are we there yet ?
FAMILY MEMORIES
SEASIDE , FLORIDA
8may / june 2024
By Linda Holloway Photography by SEASIDE ®
Selecting a family beach destination is as simple as following the famed northwest Florida highway , 30-A . Forget the air conditioning , roll down the windows and treat your senses to the feisty Gulf breeze sprinkled with salt . The Kids ’ final whispers of “ Are We There Yet ?” turn to squeals of joy as the rolling waters of the Gulf of Mexico are spied . You have arrived at the ideal family vacation spot in a perfect beach town simply tagged , Seaside .
Seaside is so perfect in fact , that the 1996 filmmakers abandoned their Hollywood stage lots and headed straight to Seaside to film the iconic movie , The Truman Show , starring Jim Carey . Unlike Truman , you will not want to leave . At some point during your vacation , walk to Natchez Street to view the Truman House and of course , take a selfie .
Family-Friendly Accommodations : Seaside combines a welcoming community atmosphere , beautiful natural surroundings , and family-focused amenities to create an ideal destination for families seeking a fun , yet relaxing vacation experience . Here , you will find award-winning shopping , culinary experiences , and , most importantly , a wholesome quality of life to the community and visitors .
Seaside offers a variety of accommodation options suitable for families , including vacation rental homes , cottages , and condos . These accommodations often come equipped with amenities such as gourmet kitchens and multiple bedrooms providing families with the comfort and space they need .
Our first family vacation in Seaside was in 2006 , with our son Lance and grandson , Gunnar who was five at the time . On May 3 , 2024 , Gunnar will graduate from the University of Alabama , and he still declares Seaside his favorite vacation destination . Today , this famous beach town draws visitors from around the world . Our cottage rental home was awash in pastel colors and adorned with a white picket fence along a brick-paved street . Many of the wooden porch sanctuaries come with prime amenities , rocking chairs . You will not find loud city noise here .
Biking , Walking and Beach Fun : Seaside was designed to encourage people to walk and be outdoors . Seaside ’ s urban elements make walking and biking more convenient than driving . This concept makes navigating easy for families . The numerous recreation options are designed with ease and flexibility in mind .
Along the shoreline are nine beach pavilions that serve as gateways to the acclaimed emerald surf . Seaside boasts stunning white sandy beaches along the Gulf Coast , providing families with opportunities for swimming , building sandcastles , and enjoying water activities together . The calm , clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico are ideal for children to play in safely .