, but not at Seaside).
Cool Places to Visit in Seaside (FL)
1. Deer Lake State Park
Deer Lake State Park is definitely worth the effort and time. Its beaches tend not to be crowded.
The park offers a stunning boardwalk perfect for a quiet and slow stroll around, alone or with your partner.
If you wish to fish, the park offers fantastic fishing spots with beautiful white sand dunes.
Deer Lake State Park should be added to your list of fun things to do in Seaside (FL); visit with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.
2. Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers in Seaside, so it’s a good idea to put it on your list of things to do.
The park offers many beautiful landscapes that catch your attention with untouched sand dunes.
Grayton Beach State Park is a fantastic camping spot for those who want to stay overnight with their family and friends for some quality time.
Grayton Beach State Park offers several available cabins; kayaking is one of the most popular activities.
The park offers beautiful beaches that are soothing; it is also open for the entertainment of you and your pets.
Grayton Beach State Park is where you will enjoy visiting with family and friends or with your partner for intimate moments.
3. Santa Rosa Beach (Ed Walline Beach Access)
Ed Walline Beach Access provides easy access to the beach for locals and tourists alike!
This free public park offers parking, restrooms, picnic tables, pavilions, an observation deck, and lifeguards during the high season.
Check out Ed Walline Beach in Santa Rosa Beach if you’re looking for a great place to relax and spend a day on the Gulf Coast sunbathing and having fun in the sand with friends or family.
This beach is one of the best things about Seaside and is right across the street from Gulf Place shops and restaurants!
Conclusion
Seaside is a natural hub for fun and entertainment and never fails to satisfy tourists.
Don’t miss out on the amazing beaches the city offers.
Come prepared to tour with our guide on things to do in Seaside (FL) as your chauffeur.
