For our most recent parking details please click here.

When Seaside announced our new paid parking initiative, we knew that there would be growing pains. We’ve listened to what our patrons say, and what locals say, and we’re happy to address some of the biggest questions around the changes.

Here are some of the questions we’ve received and our answers. And as always, if you have any specific questions please feel free to ask us on social media. We always make sure to respond.

“Why make people pay for parking?”

Seaside has always been about enhancing and protecting the human experience. If you have come to Seaside during peak hours, you know the traffic can get really backed up with people circling for up to an hour looking for a parking spot. Implementing paid parking has cut down on the constant circling of vehicles. Now you don’t have to walk past a line of parked cars spewing fumes in your face, filled with distracted drivers who are hunting for a spot instead of focusing on the road. Now, you can just enjoy the experience.

“I miss the old days! Why can’t Seaside stay the same?”

Due to the attractive lifestyle, culture, and ever-growing popularity of our town’s merchants and restaurants, people have grown to love our area; with growth comes change. We have monitored the growth over the past several years and have made adjustments in an effort to make your future experience as enjoyable as possible.

“There’s already not enough parking.”

People intuitively understand that if you give something away for free you’ll run out of it, and that applies to parking too. The idea is to price parking so that there’s always ten to fifteen percent occupancy so that you can have that “good old days” experience of driving up to the place you want to go and easily find a spot, which is something you couldn’t do before. We may need to adjust the price and we’re open to feedback from you.

“You’re just doing this to make money.”

People think we’re operating the parking initiative to make more money and/or because we don’t want people here, but the opposite is true. All of the money collected from parking goes towards our shuttle and to the company that has been contracted to run the paid parking service.

For more information on the New Urbanism principles, on which this decision was made, please watch the videos below:

The High Cost of Free Parking

Environmental Cost of Parking Lots

Dr. Shoup’s Parking Reform

This luxury townhome, designed by renowned New York architect Alexander Gorlin, is located in Seaside’s Artist District of Ruskin Park which allows commercial on the first level and residential on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Featuring 3 king bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a private study, outdoor dining, and an incredible rooftop deck, this townhome has over 3,000 square feet of living space plus an additional 1847 sq. ft of outdoor living. making it one of the largest homes in Ruskin Park. Experience the flavor of New Orleans-style park with an easy stroll to the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the enchanting village of Seaside.
Home Features: *Private covered parking for two cars in the driveway *All HVAC units replaced in 2022*This home is offered as a turnkey, Fully furnished townhome (minus selected artwork)
*Private Seaside residential beach at East Ruskin Pavilion
*352 yards or 4-minute walk to beach access
*Recent roofing
*Outdoor shower
*Optional Swim and Tennis Club Membership available to Seaside owners offering access to 3 swimming pools, 5 Clay tennis courts & 3 Pickleball courts, and a fitness center

Listed by: Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty

A complete remodel transformed this cottage into the jewel it is today! Contemporary and bright, this beautiful home shines like no other. The wrap-around porch is perfect for outdoor living and entertaining. The stunning interiors are reveled as soon as you step inside, beginning with the soaring ceiling height. Maple floors and white ship-lap walls are used throughout the entire house. Additional features include custom-made modern cabinetry, Silestone countertops, concrete resin dining table, and high-end appliances – Bosch oven and microwave, Wolf induction cooktop, Sub Zero refrigerator, Whirlpool washer and dryer, tankless water heater, new windows, doors, and roof. Both new and antique furnishings were carefully hand-selected from Provincial France mixing old and new furnishings to create a comfortable beach living experience. The redesigned kitchen includes a pantry, wet bar, and a plethora of storage. Only the best finishes and carefully selected fabrics were used for all furnishings and window treatments. Two guest bedrooms with king beds and private baths are located on the first floor. The second level includes a media loft with a queen sleeper sofa and master suite. The master suite includes a dressing area, double vanities, a separate shower, and a soaking tub. The third level is the tower bedroom with two built-in beds, storage beneath, and a half bath. The backyard provides additional entertaining space or build a complimentary guest cottage. Only four lots in from 30A and just a quick walk to the west-end pool make this the ideal location for your beach getaway. Exterior storage and private parking onsite.

Listed by: Seaside Community Realty, Inc.

Please contact Seaside Community Realty, Inc. 850-231-2201!

Is there any beach access when we visit Seaside?

When you book a vacation home rental in Seaside, you gain access to the specific pavilion on the street where your home or cottage rental is located. (Each street is managed by its own HOA, and access is determined by location and HOA rules.) Outside of access guaranteed to rental guests, members of the public may access the beach at SEASIDE®’s Coleman Pavilion by booking through Cabana Man. You may book a chair rental ahead of time or can try walking up to make a reservation. Keep in mind, reservations may sell out during peak times. Reserve Here.

Why did you close the public beach access between Seaside & Watercolor?

The Van Ness Butler Regional Beach Access, located between Seaside and Watercolor, was previously a public beach access granted to the county under a legal agreement that allowed public use. That legal agreement is no longer in place, and the property is currently owned exclusively by Watercolor. In whole or in part, this property was never owned by Seaside.

 Why charge for parking when other areas don’t do this?

Seaside is proud to be a leader in the area with early adoption of community-minded solutions. Offering a public shuttle directly to Seaside as a complimentary perk to visitors is a large-scale responsibility that we opted to take on. As you can imagine, the cost for this endeavor is significant, and while we see this as an important amenity, the cost of parking works to partially cover that cost. We understand that paying for parking might be a new concept to some, but the goal is to keep the fees manageable for guests who prefer to park within Seaside.

Will you offer a free shuttle this year?

Seaside is again offering a shuttle that is accessible to guests, locals, and employees at no cost. Our complimentary shuttle will pick you up from a designated lot off of Hwy. 331. S and loop to Central Square, with pickup and drop off at the Lyceum gateway. Multiple shuttles run simultaneously to minimize wait times and accommodate as many riders as possible. Shuttle hours of operation are 6 a.m. to midnight, 7 days a week. 

As families and friends plan to vacation in SEASIDE® this year, we anticipate a bustling town center filled with award-winning shopping and dining enjoyed by those in SEASIDE® and other 30A communities. Whether you’re driving in for the day, planning to bike into town for the afternoon, or catching our complimentary shuttle, there’s an easy way for everyone to get to SEASIDE®.

Beginning March 8, 2024, the managed parking program will be in effect, with hourly rates partnered with our complimentary Seaside Shuttle, which is available for employees, guests, and locals. Like last year, the paid parking experience will have hourly rates along Smolian Circle, varying by day, occupancy levels, and events. This allows us to maintain proper vacancy levels so visitors have available parking to use and ensures that the parking is most efficiently managed. 

This year’s complimentary shuttle services will pick up at a reserved SEASIDE® lot off of Hwy. 331 S., just past the Sanctuary at 331 Apartment Complex, and drop off under the Lyceum Archway in the center of SEASIDE®. The shuttle is available to guests and employees and runs daily from 6 a.m. to midnight, with three shuttles running at all times. See the map below on where to catch the shuttle and the route. 

Upon arrival, you will notice signs placed around Smolian Circle letting you know what zone you have parked in. Input your license plate number and payment information, then head into SEASIDE® to enjoy your day! We encourage visitors to download The Passport Parking app in advance for a simple parking experience. The Passport Parking App can be downloaded here. 

Please note, if you are staying in SEASIDE® Town Center, the vacation rental agency you booked will provide you with a parking pass allowing parking in the areas for your stay. 

Over the last few years, we have listened to feedback from our guests, and we are happy to address some of the biggest questions about our managed parking program. 

Why is SEASIDE® doing this?

We aim to handle parking similarly to cities like New Orleans, Atlanta, and others. Before managed parking, cars could sit in one spot all day. With managed parking, we’re seeing at least two cars in that same spot. This translates to more parking for our guests and more customers for our merchants.

Why is SEASIDE® charging for parking?

Almost a decade ago, we noticed a parking challenge emerging along 30A. We embarked on a journey to find solutions, bringing in consultants, attending trainings, and developing our own systems. We engaged in numerous conversations with guests, merchants, and community members. The decision to manage our parking resulted from countless challenging discussions, collaborative efforts, and innovative proposals but our goal has always been clear: ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of SEASIDE®.

What do you do with all of the money?

During the season, SEASIDE® and its merchants have hundreds of employees who park off-site and take the complimentary shuttle to town, which is also open to guests and local use. The proceeds from paid parking cover the shuttle’s cost, as well as other associated expenses to our parking initiative.

How hard is it to pay for the parking?

It’s easy – first-time parking guests just scan the QR code, download the app, enter some basic information, and they’re all set to choose their parking time. After that, parking and using your existing account to pay for your spot is just a matter. We’re also working on an even more efficient “Text-To-Pay” option.

Sophisticated beach elegance at its finest. Located only two lots in from 30A, just a minute stroll to the beach. This updated southern charmer has been featured in House & Garden and Veranda magazine. Life revolves around the outdoor spaces of this beach cottage. The wrap-around screened porch is perfect for outdoor living. Step through the beautiful mahogany front door into the foyer with floor-to-ceiling bookcase. French doors with transom windows flood the living and dining areas with natural light. The home is designed for easy living; comfortable slip covered sofas and gas fireplace for chilly nights as the season starts to cool. A beautiful chandelier hangs from the 14′ ceilings with crown molding. The 12′ dining table seats 10 with slip covered chairs and bench seats. French doors off the kitchen open onto the screened porch. Amenities of the kitchen include a table and chairs for your morning coffee, pantry, Wolfe gas stove, Subzero refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, granite countertop with a deep stainless-steel sink. Down the hallway are two guest bedrooms and two baths. The primary suite is located on the second level and features an office/sitting area with his and her closets. The primary bath has a double vanity, soaking tub, and separate shower. Head up to the enclosed tower for gulf and sunset views. Entertain your family and friends on the back porch with an outdoor fireplace and summer kitchen. The guest house interiors are a crisp white with a natural finished wood spiral stair. Paved onsite parking for two cars and a golf cart.

Listed by: Seaside Community Realty Inc. | 850-231-2201

Completed in 2021, the main house is perfectly located just four lots in from 30A. The front porch spans the width of the home and expands the living area to converse with neighbors passing by or play your favorite card game. Once inside, an open floor plan is revealed with ten-foot ceilings and crisp white painted wood walls. The custom-built upholstered banquette with storage beneath runs the full length of the dining area. The stylish wood dining table with wicker chairs complements the dining area. The kitchen is the family chef’s dream, starting with a 10′ quartzite countertop island that seats four comfortably. Custom-made cabinets offer plenty of storage. Commercial line Subzero refrigerator, Wolf 4 burner gas stove with griddle, white farm style sink, LG dishwasher, coffee bar/ appliance cabinet, and white subway tile backsplash complete the kitchen. A sand room with sink and storage is located by the side entrance of the home and just beyond is a half bath. The spacious living area includes 2 over-stuffed white slip-covered sofas and chairs. A guest bedroom is currently open to the living area, the addition of sliding doors would create privacy for the 4th bedroom. A full bath is also on the first level. 10′ ceilings continue on the second level. Den with twin sofas for extra sleeping separates the master suite from the guest suites. The black iron king bed with luxurious bed linens creates a cozy retreat. Off the master is a private porch. The master bath features double sinks, a beautiful tile shower, and a walk-in closet. Two guest bedrooms, each with private baths and walk-in closets are also on this level. From the den, halfway up to the tower is a half bath and refrigerator. Continue ascending the stairs to the enclosed tower that extends above the surrounding rooftops, the perfect office, if needed. Step out onto a balcony with panoramic views of the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and extraordinary sunsets. The main house includes a whole-house sprinkler system. Rounding out this masterpiece is the separate one-bedroom, one-bath guest quarter. Previously built before the main house and has been updated. Features include a comfy living area, kitchen, private balcony, and washer and dryer. Paved driveway with onsite parking. Excellent location to Seaside town center and amenities.

Listed by: Seaside Community Realty Inc. | 850-231-2201

Seaside is a unique, dynamic, and one-of-a-kind retail district. Full-time and Seasonal positions are open in our unique and friendly beach town! We employ smiling faces, hospitality attitudes, and fun-loving team members who enjoy serving our guests!

Cottage Host / Guest Service Agent

• An attentive and friendly manner
• Experience in the hospitality industry is desired
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.
• Ability to convey information clearly.
• Must maintain objectivity and composure under pressure
• Must be able to ride a bicycle
• Hours are 10:30 am to 7 pm
• Must work weekends
• Starting pay – $19.00 per hour
• Benefits available after 90 days
• Bonus paid yearly
• Full-time year-round position

Contact Rodney at Rodney@homeownerscollection.com.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Security Officer/Parking Ambassador – Full Time

Seaside Community Development Corporation is looking for a Security Officer/Paid Parking Ambassador who is customer service-oriented with strong communication and problem-solving skills. A background in security, safety, security patrol and traffic management is a plus for this position. A good candidate would possess the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle stressful situations calmly. Must have good verbal communication skills. This position requires courteous and professional interaction with every guest and team member.

As a parking ambassador and Courtesy Team Member, you will play a vital role in ensuring positive experiences for visitors by assisting parking facilities and providing exceptional customer service. Your primary responsibility will be to assist patrons with parking needs, enforce regulations, and contribute to the overall flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Job Type: Full-time

Starting Pay Rate – $22.79 Per-Hour

Apply in person, by mail or email to Seaside Community Development Corporation

121 Central Square, 2^nd floor (enter next to The Seaside Style)

Attn:  Human Resources, P.O. Box 4730, Santa Rosa Beach, FL  32459

Email jobs@seasidefl.com or Fax 850-231-2323

Drug-Free Workplace/EOE

Grounds Maintenance (Full Time)

Full Time positions are open in our unique and friendly beach town!  We employ smiling faces, hospitality attitudes, and fun-loving team members who enjoy serving our guest!

Starting Pay Rate – $22.79 Per-Hour

Performance Bonus at end of the year.

Complete minor landscaping task assignments of weeding, trimming, applying pine straw, planting, raking, watering and shoveling sand.  Perform daily trash pickup and landscaping debris disposal.  Must have a neat appearance, energetic, diligent and hardworking with a clean driving record and ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Excellent benefits, including health, dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance, 401k and 24 paid days off in first year.

Apply in person, by mail or email to Seaside Community Development Corporation

121 Central Square, 2^nd floor (enter next to Seaside Style Store)

Attn:  Human Resources, P.O. Box 4730, Santa Rosa Beach, FL  32459

Email jobs@seasidefl.com

Phone 850-231-2323

Fax 850-231-2323

Drug-Free Workplace/EOE

Public Area Housekeeper

Reports to the Maintenance & Project Manager, Seaside Community Development Corp. (SCDC).

The position is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and ensuring the proper stock of soft goods in the public restrooms,

housekeeping duties and cleaning of office spaces for SCDC and shared entryways into buildings.

Starting Pay Rate – $22.79 Per-Hour

5 day work week – 8 hour shift

Performance Bonus at end of the year.

Excellent benefits, including health, dental, vision, short term disability, life insurance, 401k and 24 paid days off in first year.

Apply in person, by mail or email to Seaside Community Development Corporation

121 Central Square, 2^nd floor (enter next to The Seaside Style)

Attn:  Human Resources, P.O. Box 4730, Santa Rosa Beach, FL  32459

Email jobs@seasidefl.com or Fax 850-231-2323

Drug-Free Workplace/EOE

Maintenance Technician (Full Time)

Will utilize their skills and knowledge of building maintenance principals and methods. Responsibilities include changing light fixtures, filter changes, maintaining the grounds (including trash pick-up) and common areas. Additional responsibilities may include lock repairs, install/repair window coverings, caulking, appliance repairs, electrical power usage, light plumbing, carpentry, drywall, painting and HVAC. The Maintenance Technician will have basic skills in using tools such as electric drills & saws, volt and power drain cleaner (snake), ladders, etc.

Requirements:

• Previous maintenance experience in residential, hotel, or school
• Passing drivers check, background check and drug screen is required
• Appliance Service experience a plus
• HVAC experience a plus

Excellent benefits, including health, dental, vision, 401(k) and 24 paid days off in first year.

Apply in person, by mail or email to Seaside Community Development Corporation

121 Central Square, 2^nd floor (enter next to Seaside Style Store)

Attn:  Human Resources, P.O. Box 4730, Santa Rosa Beach, FL  32459

Email jobs@seasidefl.com

Phone 850-231-2323

Fax 850-231-2323

Drug-Free Workplace/EOE

Cottage Host / Guest Service Agent

• An attentive and friendly manner
• Experience in the hospitality industry
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to lift 40lbs.
• Ability to convey information clearly.
• Must maintain objectivity and composure under pressure
• Must be able to ride a bicycle

Contact Rodney at Rodney@homeownerscollection.com.

Team Dawson Hospitality

If working in Seaside sounds exciting to you, the Dawson Group is actively hiring and looking for energetic and friendly candidates. We are looking to hire part-time and full-time employees in all positions, such as cashiers, cooks, prep, food runners, and bussers. Download our application here and bring it to any of our restaurants for an in-person interview Monday – Thursday, 9AM-11 AM, or email to dawson@dawsongroupseasidefl.com.

Please note, the Dawson Group is under new ownership. Experience is not necessary, you will be paid for training, all hourly staff receives tips and full-time employees are offered paid vacation, health, dental & vision insurance as well as 401K. Follow us on IG to check out our food and team!

@pickles_seasidefl @shrimpshackseasidefl @wildbillsbeachdogs @dawsonyogurtseasidefl @itsheavenlyseasidefl

Sales Associate (The Art of Simple)

Seeking a sales associate to work in a fun, happy shop in a creative environment. Plus you will get lots of love from Junebug, the shop doggie! Part and Full Time Positions available. All applicants must be over the age of 18.

$15/hr plus evening commissions.

Please email resumes to theartofsimple@icloud.com

Sales Assosciate (Town Square Shoes)

Town Square Shoes is looking to add hardworking, friendly individuals to their team! Seeking full time employees who are available on Saturdays and Sundays.

Please email resumes to townsquareshoes@gmail.com or apply in person!

The weekend of Feb. 24-26, 2023, the Seaside Institute held the 29th Annual Seaside Prize honoring UCLA’s Distinguished Research Professor of Urban Planning, Donald Shoup.

The Seaside Prize is awarded annually to a deserving individual or groups who have made significant contributions through design that have changed the way we live. Prize winners are thought innovators in concepts, quality and character of their industry and considered leaders of contemporary urban development and education, who have made their vision a reality, and ultimately our lives better.

Shoup was celebrated for his life’s work in parking policy as Seaside Founder and Developer Robert Davis presented him with the award. Shoup’s books, “Parking in the City,” and “The High Cost of Free Parking,” along with his ongoing research and ideas, have made an impact globally and inspired and challenged many to rethink parking. Parking is the single largest land use in every city and affects our quality of life more than we realize.

Prize weekend kicked off with a reception at The Court. Light bites were prepared by Black Bear Bread Co. and sponsored by The Seaside Merchants, Odd Pelican Brewery, and Distillery 98. Symposiums were held in the Lyceum, featuring a keynote by Rick Cole, Chief Deputy Controller for the City of Los Angeles, followed by Henry Grabar of slate.com, M. Nolan Gray, Research Director, California YIMBY, Stefanos Polyzoides, Architect and Partner at Moule Polyzoides, Norman Garrick, Professor Emeritus, Transportation and Urban Planning at UCONN, and William Fulton, AICP, William Fulton Group. Fulton is also a former student of Shoup.

A memorable awards ceremony at The Chapel at Seaside was followed by dinner at Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant. The weekend closed with town tours in Seaside, Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach led by founding architect Andrés Duany, Partner at DPZ Co-Design. Each speaker brought Shoup’s work full-circle.

Shoup has an expansive following known simply as “Shoupistas.” If you did not come to Seaside Prize weekend as a Shoupista, you certainly left as one. Find more about Donald Shoup’s work at shoupdogg.com and more about the Seaside Institute at seasideinstitute.org.