NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: Seaside
Seaside is an energetic, diverse, and fast-growing community with strong family roots and expanding amenities. Families appreciate its parks, youth programs, and close proximity to beaches, CSUMB, and Fort Ord trails. The city’s dining scene, cultural festivals, and neighborhood revitalization projects continue to grow each year. With sweeping ocean views from the hillsides and easy access to the entire Monterey Peninsula, Seaside offers both convenience and character.
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER: KATHERINE STEPHENS
Katherine has been a Seaside resident for over a decade. Married to partner Paul, and parent to three children: Sage (7), Theo (5), and Gemma (2). Katherine works as an assistant for Monterey Bay Parent and Paul works as a marketing executive with a local hotel. Also part of the family are two elderly cats and a mischievous black lab.
KATHERINE’S PICKS
SEASIDE FAMILY LIFE: Seaside has been my home for thirteen years now—lucky thirteen! It has carried me through many seasons of my adult life, from being a broke college kid to navigating early motherhood and everything in between. No matter the chapter, Seaside continually offers community, natural beauty, and a place to grow. Today, it’s a “pinch me” location to raise my three kids.
FAMILY FUN: One of our go-to Seaside adventures is an afternoon at Laguna Grande Regional Park. The kids love hopping between playgrounds, following the walking trails, and spotting different bird species. We also love heading down to Seaside State Beach to build sandcastles and explore tide pools. It’s usually quieter than other Monterey Peninsula beaches, making it ideal for families who want ocean fun without the crowds.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING: When we’re brave enough to eat out with all three kids, The Butter House is always at the top of our list. Big portions, friendly staff, and fun breakfast choices make it a guaranteed win. On nights when I’m solo-parenting and shuttling hungry kids between practices, Chopsticks is my go-to for a fast, affordable dinner.
DATE NIGHT: If the stars align for a date night, my husband and I usually head to Harumi Sushi. It has been a favorite for years—the fish is fresh and the ambiance cozy.
When we’re feeling nostalgic for our younger days, we stop by Other Brother Beer Co. for a delicious happy hour before heading to our new favorite discovery: Lynn’s Arcade. This pinball parlor features 40 machines, and the owners are wonderfully friendly.
For special occasions like anniversaries, we love treating ourselves to Maligne. This Seaside gem received a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2023 for offering an exceptional three-course dining experience at a great value. The meal is exquisite, and the open kitchen lets you watch an up-and-coming chef work his magic.
SHOPPING: Thursdays are a highlight of my week thanks to the Seaside Certified Farmers’ Market. I love strolling through stalls of fresh local produce and handmade treats, all surrounded by the lively community energy that makes Seaside shine. The kids enjoy the live music and the nearby playground.
We also like browsing the small shops along Fremont Blvd. Our favorite is Hayato Japanese Goods & More. I first wandered in looking for an ingredient for a new recipe and left with a fun tradition of trying new snacks from around the world with my kids. The shop is also full of adorable knickknacks—perfect for spending tooth-fairy money!
PARKS: As I mentioned earlier Laguna Grande Regional Park is our family favorite. With children ranging from ages two to seven, we appreciate that the park offers two playgrounds suited for different developmental stages, plus plenty of space to run.
For families who love adventures beyond the playground, the Fort Ord National Monument trails offer wide-open spaces, gentle hikes, and endless fresh air. We often bring the kids’ bikes for the trails and occasionally spot horseback riders.