Seaside in Winter: A Quieter Season on the Gulf
Why winter in Seaside, Florida may be the town’s best-kept secret
Most people know Seaside in the summer. Fewer know it in the winter, and that is exactly what makes it special.
The crowds thin out. The beach stretches a little longer. Mornings call for a sweater and a second cup of coffee, and evenings bring sunsets that seem to linger over the Gulf. Seaside in the winter is still the same town, with its pastel cottages, white picket fences and sandy paths. It just moves at a slower, softer pace.
From the start of the holiday season to a celebrated songwriters festival and a February race weekend, here is what winter in SEASIDE® has in store.
The Beach in Winter
Same Gulf. More room to breathe.
The water may be a little too brisk for a swim, but winter is when the beach becomes a place to simply be. Take a long walk along the shoreline. Watch the light change over the water. Bring a jacket, find a spot in the sand and stay for the sunset.
Back in town, the sidewalks and sandy paths are made for exploring on foot or by bike, with no rush to be anywhere at all.
Holidays in Seaside
Winter starts with a celebration.
The holiday season in Seaside begins with Turn on the Town, the annual tradition featuring the Seaside Holiday Parade, when the community gathers at the Seaside Amphitheater as the town lights up for the holidays. More holiday events will be added to the Seaside events calendar as they are announced.
30A Songwriters Festival
Where the song comes first.
Each January, some of music’s most celebrated songwriters come to 30A to share the stories behind their songs. In 2027, SEASIDE® is home to one of the festival’s two main stages, and the festival kicks off on Friday night with headliners at the Seaside Amphitheater.
Come for the music, and stay for the long weekend in between sets.
SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K
Lace up. Race weekend is coming.
Each February, runners make their way to Seaside for the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K. Whether you are chasing a personal best in the half marathon, running the 5K or cheering from the sidelines, it is a weekend with plenty of energy in town.
In 2027, race day falls on Valentine’s Day, so plan to celebrate with a well-earned dinner for two.
Long Lunches and Slow Afternoons
Slow down and stay a while.
Winter is the season for lingering. Settle in for a long lunch, or watch the sun set over dinner at Bud & Alley’s, serving oceanfront dining in Seaside since 1986. Explore all of the options on our dining guide.
In between, take your time in the shops of Seaside, from coastal clothing and hats to jewelry and gifts. Hours can vary by merchant, so it is always a good idea to check ahead.
Why Winter Is the Season to Stay a While
More time. More space. More Seaside.
Winter is an easy time to settle in. Book a cottage or home in town, unpack for longer than a weekend and get to know Seaside the way the people who live here do: one walk, one sunset and one long lunch at a time.
Whether you are coming for the holidays, the music or the race, or simply for a quieter week by the water, Seaside will be ready for you.
Seaside in Winter: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seaside, Florida worth visiting in the winter?
Yes. Winter in Seaside brings a quieter pace, fewer crowds and long walks on the beach, along with the start of the holiday season, the 30A Songwriters Festival in January and the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K in February.
What is the weather like in Seaside in the winter?
Winter in Seaside is generally mild, with comfortable days and cooler mornings and evenings. Pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater for beach walks and evenings outdoors.
What events take place in Seaside in the winter?
Winter in Seaside begins with the Seaside Holiday Parade and Turn on the Town on Saturday, November 28, 2026. The 30A Songwriters Festival takes place January 15–18, 2027, with a main stage at SEASIDE®, and the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K takes place on February 14, 2027.
Can you go to the beach in Seaside in the winter?
Yes. The beach is just steps from town year-round. While the Gulf is cooler in winter, it is a beautiful season for shoreline walks, quiet afternoons in the sand and sunsets over the water.
Do restaurants and shops in Seaside keep the same hours in winter?
Hours can vary by merchant, so we recommend checking with individual restaurants and shops before your visit, and booking ahead for holiday and event weekends.
