Category: Things to Do

One of our favorite parts of St. George Island is its rich nautical history. Its first inhabitants, the Creek Indians, used its coast and seas for survival. As times went on, fishing fleets and other vessels began to access the Gulf of Mexico through Apalachicola Bay. Because of this, lighthouses were erected on SGI as well as the neighboring Dog Island and the coast of the Florida mainland. You’ll see some during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, like the famous Crooked River Lighthouse!

You’ll most likely come across landmarks like the Crooked River Lighthouse as you explore the island. If you’re unsure of other activities to enjoy during your stay, check out our Things to Do page! We know planning a vacation can be time consuming and challenging, so we’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do so you can spend more time choosing your perfect Collins Vacation Rental. You’ll find restaurants, shops, excursions, and more!

Crooked River Lighthouse History
Crooked River Lighthouse was erected on the Florida coast in 1895 as a replacement to a lighthouse that had been destroyed on Dog Island. Its light has stood for over 100 years as a beacon to guide ships and fishing vessels through the dangerous passage between Dog Island and SGI. The grounds of the tower originally included a house for the light keeper and his family, but when the light switched to automated electricity in 1952, there was no more need for light keepers. The buildings on the grounds were sold and removed.

The Crooked River Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1995. A struggle commenced between the town and the government when the U.S. Coast Guard attempted to sell the lighthouse. In response, the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association was formed by residents so the lighthouse could be restored to its former glory and opened to the public.

Visiting the Crooked River Lighthouse

Not only is the Crooked River Lighthouse gorgeous to view, it is open to the public! Climb to the top of the tower Wednesday through Sunday. All you have to do to climb the 138 steps is make a $15 donation to the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association that goes towards keeping up the grounds. After climbing, make sure to check out the museum with relics from the past, then browse through the gift shop for a souvenir. The park area around the tower has picnic tables and a small playground in case you would like to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy some time outdoors there.

Come Back and Relax at Your Collins Vacation Home
After you climb the Crooked River Lighthouse and explore its history, come back and relax at one of our gorgeous Collins Vacation Homes. If you want to be close to the water, you’ll love staying at one of our beachfront or bayfront homes. With gorgeous views of the sparkling ocean, you can’t go wrong! With more than 200 properties to choose from that vary in location and size, we know we have the perfect rental for you. Start planning your unforgettable vacation today!

If you’re looking for an amazing fishing destination, look no further than St. George Island. Walk out the door of your beachfront Collins Vacation Rental to cast a line off the pristine white sand, or venture out onto the ocean. There are many places on and off the island that offer charters. If you’re looking to get out onto the open waters, try some Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing!

Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing is just the beginning of what our area has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to the Forgotten Coast, start with our Things to Do page. We know planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite activities and businesses on the island to start off your planning. Whether you’re looking for things to do on a date night or excursions the whole family will enjoy, we have suggestions for you!

What You’ll Catch While Carrabelle, FL, Deep Sea Fishing
There are tons of fish you can catch while Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing. Imagine yourself miles from shore surrounded by open water as you cast your line. You will have the opportunity for a big catch during offshore fishing. Some fish you may find are grouper, snapper, mackerel, sea bass, and more! Feel the tug on your line and embrace the excitement of Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing.

Carrabelle, FL. Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Somethin’  Fishy Fishing Charters

When you choose Somethin’ Fishy Fishing Charters, you will be in good hands. You can hop on the boat at either Carrabelle or St. George Island, so it’s perfect for your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental! When you book with Captain Tim Edwards, a fisherman with 28 years experience, you’ll be provided with everything you need for a day out on the water. Bait, tackle, and all other equipment are included as well as the incredible knowledge the captain and first mate hold about deep sea fishing.

Sea Breeze Fishing
The captain of Sea Breeze Fishing, Johnny Irwin, has been a fishing guide to the Florida coast for over 50 years. Hop aboard the 22’ Sea Chaser bay boat and let Captain Irwin guide you through the Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing. You may have up to 4 people fish on this boat, so it’s perfect for small families. Choose from different excursions of varying lengths and locations; they offer full days of fishing and even a Tarpon Sunset Trip. Reels, tackle, and live bait are included, and they’ll even clean and fillet your fish!

Enjoy Your Catch at a Collins Vacation Rental
After enjoying your day Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing, come back and relax at your Collins Vacation Rental. A variety of our vacation rentals feature breathtaking views of the coast; gaze out at pristine beaches and sparkling waters from your window or beachfront deck. We have everything you need to create vacation memories that will last a lifetime! First, browse through our gorgeous homes. Then, start planning your sun-filled Florida getaway!

When you’re staying on St. George Island, everything you need is right at your fingertips. You don’t have to leave the island at all if you don’t want to! However, the mainland offers plenty of other activities to enjoy during your vacation. St. George Island is located just off the coast of Apalachicola, so you can easily cross the bridge and enjoy all the things to do near Apalachicola, FL.

Do you want to know more about all the things to do on our island and in areas around SGI like Apalachicola? Take a look at our Things to Do page! We want guests of Collins Vacation Rentals to have the best experience possible, so we listed out our most trusted businesses and favorite activities in the area.

5 of the Best Things to Do near Apalachicola, FL

Take a Kayak Tour
Explore the bay by kayak! Watch nature at work and observe the patterns and behavior of the area’s birds and wildlife. Rent a kayak or take a guided tour with Journey’s of St. George Island. Whether you are a beginner kayaker or just want to learn the best spots to paddle, a tour with Journey’s is fun for all ages. Trips range from two to eight hours so there is something for everyone.

Cast a Line
There are tons of fishing spots in the area! You can cast your line from pretty much anywhere on St. George Island. We recommend heading to a spot like St. George Island State Park so you can fish in the Apalachicola Bay. Pull in flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting, Spanish mackerel and more when you fish from the shores here. You can also hop on a boat to go further out into the water.

Go out to Eat
If your stomach is rumbling but you’re not back on St. George Island yet, don’t worry! Owl Cafe is one of our favorite restaurants in the area. Beautiful views of the bay give this eatery an outstanding atmosphere, and the menu is full of fresh and local ingredients. The dishes change depending on the season, and they have everything from pasta to seafood. Plus, the Owl Cafe Tap room is right next door so you can grab a beer!

Visit the Apalachicola Maritime Museum
It feels good knowing you learned something while you are on vacation! Head to the Apalachicola Maritime Museum to learn all about the history of the Forgotten Coast. This collection of exhibits immerses you in the history and culture of our area; find out what made our area into what it is today.

Book Your Getaway Today
Now that you know some of the amazing things to do near Apalachicola, FL, it’s time to plan your getaway! Collins Vacation Rentals are the perfect place to relax and restore. Convenient locations mean easy access to all the best activities in the area. Plus, when you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Browse our properties to start planning your stay!

There’s nothing better than a vacation with your family. When you put aside quality time to spend together, you are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, look no further than an escape to St. George Island. Our island oasis is one of the best family beach vacations in Florida!

Collins Vacation Rentals has everything you need to have the absolute best family beach vacations in Florida. Start planning your trip with our Things to Do page! It’s full of family-friendly activities, places, and businesses. Find everything from outdoor activities to our favorite places to shop! It will make planning a breeze so all you have to worry about is choosing your vacation rental.

3 Reasons why SGI is One of the Best Family Beach Vacations in Florida
1. Unlimited Activities
You will never run out of things to do on St. George Island! With so many family activities, you might even end up wanting to extend your vacation so you can experience them all. The beaches here are so pristine you will want to go back over and over again. Relax on the sand as the kids make castles and splash around in the waves. Rent some chairs and umbrellas, then you’re good to go! If you’re looking for a more adventurous activity, you can always do something like renting jet skis. Get out on the water as you speed around with your entire family! There is truly something for every member of the family here on SGI; you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

2. A Break from the Hustle and Bustle
When you go on vacation, your stress should wash away. We know that the kids focus on school while the parents focus on work and running the household, meaning that everyone deserves a break! The best family beach vacations in Florida should take you away from the stresses of everyday life. When you visit St. George Island, a sense of calm will immediately wash over you. Imagine waking up every day to the bright sun sparkling off the water. Sip your morning coffee on your private porch as you gaze out over the ocean! With secluded beaches and everything you could possibly need at your fingertips, you will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after your getaway

3. Luxurious Accommodations
Vacation means treating yourself! You work all year to gain vacation time and save up for the perfect family vacation. You deserve to stay in the vacation home of your dreams. Whether you are looking to be close to shops or right on the water, Collins Vacation Rentals has a home for you! A variety of our vacation rentals feature breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and are only steps away from uncrowded, natural white sandy beaches that are among the best in the United States. From beachfront homes, quaint cottages, and luxurious villas, you are sure to find your ideal St. George Island rental property. With over 200 rentals to choose from, we’re sure we can give you one of the best family beach vacations in Florida! Contact us today to start planning.

When you stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, everything you need for the perfect getaway is at your fingertips. The island’s beaches are pristine, activities are endless, and downtown is always bustling with activity. Start your vacation by visiting Island Outfitters on St. George Island. They are a one-stop-shop for starting your trip off right!

Want to know even more stores like Island Outfitters on St. George Island to visit during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental? Our Things to Do page can help! We know that planning your vacation can be challenging, so we have mapped out some of our favorite businesses on the island to save you from hours of research. You’ll find family-friendly activities, shopping spots, restaurants, and more

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Rentals at Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Are you looking for some fun in the sun during your Forgotten Coast vacation? Start with Island Outfitters on St. George Island! Here, you can get rentals for watersports. Choose from multiple types of kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and body boards for ocean excursions! Even seats, life jackets, paddles, and roof racks are included in your rental so the only thing you need to worry about is having fun. You can also rent a kayak cart to transport your crafts to and from the water.

Shop ‘Til You Drop at Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Want to do a little shopping during your vacation? Browse through Island Outfitters on St. George Island! They have everything from sportswear to leisurely beach apparel. A favorite item to pick up is some sun protective clothing for your time out on the water. Plus, they have accessories and souvenirs that are perfect to remember your trip by or bring back to a loved one at home.

Fish with Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Fishing is a favorite pastime here on the Forgotten Coast, and Island Outfitters on St. George Island is a great place to get a charter! Captains of the boats are all coast guard certified and fishing experts, so you know you are in good hands. Your excursion includes rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, and licenses. All you have to worry about is bringing drinks, snacks, and sunscreen! Your guide will take you to some of the best places to cast a line so you can fish your day away.

Where to Stay on St. George Island
If you’re looking to vacation on SGI, Collins Vacation Rentals is the way to go. With more than 200 rentals to choose from, we know there is the perfect property out there to be your home away from home while you’re experiencing our island paradise. With everything from condos to 7-bedroom beachfront homes, you are sure to find something you’ll love. When browsing through our rentals, make your decision based on size and location. We have homes all around the island, so you can either be oceanfront or close to downtown for easy access to stores like Island Outfitters on St. George Island! Browse our homes, choose your property, then start planning your stay. We look forward to seeing you!

If you’re looking for a close getaway from Tallahassee, you’re in luck! Tallahassee residents love to vacation on St. George Island. Located just under two hours from the city, SGI is a beautiful, easily accessible respite from everyday life. Sandy shores are the perfect cure for the hustle and bustle of everyday life, so hop in your car and make the drive from Tallahassee to St. George Island!

If you’re planning a trip from Tallahassee to St. George Island, we can help! Start creating your itinerary with our Things to Do page . We have carefully curated a list of local suggestions so you have the tools to make your vacation the best it can possibly be. Here, you will find outdoor activities, restaurants, and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the island.

Getting From Tallahassee to St. George Island
Getting to your vacation destination can be a nightmare, but when you’re coming from Tallahassee, it’s easy! The Big Bend Scenic Byway from Tallahassee to St. George Island is full of natural wonders that are well-worth the stops you’ll make to take it all in. During your travels, you’ll get to see everything from towering pines to seagrass beds and marshes all in one trip! On your journey, keep an eye out for several types of plants and wildlife. You never know what you’ll come across!

3 Reasons Tallahassee to St. George Island Is the Best Trip

You Get to See the Best of Old Florida
The Big Bend drive from Tallahassee to St. George Island is a history lover’s dream. The region has gone through several transitions since the 1800s, including developing a hard-working farm culture, housing cowboys and trappers, and participating in several wars. The area’s storied past is now marked by preserved sites such as a North Florida pioneer farm and Fort Braden. You’ll have the opportunity to see these and many other sites on your drive to SGI!

An Escape From the City
The vibe on our island is the complete opposite from city life. When you’re here, you’ll find yourself operating on island time. The fast pace of Tallahassee is nowhere to be found! Instead, you get to relax on the beach, indulge in cocktails as the sun sets, and have some quality family time in your vacation rental. With beach chair rentals readily available and great restaurants right on the island, it’s impossible not to relax while you’re here!

Something for Everyone
Whether you’re coming with your sweetheart or taking the entire family, there is something for everyone on St. George Island. Popular spots like the St. George Island Lighthouse cater to people of all ages, and the older crowd loves the nightlife . Our island is small and secluded, but you’ll never run out of things to do during your vacation.

Book Your Getaway Today
When you make the drive from Tallahassee to St. George Island, unpack and unwind at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals are amazing places to spend your trip to SGI. Browse our properties to start planning your getaway! Take full advantage of your beach vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties, or opt for a peaceful place a few minutes away from the Gulf. We look forward to seeing you!

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

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

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

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

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

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