Seaside, Florida--A Place You Won't Forget!

If you're visiting Destin, Florida, as we suggested last time, it would be a crime not to take a few hours to explore Seaside, just seven miles down the road.

Seaside is one of those planned communities becoming so popular in the South--but it has been around since the early 80's and has served as an inspiration for at least some of the new communities.

You will find Seaside by driving east from Destin down Highway 98 until you see the sign for Highway 30-A. There is also a small sign announcing Seaside. Turn right, then follow the signs, and fall in love.

If you don't recognize it by the tug at your heart and the involuntary gasp of delight, you'll know you're in Seaside by the sign announcing the population at just over 2,000, "including cats and dogs." Look to your left, and you'll see delightful Victorian-style homes painted in bright colors and surrounded by low white picket fences. The houses are connected by brick-paved streets. At front and center is a ring of inviting little shops fronted with a small, elegant Post Office building surrounded by a amphitheater. On nice days, the grassy expanse provides a place for families to sunbathe, picnic, play with a Frisbee, or just saunter around and visit.

Across the road is a string of little boutiques and restaurants just a few feet from the bluest water I ever saw. I've wondered why the water is so much bluer here than elsewhere, and decided that it just HAS to be, to compete with the other wonderful sights in Seaside.

Take your time, explore the shops on both sides of the road, and eat at least one meal while you're here. It really doesn't matter where--even Modica's Market serves great deli food and provides tables out front where you can sit and watch the activity.

There are plenty of places to stay in Seaside, all of them a little pricey. If you're on a budget, a day trip might be best. If you've just had a good run on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire," check on renting one of the private homes available. Better yet, check on buying one of them--you'll never want to leave.

Get more info at http://www.seasidefl.com.

Go To Page: 1

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic