Category: Things to Do

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!

A short drive or boat ride off Florida’s panhandle, you’ll find a tropical oasis. St. George Island offers many natural wonders like Cape St. George State Reserve, Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, and the Apalachicola National Forest. The island’s natural allure coaxes locals and tourists to celebrate its breathtaking beauty at unique local events. Throughout your stay, family-friendly events on St. George Island are an excellent way to enjoy the island, and mingle with locals! To discover all the Forgotten Coast fun, visit our Things to Do page. As you browse through all the St. George Island family activities, you’ll find that this destination has everything you need to alternate leisure with captivating island adventures!

Our Favorite Recurring Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island

Let the Moonlight be Your Guide As You Climb Up a Stupendous Lighthouse
Although you can visit Cape St. George Light during the day, seeing the lighthouse at night is even more mesmerizing. Once a month, the lighthouse association hosts a Full Moon Climb. This is a one-of-a-kind experience you don’t want to miss. As the sun sets, you’ll ascend more than nine stories to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point. Once you reach the top, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset, the rise of the full moon, and you’ll see the island and all its surroundings illuminated by the moon’s soft glow.
Local tip: Sign-up early and reserve your spot. Space for this highly anticipated event is limited and fills up quickly.  

Find Fresh Ingredients for Your Favorite Meal at Apalachicola Farmers Market
Fresh seafood, 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, pick fresh vegetables, and choose seafood to prepare for your next meal.

The Best Holiday Events on St. George Island
Celebrate the Season With a Holly Jolly Tree Lighting
Of course, the holiday season isn’t complete without a tree lighting! SGI jumpstarts the holiday with the Lighting of the Palms at Lighthouse Park on the first weekend of December. Santa’s lighted golf cart parade then delights spectators all over the park. Throughout the event, attendees can play games, get a picture with St. Nick, and even enjoy some Christmas carols. The highlight of the celebration comes at dusk when the palms are illuminated with hundreds of sparkling lights.    

Spread Christmas Cheer at the Holiday Fresh Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas spirit with the annual Holiday Fresh Market. The holiday market is set up in early December to showcase local businesses, and it’s an excellent spot for last-minute shopping. At the market, you’ll find a fantastic array of handcrafted treasures and local culture. Be sure to stop by for a dose of SGIs contagious holiday cheer, to finish your holiday shopping, or to treat yourself to a unique island souvenir.

Witness a Spectacular Show at 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 Carrabelle River and spark the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see the lights. This spectacular holiday show is undoubtedly one you won’t forget!

Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to attend all of the delightful events on SGI? Collins Vacation Rentals are located in the best areas on the island so you can be close to all the fun, and retreat to a magical island vacation home at the end of the day. Wake up refreshed and relaxed with access to everything you need for the perfect vacation on the Florida Coast. Browse our properties to find the ideal rental for you. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends, or a romantic trip for two, Collins Vacation Rentals promises an excellent, worry-free adventure on St. George Island. 

Check our availability and book your stay! We can’t wait to meet you.  

St. George Island is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly fun, and laid-back coastal vibe. While you’re on vacation, you’ll want to play in the Gulf, enjoy fresh seafood, and of course, do some shopping! Our island is home to several charming boutiques and specialty stores. However, for a truly unique experience, you must visit Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop. From local art and jewelry to craft beer and beach gear, this dog-friendly shop has it all! Here’s what you’ll find when you go.

Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop is one of many amazing places to go shopping on St. George Island. For even more great recommendations, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of tips about the best local outlets, gift shops, and art galleries. Planning the perfect vacation has never been easier!

What You’ll Find at Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop
From the moment you step inside Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop, you will feel welcomed. This retail gift and apparel shop is known for their friendly service, quality selection, and dog-friendly atmosphere. The store has a wide range of unique items, including local works of art, coastal jewelry, apparel, beach gear, souvenirs, gifts, and pet products. Some examples of the brands you’ll find here include Reef flip flops, KAVU, Scout, 4Ocean, Tidewater sandals, Puppie Love, Sea Dog, and Buddy by the Sea. The shop also carries a great selection of craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages – perfect for a hot summer day! If you opt for beer, they even offer the option to create your own custom 6-pack.
Another thing that we love about this shop is that dogs are welcome too, so feel free to bring Fido. Did you forget to pack a leash or toys while getting ready for vacation? No worries! Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop also offers pet essentials such as leashes, toys, dog clothing, collars, and even gourmet dog treats. Your four-legged friends will thank you!

Are you looking for more great shopping and pet-friendly attractions on St. George Island? Check out our blog for recommendations!

Book a Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental on St. George Island Today!
St. George Island is known as a pet-friendly destination, so there’s no reason you have to leave your pups behind while you’re visiting us. And when it comes to the best dog-friendly rentals on the island, look no further than Collins Vacation Rentals! We offer a wide range of gorgeous properties, many of which are just steps from the Gulf. Choose from homes with private pools, beautiful Gulf views, or beach access. If you’re planning to bring your dog, A Great Escape would be an excellent choice for your getaway. This beachfront home features four bedrooms, sun decks, beautiful furnishings, and complimentary activities included with your reservation. Plus, it’s just a short walk away from nature trails at the State Park!

Come experience all that our island paradise has to offer. Browse all Collins Vacation Rentals and book your vacation on St. George Island today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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So, you’ve been dreaming about sun-kissed beaches and blue skies, but Mother Nature has other plans? Don’t let a little rain ruin your day at the beach! There are so many fun rainy day activities on St. George Island that the whole family will enjoy. Find unique treasures at the local boutiques and galleries, dive into local history, or explore the island’s lighthouse. Read on to discover the best ways to cure those rainy day blues!

For even more great recommendations about St. George Island rainy day activities, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of great tips about the best indoor attractions, dining, shopping, events, and more.

How to Enjoy a Rain Day on St. George Island

1. Tour the Cape St. George Lighthouse
If there’s one thing you absolutely must do during your Forgotten Coast getaway, this is it! The historic Cape St. George Lighthouse is an iconic attraction of the island. Here, you’ll discover a museum, gift shop, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. 92 steps and a small ladder will take you all the way to the top, where you’ll be greeted with some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ve ever seen. You’ll need to purchase tickets to climb the lighthouse, but admission to the museum and gift shop are free.

2. Go on a Shopping Spree
A rainy day is a perfect time to browse the coastal shops and galleries on St. George Island. Take your time browsing for apparel and coastal home decor at Seaside Cotton Boutique.  Stylish clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are just a few of the treasures awaiting you here. Are you searching for gifts or souvenirs? Check out Two Gulls for Mermaids. This unique shop features one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find elsewhere! And if you’re looking for resort wear, jewelry, accessories, or watersport rentals, head over to Island Outfitters.
After a fabulous day of shopping, stop by Aunt Ebby’s for a big scoop (or two!) of ice cream. This popular dessert shop is just steps away from Island Outfitters.

3. Explore Florida’s Forgotten Coast Museums
If you have any history-buffs traveling with you, they will love touring the local museums! Dive into Forgotten Coast history at the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, where you’ll discover the coastal heritage of the Florida Gulf. Next, take a step back in time to the 19th century at the Raney House Museum. Learn all about the family of cotton merchants who occupied the home during the Antebellum South. Finally, visit the Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum and find out what life was like for the soldiers who trained and served here during WWII.

4. Tour Apalachicola
If you’re looking for the best things to do near St. George Island, spend a day in historic Apalachicola. Just a stone’s throw from our island paradise, the mainland offers plenty of rainy day activities. See the beautiful antebellum homes in downtown’s historic district, sample delicious craft beer at Oyster City Brewing Company, or catch the latest play at the Dixie Theatre. Check out our blog to learn about more fun Apalachicola activities.

5. Stay Cozy in Your Collins Vacation Rental
Sometimes the best way to spend a rainy day is enjoying your St. George Island vacation rental! Sip your coffee on the porch and watch as the summer storms roll in over the Gulf. Bring a puzzle or deck of cards and challenge the family to a game of Poker, Blackjack, or Crazy Eights. Or, relax on the sofa, pop some popcorn, and have a family movie day. Participating Collins Vacation Rentals offer unlimited complimentary movie rentals every day of your stay. Choose from the latest releases, award-winning films, or family favorites. Order food delivery from your favorite restaurants and you never even have to leave your vacation rental!

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
Don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation! When planning your getaway, consider a Collins Vacation Rental with a heated pool or hot tub. That way, your family can still enjoy swimming even if it starts to rain. We offer an extensive selection of vacation rentals on St. George Island, including pet-friendly accommodations, beachfront properties, and homes with breathtaking Gulf views.

Select participating Collins Vacation Rentals even offer complimentary activities through Xplorie! Activities may include yoga on the beach, kayaking or SUP Eco tours, bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Bay Golf Course, ice cream at Aunt Eby’s, unlimited movie rentals, or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning the vacation you deserve and contact us to book your stay today! We can’t wait to welcome you!

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With a rich and fascinating past, St. George Island is a prime destination for history-lovers! Visitors return year after year to explore the pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and world-class museums. However, the true beauty of the island lies in the customs, traditions, and beliefs that have been passed down for generations. Are you interested in learning more about our local history? Here are the best ways to discover St. George Island folklore!

St. George Island folklore is just the beginning of what you’ll find along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Our island paradise is also home to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, eclectic art galleries, and renowned historic sites. Head over to our Things to Do page for more tips about things to see and do during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. It’s full of recommendations about the best attractions to see during your vacation!

How to Learn About St. George Island Folklore
1. Explore a Historic Lighthouse
The St. George Island lighthouse is a time-honored treasure and a beloved symbol of the local community. If there is one attraction you must see during your visit, this is it! Originally built in 1833 on the western tip of the island, the very first lighthouse was damaged by storms in 1846. It was rebuilt on the southern cape of St. George Island, and destroyed again just 3 years later. The third lighthouse, completed in 1852, was much stronger than its predecessors. Built to last, it served as a beacon of light, granting ships safe passage through the Gulf of Mexico. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2005.

Because the St.George Island lighthouse was so important to the community, it was rebuilt again, piece by piece. Volunteers cleaned the old mortar off of more than 20,000 of the original bricks so that they could be used in the reconstruction. At a whopping 72-feet, the current lighthouse stands tall in the center of the island. Come see this iconic symbol for yourself and climb the 92 steps to the top. Once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the island! Afterward, take some time to browse the Lighthouse Museum and gift shop next door.

2. Take a Ghost Walk
Perhaps you’re interested in learning about haunted St. George Island folklore? Experience all the thrills and chills when you take an Apalachicola ghost walk! Held annually in the spring and fall by the Apalachicola Historic Society, these chilling cemetery walks are sure to give you goosebumps. The ghost tours are led by local history enthusiasts dressed in costume, portraying figures from eras past who are now buried at Chestnut Street Cemetery. Take a step back in time as your local guide tells you about life in Apalachicola in the 1800s. You may even spot a ghost or two!

3. Visit a Local Museum 
Of course, one of the best ways to immerse yourself into St. George Island history is by visiting a local museum. Dive into the culture of the Forgotten Coast at the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, where you’ll learn all about our coastal heritage. Browse the engaging exhibits, attend a class or workshop, or take an educational riverboat tour along the Apalachicola Waterfront. Or, journey back in time to the 19th century when you visit the Raney House Museum. Discover what life was like for the home’s original inhabitants during the antebellum South.
Next, stop by the John Gorrie Museum. Learn all about Dr. Gorrie and how he helped pioneer the invention of air conditioning and refrigeration. Take your time observing a replica of Gorrie’s ice-making machine, among other interesting artifacts. Finally, no trip to the Forgotten Coast is complete without stopping by the Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum. A vital piece of Franklin County history, it honors the heritage of the men who trained and served at Camp Gordon Johnston during WWII. It’s one of the best things to do during your stay on St. George Island!

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
If you’re searching for accommodations on St. George Island, we invite you to stay in a Collins Vacation Rental. Our St. George Island, Florida, vacation rentals feature the privacy and comfort you desire. With top-notch amenities and plush furnishings, you’re guaranteed a relaxing stay every time. Whether you’re searching for a pet-friendly rental, a home with a heated pool, or an intimate beachfront villa, we are sure to have the ideal property for your stay. Plus, all of the best attractions, museums, beaches, and nature trails are just minutes away! Browse all properties and contact us to start planning your getaway to St. George Island today. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Pristine sugar-white beaches, delicious seafood, and unique coastal shops: these are just a few reasons to vacation on St. George Island. If you’re looking to do some shopping during your trip, we highly recommend stopping by Seaside Cotton Boutique! This resort-style boutique offers everything from brand-name clothing and accessories to homeware, gifts, and more. Whether you’re searching for a new outfit or thoughtful gifts for loved ones back home, they have it all!
Seaside Cotton Boutique is one of many amazing shops on our beautiful barrier island. Head over to our Things to Do Page for more recommendations about shopping, dining, and attractions. It’s full of great tips to help you plan your vacation!

Here’s What You’ll Find at Seaside Cotton Boutique
Shopping at Seaside Cotton Boutique isn’t just a fun way to spend an afternoon; it’s an experience you’ll never forget! Once you take home all your great finds, you’ll be glad you stopped by. Here’s what you’ll discover when you go.

1. Stylish Clothing
From designer apparel to island essentials, Seaside Cotton Boutique offers a great selection of men’s and women’s clothing. They carry all the top brands, including Coast, Southern Marsh, Karlie, Askari, Entro, Band of Gypsies, Buddy Love, Articles of Society, Johnny-O, and Lucky Brand Denim. Each piece is carefully hand-selected, ensuring the highest in quality and design. Ladies’ styles range from sophisticated and trendy to casual-yet-chic. And the guys will find plenty of options for fishing, golfing, and leisure attire. They also carry everyday items like beach coverups, leggings, camisoles, and more. Check out their Facebook page to see current looks and new arrivals!

2. Shoes
You can never have too many pairs of shoes! Luckily, Seaside Cotton Boutique does not disappoint when it comes to comfortable and cute footwear. Treat yourself to a new pair of sandals, boots, wedges, or wovens. They carry name-brands like Antelope, Naked Feet, Born, Matisse, and Sbicca.

3. One-of-a-Kind Accessories
Having the right accessories is so important when you’re on vacation. Hit the beaches in style with a new pair of shades or a Mule cooler! Seaside Cotton Boutique has everything you need for a successful beach trip, including sunglasses, hats, belts, lightweight coolers, jewelry, raincoats, and Sun Bum Skincare and Sunscreen products.

4. Coastal Home Decor
Are you looking for that perfect centerpiece for your living room back home? Perhaps you’re on the hunt for an eye-catching set of dishware, furniture, or accent items. Make sure to check out the boutique’s collection of MudPie Home Decor while you’re there. You might just end up redecorating your entire home with these head-turning pieces!

5. Unique Gifts
Selecting a thoughtful gift is a great way to let your friends and family know that you are thinking of them while on vacation. Perhaps they would like a handmade TY Park Candle, artisan jewelry, or other Gulf Coast treasures. Are you searching for ways to surprise your significant other? A new Southern Marsh fishing shirt or belt is sure to do the trick! No matter who you are shopping for, they will thank you for visiting this boutique!

Book Your Stay in A Collins Vacation Rental
After a fabulous day of shopping, come kick back and relax in your Collins Vacation Home! Our incredible St. George Island vacation rentals are located just minutes from all of the best shops, restaurants, and nightlife. With luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing beach getaway. Whether you prefer views of the Gulf, Apalachicola Bay, or the canal, we offer a wide array of lodging options to choose from. Many of our rentals even have private pools! Make sure to take advantage of our current specials. Then, browse our properties and contact us to start planning your next trip to paradise. We can’t wait to welcome you!

You’re ready to go on vacation, but you’re still in the planning stages. Where do I go? What do I pack? If you’re heading to a tropical spot like St. George Island (we hope you are!), use our summer vacation packing list to get rid of some of that pre-trip planning anxiety. Plus, St. George Island has a handful of stores that are stocked with anything you might have forgotten.

You have your summer vacation packing list, so now start planning all the things to do. If you’re staying on St. George Island, we made it easy! We created our Things to Do page so you’ll have easy access to all of the best activities and businesses on our island. Whether you’re looking for the perfect restaurant for a date night or something the kids will enjoy, you’ll find it here.

Here’s Your Summer Vacation Packing List
We’ve broken down your summer vacation packing list into different categories so you can decide which suits you!

Packing Your Main Suitcase
Of course, when it comes to packing, we immediately think of how much we can fit in our suitcase. Keep it minimal– don’t forget that our Collins Vacation Rentals all come with washers and dryers! Here’s what to put in your suitcase:

Shorts and pants
Shirts, t-shirts, a nice shirt or two for dinner, and tank tops
Dresses/ skirts
Sleepwear
Socks and shoes (We recommend flip flops, sandals, and sneakers.)
Don’t forget the basics (like underwear)!
A sweater that you can layer over your outfits
Bathing suits (We recommend more than one.)
Cover-ups
Clothes you can explore in

Toiletries 

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Soap, facewash, shampoo, and conditioner
Makeup
Hairbrush and comb
Styling product
Razors and shave gel
Flatiron or curling iron (Many of our rentals have hair dryers, but you are welcome to bring your own.)
Lip balm
After sun gel or aloe vera
Lotion
Scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers

Accessories

Sun hat or baseball cap for the beach
Jewelry (Packing jewelry can be a challenge, but putting a necklace through a straw and keeping your jewelry in a silk bag will keep it safe.)
Sunglasses
Belts
Hair ties and accessories

Beach and Pool Gear 
You can pack your own beach gear, but many guests of Collins Vacation Rentals opt to buy or rent their gear here. This way, you don’t have to lug your beach chairs all the way here, and you can get them delivered right to your vacation rental! Island Adventures is one of our favorite places to rent gear from.

Beach chairs
Umbrellas
Sunscreen (You can never have too much of this stuff!)
A beach bag
A good book
Floaties and beach toys
Beach towels
A reusable water bottle

Book Your Summer Getaway Today
Now that you have our summer vacation packing list, it’s time to book your actual summer vacation! St. George Island is one of a kind– our small island has stood the test of time. Our beaches are never crowded, our seafood is fresh, and our island is welcoming. Book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals to see for yourself. We can’t wait to host you!