Author: ICNDadmin

We know how challenging planning a family get together can be! With so many conflicting schedules to keep in mind and destinations to decide on, taking on a vacation like this can be a lot of work. Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help! St. George Island has everything you need for people of all ages, so check out our family reunion beach vacation rentals to get planning!

When you reserve one of these amazing family reunion beach vacation rentals, you’ll be at a great location to experience all the fun on SGI! The perfect mix of laid-back island life and fun activity, St. George Island, Florida, is a place your family will want to come again and again. To take a quick peek at everyone our island oasis has to offer, browse through our Things to Do page. With a list of trusted businesses, it’s a great tool to plan your trip!

Top 3 Reasons You Need an SGI Family Reunion Beach Vacation Rental
Fun for All Ages
Whether you are 2, 22, or 82 years old, you’ll have a great time on St. George Island. No matter what your age is, you can’t help but love the beach. Our island has mile after mile of sand, so you will have more than enough room to spread out! Start the day with a walk on the beach or bike trail with your family before setting up your beach chair rentals to have some fun in the sun. Older relatives love to catch some rays while the children splash around in the ocean! Plus, there are countless other family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as climbing to the top of the St. George Island Lighthouse, paddle boarding, fishing, and more.

Less Crowded
Admit it: some of the fun gets taken away when you’re constantly waiting in line and fighting crowds on vacation. St. George Island is not your typical Florida destination! When you visit us, you’ll see how the Gulf Coast once was many years ago. The natural beauty is still here, and the views are not ruined by big-name hotels and condo complexes.

Everything You Need
From grocery stores right on the island to some amazing restaurants, everything you could possibly need is located within a few square miles from your family reunion beach vacation rental. If you have anything particular in mind, just give us a call at Collins Vacation Rentals! We are happy to help.

Finding the Perfect Family Reunion Beach Vacation Rental
Are you ready to book your family reunion beach vacation rental? Collins Vacation Rentals has tons of options for you! With more than 250 properties to choose from, we are sure you’ll find the perfect beach house. Browse our vacation rentals to start planning your stay. Our properties vary in size and location, so we know we can accommodate the whole family. Or, there is always the option to rent a few houses in the same neighborhood so members of the family can have some privacy. Your family reunion beach vacation rental awaits!

St. George Island is one of the most calm and serene spots in all of Florida. However, for one day out of the year, the island turns competitive. The St. George Island Chili Cook-Off is one of the most anticipated events of the season. Every spring, locals and visitors come together to cook chili and enjoy events to raise money for charity. Book your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals to experience it for yourself!

If you’re thinking about heading to our island for the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off, take a look at our Things to Do page . Here, you will find everything you need to know about the things to do and see on the Forgotten Coast. Whether you’re looking for the perfect restaurant for date night or family-friendly activities for the kids, you can get our recommendations here.

 
About the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off
Every year, more than 5,000 people gather on St. George Island for the event. Not only is there a chili cook-off, there is also a 5K, Miss Chili Pepper and Mr. Hot Sauce contests, golf tournament, salsa contest, and an auction.

Where Do the Proceeds Go?
Proceeds of the St. George Island Chili Cook Off benefit our amazing Volunteer Fire Department. This contest was started to benefit the fire department from the very beginning and continues to do so to this day.

Can I Participate in Events?
Yes! As long as you register in time and pay a small fee, events at the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off are open to the public. We urge our guests at Collins Vacation Rentals to participate! Entry fees are usually about $5 for food competitions, and you might take home a prize. No matter what, you’ll get to go home with fond memories of competing in one of the most treasured events on the island. You might even get a chance to win Mister Hot Sauce or Miss Chili Pepper if you try out!
If you don’t want to participate, attendees have a great time watching all the events. You can try chilis and watch the contests. Check out the schedule to see when everything is, then plan your time around that.

The Official Chili Cook-Off
The official chili cook-off portion of the event is sanctioned by the International Chili Society. Their rules and regulations apply to the cook-off. It is $40 for ICS members and $90 for non-members, and winners get a cash prize. If this cook-off is too intense for you, you are always welcome to participate in the crockpot chili contest! ICS rules do not apply, and the entry fee is only $5.

Book Your Vacation Today
If you’re looking to attend the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off, book your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals! We have properties across the entire island, so we know we have one for you. Browse our rentals based on size and location, then book your stay. From beachfront homes to cozy cottages, our company has curated some of the best properties on the island for you to enjoy. We look forward to seeing you!

When you stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, we do everything we can to make sure you have the getaway of a lifetime. Staying on the gorgeous St. George Island in a beautiful beach rental is the recipe for an amazing trip, but we aim to go above and beyond during your stay. Take advantage of Xplorie, our partnership that we made with select properties to give you complimentary activities all over the island. It will take your island getaway to the next level! 

Are you ready to start planning your St. George Island getaway? Take a look at our Things to Do page for an overview of what our island offers! Our Xplorie activities are a great start, but this page includes every trusted business and activity our island offers. As St. George Island locals, we know how important it is to know where to go and what to see while you’re here, so we made this carefully curated guide to help. 

What Is Xplorie?
Xplorie is a way to make experiences on the island more accessible. As part of the booking process, you can choose complimentary activities you would like to enjoy during your stay with select properties at Collins Vacation Rentals. Each day, you can get one pass to each activity, and you can purchase more passes depending on how many people are in your party. It’s easy, complimentary, and fun! 

What Does Xplorie Offer?
Collins Vacation Rentals has worked with Xplorie to offer some of the best activities on the island! All activities are booked directly through Xplorie, and they will do the work to make sure everything is in place and ready for you to enjoy. Hello, stress-free vacation! 

Bike the Beach
Visitors love getting around our island by bike! When you book a bike rental with Island Adventures through Xplorie, you can get a free rental. Bike to breakfast from your vacation rental, or wake up early to bike the beach as the sun rises. 

Relax With Beach Yoga 
Nothing is more relaxing than yoga on a beach!  Enjoy beach yoga with Island Fit!  Breathe in the salt air as you practice yoga on the sand. Vacation is all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and this is the perfect way to do it. 

Take an Eco Tour
One of our favorite parts about St. George Island is that it’s not built up like other Florida vacation destinations. Much of the land on our island remains untouched, so you can explore the beautiful landscape.  Get your kayak rental with with Journeys of SGI and enjoy the beautiful waterways of the Island.  

Enjoy Ice Cream at the Beach
Enjoy your favorite ice cream cone on the beach and the friendliest service in town!  Aunt Eby’s has great classic music, views of the Gulf and a large variety of hand dipped  ice cream.  

Art at the Beach
Creative fun for the whole family and great for all ages with Art of Glass by Island Girl.   Have fun creating your own unique glass piece and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Enjoy a Round of Golf
Golfing is an excellent vacation pastime, and Xplorie offers a free round of golf during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Practice your swing among towering trees in the Florida sun at the St. Joseph Bay Golf Course.

Gulf Specimen Marine Lab

At Gulf Specimen Lab you will get a better understanding of Marine Life.  See creatures such as seahorses, emerald-eyed spiny boxfish, electric rays and red and white spotted calico crabs, just to name a few of the endless living treasures of north Florida’s coast. 

Have a Movie Night
With the help of the Xplorie movie kiosk, you can plan a movie night with the family! You can take two movies out at a time to enjoy in your Collins Vacation Rental. 

Book Your Getaway Today
Browse our vacation rentals and pick out your Xplorie activities to start planning your St. George Island getaway! Whether you’re coming with family or a group of friends, we know you’ll love our island as much as we do. Check your favorite property to see if Xplorie services are included! We look forward to seeing you!  

Are you tired of shoveling snow out of the driveway? Have you been daydreaming about balmy weather and days filled with sunshine? It may be time for a getaway to St. George Island! Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the only thing missing from this gorgeous island paradise is you. Trade your winter jacket and boots for shades and flip flops, and start planning your trip. Here’s what makes St. George Island one of the best January vacations in the USA!
Pristine beaches, pleasant weather, and award-winning restaurants are just a few things that make St. George Island one of the best January vacations in the USA. Make sure to check out our Things to Do page for more recommendations about the best local attractions. It’s full of great tips about things to see and do during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals.

Why St. George Island Is One of the Best January Vacations in the USA
With sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water, The Forgotten Coast is one of the most beautiful places to visit in winter in the USA. St. George Island experiences mild weather this time of year, offering the best winter vacations for families and couples. In January, the average temperature ranges between the mid 50’s to 60’s. While it’s too cool to swim, this is the ideal time to walk, bike, or jog along the beach! Begin your day by watching a postcard-worthy sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico. Then, enjoy a stroll along the uncrowded shoreline while you comb the beach for shells. 

In addition to beautiful beaches, you’ll find tons of other fun activities to enjoy here in winter. Take a hike at the 2023-acre state park or take a bike ride along the island’s scenic 6.3-mile bike path. Are you feeling adventurous? Climb the 92 steps of the historic St. George Island Lighthouse and enjoy the spectacular views from the top! 
When you start to work up an appetite, you’ll find several amazing restaurants to tantalize your taste buds. St. George Island is especially known for our delicious seafood! Indulge in fresh shrimp, fish, crab, oysters without having to wait for a table. Then, take your time browsing the nearby boutiques and art galleries. There is so much to see and do here, and it’s all just minutes from your Collins Vacation Rental!

Plan Your Winter Getaway With Collins Vacation Rentals
After a fabulous day exploring St. George Island, come home to your Collins Vacation Rental and unwind. From beachfront homes and luxurious villas to quaint cottages, we offer a wide array of accommodation options. Select properties even feature private heated pools, bubbling hot tubs, or complimentary activities through Xplorie! Enjoy the fresh sea breezes while you read a book on the porch, or spend an evening watching movies near the fireplace. Take advantage of our low winter rates and browse our properties now!

Are you ready for a break from the ice and snow? Escape to one of the best warm winter vacations in the USA. Contact us to plan your St. George Island getaway today! 
  

It’s never too early to start making plans for winter break! If you’re searching for the best warm-weather getaway, why not plan a relaxing escape to St. George Island, FL? Come bask in the sunshine, stroll the pristine shorelines, and enjoy spending quality time with family. Here’s why our Forgotten Coast paradise is one of the best Florida winter vacations.

Once you visit, we think you’ll agree: St. George Island is one of the best Florida winter vacations. If you’re thinking about visiting our beautiful shores, make sure to take a look at our Things to Do page. It’s full of great recommendations about attractions to see during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals!

Top 3 Things to Do in St. George Island This Winter

1. Escape to the Beach
When it comes to the best Florida beaches in January – or any time of year – no place can compare to St. George Island. In winter, the temperatures typically range from the mid 50’s to 60’s. While it may be too cool for swimming during this time of year, the weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Take a bike ride along the beach, comb the shoreline for shells, or play a game of sand football with the family. With fewer crowds and wide-open beaches, our gorgeous barrier island is one of the best winter vacation locations in Florida.

2. Explore a Lighthouse
The St. George Island Lighthouse is one attraction that you absolutely must add to your winter itinerary. In addition to being a historically significant part of the local culture, it offers some of the best views on the island. Purchase your tickets, take a tour of the lighthouse museum, and then climb the 92 steps to the top. Nothing will prepare you for the breathtaking 360-degree views of the island and the clear blue water of the Gulf!

3. Enjoy Endless Activities
The Forgotten Coast experiences great weather year-round, which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities during any season. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing in the wintertime. On any given day, you’ll see anglers casting their lines into the Gulf for monster redfish, flounder, whiting, and more. Weather permitting, many of the local charters can also take you on an amazing offshore fishing excursion.
Are there any nature enthusiasts traveling with you? If so, they will love hiking miles of scenic trails at St. George Island State Park! Keep an eye out for native wildlife, as the park is home to more than 300 species of birds. And if you’re looking for something fun to do with the whole family, why not take a bike ride along the St. George Island Bike Path? It’s a great way to exercise while taking in the gorgeous scenery of the island. Or, rent kayaks and spend a day paddling through the area’s sparkling waterways together. The possibilities are endless!
Did you know that it’s possible to enjoy complimentary activities on St. George Island? Guests staying at select participating Collins Vacation homes can access several complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayaking or SUP Eco Tours, golfing at St. Josephs  Bay Golf Course, unlimited movie rentals, or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. Check out our website for more details and start planning your fun-filled winter getaway!

Book Your Stay With Collins Vacation Rentals
Are you ready to experience one of the best Florida winter vacations? When it comes to lodging options along the Forgotten Coast, look no further than Collins Vacation Rentals! We offer an extensive selection of St. George Island vacation rentals, including homes with Gulf views, heated pools, beach access, and more. Many of them also feature luxury amenities such as hot tubs, patios, elevators, boat docks, full kitchens, and more. Plus, all of the best restaurants, activities, and attractions are just minutes away!

Another benefit of booking during the cooler season is our amazing Florida winter vacation deals. Collins Vacation Rentals offers seasonal specials throughout the year, as well as complimentary activities at select participating properties through Xplorie. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our properties and contact us to book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

St. George Island is a paradise unlike any other. Its pristine white sands complement its rich beach culture highlighted by seafood, fun, and festivals. Known for its amazing fresh catches of the day, you can get some of the best seafood in the state on our island! Celebrate our fishing traditions when you attend the Apalachicola’s Florida Seafood Festival on the mainland. Dubbed Florida’s oldest maritime event, this festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each year.

If you’re planning to visit St. George Island for the Florida Seafood Festival, you’ll have to plan the rest of your stay! Start by looking at our Things to Do page. It provides all of the best recommendations for our most trusted business and activities on the island! You should also check out our Area Events page so you never miss an awesome festival like this one.

When Is the Florida Seafood Festival?
The Apalachicola Florida Seafood Festival comes to town for one weekend every November. If you are looking for specific dates, make sure you check the festival website! Then, you’ll know when to reserve a Collins Vacation Rental.

Things to Do at the Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola
Eat Your Heart Out
What would the Florida Seafood Festival be without seafood? This festival is a seafood lover’s paradise. Most of Florida’s oysters, the famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters, are produced right here in the bay of Apalachicola. Thousands of festival-goers make sure to celebrate this fact by watching or participating in oyster eating and oyster shucking contests.
Plus, it is nearly impossible to be hungry at this festival. Attendees can enjoy all sorts of seafood from fresh oysters to smoked mullet. If it is local to Apalachicola, you will find it here! If you aren’t a seafood fan or have a picky eater in your family, don’t worry. There are more than enough choices of non-seafood items to satisfy any hungry visitor.

Entertainment for All Ages

At the Florida Seafood Festival, there is enough entertainment to keep visitors of all ages occupied for hours. Sit back and relax as you listen to the different musical acts throughout the weekend. Saturday night of the festival features one mainstream headliner performing their greatest hits. Once you’ve enjoyed the music, tap into your thrill-seeking side and take the kids on some carnival rides! There are so many different types of rides and games that the kids will never want to leave.
You should also make sure that you walk to the Maritime Exhibit Area. This portion of the festival has recently been revamped to be better than ever. Attendees of all ages will love learning at these hands-on demonstrations. Learn about topics such as the area’s ecosystem, meet the local wildlife, and more! You’ll feel good leaving with some knowledge on your vacation.

Events You Can’t Miss
The weekend of the Florida Seafood Festival is sprinkled with events. One of the most popular is the Festival Parade on Saturday morning; it’s always a favorite of the kids and a great way to start off the day! The Blessing of the Fleet is also popular. It’s fun to see the parade of fishing, shrimping, oystering, and recreational vessels being blessed as they float by. There are also some competitive events. If you are interested in challenging yourself, then the Redfish Run is for you! Race through the streets of the city before you attend the fair. Or, you can participate in the Blue Crab Races and see if your chosen crab will reach the finish line first!

Bring Home Some Memorabilia
Every year, there are more than 90 arts and crafts booths located throughout the festival. Local artisans and crafters feature their handmade goods for purchase. Treat yourself to a souvenir at the Florida Seafood Festival to remember your trip by! Imagine going back to the charming Florida coast every time you look at your uniquely crafted piece on display.

Don’t Wait to Book Your Stay!
With the Apalachicola Florida Seafood Festival bringing thousands of visitors to our area, you won’t want to wait any longer to book your Collins Vacation Rental. The sooner you do, the more choices of size and area you will have! You’ll love coming back to one of our charming properties after a day at the festival.
Share a glass of wine with your sweetheart on your private porch overlooking the ocean or opt to spend more time with the kids during a family game night. Don’t wait—book your stay today! We look forward to seeing you!

Are you searching for quaint small towns to visit in Florida? Look no further than the Forgotten Coast! Nestled in the panhandle, this gorgeous stretch of Gulf Coast is home to some of the best old-time Florida towns. Here, you’ll find miles of pristine beaches, stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and activities for the whole family to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to paradise. Once you visit, you won’t ever want to leave!
Before you visit the following old time Florida towns, make sure to check out our Things to Do Page! It’s full of recommendations about the best local restaurants, shops, and attractions on St. George Island to help you plan your vacation.

Here Are the Best Old Florida Towns to Visit

1. St. George Island
Although not technically a “town,” St. George Island fully encompasses that charming small-town feel. This gorgeous 28-mile barrier island is known for its beautiful, unspoiled beaches, delicious seafood, and exciting activities. You won’t find high rises or large crowds here! Instead, you’ll find a peaceful Gulf Coast paradise just waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer to lounge on the beach, dive into the crystal-clear water, or hike miles of picturesque trails, the possibilities are endless!
Although it is small, St. George Island has everything you could ever want or need while on vacation. Check out the local shops and art galleries, explore the island via bike, kayak, or boat, or try one of our waterfront restaurants or bars. Other must-see attractions include the St. George Island Lighthouse and St. George Island State Park. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it all here!

2. Eastpoint
Located just minutes from St. George Island, this charming waterfront town is also an authentic fishing community. On any given day, you’ll see dozens of fishing boats and anglers casting their lines into the Gulf. Stop into one of the seafood markets for the fresh catch of the day or embark on your own angling adventure! If you have time, make sure to visit the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. With interactive displays, fish tanks, and scenic trails, it’s a great place to learn more about the Apalachicola River and Bay.

3. Apalachicola
Just across the bridge from St. George Island, Apalachicola also offers several attractions. Visitors can enjoy kayaking in the bay, wildlife-viewing, fishing, dining, and more. Make sure to visit the Chapman Botanical Garden for a truly magical experience!

4. Carrabelle
When it comes to the best old-time Florida towns, Carrabelle is another one to add to your list! This peaceful village is filled with great shops, popular restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Climb 138 steps to the top of the Crooked River Lighthouse, check out the Camp Gordon Johnston World War II Museum, or visit the Carrabelle History Museum. And don’t forget to stop by the world’s smallest police station! Bring your camera so you can snap a souvenir photo to show family and friends back home.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
You can visit all of these incredible old-time Florida towns when you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Our St. George Island vacation rentals are conveniently located near Eastpoint, Apalachicola, and Carrabelle. However, you don’t even have to leave the island to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. All of the best beaches, fishing locations, golf courses, hiking trails, restaurants, and shops are all right here!

From expansive beachfront homes to quaint cottages, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay. All of our rentals are fully equipped with luxurious amenities and comfortable furnishings. Many of them feature private pools, bubbling hot tubs, elevators, boat docks, and more. We even offer complimentary activities at select properties through our partnership with Xplorie, including yoga, golf, bike rentals, and more. Don’t wait to start planning your next trip to paradise. Contact us today to learn more about planning your St. George Island getaway. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Your dream beach vacation is probably lounging on the sand with a drink in your hand. Once a toddler comes into the picture, it might seem like those days are over. Not on St. George Island! Collins Vacation Rentals knows how to make the best beach vacations for families with toddlers. Pack up your floaties and swimmies and head to the Gulf Coast!

Get a sneak peek into all our island offers when you take a look at our Things to Do page! Here, you will find our favorite businesses and activities in our area. Whether you are wondering about which restaurants to get some local bites at or the best spot to cast your fishing line, you’ll find it here. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our awesome staff!

How to Have the Best Beach Vacations for Families With Toddlers on SGI

Secluded Beaches
There’s nothing more stressful than having to keep an eye on your toddler at the beach. Crowded beaches are easy to get lost in and make the day unenjoyable for everyone. We can assure you that the beaches on St. George Island are the most secluded you have ever experience. With mile after mile of soft sand, there is more than enough room to spread out. The waves are never big, especially on the bayside, so you can relax knowing your toddler is in the safest beach environment possible. Consider a beachfront home so you can walk out your door onto the sand and go inside whenever your toddler gets fussy!

Close Activities
St. George Island is only 28 miles long and one mile wide at its widest point. This means that no matter where you stay, you will be close to everything! If you toddler needs a nap, you don’t have to worry about hitting heavy traffic to get back to your vacation rental. Head home within minutes, rest, then get back out and enjoy the island.

Everything You Need
St. George Island may be small, but we have everything you need to have the best beach vacations for families with toddlers. Whether you need extra diapers or realize you forgot to pack the all-important sunscreen, you can easily get it on the island. We have multiple grocery stores right here on SGI so you don’t even have to cross the bridge!

Convenience of a Vacation Rental 
The recipe for success on a vacation with a toddler is convenience. A vacation rental is your home base during your getaway. You can easily cook meals in the fully-equipped kitchen if your toddler isn’t up to going to one of the many restaurants on the island. We also have rentals with pools available; sometimes, it is much more convenient to take a dip in the pool rather than lug all your supplies to the beach.

Book Your Family Getaway Today!
Come experience one of the best beach vacations for families with toddlers when you book one of our Collins Vacation Rentals. Our properties are located all over the island so you can choose based on size and neighborhood. Whether you want to be in the gated community of the Plantation or close to town, we have one for you! Browse our rentals to start planning your stay. We look forward to seeing you!