Category: Things to Do

A relaxing paradise awaits on St. George Island. Pristine beaches, swaying palms, and blue skies make it one of the most beautiful islands off of Florida’s coast. To experience the area to its fullest, you’ll want to hit the beach and get out on the water. Island Adventures on St. George Island can help!

Island Adventures on St. George Island has everything you need to enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor fun in style during your trip to the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more St. George Island activities for your family? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best companies and activities that the island has to offer. In addition to outdoor excursions, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love!

Upgrade Your Beach Day
When you’re on vacation, you don’t want to have to worry about packing up your beach items and lugging them to your vacation rental. Luckily for you, Island Adventures on St. George Island has everything you need for you and your family to enjoy all the beautiful beaches here! You can rent chairs, umbrellas, or packages including both. For those who need a different way to access our shores, there is also a beach wheelchair for rent.

See the Island
Island Adventures on St. George Island offers a few fun ways to get around the island. Whether it’s for sightseeing, exercise, or transportation, bike rentals are one of our favorite offerings. There’s nothing like riding around the beach! The bikes can be delivered straight to your door for you to use your entire stay. They also offer two or four-person surreys for a different way to explore! Plus, they rent out golf carts the entire family can pile onto! Make sure to check out their rental page to see all the goodies they offer.

Island Adventures on St. George Island Souvenirs
In addition to covering your beach rental needs, Island Adventures on St. George Island also offers a range of gifts and souvenirs. Whether you are looking to pick something up to remember your trip by or a gift for a loved one back home, you are sure to find it here! With everything from resort wear to a stuffed animal for the kids, there is something for everyone at this beach shop.

Experience Island Life at a Collins Vacation Home
Using a resource like Island Adventures on St. George Island will take your getaway to the next level. The convenience of getting your beach supplies delivered right to your Collins Vacation Home can’t be beat! Plus, our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. With over 200 properties to choose from, we know we have the perfect one for you!
When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

One of the best parts about renting a home from Collins Vacation Rentals is the seclusion you’ll experience on the island. Once you cross over the bridge, there’s no reason to cross it again until you leave, giving you the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are even grocery stores near St. George Island, FL, just in case you want to cook in your own kitchen or are looking for some snacks for the beach! Here is all you need to know about them.

If you’re planning a vacation to St. George Island, you might need a little help planning your trip. Our company has been on the island for more than 40 years, so we know the ins and outs of the area! Take a look at our Things to Do page for a handpicked list of local businesses and activities you won’t want to miss during your stay like grocery stores near St. George Island, FL. Whether you are looking for family fun or a romantic date night, we have recommendations for you!

These are the Best Grocery Stores near St. George Island, FL
Piggly Wiggly Xpress
St. George Island is home to one of the South’s classic grocery stores, a Piggly Wiggly. Located right when you get off the bridge onto the island, it can easily be your first stop to pick up anything you have forgotten to pack! You never know when a family member might forget a toothbrush or that incredibly important bottle of sunscreen. The goal of this shop is to have anything you might need on the island so you don’t have to worry about leaving and looking elsewhere. Plus, they have a variety of food and drink so you’ll never have to go off the island to restock.

Sparks & Sons’ Island Grocery
SGI Fresh Market is the newest grocery store on St. George Island. It’s a great spot to visit if you’re looking to do some grocery shopping during your stay. Get some frozen foods for easy meals and snacks after the beach, stock up on pantry items, and pick out some selections from their butcher area to grill. They even have an area of fresh produce! However, one of our favorite items they have available is fresh, local shrimp. Yum!

Sometimes It’s Hotter Seasoning Company 
Sometimes It’s Hotter Seasoning Company is not technically a grocery store, but you’ll definitely want to make a stop here if you like wine! This is primarily a spice company, but we recommend browsing their wine selection then purchasing one of their baguettes or cheese and crackers to enjoy on the beach. There’s nothing better than enjoying a glass with your sweetheart on your porch overlooking the ocean!

Book Your Stay Today
It’s time to start planning your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals! Browse through our gorgeous homes based on size and location. Whether you are looking to be in the gated community of St. George Island Plantation or closer to town, we have a property for you! The best part about our island is that no matter where you are, you will be close to town, all the grocery stores near St. George Island, FL, and moments from the beach. We look forward to seeing you on SGI!

St. George Island has everything you need for a great coastal vacation at any time of year. With excellent fishing, beautiful beaches, and plenty of ways to enjoy the water, a trip here is always unforgettable. However, if you’re looking to plan a vacation around an extra special occasion, these St. George Island events are a great place to start. The following are a few fun ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the region. Take a look, and enjoy a celebration on SGI!

Mingle with locals and have some fun at any of these St. George Island events during your next trip to the Forgotten Coast. Are you looking for even more Forgotten Coast events and activities for your family? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best functions that the island has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page. It has everything you need to plan a fantastic vacation!

Have Fun All Year Long at These St. George Island Events!
Find Your Favorite Brew at St. George Island Brewfest 
Brews, beaches, and benefits for the animals! Everything about the St. George Island Brewfest is perfect for beer and animal lovers. The event  features a broad selection of craft beers and innovative food! If that isn’t enough, all proceeds from the event benefit the Franklin County Animal Shelter. Head over to Paddy’s Raw Bar and Journeys of SGI to join in on this unforgettable event!

Jam out to the Best Music at Rock by the Sea  
Come to Harry A’s to participate in Rock By The Sea. This annual charity music festival is one of the best St. George Island events for lovers of good tunes and live entertainment. For several days, Rock By The Sea  features a variety of bands and artists, while raising funds to support a great cause.

Delight Your Inner Foodie at the Florida Seafood Festival 
What better place to unite seafood lovers than the Apalachicola River? You’ll thoroughly enjoy spending time at the annual Florida Seafood Festival. Gather under the shady oaks of Apalachicola’s Battery Park to see the blue crab races and the parade. Then, enjoy arts and crafts, live entertainment, and, of course, seafood!

Bask in the Moonlight at These Full Moon Climbs
Ready to climb the coolest lighthouses on the Forgotten Coast? Stop by the Crooked River Lighthouse or the Cape St. George Island Lighthouse for a unique moonlit experience. From the Crooked River Lighthouse you’ll enjoy the gorgeous sight of the St. George sound, Carrabelle Beach, and Dog Island. Full Moon climbs are family-friendly and take place several times throughout the year. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After a fun day at one of these St. George Island events, enjoy your evening at a Collins vacation home. You deserve a fantastic place to retreat to during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Request one of our rental guides to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway.
Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island vibes! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

Looking for a way to add an intriguing educational component to your trip? Visit the John Gorrie Museum! Historians, curious travelers, and collectors of fun facts will love exploring this unique piece of Apalachicola history.

Start planning your trip to the John Gorrie Museum today! After you pencil it in to your vacation schedule, find even more amazing vacation activities for you and your family. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island – the premier destination on the Forgotten Coast – has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

History of the John Gorrie Museum
The John Gorrie Museum is named for John Gorrie, a physician who moved to this area in the early 1800s. His influence was felt throughout Apalachicola in many ways. During his life in the town, he served as postmaster, city treasurer, town councilman, and bank director, in addition to treating patients.

On top of all of these achievements, John Gorrie also became an inventor. In a quest to assist his patients suffering from yellow fever, he designed a machine to help cool their rooms. This development made him an early pioneer of air conditioning and refrigeration and eventually earned him a U.S. patent.

Visiting the John Gorrie Museum State Park
To find out more about Dr. Gorrie, his many achievements, and his contributions to The Forgotten Coast, visit the John Gorrie Museum State Park. The park includes several interpretive exhibits, including a replica of Gorrie’s original ice machine and displays about the history of Apalachicola. There are also spaces for picnicking at the site.
The address of the John Gorrie Museum State Park is 46 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday through Monday. (It is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.) The admission fee is $2 per person; children 5 and under are free.

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the John Gorrie Museum and other fun historical sites, spend your nights at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. Our Fall and Winter Specials are a great way to experience all that the area has to offer, without the seasonal crowds!

When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

History lovers will find that the Forgotten Coast has much to offer. There are plenty of museums and historical sites to visit and learn about. One of them is the Raney House Museum. Prepare to be whisked back in time to the 19th Century when you visit!

Start planning your trip to the Raney House Museum today! After you pencil it into your vacation schedule, find even more amazing vacation activities for you and your family. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island – the premier destination on the Forgotten Coast – has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

History of the Raney House Museum
The Raney House Museum was once a family home. It was completed in 1838 by David Greenway Raney. Mr. Raney was a prosperous cotton merchant during a time when the trade was especially lucrative in Florida – the three decades right before the Civil War. He also served two terms as mayor of Apalachicola.

The history of the Raney family is a storied one. It includes the tales of three of David and Harriet Raney’s sons, who fought in war. After the conflict, members of the family continued to live in the home until 1914. In 1973, the City of Apalachicola purchased the structure and turned it into the Raney House Museum, which features furniture documents, and artifacts from the 19th Century. The museum is operated by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society.

Visiting the Raney House Museum
The Raney House Museum is located at 128 Market Street at the corner of Avenue F in historic downtown Apalachicola. It is open to the public from 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 10 am to 4 pm Friday and Saturday. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

You can contact the Raney House Museum at (850) 653-1700.

Rent One of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the Raney House Museum and other fun historical sites, spend your nights at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. Our Fall and Winter Specials are a great way to experience all that the area has to offer, without the seasonal crowds!

When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

St. George Island is a great place for adults to retreat for some much-needed relaxation, but there are many reasons that kids love it, too! One of the sights that your little maritime enthusiasts will love is the Cape St. George Light. Take your children to see the lighthouse tower and corresponding museum the next time you vacation on SGI!

The Cape St. George Light is a favorite attraction among visitors to SGI and the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more good times near St. George Island? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the area has to offer. In addition to restaurants and bars, it also contains a range of outdoor activities and local businesses that your friends or family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

Here’s Why Your Kids Will Love the Cape St. George Light
A Cool History
The Cape St. George Light has a storied past. It stretches almost 200 years – the first incarnation of the light was erected in 1833! It’s seen war, storms, and tons of Florida Gulf Coast history. Take your kids to the museum right beside the tower to learn more about the light and the Forgotten Coast.

A Great Climb and Awesome Views
The best part about visiting the Cape St. George Light is climbing the tower. As long as your children are at least 40-inches tall, you can take them on the journey up the 92-step spiral staircase and an 8-rung ladder to get some of the best views on SGI! Kids love making it all the way to the top; it’s much better than climbing the walls at home!

Fun Souvenirs
When you’re ready to leave, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop first! Pick up some cool souvenirs for the family to take home, including t-shirts, books, jewelry, and more. It’s the perfect way to remember the amazing time you had climbing the Cape St. George Light!
Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast

After you take your kids out for a day at the Cape St. George Light, come enjoy the rest of your evening at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. You deserve an amazing place to get away during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway.

When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

There’s so much to do on your trip to the Florida coast. For starters, you can relax on the sandy beaches, bike under the Florida sun, and try out some local cuisine. One of our favorite things to do here is to take a fishing trip. Imagine yourself out on the open water, fishing rods in hand! Out of all the offshore spots to cast a line, one of the best is the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico. The underwater structure of this tower creates a prime habitat for fish! With so many opportunities for a great catch during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, you absolutely have to get out on the water and cast a line.

Fishing at the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico is just one of the many things you should plan to do while staying at one of our St. George Island properties. After your day out on the water, head back to the island and take some time to explore the sights and sounds of the area. For ideas on island activities, explore our Things to Do page. Find everything from outdoor activities to some of our favorite restaurants. Let Collins Vacation Rentals make planning easier by giving you helpful recommendations that you can use to have an unforgettable vacation!

What is the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico?
The Department of Defense maintains 5 towers spread along the Forgotten Coast. While their full purpose is unknown, they are mainly used for training exercises. The towers create the ideal habitat for fish to live underneath, as they have been designed as artificial coral reefs. These ocean fortresses are easy to find as long as you have the coordinates; you can find the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico at 25 02.0’N, 82 22.0’W. Dock your boat at this tower, then enjoy your day of fishing!

Fishing Tips for the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico
You have very little chance of catching fish without knowing where they are! Luckily for you, we know that the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico is a treasure trove of underwater creatures. Fish usually flock to this tower in the spring as the waters warm up. Some of the most effective methods for success in this area are chumming and live bait. Your best bet is to start your day off by catching live bait, then use it throughout the day. If you’re not an experienced fisherman, you can always go through a fishing charter like Island Charters. They’ll have everything you need to have a successful fishing excursion!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After your day of fishing at the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico, come back and relax at your luxurious Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals have all the amenities you’ll need to have a perfect island getaway. Choose from multiple locations to create your perfect stay; we have everything from oceanfront to bay view homes just waiting for you to come make some memories.

It’s time to start planning your trip to St. George Island! Contact us anytime; we’d be happy to help you with your next steps. Come enjoy the island life!

Nothing compares to the thrill of Apalachicola Bay fishing! Known as one of the world’s best fishing holes, these waters are teeming with more than a hundred species of colorful fish. Whether you choose to hop on a charter or cast a line right from the dock, you’re sure to enjoy the angling adventure of a lifetime. Are you ready to reel in your next trophy catch? Read on to learn how you can experience some of the best fishing Florida has to offer!
Apalachicola Bay is bordered by the beautiful shores of St. George Island, FL. If you’re planning an Apalachicola Bay fishing trip, this island paradise offers the ideal accommodations for your getaway. Make sure to check out our Things to Do page for recommendations about the best lodging, dining, and activities on St. George Island. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate vacation!

Apalachicola Bay Fishing Charters
If you’re looking to get out on the open water, a charter is the way to go! While there are dozens of amazing fishing charters to choose from, here are some of our top recommendations.

1. Island Charters
Island Charters will take you on an amazing fishing trip that will be fun for the whole family. Choose from 3 main excursions including Apalachicola Bay fishing. During your tour, everything you need will be provided from licenses to bait and tackle. Captain Krista and her crew will not disappoint!

2. Apalachicola Charters
Would you like to experience a fishing trip that’s tailored to you? Embark on a custom journey with Apalachicola Charters! Choose anywhere from a three-hour trip to a full day of fishing. They provide all of the gear, licenses, and bait for bay charters.

3. Robinson Brothers Guide Service
Whether you’re a pro angler or a beginner looking to hone your skills, Robinson Brothers Guide Service offers experiences for every skill level. This is a great option for families, couples, and experienced fisherman alike. Enjoy a fabulous day catching heaps of fish in Apalachicola Bay!

4. Williams Charter Fishing Adventures
Get ready for an angling excursion like no other! Williams Charter Fishing Adventures will guide you to the many bayous and oyster bars of the Apalachicola Bay. You’ll be in good hands from the moment you climb aboard Captain Bruce’s 21 foot Mako center console.

5. Journeys of SGI
Another awesome charter service is Journeys of SGI. Your captain will guide you to the hottest spots of the bay where the fish are biting. Licenses, bait, tackle, water, cleaning, and packing are all included in your trip. Get ready for a fun day out on the water!

Shore Fishing
You don’t have to go far to cast a line! Enjoy some Apalachicola Bay fishing right from the shore. There are many fishing spots on St. George Island that are easily accessible so you don’t have to worry about securing a charter. One of the best and most popular spots is the St. George Island Fishing Pier. This long pier spans 600 feet into the water to provide plenty of room for anglers to gather and cast.
If you didn’t bring your fishing gear with you on your trip, don’t worry! There are many stores on the island like Island Adventures that have everything you need to cast a line. Rent fishing poles here, buy some bait, then sit back and relax until the fish start biting!

What You’ll Catch
With more than 100 different Apalachicola Bay fish species, the amount of fish you can catch is astounding. There is so much variety in landscape here, allowing many species to thrive in the different habitats. You’ll find certain fish like flounder, redfish, and speckled trout year-round, but others are seasonal. Just check an Apalachicola Bay fishing report to see what’s in season while you’re saying in one of our Collins Vacation Rentals!

Haul Your Catch to a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After you’ve enjoyed your day of Apalachicola Bay fishing, come back and relax at one of our gorgeous Collins Vacation Homes. If you’re interested in a fishing stay, you’ll love one of our beachfront or bayfront homes. Imagine being able to wake up and walk straight out your front door to the beach! With your choice of over 250 homes, we know we’ll have the best one to create your perfect vacation. Browse all properties and contact us to start planning your fishing trip today. We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!

St. George Island’s balance of leisure, adventure, and coastal fun make your vacation an experience you will never want to forget. During your stay in one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll want to relax on the beach, cast a line off the pier, and of course, do some shopping! Whether you’re looking for that perfect souvenir to remember your stay, a great gift to bring back home to a loved one, or something fun that you can enjoy during your vacation, we’ve got you covered. We know the best places for St. George Island shopping!

Doing some St. George Island shopping is just one of the many things you should plan to do while staying on the Forgotten Coast. Vacation is all about making memories, so take a look at our Things to Do page to learn more about activities on the island. We have everything from our favorite restaurants to our favorite excursions listed. Discover the best ways to experience SGI and make lasting memories during your time in paradise!

4 of the Best Places for St. George Island Shopping

1. Island Outfitters
Island Outfitters has everything you need for a day on SGI. Here, you can find useful items like sun protective apparel. If you’re planning to be out on the water for the day, protection from the sun is important. This extra layer could be the difference between you and sunburn! They also have gorgeous resort wear, accessories, and jewelry. You’re sure to find some unique memorabilia here!

2. Sea Oats Art Gallery
If you’re looking for some local works, check out Sea Oats Art Gallery! You’ll have a wonderful time browsing through art created by more than 80 artisans and crafters. There is a wide variety of mediums featured, and many of the works are for sale. Here, you will find paintings, photographs, jewelry, glassware, and ceramics. Get something inspired by the Forgotten Coast to remember your trip by!

3. SGI Trading Company
SGI Trading Company has everything you need to go to the beach! Browse for a new bathing suit to show off on the sand or grab some beach toys for the kids. We recommend this to be one of your first stops when you come to your Collins Vacation Rental so you can stock up on all you need for some fun in the sun!

4. Two Gulls for Mermaids
Two Gulls for Mermaids is a quaint little gift shop you’ll love doing some St. George Island shopping at. They are stocked full of artwork, souvenirs, and gifts you can’t find anywhere else. It’s a great place to come if you are looking for something to remember your trip by!

After Doing Some St. George Island Shopping
After doing some St. George Island shopping, make your way back to your Collins Vacation Rental. Relax in one of our gorgeous vacation homes or get ready for your next excursion! Whether you are looking for a home right on the beach or one a little closer to town, we have the perfect rentals for you to discover. Enjoy beauty and comfort during your stay from gorgeous ocean views to convenient locations. We are sure your rental will feel like a home away from home in paradise!