PHOTO BY FRANKLIN COUNTY TDC
Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay in North Florida, St. George Island offers an idyllic getaway steeped in natural beauty and history.
There are no high-rise condos or buzzing late-night bars here. Just 22 miles of unspoiled beaches— ideally suited for swimming, fishing, paddling, and shelling— surrounded by a lush landscape that hums with wildlife. Exhale a deep breath and let the four-mile drive across the bridge that separates the barrier island from mainland Florida set the tone for this serene summer getaway.
There are a handful of low-density hotels and inns on the island, with the 88-room Buccaneer Inn as the largest (and only hotel directly beachfront), but rooms fill up quickly, so most opt for one of the private rentals that dot the coastline. From standard condos to luxury abodes with private pools, or spectacular camping at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, there’s something to accommodate every type of traveler. You’ll want to park your car and rent bikes or a golf cart for your stay — the petite island is easily navigated by either.
DISCOVER ISLAND HISTORY
Europeans arrived on St. George more than 300 years ago, and rapid expansion followed. By the 1900s, the Island’s focus shifted from community building and tourism to military support, as it became an important source of turpentine, which is made by distilling resin from pines. Harvesters slashed through the tree’s outer layers, creating a “cat face” scar to release the materials. The majestic cat-face pines, with their centuries-old markings, can still be seen throughout Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park today. History buffs will also appreciate the St. George Island Lighthouse. Originally built in 1852 and rebuilt multiple times over the years due to hurricane damage, it collapsed into The Gulf in 2005. The community rallied and erected a replica, Cape St. George Light, in a more protected area so visitors can continue to experience breathtaking views from the top, while learning more about the island in the museum.
PHOTO BY FRANKLIN COUNTY TDC
GET OUT AND EXPLORE
St. George Island is a dream for beachgoers, paddlers, and anglers alike. Days can be spent relaxing on the white sand beneath an umbrella, dipping into the clear surf, and searching for shells, or out on the open water with a chartered fishing expedition from Island Charters. Under their helpful guidance, you’re all but guaranteed to hook a redfish or speckled trout from the bountiful waters. For all levels of paddleboarders, the beach near the lighthouse offers a calm place to embrace the splendor of the crystal blue waters to their fullest. For a completely different paddleboarding experience, Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park provides easy access to the Apalachicola River. It’s another gentle waterway for paddlers and also has a canoe and kayak launch ramp for peaceful afternoons rowing in the warm summer sun. For a family-friendly Apalachicola Bay experience, check out the dolphin tours with Journeys of St. George Island. During the two- hour powerboat expeditions, expect glimpses dolphins frolicking in the waves with possible bald eagle, osprey, heron, and jumping fish sightings along the way. There are morning and evening runs, with the latter boasting spectacular Panhandle sunset viewing from the boat deck.
SAVOR COASTAL CUISINE
When it comes to dining, what St. George lacks in quantity; it makes up for in quality. Like the rest of the island, restaurants echo a distinctly laid-back vibe. Paddy’s Raw Bar is a must-visit for oysters by the dozen, simple sandwiches, and local peel-and-eat shrimp by the pound. The sun-drenched deck at The Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe is where you want to be for fresh seafood straight from the shores. It’s the only restaurant directly beachside, so you can expect stunning views anytime day or night. Oysters, blue crab claws, New Orleans-style gumbo, and grouper and shrimp prepared a variety of ways hit the spot, along with ice-cold beer, island drinks, and a sweet serenade of lapping waves in the distance. For those who prefer dining in, Island View Seafood has everything you need for a seafood feast at home. They’ll pack up the morning’s catch on ice and are generous with prep tips if you ask. At the end of the night, satisfy your sweet tooth with a cool treat: a few scoops of hand- dipped ice cream or milkshake from Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream; or a house-made waffle cone filled with soft serve and toppings from Adventure Island Ice Cream.
DAY TRIP TO APALACHICOLA
If time allows, add in a day trip to the quaint, neighboring fishing town Apalachicola (less than 40 minutes by car). Grab a latte and a chocolate covered turtle from Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company to fuel an afternoon perusing the historic downtown’s eclectic boutiques and art galleries. As you’re shopping, keep an eye out for the highly prized local Tupelo honey. Valued for its silky texture and complex flavor, it’s a rare find and makes an excellent souvenir for foodie friends back home. And be sure to make a reservation for Owl Café, where you’ll enjoy classics like BBQ shrimp, fried oysters, and shrimp and grits, alongside a craft cocktail or glass of wine in a welcoming casual-meets-upscale setting. It’s a great representation of what makes the “Forgotten Coast” so special.