Best Things to Do in Seaside, Florida (First-Timer’s Guide for Families)

If you’ve ever scrolled past pictures of Seaside, Florida — pastel-colored cottages, open-air pavilions, and Airstream food trucks — you’ve probably wondered if it’s really as dreamy as it looks. After spending the last 15+ years vacationing in nearby 30A communities, I can confidently say: Seaside is one of our favorite stops every single year.

Even though we’ve never stayed overnight in Seaside itself, we always make time for a visit. Whether it’s grabbing a cone of ice cream, popping into local boutiques for a new shirt, or having dinner at our go-to restaurant (hi, Great Southern Café!), Seaside delivers that picture-perfect beach town charm that families love.

It’s not all sunshine and serenity, though. Prices are high, and the crowds can be intense during peak seasons — but with the right timing and a flexible mindset, it’s a worthwhile stop on any 30A itinerary.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Seaside, Florida, especially if it’s your first visit or you’re just popping in for the day. From food truck favorites to beach sunsets and family-friendly traditions, here’s everything you need to know to make your visit memorable — and a little less overwhelming.

Your Beach Packing list

Stroll the Iconic Seaside Town Square

One of the first things you’ll notice when arriving in Seaside is how effortlessly charming the town square is. Designed to feel like a classic American beach town, the heart of Seaside is surrounded by pastel buildings, white picket fences, and shaded walkways. It’s the kind of place where you instantly want to slow down, grab a cold drink, and just wander.

This central area is perfect for families — it’s walkable, stroller-friendly, and full of interesting little spots to explore. You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, souvenir shops, art galleries, and even a small market. We always stop here to grab a new Seaside t-shirt.

There’s usually live music or street performers adding to the lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for a low-key activity before lunch or dinner, this is the perfect place to ease into your visit.

FYI- during peak seasons, there are curfews in place for teens!

Grab a Bite at the Airstream Row Food Trucks

Seaside, photo credit: R. Schwartz

One of Seaside’s most iconic (and Instagrammable) spots is the Airstream Row — a quirky line of vintage silver trailers serving up everything from grilled cheese to sno-cones. It’s casual, quick, and ideal for families with hungry kids who don’t want to wait for a full sit-down meal.

The Meltdown on 30A sells gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches that hit the spot every single time — especially the Smokin’ Turkey or the classic Three Cheese if you’ve got picky eaters. Barefoot BBQ is another favorite, dishing out big portions of Southern comfort food. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet (or need a bribe for your toddler), Frost Bites has delicious shaved ice and frozen lemonade.

The best part? You can mix and match — each family member can grab something different and meet at one of the shaded picnic tables nearby. It’s relaxed, fun, and wallet-friendly compared to some of Seaside’s pricier dining spots.

Just a heads up: lines can get long during lunch and dinner, especially in the summer, so plan for a bit of a wait — or visit mid-afternoon for a snack without the crowd.

Dine at the Great Southern Cafe

If you’re looking for a sit-down meal that still feels approachable for families, The Great Southern Café is the place to go. It’s not just a restaurant — it’s a Seaside institution. We’ve been coming here for years, and it’s always one of the highlights of our visit.

The menu is rooted in Southern coastal cuisine, but with a twist. Think shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and crab cakes that taste as good as they sound. Even if you’re not a seafood lover, there are plenty of options, and they’re very kid-friendly — chicken fingers and fries? Covered. Mac and cheese? Also covered.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, but we love grabbing a table on the patio when the weather’s nice. It’s lively, laid-back, and perfect for people-watching while you sip a mojito or sweet tea.

A few tips:

Go early or make a reservation if possible — it fills up fast, especially around dinner.
There’s often a wait, so bring something to entertain the kids or explore the square while your name is on the list.
If you’re not up for a full meal, you can grab a drink at their outdoor bar while soaking in the atmosphere.
If you want to try something different, look into Bud & Alley’s! I also recommend making reservations here too!

The entire stretch of 30A offers some delicious food, especially fresh seafood.

Cool Off with Ice Cream from It’s Heavenly or Dawson’s Yogurt

Seaside, photo credit: R. Schwartz

No trip to Seaside is complete without a frozen treat, and thankfully, you’ve got a couple of standout options. Whether it’s a reward for surviving dinner with kids or just a midday cooldown, this has been a tradition in our family for 15+ years.

It’s Heavenly Shortcakes & Ice Cream and Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudge Works are our kids’ favorite spots for a sweet treat. Both spots are walkable from anywhere in town, and you can enjoy your dessert while strolling or people-watching in the amphitheater lawn — a favorite evening activity for families.

Catch a Seaside Sunset at the Beach Pavilion

Seaside, photo credit: R. Schwartz

After dinner and dessert, one of the best ways to wind down your visit is with a stroll to the Seaside beach pavilion — a postcard-perfect spot that looks like something out of a movie (and it actually was, in The Truman Show).

The town’s signature white pavilion leads down to the beach via a wooden boardwalk, opening up to sugar-white sand and turquoise water that’s just begging for a sunset photo. Even if you’re not swimming or sunbathing, the view alone is worth the walk.

This is one of our family’s favorite ways to end the evening — the kids get a second wind running in the sand while we sit back and watch the sky turn pink and orange. It’s peaceful and scenic, even when it’s crowded.

Tips for visiting the pavilion:

If you’re not staying in Seaside, beach access may be restricted in some areas, but the main pavilion still offers a great view from the top of the stairs.
Bring a towel or light blanket if you plan to sit and stay for a while.
The crowds thin out closer to sunset, so don’t rush — it’s worth lingering.

Seaside Events & Movie Nights

If you’re visiting Seaside during spring break, summer, or a holiday weekend, there’s a good chance something fun is happening in the town square. One of the best parts about this little beach town is how it turns into a community gathering place, especially in the evenings.

Throughout the year, Seaside hosts a variety of family-friendly events, including:

Outdoor movies on the lawn — bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and snacks
Live music performances — often free and right in the amphitheater
Farmers markets, holiday celebrations, and special seasonal events such as a Wine Festival in the fall

To make the most of it, check the events calendar on the Seaside website before you go. It’s an easy way to plan your visit around something extra fun.

Tips for Visiting Seaside as a Day Trip

Seaside, photo credit: R. Schwartz

If you’re staying in nearby 30A communities like WaterColor, Grayton Beach, or Rosemary Beach, Seaside makes for a perfect day trip — just be prepared with a bit of local know-how to make the most of it.

Here are my go-to tips after 15+ years of visiting:

Parking can be tricky — There’s limited street parking, and it fills up fast. Get there early in the day or closer to dinner time for better luck. Paid lots are available, but bring patience.
Bring water and sunscreen — You’ll be outside a fair amount.
Stroller-friendly but not always smooth — The town is walkable, but some areas have uneven bricks or sand paths.
Watch for crowds — Mid-day to early afternoon is peak chaos.

This isn’t a theme park or an all-day attraction — and that’s the beauty of it. It’s a place to wander, eat well, soak in the atmosphere, and leave with sandy feet and a happy heart.

Is Seaside Worth Visiting If You’re Staying Nearby?

Seaside, photo credit: R. Schwartz

If you’re spending your beach vacation in a nearby 30A community, you might wonder if it’s worth taking a break from your cozy rental to venture into Seaside. My answer? Absolutely — at least once.

Seaside isn’t just another beach town. It’s the heart of 30A’s charm, with its pastel cottages, lively town square, and that perfect mix of laid-back and upscale. Even if you only spend a few hours here, you’ll get a taste of what makes this stretch of Florida so special.

For first-time visitors, it’s a chance to see one of the most photographed spots on the Gulf Coast. For families, it’s an easy way to combine good food, fun activities, and a scenic sunset — all without a lot of planning.

Sure, it’s pricier and more crowded than some of the surrounding beaches, but the experience is worth it. Plan your visit for the right time of day, pack a little patience, and you’ll see why so many people (us included) make Seaside part of their 30A tradition year after year.

I love staying in Watercolor, as you can walk or bike to Seaside and not mess with parking!

30A Resources
Best 30A Beaches
Best 30A Tours
Breakfast in 30A
Ice cream in 30A
Best Seafood on 30A
30A State Parks
30A Winter
30A Fall
Christmas in 30A
Spring Break on 30A
30A When it Rains
4th of July at 30A
How to Vacation at 30A on a Budget
Vacation Rentals on 30A for Families
Beach Packing List for Families
The Best Review of Seaside vs Watercolor, Florida
Ultimate Guide to Watercolor, Florida
Is Watercolor, Florida, Worth it? 12 Reasons why I love it
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