Destination: Seaside

FOR BEACH-LOVERS looking for a place to put their toes in the sand, the coastal village of Seaside, Florida is a destination worthy of consideration. Whether it's for a couple of hours, a few days, a season, or longer, Seaside lives up to an ever-growing reputation.

As the name suggests, Seaside is situated along the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida's Panhandle between Destin and Panama City. More specifically, the community is located on Highway 30-A in south Walton County.

The history of Seaside goes back to 1946 when a man bought some acreage as a summer retreat for his family. Then, in 1979 the grandson of the original landowner inherited the land and set out to change it into an old-fashioned beach town.

During the years of the town's development, Seaside became one of the first models of communities designed on the principles of the "New Urbanism." And, it later became famous as the main filming location for the 1998 movie, "The Truman Show."  Today, Seaside is a thriving planned community which attracts design professionals and architects from around the world.

There's no problem finding things to do in Seaside. Facilities include tennis courts, swimming pools, a world-class croquet lawn, a fitness center, and a Repertory Theatre. Also available are catamaran rentals, nature trails, and camps. Of course, the beach and the ocean are main attractions providing opportunities for getting sun, watching the waves, and relaxing. Kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding, and biking are among other possibilities for activities.

Various events throughout the year attract people to Seaside, including the 30A Songwriters Festival and the Half Marathon and 5k Race. Seaside celebrations, which feature artists; the Seaside Farmers Market, offering fresh local produce; and the Seaside Repertory Theater offering live stage performances are all popular for locals and visitors alike.

Seaside has several places to eat. Bud and Alley's is a favorite of mine because of great food and a million-dollar view of the ocean from the top deck. I've also enjoyed the Great Southern Cafe; the Heavenly, with authentic gelato; and Dawson's Yogurt and Fudge Works. And, Modica Market is a fun place for deli and grocery items, plus it was featured in a scene of "The Truman Show" with Jim Carrey. The Market even has a poster of the movie hanging on the wall.

My wife and I are in Seaside several times each winter and take advantage of the many amenities. Several of our friends do the same thing. We know a couple from southwest Missouri who go to Seaside for at least a week every year. Therefore, it's not difficult to pass along a solid recommendation of Seaside as a great leisure destination.