First Timer's Guide to Seaside

As a first-time visitor to Seaside, here's what you need to know.

A model of the New Urbanist design movement, every piece of Seaside was masterfully planned for the perfect beach experience. It's common to walk or bike wherever you're headed here, because the purposeful layout makes it simple and practical. Plus, with a nice beach breeze, it's quite enjoyable.

Walk along the sugar-white sand beach as you're flanked by stunning beauty, with turquoise Gulf water to one side and pastel beach cottages to the other. Make a pit stop at the row of funky Airstream trailers turned food trucks in the heart of the neighborhood for hot dogs or shaved ice, or lounge for a while at acclaimed restaurants like Bud & Alley's or Great Southern Café.

Make your way toward world-class art galleries, from the Red Bird Gallery to Newbill Collection by the Sea, and take in paintings, photos, sculptures and more. Escape into boutiques and open-air marketplaces like Cabana by The Seaside Style and The Art of Simple featuring fashion and accessories, local crafts and unique gifts.

In a way, Seaside is as though you brought the best version of Main Street, U.S.A. to the beach. The iconic whitewashed post office, the striking and colorful homes and the endless activities, not to mention the restaurants and the beach, make Seaside one of the most recognizable beach destinations around.

While in Seaside, be sure to slow down your pace a bit and soak it all in. Splurge on an extra topping at Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, mingle with neighbors at the Seaside Farmers Market or connect with a local musician at Central Square Records. In a thoughtfully crafted town like Seaside, it’s easy to make lasting memories.