Seaside is home to 9 distinct Beach Pavilions. Their unique character and style offer a glimpse into Seaside’s significance as a pioneer in New Urbanism. A visit to any one of the Beach Pavilions reminds visitors of a simpler time long before the crowds of today.
If you have ever driven Scenic Highway 30A thru Seaside, you have undoubtedly seen the Iconic Coleman Beach Pavilion.
There are in fact 9 different beach pavilions in Seaside. 8 of which are considerably less noticeable but equally Charming.
With the exception of the Seaside Pavilion and Coleman Pavilion, each of the Beach Pavilions anchors a man street of Seaside offering an inviting entrance to the beautiful white sands and emerald blue waters.
The Seaside Beach Pavilions are one of my favorite things about Seaside, Florida. I just love that while they are all built with the intention to encourage visiting with neighbors, they also reflect the unique style of the architects that designed them.
Be sure to check out the Best 30A Happy Hours
This post is all about the 9 Seaside Beach Pavilions.
What Are the Names of the Seaside Beach Pavilions from East to West?
- Tupelo Beach Pavilion
- Savannah Beach Pavilion
- East Ruskin Beach Pavilion
- Seaside Beach Pavilion
- Coleman Beach Pavilion
- West Ruskin Beach Pavilion
- Pensacola Beach Pavilion
- Odessa Beach Pavilion
- Natchez Beach Pavilion
The 9 Seaside Pavilions
Coleman Pavilion – Designed by David Coleman
Coleman Pavilion is easily the most recognizable and accessible Seaside Beach Pavilion. It is located in Seaside’s city center.
Prior to the Pandemic, it was open to the public so all could enjoy the beautiful pristine waters of Seaside Beach.
Since the pandemic, they have closed the Coleman Pavilion entrance. Seaside beach access is only for Seaside homeowners and guests.
Tupelo Beach Pavilion – Designed by Ernesto Buch 1982
Tupelo Beach Pavilion was the first pavilion built.
Designer Ernesto Bunch was a member of the original design team in Seaside. He was very instrumental in the development of what Seaside is today.
He built two well-known structures, the first of which is the Tupelo Beach Pavilion. Setting the standard for future Seaside development.
Savannah Beach Pavilion – Designed by Tom Christ
Savannah Beach Pavilion was the second pavilion built. It was designed by Tom Christ who was very prominent in the development of Seaisde.
He has built more structures in Seaside than anyone else. They now have an amendment to the urban code limiting the number of structures developed by one designer to only 12.
He has also developed a significant number of homes in the Watercolor area.
East Ruskin Beach Pavilion – Designed by Stuart Cohen and Anders Nereim
Seaside Beach Pavilion
West Ruskin Beach Pavilion – Designed by Michael McDonough
Pensacola Beach Pavilion – Designed by Tony Atkin
Odessa Beach Pavilion – Designed by Roger Ferri
Natchez Street Beach Pavilion – Designed by Badanes
The Natchez Street Pavillion places a large wooden beach umbrella at the crest of the dune to mark the end of the street and link it with the beach.
While the beach pavilions add to Seaside’s charm, they are not open to the public. They are reserved for Seaside residents and guests.
In order to access them, you will need a wristband and a code for the gate.
But, just because you can’t use them doesn’t mean you can’t admire them. I would definitely recommend taking a walk along the street and checking them out.
How to Photograph the Seaside Beach Pavilions
Photographing the Seaside Beach Pavilions can prove a little challenging since they are locked.
But, honestly, you can still get some great shots of them from outside of the gates. Since the pavilions are quite large, you will need to stand farther away to get the wide-angle shot anyway.
I would recommend early morning since the light will be a little softer and the crowds will be much smaller.
Be sure to photograph them from as many angles as you can, as they offer different characteristics from various angles.
You can walk east on 30A to the first public beach entrance. Once you are on the beach you can make your way back toward Seaside and photograph the Seaside Beach Pavilions from the beachside. This offers a completely different perspective.
This Post Was All About the 9 Seaside Beach Pavilions.
Other Posts you may like:
The Best Seaside Restaurants
30A Restaurants You Will Love
Follow Along as We Build Our 30A Beach House
