Category: Things to Do

There are so many Florida islands to visit, so how do you pick the best one? Luckily for you, we know the best island off the coast. St. George Island is unique in so many ways. Our visitors love it so much that they find themselves coming back year after year. It’s time to make SGI your tradition, too!
Get the inside scoop on all the things to do and see on St. George Island when you take a look at our Things to Do page! It’s a great resource for discovering all the activities on our island, and you can also use it to plan your trip. We’ve listed the businesses we trust, the best restaurants, and more.

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Is the Best Florida Island to Visit 

Easy to Get To 
Travel to St. George Island with ease! If you need to fly in, the Tallahassee International Airport is less than two hours away. From there, you’ll have an easy drive! There are no taxis or Ubers on the island, so it’s always beneficial to have a car. If you choose to drive the whole way, you’ll be on highways for most of your journey. There are many major highways coming toward the Gulf Coast! Plus, there’s no ferry necessary to get to the island. We have a bridge so you can easily come and go as you please.

Never Crowded 
A lot of Florida islands to visit have become so popular that they are overcrowded during the best times to vacation. That’s not the case with St. George Island! Our island’s preservation has become very important to locals. You’ll find no big-name hotels or resorts here– the island is not allowed to be built up. Traffic is minimal, and you’ll always have more than enough room to spread out on the beach. Even the busiest summer months mean only a short wait at our local restaurants! Even so, the wait will fly by with a cold drink in your hand as you take in the sights and sounds of our island.

You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Even though our island is small, there are countless things to do here. Split your vacation between relaxing with your toes in the sand, taking a dip in your vacation rental’s private pool, and exploring the island. To help you experience all the activities here, we partnered with Xplorie to add this complimentary amenity to select vacation rental reservations. Enjoy everything from kayaking to a round of golf!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Now that you know the best Florida island to visit, it’s time to book your getaway! Browse our variety of vacation rentals at Collins Vacation Rentals to start planning your stay. We have more than 200 properties to choose from, and each offers something different. Choose based on size, location, and amenities to find your perfect fit. We can’t wait to host you!

Some of the best parts about going on vacation are all the lasting memories you are going to make. Keep these cherished times forever when you have a family photo shoot on the beach! Come back year after year and watch your family grow up in your collection of photos. There’s nothing like a family vacation spot that feels like home.
Are you thinking about taking a family photo shoot on the beach? St. George Island is the perfect place to do it! Consider bringing the family for a vacation they will never forget. Check out our Things to Do page for a list of all the best activities on the island to start planning your getaway!

Your Photographer for Your Family Photoshoot on the Beach
If you’re having a family photo shoot on the beach on St. George Island, you’ll want to work with Royce Rolstad. He is a local here that takes stunning family photos. Not only does he know the best places and times to shoot, but he’s also well-versed in making the entire family comfortable. Rolstad explains, “I have families who come to St. George every year and schedule a beach portrait session.  I have watched the kids and grandkids grow up. My repeat clients are like family.” We completely agree and recommend him to anyone looking for a shoot on the island!

3 Steps to Have the Best Family Photoshoot on the Beach

1. Choose Your Outfits
To have a successful family photoshoot, you’ll need to choose your outfits! Some families go for the typical all white ensemble while others want more of a vacation feel. No matter what you choose, you’ll just want to make sure you plan it out so you can pack the right things.

2. Pick a Time
Two of Royce Rolstad’s favorite times to shoot are sunrise and sunset. Yes, the kids might have to have a 7:00 a.m. wake up call, or you might have to make sure they get in an afternoon nap to shoot at sunset. However, it’s all worth it in the end!

3. Have Fun!
Don’t take the fun out of this memory! The best shoots are when the family is relaxed and having a great time. Having photos taken can be nerve-wracking, but a good photographer will make you feel relaxed. Plus, keeping calm and a good attitude will ensure young children won’t be fussy.

Book Your Family Getaway Today
St. George Island is a place that families come back to year after year. We have customers that rent from Collins Vacation Rentals every year; we’ve seen the kids grow up, and we have even met grandkids from our typical renters. Because our island is never crowded, it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family. Browse our vacation rentals to start planning your getaway. With more than 200 to choose from and locations all over the island, we know we have the perfect one for you!

Featured photo by Royce Rolstad

St. George Island has been a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast of Florida for hundreds of years. Somehow, our small island has escaped the fate of many other beach towns and still retains its old-town charm. So, when is the best time to visit St. George Island? That depends on what you are looking for! 

Have you ever been to St. George Island? Are you thinking about vacationing here? Check out our Things to Do page for ideas on all the best things to do and see! Once you figure out the answer to the question when is the best time to visit St. George Island, you’ll be able to plan your getaway with ease. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit St George Island? It’s up to You to Decide!
The answer to this question depends on what you are looking for in a vacation. Anyone that has fallen in love with SGI will tell you that there’s no bad time to visit! There are a few factors you should keep in mind when making your travel plans. 

St. George Island in the Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit St. George Island, and there are definitely pros and cons of coming during this season. Of course, the weather is gorgeous. The temperature hovers in the 80s for nearly the entire summer! It’s perfect for hitting the beach or renting a charter to explore the area from the water. The downside is that the summers are the most crowded St. George Island will ever be. Luckily, because our island has no big-name hotels or touristy attractions, it doesn’t get as crowded as other areas. The biggest impact you’ll see is an occasional wait at a restaurant !

St. George Island in the Fall
If you’re looking for warm weather with fewer crowds, the best time to visit St. George Island is in the early fall. September and early October are still in the 80s! If laying out on the beach isn’t your top priority, you’ll love coming during any time in the fall. The kids are back in school and the island is still experiencing great weather. It’s the perfect time to go hiking at St. George Island State Park or kayak the bay! 

St. George Island in the Winter
Those looking to escape the cold northern weather flock to St. George Island every winter. Temperatures in the winter range from the high 40s to high 60s, so usually all you need is a jacket to enjoy everything SGI has to offer. Wake up every morning to walk the nearly-empty beach and indulge in our island cuisine without having to wait for a table! 

St. George Island in the Spring
St. George Island in the spring is similar to the island in the fall. The weather starts to get warm again in May, and any time before Memorial Day will give you great rates on rentals. This is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and it is almost ensured that you will get a hot day or two that’s perfect for the beach. 

Book Your Getaway
Did you decide when the best time to visit St. George Island is? It’s time to book your getaway! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 200 rentals to choose from throughout the year. They vary in size and location, so we know we have the perfect one for you. Browse our properties to start planning your stay today! 

Landlocked in Orlando, Florida? It’s time for a vacation! Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life when you head to St. George Island. Our small island is within driving distance, and it has everything you need for the perfect getaway from Orlando. Here’s why!

5 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Getaway From Orlando

1. You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Whether you’re looking to spend day after day relaxing on the sand or want to get out and have an adventure, St. George Island has something for everyone. Cast your line off the famous Fishing Pier, paddleboard through the bay, or relax with some beach yoga. If you want to get an inside look at all our island has to offer, take a peek at our Things to Do page! We even partnered with Xplorie to bring complimentary activities to our guests.

2. A Break From City Life

There’s nothing better than falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the sand and waking up to gorgeous views of the sun glistening on the ocean. With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

3. A Short Drive Away

If you’re looking for a reasonable getaway from Orlando, you’ll want something within driving distance.  St. George Island is just over five hours away!  With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

4. Reconnect With Family and Friends

St. George Island is an amazing place to reconnect with family and friends. Our small island is free of distractions and full of activities you can enjoy together. Our Collins Vacation Rentals are the perfect place to have a family game night or a nice meal together. Grill outside as the sun sets over the water or spend the day laying out by your private pool. No matter what you do, you can do it together!

5. An Easy Getaway

When you’re on vacation, you don’t want to have to worry about a thing. When you rent with us at Collins Vacation Rentals, you don’t have to! Our properties come with everything you need, and you can even have things like beach chairs and bikes delivered to the home to use while you are there. Plus, everything from grocery stores to restaurants is right on the island, so you don’t have to worry about driving for miles for something you need.

Book Your Getaway From Orlando Today
You deserve a vacation! Come to the uncrowded beaches of St. George Island to relax with your toes in the sand. We have more than 200 rentals to choose from, so we know we have the perfect property for you. Our homes are spread out across the entire island and come in all different sizes, so you can search based on your desired criteria. Browse our vacation rentals to stay planning your getaway from Orlando today! We look forward to seeing you!

When you’re about to go on vacation, the last thing you want is to leave a family member behind, especially one that has four legs! If you are looking for dog-friendly vacations in Florida, you came to the right place. Our island oasis welcomes pups, so pack up your furry friend’s leash and favorite chew toy and make your way to St. George Island!

For a quick look at everything St. George Island has to offer, browse through our Things to Do page. As locals on the island, we want to share our list of trusted businesses with you to help you start planning. Here, you’ll find everything from the best restaurants to outdoor adventures perfect for any dog-friendly vacation in Florida!

3 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Dog-Friendly Vacation in Florida

Pugs Can Play on the Beach
St. George Island is home to many pet-friendly beaches! Dogs are allowed on both the beach and bay side of the island as long as they are leashed per the July 2017 Franklin County Animal Control Ordinance. Wake up early and take Fido out for a walk on the beach to watch the sunrise, or take a nighttime stroll to see the stars.
Dogs are restricted in some areas of the St. George Island State Park on the eastern end of the island, so check out the State Park website before bringing them there. Dogs must also be leashed at all times in St. George Plantation, the private community at the western end of the island.

Restaurants Are Welcoming
You don’t have to leave your pet home when you go out to eat! As long as you sit outside, you can take your four-legged friend to nearly any restaurant on the island. They’ll be treated like royalty with water bowls and possibly even the occasional treat. We recommend heading somewhere with ample outdoor seating like Paddy’s Raw Bar. Their laid-back picnic tables and beautiful views of the bay are the perfect place to bring the whole family. Plus, the food is great, too!

A Place to Stay
Of course, the most important part of choosing the perfect dog-friendly vacation in Florida is where to stay. Collins Vacation Rentals has tons of dog-friendly properties! Choose based on size, location, and preferred dates. Vacation rentals are limited to two dogs, but some properties limit the size of the dogs. We are happy to help you find the perfect rental for your trip!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Your dog-friendly vacation in Florida awaits! Collins Vacation Rentals will make sure you have the getaway of a lifetime. After browsing our rentals, you can start planning your trip. Our free activities are a great place to start! From gorgeous properties to the Xplorie activities included in your stay, there’s no company like Collins Vacation Rentals. Book your stay today to experience St. George Island for yourself.

Fun in the sun awaits on St. George Island! Our Gulf Coast paradise has pleasant weather all year round, so it’s always enjoyable to come visit. During your stay, you’ll want to check some of these items off your St. George Island bucket list to make the most out of your experience! As locals on the island, we put together some of our favorite things to do during your getaway.

Are you ready to start planning your island escape? Check out our Things to Do page ! Create your own St. George Island bucket list from our catalog of trusted businesses and places to see. Plus, it’s an excellent way to plan out your stay. With our help, you can spend less of your precious time planning and more time doing what’s important: making memories.

Check These Items off Your St. George Island Bucket List

Try Peel N’ Eat Shrimp at Every St. George Island Restaurant 
It’s no secret that St. George Island is known for its incredible seafood. Much of the seafood you eat or buy on our island was caught right off our shores! During your stay, you’ll want to try as much of it as possible. We highly recommend ordering one of our island’s top dishes: peel n’ eat shrimp. All of our amazing restaurants have their own spin on it, so you’ll want to get an order everywhere you go and compare them all.

Embark on a Full Moon Climb at the St. George Island Lighthouse
Once a month, the St. George Island Lighthouse stays open for their Full Moon Climbs. At sunset, you are invited to climb to the top of the lighthouse for beautiful views of the full moon. As long as there is no cloud cover, the moon will illuminate the island and surrounding water for a beautiful sight. Enjoy some light hors-d’oeuvres and a sparkling cider toast to the full moon!

Watch the Sun Set at Paddy’s Raw Bar
Our St. George Island sunsets can’t be beaten! One of the best places to see the sun go down is at Paddy’s Raw Bar . Their outdoor stage is situated right next to the water, so you can sit back and relax as you watch the live music and sunset. The food is delicious, the drinks are cold, and the view is beautiful!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
It’s time to book your stay on St. George Island! How else would you cross everything off on your St. George Island bucket list? Browse our properties at Collins Vacation Rentals to start planning your getaway. We have beautiful homes across the entire island, so you can choose your rental based on size and location. Start planning today!

Atlanta’s energy and opportunity mean that there’s always something to do in the city, but sometimes, you just need to get away for a while and relax. When you are looking for a getaway from Atlanta, you probably want something the exact opposite of the city. We know just the place: St. George Island. Soft sand and a relaxed, beachy atmosphere make this island the perfect place to take a break for a week or two!

Do you want an inside look on all the things to do and see on out island? We created our Things to Do page just for you! This way, you can save hours of planning time for your getaway from Atlanta. We believe you shouldn’t be wasting time researching, so we did it for you. Now, you can spend your time on what’s important: making memories. 

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Is the Best Getaway From Atlanta

Relaxing Getaway
What’s more relaxing than falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves and waking up each morning to beach views? Our quiet island is one of the best spots to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. During our many days of warm weather, you can soak up the sun on the beach or your private pool. Or, you can hike along the St. George Island State Park nearly any time of the year! Best of all, you can get away from everyday life easier than ever during your time on SGI. 

Never Crowded
Even in the peak season, St. George Island is never crowded. Unlike Atlanta, you’ll never have to sit in hours of traffic or fight through a crowd. It’s refreshing! Our island was never built up by developers, so it’s one of the last true pieces of the Gulf Coast left to experience. You might have to wait for a table at a restaurant during our busy season, but you’ll never have trouble finding a spot on the beach. 

Everything You Need
Sometimes, staying on an island can deter you because of the lengths you’ll have to go to enjoy all the activities during your vacation. Well, don’t worry, we have everything right here! You are more than welcome to leave the island if you’d like to experience any of the attractions in Apalachicola, but you can do all your shopping and enjoy countless activities right here. We have amazing restaurants, outdoor activities, shops, grocery stores, and more right on the island. 

Book Your Getaway From Atlanta Today
Are you ready to experience the beauty of St. George Island for yourself? Browse our properties at Collins Vacation Rentals! We have more than 200 beach homes for you to choose from, so we know we have something for you. Search based on size, location, or just click around until one of our beautiful homes catches your eye. Whether you’re looking to rent a luxurious villa or a quaint cottage, we can help. You deserve some island bliss, so book your stay today! Your getaway from Atlanta awaits!

Have you ever wanted to explore the Gulf Coast? It’s time to pack up the car and travel Route 98! Whether you’re starting your journey from the bottom of Florida or the Gulf Shores of Alabama, you’ll be treated to all of the wonders this region holds. We know one hidden spot you absolutely have to stop by on your Gulf Coast road trip, along with some tips and tricks!

You Have to Stop Along This Secret Spot on the Forgotten Coast
What if we told you there was an island along the Gulf Coast of Florida that has been untouched by the typical builders and contractors like the rest of the area? With spaced-out houses, no sky-high hotels, and miles of beach, St. George Island is a dream. With so much to do and see on the island, it is a must-see during your Gulf Coast road trip

Do you want a taste of what St. George Island has to offer? Check out our Things to Do page! We know all the best activities and places to see to get the most out of your Gulf Coast road trip. Whether you need a place to stop and eat or want to know about visiting the state park here, you’ll find it on this carefully curated list.

What You’ll Find on St. George Island

Pristine Beaches
There is nothing worse than being packed into a crowded beach. With no room to spread out, you can’t enjoy the beauty of the ocean properly! On St. George Island, there is plenty of shoreline to go around. Because the island is not built up, you’ll never run into crowds of people crammed onto the beach. We recommend staying in a beachfront home so you’ll have access to the sand right from your door! You’ll probably even see a dolphin or two swimming by.

The Freshest Seafood
When you come to St. George Island, look out into the horizon. You’ll see boats dotting the surface of the ocean; these vessels are catching the fresh shrimp our island is known for! In the bay, the famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters are harvested. The rest of our waters are teeming with fresh fish!   No matter which island restaurant you go to here, you’ll be treated to some of the best, freshest seafood you have ever experienced. Because much of it is caught just off our shore, restaurants buy their ingredients right from the fishermen. From peel-and-eat shrimp to grouper sandwiches, you can indulge in a variety of local specialties.

The Lighthouse 
Have you ever climbed to the top of a lighthouse? You can on St. George Island! The St. George Island Lighthouse has become a staple on our island. After being rebuilt multiple times, it has been resurrected in the heart of SGI. Start your time in the small museum where you can learn about previous lightkeepers and their families. Then, climb 92 steps and a short ladder to the top! Here, you will find stunning panoramic views of the island.

Outdoor Activities 
St. George Island is a nature lover’s dream. Because there is limited housing on the island and no big-name hotels, it is never crowded. You’ll never have to fight through hoards of people to claim a spot on the beach or run into others while exploring. Here are some of our favorite places and activities to enjoy on the island:

St. George Island State Park– The St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of the island. Here, you can find a balance of oak forests and sandy beach. Pack a picnic to enjoy the sand or launch a kayak from the shore. This is the perfect spot to enjoy everything SGI has to offer!

Paddleboarding– Get out on the water during your Gulf Coast road trip! The bayside of the island always boasts calm waters, so you can paddle your day away. There are multiple places on SGI to rent a SUP from, and you can even go on a tour to see the area from a local’s perspective.

Fishing- Pack your fishing poles and cast a line during your visit! You can fish practically anywhere on our island. Try the beach, fishing pier, or the park. Just make sure you have a fishing license!

Stay at Collins Vacation Rentals
Making St. George Island a stop on your Gulf Coast road trip is a must. So, where do you stay? Collins Vacation Rentals has plenty of properties to choose from! From beachfront homes to gated communities, we are sure we have the perfect rental for you. Take a break from your travels on one of the most peaceful stops on the entire Gulf Coast. We look forward to seeing you!

More Gulf Coast Road Trip Stops
You have SGI on your Gulf Coast road trip itinerary, but where else should you go? Here are some of our recommendations for your travels.
30A, Florida
Head west from St. George Island about two and a half hours to 30A. The 30A scenic highway will give you stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The sand here is pristine and white and the waters are blue. At the very least, make sure you catch a sunset here. They are stunning!
Mobile, Alabama
If you continue west, you’ll have a quick drive through Alabama. History buffs will love stopping in Mobile! Their 300-year history shines through the entire city. The USS Alabama, a WWII-era battleship, stays anchored at Battleship Memorial Park. The stunning architecture of historic buildings line the streets. Visit the 1850 Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception to see its incredible German stained glass windows.
New Orleans, Louisiana
What would a Gulf Coast road trip be without a stop in New Orleans? Head straight to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter to experience one of the oldest cities in America. The street itself dates all the way back to 1798 and is full of gorgeous architecture, live music, and legend. Make sure to order some gumbo, a New Orleans staple, while you’re there!

Are you thinking of vacationing in St. George Island? In order to start planning, you’ll have to decide on how you’re getting here! Whether you are looking to fly or drive, there are many options to make your travel plans. Getting to your destination starts out your trip, so making sure you know how to get to St. George Island, FL, is one of the most important parts of your journey.

Now that you know how to get to St. George Island, are you ready to start planning what you will be doing during your vacation? Check out our Things to Do page! Collins Vacation Rentals has been on the island for more than 40 years, so we know all the best activities and places to see in our area. We created a carefully curated list so you can have the getaway of a lifetime!

Fly Away

Tallahassee International Airport
If you are looking for an airport near St. George Island, FL, the Tallahassee International Airport is your best bet. This is the closest airport to the island; once you are there, you will want to rent a car and drive down. The drive from Tallahassee to SGI is easy and less than two hours long! Direct flights to Tallahassee include Delta, American Airlines, and Silver Airways. Other airlines that fly into Tallahassee are jetBlue and United.

Plantation Airport
There is a small 3,300-foot paved landing strip in the St. George Plantation. Only owners of a home inside the Plantation can purchase a membership here, but you are allowed to make arrangements to fly in if you are renting on the island. For a fee, you may land and tie down on the island. However, keep in mind that there are no taxis or car rentals on the island, so you will have to make your own arrangements to get to your vacation rental.

Hit the Road
Sometimes, driving is the best option! Because there are no Ubers or taxis on the island, it is always a good idea to have a car available so you can get from place to place. Even though SGI is an island, there is no ferry necessary; we have a bridge! With so many major highways coming toward the Gulf Coast, your drive should be easy and enjoyable. Here are the distances from some of the most popular spots:

Tallahassee, FL, to St. George Island: 1 hour, 45 minutes | 78 miles
Atlanta, GA, to St. George Island: 5 hours, 45 minutes | 350 miles
Panama City, FL, to St. George Island: 1 hour, 45 minutes | 75 miles

Book Your Getaway Today
Now that you know how to get to St. George Island, FL, it’s time to book your stay! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 200 homes to choose from. Whether you are looking for a beachfront getaway or a property close to the center of town, we have one for you. Browse our homes to start planning the vacation of a lifetime. Welcome to island life!

Do you dream of palm trees and white sand beaches? Treat yourself to a gorgeous vacation on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Believe it or not, we know one of the most stunning spots in this area. St. George Island is one of the best Gulf Coast vacation spots for countless reasons. It’s time to book the getaway of a lifetime and find out why for yourself!

If you want to get a taste of what St. George Island has to offer, take a look at our Things to Do page . Not only will it help you plan activities to enjoy during your stay, our recommendations are the best in town. Collins Vacation Rentals has been on the island for decades, so we know all the best things to do and see in the area.

5 Reasons Why St. George Island is One of the Best Gulf Coast Vacation Spots

1. Secluded Beaches
When you think of the best Gulf Coast vacation spots, you’re probably thinking of spending your days at the  beach.  St. George Island is home to some of the best beaches in the entire state!  Our Island is surrounded by mile after mile of soft sand.  The beaches are never crowded, so you can always spread out with your friends and family.  Watch the kids splash in the surf as you soak up the sun in your beach chair!

2. Untouched Florida Landscapes

There are many areas in the Gulf Coast that are so built up that their natural beauty is hidden. St. George Island is one of the only areas that you can truly see Florida. For example, the St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of our island. The landscape is full of oak forests, pine trees, salt marshes, and beaches. This area is preserved, so the only thing that has changed its landscape over the years is nature itself.

3. Convenience
You don’t even have to leave the island during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals; everything you need is right here. A vacation home is perfect for group stays because you can use it as a home base while you explore. Enjoy our island’s countless activities, then head back to relax at your rental home. There are multiple grocery stores on the island, and there are even seafood trucks that sell the freshest seafood you have ever had. Then, you can bring it back and cook it in your own kitchen!

4. Pet-Friendly Options
Isn’t leaving your pet at home the absolute worst feeling? Bring them to St. George Island! Not only do we have dog-friendly vacation rentals, there are also tons of spots they are welcome on the island. We even have pet-friendly beaches you can bring your four-legged friend to!

5. Family-Friendly Restaurants
Even though St. George Island has a generally low population and is not very big, there are many restaurants to enjoy. People of all ages can indulge in our area’s fresh seafood without having to worry about spending time cooking. Head to the Blue Parrot to eat right on the beach or opt for Paddy’s Raw Bar to watch local bands play live music!

Book Your Getaway to Paradise Today
Palm trees, soft breezes, and blue ocean water await you on St. George Island. SGI is one of the best Gulf Coast vacation spots by far; it is time for you to book your stay and see for yourself. From beachfront homes to quaint cottages, Collins Vacation Rentals has something for everyone. Browse our properties to start planning your stay, and please feel free to reach out with any questions. We look forward to seeing you!