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Fall is the local’s favorite season on St. George Island. Between serene beaches and quiet restaurants, the island boasts a peaceful feel as opposed to the busy summer season. Take a bike ride, attend a fall festival, or visit some of the island’s most stunning sights. What are you waiting for? There is so much to be seen on St. George Island in October!
Learn even more about the island and all of the best things to do and see today. We have everything you need to know when planning your perfect Gulf Coast getaway.

Everything You Need to Know About St. George Island in October
It’s true—life is a little more peaceful on St. George Island. Factor in fewer visitors and scenic beaches, and St. George Island in October is pure gold. Discover it for yourself today!

Stroll the Quiet Beaches

Enjoy the sandy Gulf Coast beaches without the crowds when you visit in October. Temperatures average out in the mid-70s during the fall months, making it perfect for a boat outing, kayaking, jet-skiing, or simply strolling the coastline. Bring a kite or pack a picnic and enjoy the stillness of the sea. Fewer people means endless possibilities on St. George Island!

Climb Cape St. George Lighthouse

Venture out to one of the island’s oldest monuments, Cape St. George Lighthouse. The Lighthouse is open through October 31st, and everyone in your crew will love climbing the steps to see the stunning view of the top! Visit Monday-Saturday (except Thursdays) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. or Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a full moon, you won’t want to miss their one-of-a-kind full moon tour.

Take a Bike Ride

Strap on your helmet and hit the trails at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park. The ocean-front park features four miles of paved bike trails and three and a half miles of nature trails available for bike riding. Stroll next to the sugary white sands and through some of the Gulf’s untouched scenery. It’s the perfect escape from the mainstream.

Attend a Fall Event

Fall is the perfect setting for beach bonfires and family get-togethers. Let St. George Island provide the entertainment when you attend one of our annual island events. Apalach Oktoberfest occurs during the second week of October and features beer, brats, and the bash. Lantern Fest usually occurs towards the end of the month and lights up the sky with hundreds of beautiful lanterns.

Cozy Up Beachside With Collins Vacation Rentals
Find your piece of paradise with Collins Vacation Rentals. Retreat to a stunning Gulf-front home or share your vacation with your favorite four-legged friend in one of our pet-friendly homes. All of our vacation rentals feature stylish furnishings and enough room for the whole crew. Many properties offer private pools, elevators, hot tubs, boat docks, and more!

Staying less than a week? No problem! Plan your mini-vacation in one of our short-term rentals and enjoy the blissfulness of St. George Island while you can! Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, romantic getaway, or family reunion, we have just the home for you at Collins Vacation Rental. Welcome to St. George Island!

Buckle up: It’s time to hit the beach! When it comes to the best tropical destinations near Nashville, TN, St. George Island should be at the very top of your list. With gorgeous white-sand beaches, delicious cuisine, and plenty of sunshine, this little slice of paradise along Florida’s Forgotten Coast has everything you need for a tropical getaway. Are you ready to escape to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast? Here’s how to plan the ultimate road trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL!
Before you start packing your bags, make sure to check out our Things to Do page. It’s full of recommendations about the best restaurants, shops, attractions, and activities on St. George Island. Planning a trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL, has never been easier!

How Far Is it From Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL?
Driving from Nashville to St. George Island is easy. It takes approximately 8 ½ hours to drive here via I-65 S, so you can easily reach our island in just one day. The entire trip is 519 miles. However, we would allow an extra hour for traffic or stops along the way. If you are looking for a good halfway point to rest, you might consider breaking for lunch in Montgomery, AL. There are many quick fast food places and great sit-down restaurants right next to the interstate. From here, it’s just four more hours to the beach!

Things to Do in St. George Island, FL
Once you’ve reached St. George Island, settle into your Collins Vacation Home and get a great night’s rest. The next morning, enjoy all that the island has to offer! From kayaking and paddle boarding to snorkeling and fishing, there is no shortage of things to do along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Here are some suggestions to get you started. For even more recommendations, check out our blog or Things to Do page.

1. Relax at the Beach
St. George Island is home to the world’s most beautiful beaches – it’s no secret. Unlike other Florida beaches, you won’t find large commercial high rises and hotels here. Instead, the island offers a beautiful and secluded location away from all the crowds. Enjoy lounging on sugar-white shorelines, splashing in the Gulf, and soaking up the sun. If adventure is what you seek, you’ll surely find it here as well. Rent jet skis and race your friends over the waves, hop on a fishing charter, or kayak along our beautiful waterways. The possibilities are endless!

2. Shop For Coastal Treasures
Whether you’re searching for beach gear, souvenirs, apparel, jewelry or art, you’ll discover it all on St. George Island. Take your time browsing the island’s unique beach shops and specialty stores. Shop for unique gifts at St. George Island Trading Co., find upscale clothing and accessories at Seaside Cotton Boutique, or stop for a scoop of ice cream at Aunt Ebby’s Shopping is the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon on beautiful St. George!

3. Dig Into the Catch of the Day
From oceanfront cafes and romantic bistros to fine dining establishments, there are many excellent restaurants on St. George Island. While you’ll find different types of mouthwatering cuisine here, we are especially known for our seafood. After all, there’s nothing better than the taste of fresh fish, crab, and shrimp caught straight from the Gulf of Mexico. While you’re visiting, make sure to try our Apalachicola Bay Oysters. They are world-famous for a reason!

Relax and Unwind in Your Collins Vacation Rental
Wouldn’t you rather be relaxing on the beach right now? Plan a road trip to St. George Island right now and experience the getaway you’ve been dreaming about. When you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental, you can experience your family vacation to the fullest. Our gorgeous collection of rentals includes beachfront properties, homes with Gulf views and heated pools, pet-friendly accommodations and much more. No matter which vacation home you choose, we guarantee you will make memories to last a lifetime along our sandy shores!

Browse our St. George Island properties and book your stay today. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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When you come to St. George Island, experiencing the incredible waters surrounding our island is probably at the top of your list. You can splash around, float on top, and cast your line! If you’re looking to experience some fishing during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, we recommend trying the St. George Island Fishing Pier. 

If you want to know more ways to get out on the water, take a look at our Things to Do page! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite businesses in the area and places to go to save you from hours of research. Whether you are looking for more spots like St. George Island Fishing Pier, a romantic date night, or family activity, our page can help!

What is the St. George Island Fishing Pier? 
The St. George Island Fishing Pier is located on the northern side of the island. It juts out 600 feet into the water, giving visitors more than enough room to spread out and enjoy the pier. You can catch fish year round off SGI, but May starts the season of shore and pier fishing each year.

Do I Need a Fishing License? 
If you are planning on fishing from the shore or from a boat, you will need a fishing license. There are a few exceptions such as being a Florida resident over 65 years of age, are under 16 years of age, and participating on catch and release fishing. The exact rules can be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website. However, if you go on a charter, your license will most likely be provided.

3 Game Fish to Reel In on the St. George Island Fishing Pier
Florida Pompano
These school fish are remarkably fast swimmers. Normally feeding on zoobenthos and small clams, you can catch them with light jigs and popping corks. Look for the compressed body and short snout. The colors of pompano range from silver with hints of blue-green on the dorsal areas to silver or yellow on the body and fins.

Black Drum
Black or gray in color, the black drum has powerful jaws. When you head to the St. George Island fishing pier, shrimp or squid work well to hook them. Sometimes, the older fish are drawn in using portions of blue crab. They can also be caught on spoons and jigs!

Spanish Mackerel
Silver sides, a green back, and a few rows of yellow spots are characteristic of the Spanish mackerel. These fish are carnivorous and love live bait! Spanish mackerel move quickly, so you’ll need to be quicker to pull these in during your trip to the St. George Island fishing pier.

Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After reeling in your catch on the St. George Island fishing pier, come back to your Collins Vacation Home to relax. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the pier, not to mention great local attractions, beaches, and more. Browse through our properties , then start planning your stay! If you have any questions, you are more than welcome to contact us ; we’re happy to help! We look forward to hosting you for the vacation of a lifetime.

There’s nothing like ending a sunny day with a delicious scoop or two of ice cream. Imagine sitting by the beach, your family by your  side, indulging in your favorite flavor on a waffle cone. If you’re looking to treat yourself to some ice cream on St. George Island, you have to go to Aunt Eby’s!

Are you planning a trip to St. George Island? Take a look at our Things to Do page! Our area is filled with countless other wonderful attractions, so we put together this complete list of handpicked, local recommendations. This valuable resource has helped tons of travelers plan unforgettable trips to the Forgotten Coast, so make sure to browse through today!
Where Can I Get the Best Ice Cream on St. George Island, FL?

In our opinion, no vacation is complete without getting ice cream at least once. If you’re looking for the best ice cream on St. George Island, FL, look no further than Aunt Eby’s Ice Cream Shop. When you enter the building, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time into a classic ice cream parlor. The checkered floor, classic music, and bright colors draw you in. How many scoops will you get?

What Can I Order at the Best Ice Cream on St. George Island, FL?
The flavors vary depending on the season at Aunt Eby’s Ice Cream, so you never know what you’ll find! However, we can guarantee you that they will always be delicious. Some fun flavors they have had in the past are banana pudding, pistachio, birthday cake, and salted caramel. Decide between a cup or cone or indulge in a sundae. You can choose to have a malt or shake, too!

Why We Love Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream Shop
It’s not just the plentiful flavors and excellent ice cream that makes Aunt Ebby’s the best ice cream on St. George Island, FL. It’s more than that. This little eatery has been on St. George Island for more than 20 years. When you walk in, you’ll see photos lining the walls of past customers with their ice cream. It’s always heartwarming to see families coming back year after year and looking for their photo on the wall!

When is Aunt Ebby’s Open?
Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream Shop stays open for most of the year. In the past, they have closed for some time during January and February because of the slow season. If you’re wondering if they will be open during your winter stay, email them at auntebbysicecream@gmail.com! Otherwise, they are open every day from 1 PM to 9 PM.

Where to Stay on St. George Island
After indulging in some of the best ice cream on St. George Island, FL, come back and relax at your Collins Vacation Home. Enjoying a delicious scoop of your favorite flavor then returning to your beautiful beach house is the perfect way to end the night! All of our properties are filled with all the amenities your family needs to have a fun and memorable vacation. With easy access to restaurants, beaches, and more, our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Whether you are looking for a beachfront home or a small condo for two, we have the perfect rental for you! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island.

St. George Island is famous for its beautiful beaches, rivers, and bays. It’s no surprise then, that one of the best ways to explore this Forgotten Coast paradise is via kayak! Paddle through sparkling rivers, navigate the bayous of Apalachicola Bay, or explore diverse waterways filled with spectacular scenery and wildlife. Are you ready for a fun day on the water? Before you go, you’ll need to get your St. George Island kayak rentals!

Did you know that it’s possible to enjoy complimentary St. George Island kayak rentals? Read on to learn how! And if you’re interested in learning about even more St. George Island activities, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of great recommendations about all the best outdoor activities, adventures, and events along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Vacation planning has never been easier!

Your Guide to St. George Island Kayak Rentals

1.  Journeys of St. George Island
Paddle yourself to a better vacation with Journeys of St. George Island! This local retailer supplies visitors with kayaks for several types of experiences. Choose their St. George Island kayak rentals to take a tour of the river, cast a line in the bay, or paddle through the surf. You can rent a kayak from Journeys of St. George Island for as little as 8 hours, or as many as 7 days. The possibilities are endless!
In addition to rentals, Journeys of SGI offers guided kayaking and paddle boarding trips on St. George Island. No two tours are the same, yet they all offer a one-of-a-kind experience that is educational and fun. Enjoy a fabulous day exploring quiet coves, secluded bay beaches, scenic tributaries, or freshwater rivers and creeks. Get an up-close look at native wildlife, such as St. George Island manatees, turtles, egrets, herons, and more. All of their guided trips include a bottle of water, gear, guide and transportation.

2. Island Outfitters
Are you planning to do some fishing while on vacation? Known as the best fishing gear rental on St. George Island, Island Outfitters is another great place to rent kayaks. They include everything you need for an amazing angling trip, including high-quality seats, life jackets, paddles, and roof racks or pads to secure them to your vehicle. Island Outfitters also has Mirage Drive Pedal Kayaks. Cut down on bulk and leave the paddles at the shore when you opt for this efficient fishing vessel!

How to Enjoy a Complimentary Kayak Rental on St. George Island
It’s possible to enjoy a complimentary Journeys of SGI kayak rental when you book a stay in select Collins Vacation Rentals. We have proudly partnered with Xplorie to help you make the most of your St. George Island getaway. You can add on a complimentary 3-hour kayak rental at select properties. Just make your reservations 24-hours in advance and get the paddling adventure of a lifetime!

In addition to kayak rentals, guests staying at select Collins Vacation homes can access several other complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Bay Golf Course, climb the SGI Lighthouse, ice cream from Aunt Ebby’s, a latte from Coffee and Cream and free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. Check out our website for more details and get ready for an action-packed vacation!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
At the end of an amazing day exploring the island, come relax at a gorgeous Collins Vacation Home. From beachfront homes to luxurious villas and island cottages, we offer a wide array of lodging options along the Forgotten Coast. Each of our well-appointed properties features top-notch amenities to ensure that your stay is a relaxing one. Many of them even feature heated pools, hot tubs, elevators, boat docks, beach access, and more!
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 has some of the best fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to beautiful waters and great weather, there are several ways to enjoy your favorite pastime. You can head over to one of the island’s most loved fishing spots, or step outside your oceanfront rental to cast a line in the surf. For extended fun, choose a fantastic St. George Island fishing charter to explore the waters of the Gulf. Whether you are new to this hobby or have participated in the pastime for many years, you’ll never forget fishing the waters of the Forgotten Coast. Take a look at our Things to Do page before you arrange your fishing trip and plan the best vacation you’ve ever had!

Discover the Forgotten Coast’s Remarkable Beauty on These St. George island Fishing Charters

Find the Rarest Seashells With Bay View Charters of SGI

Plan a charter and go shelling with the whole family! Bay View Charters of SGI offers a unique experience that will take your breath away. On this charter, Captain Wes McCall will take you and your crew to the uninhabited islands of St. Vincent and Little St. George Island, where you’ll find thousands of seashells and other rare items that have washed ashore. If you’re also looking for an offshore fishing opportunity, Bay View Charters, is the place for you. Captain McCall is one of three captains on the island with a Federal Waters permit. No matter which adventure you choose, we know you and your family will have a blast!

Try Your Hand at In-Shore Fishing With Journeys of St. George Island

Gear up the whole family and get ready for a day full of adventure on the Gulf Coast. Journeys of St. George Island charters offer a marvelous in-shore fishing trip. This charter trip pairs you with an experienced fishing guide and can even provide all the equipment you will need while you are out on the water. This trip is perfect for anyone looking to catch snapper, grouper, and kingfish. There’s no doubt you’ll be in good hands with Captain Jeremy, Captain Tim, and the rest of the crew at Journeys of St. George Island.

Go on an Off-Shore Fishing Adventure With St. George Island Charters

For the ultimate fishing experience, cast a line in the Apalachicola Bay or the beautiful Florida Gulf with guidance from St. George Island Charters and Captain Krista Miller. Captain Krista is a St. George Island native and 5th generation fisherman, specializing in bay and Gulf fishing charters around St. George Island.  Fish Inshore, Offshore – up to 9 miles from land and Deep Sea-Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters:  10-40 Miles.  Captain Krista also offers Fish ‘n fun Charter with Fishing – Dolphin – Shelling – Sunset trips.
Try to Find These Fish While You’re on the Water!

Tripletail
Speckled trout
Flounder
Wahoo
Tuna
Mahi

Relax in a Collins Vacation Rental
After a fun day filled with great fishing, enjoy your evening at a Collins vacation home. Our homes have all of the amenities you need for a getaway you’ll never forget. Collins vacation rentals are located all over St. George Island, so you can take full advantage of the stunning Forgotten Coast. To see the full range of property options, request one of our rental guides.
When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can unwind 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!

It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most desirable spring break destinations. Each year, families and students flock to The Sunshine State to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy a much-needed break from work and school.  The St. George Island State Park was Voted the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2023!  If you’re looking to avoid the crowds this year, why not plan a relaxing getaway to St. George Island, FL? With pristine shorelines and exciting activities, the island is home to the best Florida spring break beaches for a family getaway.
Once you visit, we think you’ll agree; St. George Island has the best Florida spring break beaches! For more recommendations about things to do on spring break in Florida, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate beach vacation, including suggestions about the best family activities local dining, excursions, attractions, and more. Vacation planning has never been easier!

4 of the Best Florida Spring Break Beaches
There’s no place more beautiful than Florida in the spring. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing vacation, consider one of the following St. George Island beaches:

1. St. George Island Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the country, St. George Island beach boasts some of the clearest waters you have ever seen. The uncrowded shorelines are ideal for swimming, beachcombing, or simply lounging in the sunshine. Build a sandcastle with the kids, splash in the Gulf, or sink your toes in the sand and relax. The sound of gentle waves will carry you to a state of pure bliss!
In addition to pristine shorelines, St. George Island beach has bathhouse facilities, pavilions for picnics, a playground for the kiddos, and a ball court. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach, so feel free to bring Fido!

2. Unit 4 Beach
Unit 4 Beach is located on the bayside of the island and offers total seclusion. Lounge by the shoreline and enjoy the natural setting of this peaceful oasis. Or, bring kayaks and enjoy a family paddle through serene waters. Unit Four Beach is also a prime destination for birding, fishing, and hiking. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for heron, diving osprey, eagles, and more. There is limited parking, so we recommend arriving early. Leashed dogs are welcome.

3. St. George Island State Park
With powder-soft sand and sparkling blue waters, St. George Island State Park is by far one of the best beaches in Florida for Spring Break.  Located on the Gulf-side of the island, this beach offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. Comb the shore for shells, play in the Gulf, and look for dolphins leaping in the distance. Although some areas of the park are currently undergoing repairs, the East Slough Beach Use Area is now open for parking and beach access.

4. Cape St. George Island State Reserve
You may just have the entire beach to yourself when you visit the Cape St. George Island State Reserve! Located on Little St. George Island, this 9-mile stretch of shoreline features untouched beaches, scenic hiking trails, and plentiful wildlife-viewing opportunities. The reserve is only accessible by boat, which makes it even more secluded. To get there, we recommend hopping on a sailing charter, or taking a guided tour to the reserve with Journey’s of Saint George Island.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
So, there you have it! When it comes to the best Florida spring break destinations for families, no place compares to St. George Island! Experience our island paradise to the fullest when you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental. We offer a wide array of incredible vacation homes, many of which are located right on the beach! From pet-friendly rentals to large, luxury homes, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay.

Guests staying at select, participating Collins Vacation homes can also access several complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayak rental, complimentary bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Golf Course, Aunt Eby’s Ice Cream, Coffee & Ceam or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. So, what are you waiting for? Browse all properties and contact us to book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome your family for spring break!

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Spring Break only comes once a year, and it’s the perfect time to take the family on vacation.  St. George Island State Park was voted the #1 Beach in America in 2023!  You don’t have to worry about the kids missing any important school, and by the time spring rolls around, you’re all ready for some time off. Renting a beach house on St. George Island is the best spring break family beach vacation available! Here’s why.

4 Reasons Why SGI Is the Best Spring Break Family Beach Vacation

Countless Things to Do
You and the kids will never be bored on St. George Island! There are countless activities on the Forgotten Coast, and Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help you plan your trip. For a summary on all the things to do here, check out our Things to Do page. As locals in the area, we know where to go! From relaxing on the beach to fishing to kayaking to visiting historic sites, there is something for everyone.

It’s Not Crowded
One thing travelers worry about during spring break is going to a crowded area. With so many kids out of school at the same time, many hotspots are so full of people that you can’t enjoy yourself. That’s not the case with St. George Island! Our small island is not built up with big-name hotels and countless condo complexes like most of Florida, so you’ll always find a spot on the beach. Don’t fight the crowds and wait in line for every little thing you do this year!

The Option to Dine out or Stay In
Having a vacation rental for your spring break is the best of both worlds. There’s more than enough room to spread out in your home, and it gives you the option to choose to dine out or stay in. There are many great restaurants on SGI, but sometimes, it’s easier to cook up a grilled cheese or a family meal instead. Head to one of the grocery stores just moments away! If you don’t feel like cooking on vacation, the kids will love a spot like the Blue Parrot right on the beach.

Great Weather
Escape the cold this spring break when you visit St. George Island! Our temperatures will most likely be in the 70s while the kids are on break, so you won’t have to worry about snow or winter coats. This weather is perfect for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities after being cooped up all winter long.

Book Your Spring Break Getaway Today
The sooner you book your best spring break family beach vacation, the better! You know that spring break is a popular time to go on vacation, so book today in order to get your first choice of property and dates. Browse our properties to start planning your stay. You can choose based on size and location—you can easily make sure your vacation perfect. With everything from small cottages to beachfront villas, we have something to fit the size and needs of your family. We look forward to seeing you on the island this spring!

If you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate the summertime with your family, St. George Island has everything you need! There are so many things to do on St. George Island with kids, from exploring beautiful beaches to cruising through the ocean on kayaks. The magic of St. George Island will leave you and your crew with lasting memories! For more vacation information and fun island activities, check out our Things to do page and begin planning the ultimate family vacation!

Top 3 Things to Do on St. George Island With Kids

Spend an Afternoon at the St. George Island State Park
The stunning landscape of St. George Island State Park is unparalleled. This nature reserve extends along the east end of the island for more than 2,000 acres, and its home to much of the flora and fauna that makes up our island. On the Forgotten Coast, you and the kids can enjoy nine miles of serene white sand beaches that overlook the beautiful Apalachicola Bay. St. George Island State Park was named the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach for 2023.  The park also offers a variety of activities that are bound to captivate and engage kids of all ages. Swimming on St. George Island is a family favorite and keeps the kids entertained for hours.
While your family enjoys the spectacular ocean views, take some time to go shelling. These small treasures are a perfect reminder of the Forgotten Coast’s magic and can be appreciated by people of all ages.

Other amenities that will be useful for the whole family:
Playground
Restroom facilities
Shower station
Canoe and kayak launch
Wheelchair accessibility

Ride Kayaks Into the Sunset
Pack some snacks, grab the kids, and rent kayaks for a remarkable island adventure. You’ll get to see the Forgotten Coast from a different vantage point, and you won’t be disappointed. Several local shops offer kayak rentals and guided tours of varying lengths. One of our family-friendly favorites is the sunset trip.

Dine at the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants on St. George Island, FL
All of these island adventures are bound to make you hungry! Luckily, St. George Island has many amazing family-friendly restaurants that offer you great food, fun, and a laid-back island experience.
Check out these tasty local restaurants when you get hungry:

BJ’s Pizza and Subs
Mango Mike’s 
Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream & Deli
Harry A’s
Paddy’s Raw Bar
The Beach Pit
The Blue Parrot

Delight in More Island Adventures with Collins Vacation Rentals
Once you’ve discovered what St. George Island has to offer, retreat to a perfect island-style vacation rental. Unwinding in a Collins VR is perfect if you need a little time out of the sun or if it’s a rainy day. We have more than 300 private properties with plenty of space for everyone in your party, and, in some cases, your furry friend! Make your home away from home minutes away from the beach and give your family the getaway they deserve. Spend your spring break, summer, or any other vacation with us. We can’t wait to meet you! Browse our properties and contact us to book an unforgettable beach getaway today!

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Dr. Beach named St. George Island State Park the #1 Beach in the Nation for 2023!

St. George is the number one ranked beach in the 33rd annual Top 10 Beach List, produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman,  professor in the Department of Earth & Environment at Florida International University in Miami.

St. George Island is full of scenic areas and fun activities that will make any vacation here unforgettable. One of our island’s gems you won’t want to miss during your Collins Vacation Rentals getaway is St. George Island State Park. Serene views paired with undisturbed beaches provide the perfect backdrop for some quality time. Discover everything you need to know about the park today!

Are you thinking of a St. George Island getaway? We can help you plan your trip! Collins Vacation Rentals was founded on the island more than 40 years ago, so we are versed in all of the best spots to enjoy during your next vacation. Take a look at our Things to Do page to start planning! Whether you’re looking for more spots like St. George Island State Park or where to go out to eat, you’ll find it here.

What to See at St. George Island State Park

Explore the Incredible Landscape
St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of St. George Island. The park is a stunning display of the gorgeous nature our island holds. Oak forests, sandy coves, pine trees, and salt marshes are dotted along the landscape.
The pristine park is best known for its nine miles of unspoiled beaches. Long stretches of white sand and dunes overlook the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay. You’ll definitely want to make it a point to visit this gorgeous area during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals!

Discover the Native Wildlife
Countless species of wildlife call St. George Island State Park their home. You’ll see several kinds of shorebirds swimming and scavenging along the coast such as snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, and willet nest.
You can also expect to share the area with sea turtles. They nest on the island from approximately May 1 to October 31 each year!

Handicap Accessibility 
St. George Island State Park keeps everyone in mind and aims to be as accessible as possible. There are beach wheelchairs available, two Beach Cruiser electric mobility devices, a floating Mobi-Chair, and three mobility mats. You can learn more on their site!

What to Do at St. George Island State Park

Relax on the Sand
Nine miles of pristine coastline at St. George Island State Park means plenty of room for spreading out on the sand. One of our favorite things about our island is that there is so much shore that the beaches are never crowded! Rent some chairs and umbrellas to bring with you, then set up here for the day.

Go For a Swim 
During the warm months on the Forgotten Coast, ocean water is a welcomed relief from the hot sun. You’ll love taking a dip in the clear water when you visit St. George Island State Park! If you bring the kids, they’ll most likely spend the entire day splashing around. You won’t even have to entertain them like usual!

Cast a Line
Fishing is one of the most relaxing pastimes, and there is plenty of opportunity for it on St. George Island. If you want to cast your line in St. George Island State Park, you’ll have the opportunity to catch flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting, and sometimes even Spanish mackerel! Just make sure you have your fishing license.

Pack a Picnic
Before you make your way over to St. George Island State Park, make sure you stop at the grocery store to get some picnic necessities. At the park, you’ll have your choice of six picnic shelters, each with grills and picnic tables. They can even be reserved if you’re having a large gathering!

Search for Shells
Shells are some of the best souvenirs to take home on vacation, and St. George Island State Park is an excellent spot to look for them! Stroll the beach and look down at the sand— you are sure to find some.

Launch a Canoe or Kayak
See SGI from a different perspective when you get out on a kayak or canoe! There are two natural ramps in the park that can launch your craft into the bay.

Go on a Hike
There’s more to St. George Island State Park than just a beach! There are multiple hiking trails to enjoy here, especially when the winter weather is a little too cold to lay out. Each trailhead is marked by a kiosk so you can easily find them. The trail to Gap Point is 2.5 miles and takes you through pine flatwood forests to the bay, and the East Slough Overlook Trail will bring you across boardwalks lined with benches and information on the resources.

Go Birding
Bring your binoculars to St. George Island State Park! More than 300 species of birds have been documented here, so it’s the perfect place to go birding during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals. Pelicans and gulls are the most common, but endangered and rare species have also been seen.

Take the Kids to the Playground
There is a community playground at the camping area that the kids will love. Even if you are not camping, all are welcome. It’s the perfect place to go if the kids have a little energy they need to get rid of.

Stargaze at Night
When you stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll notice something about our night sky. It’s filled with stars! Unlike the light pollution in the big cities and towns, our island has some of the darkest skies you have ever experienced. The Gulf of Mexico makes it so we have hardly any light pollution at all, and the closest city is more than 70 miles away. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way and faint constellations!

Experience Our Island With Collins Vacation Rentals

St. George Island State Park has something for every kind of nature lover. After you and your family explore the amazing surroundings, you’ll be ready to rest your feet at your Collins Vacation Rental.
Located throughout St. George Island, our homes come complete with everything you need to have the vacation of a lifetime. Whether you’re searching for a beachfront view or a stunning property on Apalachicola Bay, we have just what you’re searching for. Looking to bring Fido along? View our pet-friendly properties perfect for the whole family! We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!