Welcome to Seaside
Seaside is a picturesque and charming beach town in the 30A area. It is where the 1998 movie The Truman Show was filmed and a model of New Urbanism, which promotes pedestrian friendly living. Cars are prohibited in the Central Square. At the heart of the town is Airstream Row with airstream food truck trailers lined next to each other. The Modica Market has many gourmet items for all your meals, making it a popular spot for residents who own Seaside, FL real estate. Seaside's beautiful white sand beaches are exclusively reserved for residents only.
Discover Seaside, FL Real Estate
In the picturesque coastal town of Seaside, Florida, pastel-colored beach houses provide front row seats to the captivating Gulf of Mexico, while the lively downtown heart of the town pulses with charm and vibrancy. The most sought-after residences are those beachfront beauties that offer unparalleled Gulf views, ensuring every sunset becomes an unforgettable event. However, homes closer to the town center, while not boasting those same panoramic views, immerse their inhabitants in the very soul of Seaside's charm. Homes here typically span between 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, accommodating everyone from families to couples with spacious rooms that often include 3 or 4 bedrooms and 2 or 3 bathrooms. Modern comforts seamlessly blend with classic architecture, as many homes have seen tasteful renovations, ensuring residents get the best of both worlds. And, true to Florida living, these homes often come with yards or patios, perfect for soaking in the sun.
However, the dream of coastal living in Seaside requires a strategic approach. The local real estate market is fiercely competitive, with homes often selling swiftly and sometimes even above the asking price. Aspiring homeowners should consider securing a mortgage pre-approval early on, setting a clear budget and showcasing serious intent to sellers. Given the rapid pace of sales, it's crucial to be decisive and act promptly when the right opportunity emerges. Financial readiness is also key, with most homes in Seaside necessitating a down payment of around 20%. But, with the right guide, navigating this market becomes a breeze. Trust in Seaside real estate agent Elizabeth Boswell of Live Love 30A, whose expert insights will steer you confidently through the Seaside housing landscape, bringing you closer to your dream coastal home.
About Seaside, FL
Once just a parcel of grassy land set back from a strip of white sand on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Seaside is now a marvel of New Urbanism design. The striking mix of architectural styles and stunning beach draws people from all over the world.
Robert S. Davis inherited the land from his grandfather in the 1970s and began planning the community in the 1980s. Davis and his wife Daryl teamed up with renowned architects Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk to create the town as we know it today.
One of the principles of New Urbanism is environmentally-friendly, walkable neighborhoods, so Seaside features a series of wide streets that radiate out from the beach. There are plenty of open spaces throughout the town for strolling and socializing. Native trees and plants add a touch of natural heritage.
Seaside’s stunning Emerald Coast real estate and beautiful location has earned it many accolades. Travel + Leisure magazine named Seaside as the site of the “Best Beach on Earth” for families. The town was also the main filming location for the movie The Truman Show starring Jim Carrey.
Seaside real estate is easily accessible from other cities along the Florida panhandle and beyond. Destin is about a 45-minute drive away on the US-98 E. Rosemary Beach and Miramar are about 20 to 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.
What to do in Seaside, FL
Seaside may be a small town, but there are plenty of ways to fill your days with shopping, dining, community events, and outdoor activities. The town is home to numerous boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. The pedestrian-free streets make it easy to walk, jog, and cycle around town.
Of course the beach is the main draw, making this the ideal spot for those who love the sun, sea, and sand. The Seaside beach is private and only for residents who own 30A real estate here, although visitors can rent a cabana. Popular activities include swimming, and strolling the beach at sunset.
If you get hungry, head to Airstream Row at the entrance of town where you will find Airstream food truck trailers serving up fresh juices, gourmet hot dogs, BBQ, and more. Popular restaurants in town include Bud & Alleys on the waterfront, the Great Southern Cafe, and Amavida Tea & Coffee.
If you prefer to eat at home, you can visit the Modica Market for cheeses, meats, coffee, wines, and gourmet to-go meals. The Seaside Farmers Market takes place every Saturday and brings together vendors selling fresh local produce and artisan products.
Seaside also hosts a number of events throughout the year. The Repertory Theater offers regular performances and is the only professional theater on the Emerald Coast. The Central Square has is a great gathering spot for family movie nights, food festivals, and concerts.
Schools in Seaside, FL
The Seaside Neighborhood School is set in a classic two-story white building on Seaside's Lyceum lawn. It was Florida’s first charter school and it serves students from grades 5 to 8. The school is highly ranked in the state and only accepts a limited number of students each year.
Students from grades 9 to 12 can attend the Seacoast Collegiate High School on the campus of Northwest Florida State College. The focus at the school is post-secondary opportunities, so high school students have the option of graduating with an associate college degree.
Families with younger children can choose from a number of elementary schools in Walton County. There are several public elementary schools as well as private Christian schools, Montessori schools, and project-based schools.
