When planning your vacation, what are you looking for? Sun, warm weather, a great beach, and plenty of relaxation are great starters. If this sounds good to you, don't overlook the Emerald Coast on Florida's panhandle. More specifically, the town of Seaside is a paradise for vacationers who enjoy the slow-paced, laid back atmosphere of a small, beach front village. What exactly makes Seaside, Florida a great place to visit? It's a combination of things ranging from the unique architecture to the pristine beach to loads of fun and exciting activities.

Seaside, the nation's first New Urbanist development, was created by master planner and developer, Robert Davis. Time magazine called the architectural design of Seaside "the most astounding design achievement of its era" and "the most influential." The up-scale design incorporates Victorian/Post-Modernist architecture with narrow streets, picket fences, sidewalks, and a town layout that puts all necessities within walking distance. This simple elegance, visible throughout Seaside, makes for a picture perfect setting for the perfect vacation.

A favorite feature of Seaside is the half mile stretch of beach that is part of the 26 mile long Beaches of South Walton area. This entire stretch of beach received a Blue Wave certification from the Clean Beaches Council in 2004. Pure emerald-green waves crashing on fine, white sands makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Nine beach entry pavilions in the Seaside area allow easy access for beach goers.

If you want to do more than sunbathing on the beach, there are plenty of activities and places of interest nearby. A short walk would put you in the middle of the recreational area that includes three swimming pools, six tennis courts, a croquet lawn, a fitness center, and more. Unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants are located around the town square. Bike rentals, movie rentals, and a spa are also close by. Seaside shows its artistic side in the art galleries located in Ruskin Place. The Seaside Repertory Theatre performs dramas, comedies, and more throughout the summer.

Even more recreational activities can be found in the Seaside, Florida area if you are willing to drive a few minutes. You can play golf on a championship course in Destin. In fact, the South Walton area has 145 holes of championship golf within a 12-mile stretch of the coast. Tennis clubs are abundant in the area in places like Santa Rosa Beach and Rosemary Beach. Multiple state parks are always close by. Two examples are Point Washington State Forest which is located in Santa Rosa Beach and Deer Lake State Park which is located near Seagrove Beach.

In your search for the perfect vacation destination, one thing is certain; no matter what your tastes, Seaside has something for you. From walking on one of the country's most beautiful beaches, to up-scale shopping, to world-class dining, to championship golf, you can find what you are looking for in Seaside, Florida.