The Weekender: Seaside, Fla.

Planning the perfect beach weekend starts with the sandy shore itself — and there’s no better backdrop on the East Coast than the aptly named Seaside, Fla. You yourself voted it the Best Overall Beach in our 2015 Best Beach Awards, thanks to its white sands and warm waters from the Gulf of Mexico. In stark contrast to nearby Destin’s high-rise condos, you’ll find pastel-colored houses lined with white picket fences and beach cruisers. When night falls, families cover the amphitheater with picnic blankets to enjoy movies and live music. So go ahead, pack your bags, because the word is out about this idyllic family escape. 

Clockwise from top left: Affordable, lightweight romper that can do no wrong | Unisex, nautical-inspired bracelet that anyone can pull of | Toms shades are socially responsible, and stylish | Pretty glass water bottle for staying hydrated on the go | Punchy, nylon weekender that has enough room for your beach essentials (and everybody else’s) | Comfortable slip-ons that resemble Birkenstocks in the best way