Spring in Seaside, Florida: A Season of Family Traditions and Shared Moments

SEASIDE® recently welcomed the spring season with a meaningful new tradition: a ceremonial flag raising in the heart of town. Presented with the assistance of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the gathering offered a moment for residents, visitors, and staff to pause together and reflect on what makes SEASIDE® feel both timeless and deeply personal.
Micah Davis, President of SEASIDE® Community Development Corporation, spoke about SEASIDE®’s founding vision as a place intentionally designed for connection. Jeremy Barnes, Director of Operations, shared how thoughtful stewardship ensures that the town’s character and family-centered atmosphere continue to thrive. Kevin Boyle, General Manager, welcomed families to spring in SEASIDE® with a simple message: this is a place where memories are made side by side, across generations. The ceremony comes just as SEASIDE® has been named the #1 Best Family Beach Vacation in the U.S. for 2026, affirming what returning families have known for decades. SEASIDE® is not defined by a single attraction. It is defined by the feeling of being together.

A Place Where Families Feel at Ease
One of the most remarkable things about SEASIDE® is that, despite its relatively young 45 year history, it easily feels like the long-established town square it was designed to be. That sense of openness is no accident. It is the result of thoughtful stewardship and a long-standing commitment to creating a place that feels welcoming to everyone. SEASIDE® is privately cared for, yet publicly enjoyed. This spring, take the time to enjoy the birthplace of New Urbanism in the way it was meant to be enjoyed. SEASIDE®’s walkable streets, welcoming public spaces, and thoughtfully designed town center create an environment where families can slow down and reconnect. Grandparents walk hand in hand with grandchildren. Parents rediscover the joy of unhurried evenings. Children find independence within a setting that feels safe and familiar. During the spring season, a 7 PM curfew for unaccompanied minors under 18 helps preserve this shared experience. The intention is simple: encourage families to spend meaningful time together and ensure that SEASIDE® remains a welcoming place for all.

12 Family-Friendly Activities in Seaside You Won’t Want to Miss
Beginning March 10th, Seaside’s Arts and Entertainment program offers complimentary events designed to bring families together in the heart of town. Whether you arrive with a blanket, lawn chairs, or simply wander over after dinner, these gatherings create space for connection and shared memories.

1. Experience Children’s Theatre in the Amphitheater
Mondays at 6 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Gather on the lawn for an interactive performance designed to spark imagination and laughter. Families often arrive early with blankets or low chairs to settle in. It is a wonderful way to introduce younger children to live storytelling in a relaxed, open air setting.

2. Dance Along with Huck & Lily
Tuesdays & Thursdays at 5 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
This high-energy concert series invites children to move, sing, and fully participate. Parents and grandparents can relax nearby while still feeling part of the fun. It is one of the most joyful ways to spend an early spring evening together.

3. Enjoy the Weekly Silent Disco and DJ Residency
Wednesdays 4:30 to 6:30 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Midweek afternoons turn festive as families gather after the beach. Children play freely on the lawn while music creates a welcoming backdrop. March brings Silent Disco while April welcomes an in-house DJ residency. It’s casual, fun, and perfectly timed before dinner.

4. Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Fridays & Sundays at 7:30 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Central Square Cinema transforms the Amphitheater into an outdoor movie experience. Bring blankets, pick up takeout from a local merchant, and enjoy a shared evening outdoors. It is simple, nostalgic, and consistently a family favorite. Check each week’s movie selection on the Event Calendar.

5. Play Together at the Seaside Athletic Club
Share a high-energy activity with the family by reserving tennis or pickleball courts, or explore group fitness options suited for a range of ages and abilities. It’s an opportunity for friendly competition, skill building, and shared accomplishment as a group. Learn more and reserve here.

6. Let the Kids Run Free on the Playground and Lawn
The centrally located Amphitheater offers a natural meeting place for families with younger children. Tupelo Goods chairs and plenty of green space invite spontaneous games of catch, cartwheels, or simply stretching out in the sunshine. Wander to the playground (located adjacent to the tennis courts) for swings, a slide, and simple fun.

7. Take a Self-Guided Art and Architecture Walk

Explore SEASIDE®’s thoughtfully designed streets, iconic homes, and public murals throughout town while exploring at your own pace. Discover colorful works by Sarah Page (outside SEASIDE® Kids + Baby and inside Cabana), Art by Doman (at ‘drome), Gaia (the Vincent Scully mural facing 30A), and Kelsey Montague in the Pop Up District. Find The Seaside Institute’s self-guided tour here.

8. Book a Beach Setup for a Relaxed Day by the Gulf
Reserve chairs and shade through Cabana Man and arrive to a ready-made beach experience. Planning ahead ensures comfort, though same-day arrangements are often available. It allows families to focus on enjoying the sun, fun, and sand without the requirement of staying in SEASIDE®.

9. Explore Town by Bike

Rent bicycles through the Seaside Transit Authority and experience the community as it was designed to be enjoyed. With flat streets and scenic paths, biking becomes both transportation and memory-making.

10. Gather for Sunset
Sunsets here are truly iconic, especially during the spring season, making it a perfect time for families to gather, either on the beach or in the Amphitheater. This simple time together is often the most meaningful part of the day. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk down from the Coleman Pavilion to experience it with the Gulf as the backdrop.

11. Explore SEASIDE® wedding venues
The same qualities that make SEASIDE® an exceptional family destination also make it an ideal setting for life’s most meaningful occasions. From rehearsal dinners to Gulf front weddings, SEASIDE® offers venues that elevate meaningful occasions thanks to its charming style and picturesque backdrops. Wander past potential venues, including SEASIDE® Pavilion, Lyceum Lawn, SEASIDE® Beach, The Court, or even Central Square, any of which are perfect for a dream wedding or bringing together generations to celebrate a new milestone. To learn more about weddings and celebrations, inquire here.

12. Capture Seaside Through Art
Bring sketchbooks, watercolors, or even just pencils, and let each family member draw or paint the town as they see it. Count the palm trees and chairs in Central Square. Observe the gentle buzz of activity or the lines of each building and take time to notice the details. This activity encourages observation, creativity, and a sentimental souvenir to take home.

As the flag now flies over Central Square, it signals more than the arrival of spring. It marks a renewed invitation to gather, reconnect, and create lasting memories. Try any of these suggested activities or create your own family bucket list.
For the first-time visitors as well as those with decades-long tradition, families find that spring in SEASIDE® offers something increasingly rare: time together, exactly as it was meant to be.

SEASIDE® brought a slice of the Gulf Coast to the Windy City at Chicago Gourmet’s annual Chef’s Get Pickled and Rooftop Events Series, and the result was equal parts epicurean showcase and coastal daydream.

Our own Chef Jim Shirley of Great Southern Café was honored to be a featured chef alongside an elite group of Chicago culinary superstars.

Guests stepped onto the South Walton putting green to test their short game while savoring bites that instantly transported them miles away from Michigan Avenue. 

Chef and his talented team delighted the crowd with his iconic Grits a Ya Ya and West Indies Crab Salad, treating Chicago to the flavors that make the SEASIDE® dining scene unforgettable.

Chef Art Smith and his team even sported Seaside hats to show their love, while Featured Chefs Jernard Wells and Lorena Garcia jumped right into the fun.

In partnership with Visit South Walton, SEASIDE® added the entertainment with mini golf as a playful, interactive escape tucked between the gourmet stations and framed by Chicago’s skyline. It was the perfect moment that makes people stop, engage, and want to learn more about our own slice of paradise. 

The SEASIDE® team was on site all weekend, chatting with guests and connecting with media and VIP partners to share the story of the town and its unique culinary offerings. The full slate of annual events served as a natural conversation topic, reminding us just how deeply SEASIDE® resonates even hundreds of miles from the coast. With winter knocking on Chicago’s door, it was the perfect opportunity to spark a little sunshine envy and keep SEASIDE® top of mind for their next warm-weather escape.

From bites to birdies to beach scenes, SEASIDE®’s presence at Chicago Gourmet offered guests a momentary getaway and a reminder that the sugar-white sand is never too far away.

A new restaurant concept inspired by a native coastal upbringing and rooted in seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is opening along SEASIDE®’s iconic Airstream Row. Wild Nectar, a fresh-pressed juice bar and coastal kitchen serving nutrient-rich bowls, salads, and bright modern flavors, will open in November 2025.

Wild Nectar is owned by Kolbi Amos and Hayden Shaw, two owners committed to making healthy dining approachable, satisfying, and genuinely delicious. “We’re so excited to be part of the Seaside community! East Pass Coffee has become a home away from home for us and our guests, and we hope Wild Nectar carries that same warm, welcoming feeling,” says Amos. “We want to create a cozy spot embraced by the community.”

Amos and Shaw’s story began with a shared love of food, community, and the Emerald Coast. Hayden, a Florida native with nearly two decades in the hospitality industry, helped bring East Pass Coffee in Destin to life, creating its menu and shaping its laid-back atmosphere. Kolbi’s background spans marketing, photography, and hospitality, and after time spent traveling, she returned home to the Emerald Coast. Together, the duo is blending creativity, coastal living, and modern food culture into something that adds to the magic of 30A.

“Our concept was born out of a genuine connection: between food, people, and place. We’ve been so lucky to build community at East Pass, a space where families and friends can hang out and feel at home,” says Shaw.” That’s the same energy we want to bring to SEASIDE®, good, healthy food that tastes incredible and a welcoming spot where everyone feels nourished and cared for.”

Wild Nectar’s menu will feature fresh-pressed juices, açaí bowls, salads, and sandwiches, along with rotating seasonal specials.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Wild Nectar to SEASIDE®,” says Seaside Community Development Corporation General Manager Kevin Boyle. “After months of collaboration, it’s exciting to see their vision come to life in a way that complements our town’s vibrant and healthy spirit. Our Airstream merchants offer a uniquely memorable guest experience, and they remain an essential piece of SEASIDE®’s  hospitality and New Urbanism puzzle.”

The Wild Nectar team has already begun sourcing from local farms, artisanal bakeries, and regional makers to shape menus and build a restaurant identity that is genuinely rooted in SEASIDE®.

“We want every guest to feel genuinely welcome — like they’ve found their new favorite spot,” adds Amos. “If they leave thinking the food was amazing, the people were kind, and they can’t wait to come back tomorrow, then we’ve done what we set out to do.”

Wild Nectar is set to open in SEASIDE® in mid-November 2025.

Modica Market can assemble the perfect charcuterie board for your next gathering

Modica Market, Seaside’s quaint gourmet grocery, is one of the country’s most famous small markets in small towns. Sample their selections of fresh, homemade Southern specialties and gourmet to-go meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. The market also has an extensive collection of wines, craft beers, local and imported condiments, and unique foodie finds — from cheeses to ice creams to coffees.

Opened March 17, 1989 by Charles Modica Sr. and his wife, Sarah, the grocery shop began with a simple deal-sealing handshake between Modica and Seaside founder Robert Davis, and has since flourished into one of the most recognizable businesses along Highway 30A. As the market celebrates three decades in business, the next generation of the family — Charles Modica Jr. and Carmel Modica — runs the store together.

Before he passed away in 2010, Charles Sr., who was considered one of the town’s founding fathers, was a recognizable face among community members, known for his bushy white beard and kind, inviting smile.

Over the years, Modica, one of the town’s first establishments, has become a hotspot for shopping, eating and socializing. The business has also become a hub for local children, who walk to the store after school to enjoy fresh baked cookies and leftover doughnuts from that morning. 

People love Modica so much, they stock up on merch, including tote bags, koozies, mugs and glasses, hats and T-shirts, and much more.

Melanie Scicluna, manager of the store, puts her skills to use by assembling elegant and appetizing charcuterie boards for customers. Beyond the traditional selection of specialty meats and cheeses, Modica can customize your snack board to suit your tastes. Melanie says the snack boards can accommodate everyone’s appetites and needs, including vegan options. “A lot of people are going for veggies with dips,” she says. 

If you need some suggestions, Melanie’s expertise in pairing meats and cheeses can get you set for your gettogether, with some of her go-to favorites for her customers. “You could start with a Cotswold English cheddar, which is just delicious,” she says. “Our marinated goat cheese is one of our specialties, and we’ve got Red Clay pimento cheese, one comes with jalapeno, and the other is sharp. Add some black-peppered dry salami. Also, we have a dry chorizo that is delicious. Another goodie is the Bellavitano, a sweet nutty cheese. You can get it in flavors like espresso, rosemary or merlot.” 

Recently for a campfire birthday party, Melanie made a S’mores-themed board. “We can make a chocolate board, with a mix of decadent treats,” Melanie says, “including macarons, cake bites and other sweet foods.”

Use your imagination and dream up your favorite charcuterie board for your next gathering. Nothing brings people together like sharing food and enjoying each other’s company.

Airstream Row’s classic grilled cheese spot celebrates 15 years

By Margaret Abrams 

Over the years, The Meltdown On 30A has become one of the most famous Airstreams on the block, as people line up for innovative takes on grilled cheese and old favorites. The Seaside sandwich trailer is celebrating its 15th anniversary this fall. It has been there since Airstream Row first started serving up a mix of traditional and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, alongside soups and chips for the perfect pairing. 

Called the “best flip-flop cuisine on 30A,” the Meltdown certainly lives up to its name. Whether you’re craving an elevated grilled cheese with a truffle twist, or you want to keep it simple with a classic American cheese, there’s truly something for everyone. Best of all, there’s really no better beach snack, which is why it has been a favorite for so many years. Visitors often grab a favorite book from Sundog Books, along with their go-to sandwich, and head down to the water for an impromptu picnic. Plus, it’s open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., guaranteeing it’s the ultimate lunch or late-night snack. 

And it’s not only about the sandwiches. Spend time in the area and you’re more than likely to spot someone wearing a T-shirt proudly proclaiming “I had a meltdown on 30A,” thanks to the iconic merch. 

A new Airstream is popping up unique flavors of a favorite snack

By Margaret Abrams

Airstream Row seems to offer everything a vacationer could dream of, from hot dogs to crepes. But now, there’s a new kid on the block, and it’s serving up the popcorn of your wildest dreams. Hunter Davis, the Panhandle native behind personal chef service The Dish and the Spoon, and owner of Odd Pelican Beer, introduces another innovative venture. Hunter, who’s father Larry Davis works with Seaside Group Sales and Cottage Rental Agency (and happens to be town founder Robert Davis’ half-brother, guaranteeing it’s a family business), grew up in the area and is constantly thinking of fresh, fun ways to upgrade the 30A food scene. 

The latest is Seaside Pop, serving up a wild variety of gourmet popcorn flavors. The idea was masterminded by General Manager of Seaside Community Development Corp. Kevin Boyle, who was inspired by his love of popcorn and his frequent visits to Walt Disney World. 

“We have been making popcorn at our house for years and eventually began making our own seasonings,” Hunter, a dad of two who lives in Santa Rosa Beach, told The Seaside Times. Hunter’s Airstream trailer offers hot, fresh popcorn along with a wide variety of homemade seasonings, including dill pickle, ranch, cajun, white cheddar, parmesan and thyme, as well as kettle corn for those who like their popcorn a little sweet. The trailer, which is the same style as the Amavida Donut trailer, will also offer Mexican Coke, Sprite and Fanta in glass bottles, as well as Topo Chico and bottled water.

Eventually the Airstream will offer collectible Seaside Pop! Seasonings to take home so everyone can appreciate the funky flavors anytime. They will also offer collectible branded popcorn buckets for movie nights on the Seaside Amphitheater lawn. Guests can choose between regular and large popcorn, and butter is optional. And for just one dollar more, you can upgrade the regular popcorn with the seasonings.

After seven years of serving their famous dumplings and other street fare, Whitley Dykes and Kunyu Li (Desiree), the duo behind Auburn’s beloved The Irritable Bao, open ‘drome in Seaside. Bringing bold, handcrafted dumplings, bao, and street eats, ‘drome is 30A’s first taste of authentic Northeast Chinese flavors with a modern twist.

Working for months constructing their building, Whitley and Kunyu have just completed the kitchen and eating area. All the while they have perfected their menu, which includes the dumplings and menu specials that made the Irritable Bao a local phenomenon, as well as dishes exclusive to Seaside. A full bar and boba tea round out the menu.

Their culinary journey began in Auburn in 2017, where Dumps Like a Truck became a local favorite street food stop, winning over foodies with its Northeast Chinese flavors and heartfelt mission. Inspired by Kunyu’s heritage and Whitley’s years living in China, their food was more than a meal. It was a love letter to the Auburn community, especially the international students who found comfort and nostalgia in every bite.

Their impact reaches beyond the kitchen. Through their nonprofit work with Empowering Young Warriors Asia, they’ve supported children in need in the Philippines and Cambodia and partnered with local organizations in Auburn to uplift families and single mothers.

Now, their next chapter unfolds in Seaside with ‘drome. With a nod to their Auburn roots and a passion for innovation, Whitley and Kunyu are set to bring elevated street food and their signature warmth to the Seaside and 30A community.

Walton County Tourism has announced the winners of the 2025 Perfect in Walton County Awards. Now in its 11th year, the annual awards are nominated and voted upon by residents and visitors who choose their favorites in tourism-related businesses, services and organizations.

More than 6,000 votes were cast across 30 categories to determine the best dining, entertainment, shopping and more in Walton County.

Congratulations to these Seaside merchants and service providers:

Seaside – Best Shopping Area, Platinum

Black Bear Bread co. – Best Breakfast, Platinum; Best Coffee House, Diamond

Amavida Coffee Roasters – Best Coffee House, Gold

The Chapel at Seaside – Best Wedding Venue, Diamond

‘Drome opens in Seaside

The newest venture from Whitley Dykes and Kunyu Li (Desiree), the duo behind Auburn’s beloved The Irritable Bao, introduces ‘drome. Bringing bold, handcrafted dumplings, bao, and street eats, ‘drome is 30A’s first taste of authentic Northeast Chinese flavors with a modern twist.

Their culinary journey began in Auburn in 2017, where Dumps Like a Truck became a local phenomenon, winning over foodies with its Northeast Chinese flavors and heartfelt mission. Inspired by Kunyu’s heritage and Whitley’s years living in China, their food was more than a meal. It was a love letter to the Auburn community, especially the international students who found comfort and nostalgia in every bite.

Their impact reaches beyond the kitchen. Through their nonprofit work with Empowering Young Warriors Asia, they’ve supported children in need in the Philippines and Cambodia and partnered with local organizations in Auburn to uplift families and single mothers.

Now, their next chapter unfolds in Seaside with ‘drome. With a nod to their Auburn roots and a passion for innovation, Whitley and Desiree are set to bring elevated street food and their signature warmth to the Seaside and 30A community.

The restaurant will hold its grand opening in spring 2025. Get ready to experience flavors that will inspire and delight!

Taco Bar Gets New Location

Bud and Alley’s Taco Bar has moved. Taco Bar and Pizza Bar are now side by side in Bud & Alley’s flagship building. Enjoy authentic border tacos, bold Latin flavors, and wood-fired Naples-style pizza all in one spot! 

“We are pleased to announce that Taco Bar joins Pizza Bar roadside within the flagship Bud & Alley’s building. Like two sisters joining hands in one convenient place, look for the same authentic border tacos and delicious Latin offerings as well as the finest Naples-style, wood-fired Pizza this side of the Mediterranean.” — founder/owner Dave Rauschkolb. 

Bourbon enthusiasts celebrate an evening of elegance

A first for Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar, the famous Seaside eatery held a Bourbon, Bacon, Brews and Cigars night Jan. 23, on a magical evening when Seaside was covered in snow. “Even with the snow, we had 80 people show up, driving on icy roads from all over the South,” says Michael Broadway, director of operations for Bud & Alley’s. “It turned out to be a big hit.” 

Michael had the idea of bourbon night for a few years, and was trying to create an exciting event for January. “I’m a big bourbon guy,” he says. “We carry some of the best bourbons in the state. I was working hard at it and wanted to create something besides a wine tasting. And bacon is a great snack food when you drink bourbon and smoke cigars. It was our first event and I was beyond excited.”

The event included more than 20 bourbons for tasting, a delectable spread of bacon-infused appetizers, desserts donated by Kilwins, and live music performed by Mari Gleason. A silent auction allowed bidders to cast their bids on rare bourbons. 

With ticket prices up to $295, the VIP tasting pours included Old Rip Van Winkle 10-year Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Eagle Rare 17-year Straight Bourbon Whisky and several other high-end bourbons.

“This will be an ongoing event the week after the 30A Songwriters Festival every year,” Michael says. “Even though it was so cold, it was great to see smiling faces enjoying the evening.”

Looking ahead to another drink-themed event? Bud and Alley’s continues to host special events. Check out the event calendar for events happening in Seaside, Florida – linked here.