ICNDadmin, Author at Collins Vacation Rentals Blog | Explore St. George Island

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

3 Reasons to Love the Beautiful C-Quarters Marina

The C-Quarters Marina is located on the east end of the Florida Panhandle. It’s a beautiful, full-service marina with 67 boat slips for your convenience when visiting Carrabelle, FL. This gorgeous coastal city has a history as a quaint fishing town where people have always been genuine and friendly. These simple, timeless roots come across clearly when you visit the C-Quarters Marina. Come dock, charter a boat, or stop in for a tournament to enjoy the enduring beauty and atmosphere of this gem of the Forgotten Coast!

As you get ready to enjoy a trip to the gorgeous C-Quarters Marina, make sure to take a look at our Things to Do page. It’s a wonderful way to learn about all that St. George and the Forgotten Coast have to offer. Full of the information you need, it includes local attractions, great restaurants, shopping venues, and more! It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation to beautiful St. George!

C-Quarters Marina Fishing Charters
There are fishing charter services to suit every need at C-Quarters Marina. When you contact one of them, you can expect a customized experience based on your requests. For general information about the charter services available, call the marina at 850-697-8400. You can also contact several of the charters directly:

Renegade Charters (Captain Scott Luke): 850-251-0784
Sideline Fishing Charters (Tim Edwards): 850-251-9705
Seawolf Charters (Randy Jossey): 850-508-2819

C-Quarters Marina Tournaments
Get into the spirit of friendly competition when you visit the C-Quarters Marina for one of their amazing fishing tournaments! The marina generally sponsors two major tournaments a year, The Kingfish Shootout and a Youth Fishing Tournament. Both are long-standing Carrabelle traditions, having been held for 11 and 12 years, respectively. Proceeds benefit The Leukemia Research Foundation, and to date, over $805,000 have been raised.
The Youth Fishing Tournament is an event for those 16 years old or younger. Participants come from across the Southeast to try out their skills amongst their peers in a fun, competitive environment. Registration is required on site, and there is no fee to participate. If you have a young fishing enthusiast in your midst, make sure to bring them to C-Quarters Marina for the next tournament!

C-Quarters Marina: Convenience and Serenity on the Water
C-Quarters Marina has everything you need to enjoy a day out on the water. It can accommodate boats up to 53’ long with a 20’ beam. It has diesel and non-ethanol fuel at-the-ready for your convenience. There are also showers and a laundromat on site. Finally, the C-Quarters Marina features a store that is stocked with bait, tackle, ice, hunting supplies and various other necessities for your fishing trip. It’s open seven days a week from 7 am to 7 pm. (Winter hours are different, and are announced in November.)

Come Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After a full day of fishing, boating, or just enjoying the water at the C-Quarters Marina, come put your feet up surrounded by the luxury of a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes are just a short drive from the marina and filled with the top-tier amenities you need to guarantee the vacation you deserve. With easy access to restaurants, beaches, and more, our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all of the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

The Best Secluded Beach Vacations on the Forgotten Coast

St. George Island’s nickname, the Forgotten Coast, says it all. Legend has it that our island oasis was once left off the Florida map, earning it this title. We think it fits perfectly, since it’s one of the best secluded beach vacations the state has to offer! Collins Vacation Rentals offers the opportunity to visit one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Come experience the beauty of natural coastal living when you stay on St. George Island!

As you prepare for one of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast, don’t forget to head over to our Things to Do page. We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite activities and companies to save you from hours of research! Find everything from date night ideas to fun for the whole family. It has everything you need to plan an amazing getaway to beautiful St. George!

The Best Secluded Beach Vacations on the Forgotten Coast
St. George Island Beach
Even SGI’s most popular beach, St. George Island Beach, is still so calm and uncrowded that it makes one of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast. Known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the United States, its clear waters still remain pure. The only signs of use are the added bath house facilities, pavilions for picnics, and a playground a ball court for some fun with family or friends.

Unit Four Beach
Unit Four Beach is located on the bay side of St. George Island. This is one of the best spots to come if you are truly looking for seclusion. Here, you will find a purist’s paradise with only one picnic table and limited parking. We recommend bringing binoculars for excellent birding. Willet, plover, heron, diving osprey, and marauding eagles are just a few of the feathered creatures you will most likely see here. This beach also connects to some of the most productive shallow-water oyster bars in the bay, making for great fishing. Cast a line as you gaze out over the calm waters.

St. George Island State Park
The soft white sand of St. George Island State Park lines the glistening gulf to create a stunning scene that you’ll ever forget. This area of the Forgotten Coast is the perfect balance of seclusion and island fun. Grills and boardwalks dot the 9-mile expanse, but there are plenty of areas to enjoy your solitude.
Make sure to bring your fishing gear; the spring season brings pompano and Spanish mackerel to the shore while fall is full of redfish and speckled trout. Check out the East End Fishing Beach, a fishing-only area within St. George Island State Park, for some of the best fishing on the island!

Stay at Collins Vacation Rentals for the Best Secluded Beach Vacation
When you take advantage of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast, stay with us at a gorgeous Collins Vacation Home. Our properties are full of the amenities that you need to enjoy a luxurious trip to the coast whether it’s with family, friends, or your sweetheart. With over 200 properties, we know that we have the perfect home to help you get here and start making memories! Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life. Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

8 of the Best St. George Island, FL, Restaurants

When you’re on vacation, food isn’t just a necessity– it’s part of the experience! After a day of fun in the sun, try some of these St. George Island, FL, restaurants. Family-friendly fare, convenient locations, and some special treats will keep everyone satisfied and energized for even more good times on the Forgotten Coast!

For even more information on St. George Island, FL, restaurants, check out our Things to Do page. It’s a great resource for fun family activities here on our island. Here, you’ll find all the information you need, including great places to eat, shop, and play! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of some of our favorite spots to save you from hours of research.

1. Paddy’s Raw Bar
Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, is the perfect place to get a true taste of the island. Here, you can find their famous fresh Apalachicola oysters as well as a diverse selection of other menu items. Whether you’re in the mood for steamed shrimp, burgers, or a salad, Paddy’s has you covered. Enjoy outdoor seating overlooking the bay, live music, and Monday night trivia. The adults in your group will also appreciate the bar at Paddy’s, which features 16 beers on tap!

2. Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe
This former hot dog stand has grown into one of the best St. George Island, FL restaurants for locals and visitors alike! Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe in Eastport, FL, has an extensive menu, including seafood, steak, po’ boys, burgers and more. Located on the beach, a trip here can easily turn into a full-day event. You can even rent jet skis right next door! Adult beverages are available at the Tiki Bar, in case you want to treat yourself while the kids play in the surf.

3. The Beach Pit
The Beach Pit’s delicious combination of Texas-style barbeque and fresh seafood is unique to the island and sure to please everyone in the family. You can even get our famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters on the half shell! Sit inside the comfortable restaurant or enjoy your meal outdoors in their screened-in porch. They even have a carry-out menu if you’d like to enjoy your meal in your Collins Vacation Rental or outdoors on the beach!

4. BJ’s Pizza & Subs
Who doesn’t like pizza? When you’re looking for this family favorite, look no further than BJ’s Pizza & Subs. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at the restaurant complete with a game room, or get it to go. If your pet is on vacation with you, feel free to bring your furry family along – they allow pets on their deck!

6. Harry A’s
Harry A’s on St. George Island, FL, is loved by both locals and visitors alike. Take the family here for a thorough menu complete with seafood, steaks, burgers, salads, and more! It’s one of the best St. George Island, FL, restaurants to go to if everyone in your crew wants something different and equally delicious. They also have live music and a regular schedule of events, so prepare to be satisfied and entertained when you take a visit!

7. Mango Mike’s Sports Bar
Start your night off with a delicious meal at Mango Mike’s Sports Bar , then stick around for a few drinks under the tiki-style bar. During the hot weather of the summer, their delicious frozen drinks are a must! The entire family will love this island hot spot!

8. Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream Shop
After visiting these St. George Island, FL, restaurants for dinner, you’ll need dessert! After the kids have cleaned their plates, reward them with a trip to Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream Shop. Enjoy rotating flavors of huge scoops of this favorite treat. There’s nothing better than a cold scoop of ice cream on a warm night!

Come Back and Relax at Your Collins Vacation Home
After indulging in one of the amazing St. George Island, FL, restaurants, come back and relax in luxury at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes are filled with all the amenities your family needs to have a fun and memorable vacation. With easy access to restaurants, beaches, and more, our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Come get a taste of island life when you stay in one of our vacation homes! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island.

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

The Best Ways to Enjoy Beautiful St. George Island Beach

St. George Island Beach is known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the United States. Even so, the beach has remained pure. Natural beauty is the premier attraction here; the pristine white sands and gorgeous sunsets are enough to keep beach lovers coming back time and again. Join them for a trip to this serene ocean setting on your next vacation!

When you schedule your day trip to St. George Island beach, make sure you check out our Things to Do page for more fun activities on and near our amazing island. It’s full of the information you need, including restaurants to visit for a great meal, where to find the best shopping, exciting outdoor adventures, and more! It contains everything you need to plan a beautiful trip to lovely St. George!

Enjoying Sun and Sand at St. George Island Beach
Take the opportunity to enjoy St. George Island beach to the fullest. Plan a day to lounge, enjoy the stunning scenery and soak up a little sun. A casual stroll along the beach is the perfect way to release stress and take in the beauty of the island. Seashell collectors will revel in the variety of shells available – oysters, scallops, arks, cockles, and carditas are easy to find. The shells of Florida fighting conch, lightning whelks, and olives occasionally wash up on the shore as well.

After a day of relaxing in the water, strolling the shore and shelling, stay for an amazing sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Watch the stars to end your night – the lack of ambient light means you can see almost every one in the sky on a clear night. It’s a beautiful way to end a peaceful day on one of the most gorgeous unblemished beaches in the country.

Excellent Fishing at St. George Island Beach
Fishing is one of the most highly ranked pastimes on St. George Island beach, and for good reason. The catch here can be amazing; the most common fishes to catch are whiting, trout and redfish. When the water is warm (typically 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), you may also see speckled trout, pompano, bluefish and Spanish mackerel. If you want to take your haul home for dinner, there are several local bait and tackle shops that may agree to clean your catch!

Watch for Sea Turtles and More at St. George Island Beach
While on the beach, you may encounter a few friendly creatures, including our famed sea turtles! Nesting occurs over the summer months, and hatchlings make their way out of their shells during the last weeks October. Be aware of hatchling crawls around this time. If you see an area marked with four stakes and yellow tape, it’s alerting you to the presence of a turtle’s nest. Steer clear of that area to ensure that the tiny turtles can make their way to the sea unharmed.

There are also a number of other animals that you may see on St. George Island beach. Sponges and starfish sometimes wash up on the beach, and dolphins can often be spotted from the shore. The shorebirds are also fun to watch. Gulls, sandpipers, and great blue herons are just a few types of feathered creatures you’ll spy flying around the beach.

Continue the Relaxation at a Collins Vacation Home

When the sun goes down and you’re ready to move indoors, keep your day of simple, natural luxury going at a Collins Vacation Home. Complete with amazing amenities and located just a short distance from St. George Island beach, our homes are not only gorgeous but ideally located for your trip. When you stay with us on beautiful St. George, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve combed through all of the details to make sure you have an amazing time. Spend your day on the beach in complete peace of mind! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Have the Best Game at Amazing St. James Bay Golf Course

Tee up at St. James Bay Golf Course for a great game in an atmosphere that you won’t soon forget! Located in nearby Carrabelle, Florida, St. James Bay is open to the public and perfect for improving your game. Rated the #10 golf course in Florida, a game here is an opportunity that no golfer should miss!

When you make it through the 18-hole championship course at St. James Bay Golf Course and are ready to head out for another fun day, check out our Things to Do page. It’s full of information about St. George island, including sporting activities, outdoor adventures, local restaurants, and more! It contains all of the information you need to plan an amazing trip to beautiful St. George!

Enjoy the St. James Bay Golf Course Green
St. James Bay Golf Course is known for its scenic atmosphere and tranquil setting. Designer Robert Walker took great care to develop a course in alignment with the natural surroundings, working with Audubon International to complete the task.
A great course for golfers of all levels, St. James Bay is wonderful for challenging yourself to get to the next level of your game. Water hazards and wetlands grace every hole, requiring you to use both strategy and skill throughout the course. If you really want to upgrade your game, schedule some private instruction with their resident PGA Golf Pro. Either way, you’ll come away from St. James Bay Golf Course with new and improved techniques that you can take back home with you!

St. James Bay Golf Course Tee Times
St. James Bay Golf Course is closed every Monday, along with the associated Pro Shop and restaurant. Any other day, the staff at St. James Bay can recommend a tee time for you or your group. Call the Golf Shop at 850-697-9606 for more information. Or, you can just stop by and see if there is another golfer ready for a game. Just keep in mind the dress code. Golfers are required to wear a collared shirt, and the course doesn’t allow denim of any kind.

St. James Bay Golf Course Pro Shop
Find something for yourself or for your golf buddies when you visit the St. James Bay Golf Course Pro Shop. Featuring top brands and apparel, it’s a great place to shop for souvenirs that will be useful long after you return home from your amazing St. George Island vacation. Quality clubs are also available for rental at the Pro Shop.

Come Drop Your Clubs and Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After you uplevel your golf game at St. James Bay Golf Course, come put your feet up at an amazing Collins Vacation Home. Complete with amazing amenities and located just a short distance from St. James Bay Golf, our homes are not only gorgeous but ideally located for your St. George Island trip. When you stay with us on beautiful St. George, you can rest easy knowing that your needs will be met and exceeded. Have fun golfing, relaxing and exploring our beautiful island without worrying about the details! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

This Is Why You Need to Visit the St. George Island Lighthouse

Every vacation destination has an attraction you can’t miss. On SGI, you won’t want to miss the St. George Island Lighthouse! An incredible history and great views combine for this must-see activity. Now located in the center of our island, it once illuminated the Gulf of Mexico. Come stand in the light of this honored island treasure and learn an important bit of St. George history on your next trip to the Forgotten Coast!

Are you thinking about coming to St. George Island for a vacation? Take a look at our Things to Do page for all of our most trusted businesses and activities! Collins Vacation Rentals has been on the island for more than 40 years, so we know the ins and outs of the Forgotten Coast. Here, you will find more spots like the St. George Island Lighthouse, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and more!

St. George Island Lighthouse History
The St. George Island Lighthouse has become a huge part of our island history . It has seen several reincarnations, making it clear that it has become a beloved symbol of the community over the ages. The first lighthouse was erected in 1833 on the western tip of the island. However, ships found it difficult to see when coming in from the eastern gulf. When storms damaged it in 1846, a new lighthouse was rebuilt on the southern cape. Unfortunately, that lighthouse lasted only three years after its completion.

The third St. George Island lighthouse, completed in 1852, was much more sturdy. Aside from a stint during the Civil War when the light was turned off to avoid guiding Northern ships, the light remained lit until 1994. Brutal storms attacked the lighthouse repeatedly, so a “Save the Light” campaign began to raise money for renovations. Unfortunately, it ended up collapsing into the Gulf of Mexico in 2005.

The Current Lighthouse
Because the St. George Island Lighthouse was so important to the community, the newly-established St. George Lighthouse Association worked with the State of Florida DEP to painstakingly salvage the fallen light piece by piece. Volunteers cleaned the old mortar off more than 20,000 of the original bricks so that they could be reused in the reconstruction of the lighthouse!

Visiting the St. George Island Lighthouse
Every time someone asks us what to do when visiting our island, we tell them they have to climb the St. George Island Lighthouse. Such a simple activity has so much to offer! Begin your visit in the replica of the original Keeper’s House, located right next to the lighthouse. Here, you can purchase your ticket to climb the light, plus explore the small museum inside. There are artifacts from the original lighthouse and the lightkeepers that once lived there.
Once you have gotten your ticket, it’s time for the St. George Island Lighthouse climb. 92 steps will take you to the top where you will have to scale a small ladder. Once you are up, you will have a 360-degree view of the island around you! You’ll see everything from your favorite island restaurants to the blue ocean.

St. George Island Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
If you’re looking for something extra special, consider a Full Moon Climb. Full Moon Climbs are held monthly, and admission includes hors d’oeuvres and sparkling cider. The climb costs just $10 for the general public, but reservations are recommended as space is limited. You’ll get to see the entire island in the moonlight!

Start Planning Today
It’s time to start planning the vacation of a lifetime on our secluded island. Start by booking your stay at one of our gorgeous homes at Collins Vacation Rentals! Stocked with top-of-the-line amenities and located within convenient drives to many of the area’s top attractions like the St. George Island Lighthouse, our homes are the perfect place for a tranquil island getaway. When you stay with us on beautiful St. George, you can leave your worries at the door knowing that we have thoroughly considered and planned for all of your needs. Have fun and relax without a care in the world! Book your stay today!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

5 of the Best Places to Go for St. George Island Nightlife

St. George Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful shores, and excellent seafood restaurants. However, you’ll also find that there are plenty of fun things to do on the island after dark. Whether you’re looking to enjoy late-night dinner or casual drinks with friends, here are some of the best places to go for St. George Island nightlife!

When the sun sets, St. George Island’s nightlife scene is just heating up. Before you head out for a fun night on the town, make sure to check out our Things to Do page. It’s full of information about our island, including restaurants, bars, fun group activities, and more! It’s a must-have when planning your vacation to St. George Island!

Top 5 Places to Experience St. George Island Nightlife

1. Harry A’s
When it comes to the best St. George Island nightlife, Harry A’s should be at the top of your list! This restaurant, bar, and nightclub features some of the most delicious seafood you will ever taste as well as a crafty drink menu. Enjoy dinner, order your favorite beverage, and get ready for an energized night of fun!

Harry A’s also offers fabulous live entertainment. Both local and national performers have been known to grace the stage, so check out their website to see who’s playing next. If you’re looking for something more interactive, stop by on one of their karaoke nights and serenade the crowd yourself (Livin’ La Vida Loca, anyone?). On other nights, DJs spin the tunes that make the whole room want to dance the night away.

2. Mango Mike’s Sports Bar
Are you looking to catch the big game? Watch your favorite team play at Mango Mike’s! This tiki-themed bar offers a casual bar vibe, several TV’s, signature cocktails, cold beer, and tasty pub eats. The bar is open every night of the week. No matter when you visit, it’s always a good time at Mango Mike’s!

3. Paddy’s Raw Bar
With a motto like “A sunny place for shady people,” you can bet that the folks at Paddy’s Raw Bar know how to have a little fun. It’s located on the Apalachicola Bay, so you can enjoy the view while sipping on one of the sixteen beers they have on tap. Make sure to try “Oyster City,” which is made at the local brewery in Apalachicola, Florida. They also have a great selection of wine and cider.
Paddy’s adds a fun twist to St. George nightlife. They feature live musical acts daily, but if you make your way in on a Monday night, prepare for some group fun – team trivia starts weekly at 7 p.m.!

4. Blue Parrot
When it comes to the best St. George Island restaurants on the water, no place compares to Blue Parrot! Enjoy dinner and a view while you dine beside the sea. After the sun sets, head to their tiki bar for island-inspired cocktails. Their tropical beverages range from rum runners and daiquiris to mai tais and more. Choose your favorite and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Draft beer and wine are also available! Blue Parrot is open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m.

5. The Beach Pit
With a pet-friendly patio and an array of tap beer selections, the Beach Pit is a great place to enjoy a casual evening out. Stop in and try one of the 11 draft beers they have on tap or stay for a Texas-style BBQ dinner. The Beach Pit is open Sundays through Thursdays from 7:30 until 9 p.m., and Fridays through Saturdays from 7:30 until 9:30 p.m.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Home
After an exciting evening enjoying the St. George nightlife, rest your head in one of our comfortable vacation rentals. Wake up refreshed in a home full of all the amenities you need for a relaxing getaway. When you stay with us on beautiful St. George Island, you can leave your worries at the door, knowing that we have thoroughly considered and planned for all of your needs.
Collins Vacation Rentals are conveniently located near all of the best bars, restaurants, and activities on beautiful St. George Island. Whether you prefer a pet-friendly rental, a home with a heated pool, or a beachfront property, we are sure to have the ideal accommodation for your stay. Are you ready for your next trip to paradise? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you start planning a getaway to remember!
CONTACT NOW

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

How to Upgrade Your Vacation: Amazing Journeys of St. George Island!

St. George Island has an abundance of outdoor activities to make your next family trip amazing! When you’re trying to choose the right excursion for your family, visit Journeys of St. George Island. It’s the perfect adventure tour company to help plan your daily treks across our stunning island. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are always ready to help you get the most out of your next trip to the Forgotten Coast!

Before you grab your sunglasses and head over to Journeys of St. George Island, make sure you check out our Things to Do page! It’s filled with fun ideas and local outings sure to excite everyone in your family!

Witness the Natural Beauty of the Forgotten Coast with Journeys of St. George Island
Journeys of St. George Island has everything you need to explore the natural, unblemished landscapes of St. George. Whether you prefer to sightsee by land or by water, the staff at Journeys will get you equipped for your day outdoors.
For those who want to see the island from the water, there are several options available. See the sunset and watch for dolphins on a guided powerboat tour, or sail over the Apalachicola Bay. If kayaking is more your speed, not to worry! Take a tour with an experienced professional, or have rentals delivered to the door of your Collins Vacation Home.

Those who prefer to look out onto the water from the shore can rent a golf cart to traverse St. George without leaving a heavy carbon footprint. Explore the natural beauty of the island, or visit boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. All golf carts are equipped with all-terrain tires for easy travel across beautiful St. George Island.

Sunset and Dolphin Cruises are perfect for the whole family. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Apalachicola Bay. Watch the dolphins frolic in the waves created by the waves created by the powerboats and learn interesting facts along the way. This fun adventure gives children an appreciation of nature, and indulges them in a few hours of unforgettable fun! Make sure your kids don’t miss out on these awesome excursions. Take them to Journeys of St. George Island the next time you visit!

Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After you and your little ones have done a day of exploring with Journeys of St. George Island, come back to one of our gorgeous vacation homes to rest. All Collins Vacation Rentals are complete with the amenities you need to have a peaceful, carefree evening after a day of trekking across our beautiful landscape. Located throughout the island, all of our rentals are near some of the best activities, restaurants, and views available in St. George. Many are just steps away from the beautiful white sand beaches for which the island is known. Let us help you choose the perfect vacation home for you and your family – contact us today! We are looking forward to helping you plan a family trip everyone will love!
Get even more out of your trip to St. George Island. Check out our specials!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Top 5 Family-Friendly Events You Need to Experience on St. George Island!

A short drive or boat ride off Florida’s panhandle, St. George Island offers a secluded retreat for you and your family from the hustle and bustle of other tourist destinations in Florida. Natural beauty and wonder surround this barrier island with access to state reserves such as Cape St. George State Reserve, Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, and Apalachicola National Forest. With all the natural allure, the island coaxes locals and tourists outdoors to appreciate its breathtaking beauty, temperate climate, and sunny beaches. In addition to all of the incredible outdoor activities to enjoy, here are a few of our favorite family-friendly events you can experience during your stay.

Top 5 Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island

1. First Day Hike
Start your New Year off island style. The annual First Day Hike allows you and your family to explore the area’s natural surroundings while learning more about St. George Island’s landscape and local sea creatures. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours and ends at the East Slough Overlook Platform. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the amazing flora and fauna as well as a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico!

2. Apalachicola Farmers Market
Delicious food, live music, and handmade crafts are just some of the things to experience at the Apalachicola Farmers Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Let the kids dance and sing while you sample the delicious local fare and pick up fresh vegetables and seafood to prepare for dinner at your vacation rental.

3. Full Moon Climb
While you can visit the Cape St. George Light during the day, the monthly Full Moon Climb is one experience you won’t want to miss. Ascend to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point, which is over 9 stories high, for spectacular views of the sunset and the full moon. Light refreshments are served.

4. Holiday Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas lifestyle with the Holiday Fresh Market. This annual market, held in early December in front of the Dixie Theater, showcases local businesses offering an array of handcrafted gifts for loved ones.

5. Holiday Lights on the Harbor
If you’re spending the holidays in St. George Island, be sure to attend the Holiday Lights on the Harbor and Boat Parade of Lights in early December. Boats decorated for the season cascade down the Carrabelle River and illuminate the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see it.

Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to visit? Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help with your family’s vacation needs. Take a few minutes to browse our properties. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends or a romantic trip for two. What’s more, our local, knowledgeable staff can assist you with recommending local restaurants, shopping around the island, and experiencing all St. George Island has to offer.

March 28, 2018December 8, 2020

5 Family-Friendly Events You Need to Experience on St. George Island

A trip to St. George Island can be both relaxing and exciting. With so many activities available, you can alternate lazy days with adventurous excursions, as well as shopping, dining and more. Visit our Things to Do page for insider info on local activities and events!
Top 5 Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island
1. First Day Hike
Start your New Year off island style. The annual First Day Hike allows you and your family to explore the area’s natural surroundings while learning more about St. George Island’s landscape and local sea creatures. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours and ends at the East Slough Overlook Platform. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the amazing flora and fauna as well as a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico!
2. Apalachicola Farmers Market
Delicious food, live music, and handmade crafts are just some of the things to experience at the Apalachicola Farmers Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Let the kids dance and sing while you sample the delicious local fare and pick up fresh vegetables and seafood to prepare for dinner at your vacation rental.
3. Full Moon Climb
While you can visit the Cape St. George Light during the day, the monthly Full Moon Climb is one experience you won’t want to miss. Ascend to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point, which is over 9 stories high, for spectacular views of the sunset and the full moon. Light refreshments are served.
4. Holiday Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas lifestyle with the Holiday Fresh Market. This annual market, held in early December in front of the Dixie Theater, showcases local businesses offering an array of handcrafted gifts for loved ones.
5. Holiday Lights on the Harbor
If you’re spending the holidays in St. George Island, be sure to attend the Holiday Lights on the Harbor and Boat Parade of Lights in early December. Boats decorated for the season cascade down the Carrabelle River and illuminate the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see it.
Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to visit? Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help with your family’s vacation needs. Take a few minutes to browse our properties. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends or a romantic trip for two. What’s more, our local, knowledgeable staff can assist you with recommending local restaurants, shopping around the island, and experiencing all St. George Island has to offer.