Uncategorized Archives - Page 7 of 12 - Collins Vacation Rentals Blog

August 27, 2018January 27, 2021

This Is Why You Need to Go to Cape St. George Island State Reserve

St. George Island’s quiet beaches bring countless visitors to our coastal paradise each year. With mile after mile of untouched sands, the pristine shoreline gives you more than enough room to spread out. If you’d like to be in an even more secluded area, spend the day at Cape St. George Island State Reserve. Located on Little St. George Island, you’ll have miles of beach to yourself.

Are you planning a Forgotten Coast getaway? Get started with our Things to Do page! Not only will you find outdoor spots like Cape St. George Island State Reserve, it will tell you everything you need to know about our area. Collins Vacation Rentals has been on SGI for more than 40 years, so we know the most trusted businesses here! Take a look and start planning the getaway of a lifetime.

Little St. George Island

Little St. George Island was once a part of St. George Island but was separated during the Bob Sike’s Cut. A channel was created between the two parts so Apalachicola fishing fleets and other vessels could more easily access the gulf from Apalachicola Bay. Because of this, Little St. George has been cut off from civilization. Here, you will find the Cape St. George Island State Reserve! More than nine miles of untouched beaches, incredible hiking trails, and amazing wildlife are waiting to be explored.

Getting There
You won’t have to worry about any traffic getting to Cape St. George Island State Reserve; it is only accessible by boat! Keep in mind that Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico can pose a challenge for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. If you choose a small craft, make sure that you are aware of tides, wind, and weather. Otherwise, we recommend renting a boat to bring over and park at the community Marshall Dock.

If you don’t trust yourself to get to Little St. George Island safely, Journey’s of St. George Island offers guided boat tours that include a stop at the island. The 3-Hour Powerboat Tour will take you to the island to bring you to the original site of the St. George Lighthouse. Then, you’ll have some time for walking the beach before hopping back on the boat! Another option is a sailing charter. Just let them know you want to stop at the island!

What You’ll Find
Untouched Landscapes
When you first step foot on the Cape St. George Island State Reserve, it will be very apparent that the island is uninhabited. The pristine white sands merge into a forest to create an island paradise. Not much of Florida’s original natural landscape is left, but on Little St. George, you can still experience a small piece. The gorgeous plant life that is spread throughout the island is one of its biggest allures. The landscape is made up of dunes, pine flatwoods, extensive flatlands, and a small willow swamp.

Flourishing Wildlife
Because the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program protects the island, the wildlife and natural landscape has been able to flourish. No motorized vehicles are allowed and rangers patrol the island from time to time to protect it. There are few mammals found here due to its separation from the mainland, but a family of raccoons have made it their home. However, a wide array of birds make their way to the island during migration in the spring and fall.

What to Do at Cape St. George Island State Reserve
Go on a Hike
Hiking is the number one activity to enjoy on the St. George Island State Reserve! Trails consist of sand, shrubbery, and wildflowers. Each trail is marked for your convenience by wooden signs so you always know where you are going. As you hike, you’ll feel as if you are in another world. The combination of greenery, sand, and towering trees shows you a slice of what an untouched Florida landscape looks like.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning on hiking, make sure you wear proper footwear. If you would like to spend some time on the beach, bring a change of shoes. The briars and cacti on these island trails are no match for tiny sandals!

Hit the Beach
If you hate crowded beaches, you have come to the right place. St. George Island beaches are never crowded, but the Cape St. George Island State Reserve beaches barely have anyone on them due to their seclusion from the mainland! There are more than 9 miles of undeveloped beaches waiting to be enjoyed.
Pro Tip: Make sure you bring all your supplies since you won’t have access to St. George Island unless you want to go back by boat. Pack plenty of water and snacks!

Cast a Line
If you’d like a quiet fishing spot, Cape St. George Island State Reserve is perfect for you. If you’d like to cast your line, head to the east end of the island. The shore and jetties here are the best spots to fish. Make sure you have all the gear you need before heading over since there is no bait and tackle on the island!

Book Your Dream Vacation Today
It’s time to book your dream vacation! Whether you are looking for the perfect vacation rental with friends or with family, Collins Vacation Rentals has it all. When you stay with us, you can choose where you would like to be located on our island. If you’re interested in being near the Cape St. George Island State Reserve, you could even get a rental overlooking the uninhabited island! Browse our properties to start planning your stay. With more than 200 to choose from, we know we will have the perfect one for you. Choose your rental based on size and location, or take a look at our specials to see what deals we are offering during your desired dates. Our company has been on the island for more than 47 years, so you can trust our homes and services. We look forward to seeing you on our Florida oasis!

August 1, 2018January 21, 2021

3 of the Best Places to Rent a St. George Island Paddleboard

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of island life is to get out on the water! There’s nothing better than experiencing the strong yet calm powers of the ocean beneath you. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, try a St. George Island paddleboard excursion. There are plenty of rentals for you to get your hands on during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental!

If you want to try other activities like a St. George Island paddleboard excursion, we can help. Start by looking at our Things to Do page! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging and time-consuming, so we want to be there every step of the way during your planning process. You can trust that the businesses and activities listed on this page are the best on the island.

3 of the Best Places to Rent a St. George Island Paddleboard

Journeys of St. George Island
Whether you have been on a stand up paddleboard before or are trying it out for the first time, Journeys of St. George Island can help. As one of the best outdoor adventure companies on the island, they have everything you need for your trip. Choose to use a kayak or SUP on your tour. You’ll be provided with the equipment, guide, transportation, and a Journeys water bottle. Each trip is based on difficulty, length, and location, so browse and pick your favorite!

Island Outfitters
Island Outfitters is a SGI go-to for rentals! Not only to they have a wide array of paddleboards, they also rent out other gear like kayaks, surfboards, and bodyboards. The experts in this shop will help you choose exactly which SUP you should use. You will find boards for both beginners and those that are more advanced; plus, they have multiple lengths. Rent by the hour or opt for a 5-day rental to have it the entire time you’re at a Collins Vacation property!

Island Fit Sup & Yoga
If you’re on vacation, you deserve to relax a little. Island Fit Sup & Yoga will help you relax out on the water! Start with a beach yoga class, then move on to a paddleboard adventure. You have three options: rentals, tours, and lessons. Their Basic Instruction Course is the perfect way to try paddleboarding for the first time; the expert guides provide private and group lessons for novices. Once you have had a little experience, you’ll be ready for the Eco Tours. Fish from your SUP, see dolphins in the river, and more!

Start Planning Your Trip to Paradise
Your St. George Island paddleboard excursion awaits! It’s time to start planning your trip to our island paradise. Begin your planning by browsing our properties. With more than 200 properties located throughout the entire island, you’ll always have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a weekend away with your sweetheart or a family reunion with your extended family, we have a home perfect for you. We look forward to seeing you on SGI!

June 13, 2018January 28, 2021

This Is Why You Need to Visit Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island

When you’re on vacation, you deserve to indulge a little. What better way is there to begin your morning than with a delicious donut? No matter what age you are, you can’t help but love this tasty treat. If you’d like to start your day off right with a pastry, we recommend visiting Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island!

If you consider yourself a foodie, you’re probably planning out your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Learn more about eateries like Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island when you take a look at our Things to Do page! As experts on our island, we created a list of the best businesses and activities you can enjoy during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental. Now, you can spend less time planning and more time doing what’s important: making memories.

About Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island
Weber’s Little Donut Shop is located right in the center of St. George Island at 65 West Gorrie Drive. Their opening and closing time varies depending on the season, but they are usually open at 7 or 7:30 a.m. They are also closed at certain times during the off-season, so make sure you check before you visit! Their Facebook page usually has all of the correct info.

How Much are Donuts?
Donuts at Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island are $1 each. You can mix and match a dozen for $12! The kids will love it when you come back to your Collins Vacation Rental with a box of goodies. Or, take them and let them pick out their own! Plus, their displays look so delicious that you will want to try them all.

Insider Tip:
Wake up early! There’s a good chance the donuts will sell out if you don’t. During the high season, you might even see some visitors lining up in front of the shop before it opens!

The Donuts
The donuts at Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island are all cake donuts. This means that they are pretty dense and have great flavor! They are made fresh daily, so they are often still warm when you get them. They make multiple varieties that change from time to time, so you never know what you will get! Some of our favorite flavors are the blueberry, cinnamon sugar, and caramel chocolate. Plus, when it’s a holiday, they will always have special flavors and decorations! There’s nothing like getting some red, white, and blue donuts for the 4th of July.

Book Your Vacation Today
It’s time to book your getaway to SGI! Collins Vacation Rentals has a variety of properties located across the island. Whether you are looking to be close enough to ride your bike to spots in town like Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island or would like to be secluded in the Plantation, we have a home for you. Browse our properties to start planning your trip! We look forward to giving you the vacation of a lifetime.

June 13, 2018January 27, 2021

Everything You Need to Know About Island Adventures on St. George Island

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!

June 13, 2018January 21, 2021

Where Are the Best Grocery Stores near St. George Island, FL?

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!

May 25, 2018January 21, 2021

When Are the Best Fishing Times on St. George Island, FL?

St. George Island is a fisherman’s heaven! Completely surrounded by clear, blue water, the island beckons you to come cast your line. Whether you are looking to get a charter or fish from the shore, there is enough opportunity for you to fish for days! So, when are the best fishing times on St. George Island, FL?

If you’re planning a fishing adventure, we can help plan the rest of your trip. Collins Vacation Rentals has been on SGI for more than 40 years, so we are experts in the area! Start your planning with our Things to Do page. You’ll find all the information you need about the best businesses in the area, fun activities, the best restaurants, and more! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created this handpicked list of local recommendations to save you from hours of research.

When Are the Best Fishing Times on St. George Island, FL?

Year-Round
You can fish year-round on St. George Island! Our southern location means that we experience great weather almost every day of the year. Even in the dead of winter, you can easily spend some time outdoors. No matter what time of year you fish, you can expect to reel in redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, and black drum from the bay. If you are surf fishing , you’ll find whiting, flounder, and redfish. You’ll most likely catch some red snapper, grouper, amberjack, cobia, jack crevalle, kingfish, mahi-mahi and more if you are offshore.

Warm Water
When the water around the island warms up, even more fish come through. As the warm weather sets in and the water reaches at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit, Spanish mackeral and sharks can be caught while surf fishing. June, July, and August are peak tarpon times!

Check the Charts
If you want a more in-depth analysis of when the best fishing times are on St. George Island, FL, you can always check the fishing charts. This particular chart will show you the exact times the fish are likely to bite the most and the least in the morning and the evening. If you cast your line during these peak times, you’re more likely to catch a fish!

St. George Island Fishing Spots
When you stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, you have tons of options for where to fish. With miles of uncrowded beaches, surf fishing is one of the most popular options. If you choose to rent a beachfront home, you can even cast your line right outside your own front door! Plus, many of our bay front and canal front homes have private docks you can fish from. You can also go to the St. George Island fishing pier to fish out of the bay. Another popular option is to get a charter. Journey’s of SGI is a popular company to go on a fishing excursion with, and they’ll provide bait, tackle, rods, reels, licenses, and fish cleaning so you won’t have to worry about a thing!

Book Your Fishing Adventure Today
Whether you consider yourself a fishing expert or just enjoy reeling in the day’s catch for fun, St. George Island is the place for you. With the best fishing times in St. George Island being year-round, you can book a stay at Collins Vacation Rentals at any time of the year! Take a break from the cold when you come to our island in the winter or make it your summer vacation. Browse through our rentals , then book your stay! We look forward to seeing you!

April 29, 2018January 27, 2021

Here Are the Best Reasons to Visit Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL

Here Are the Best Reason to Visit Paddy's Raw Bar on St. George Island FL

Are you craving fresh Apalachicola oysters? Perhaps you’re in the mood for straight-from-the-Gulf seafood? When it comes to dining along the Forgotten Coast, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is where to go first! While there are several excellent restaurants here, one of our top recommendations is Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL. With great food, cold beer, and daily live music, this waterfront bar is a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike. Come grab a bite to eat and enjoy the Paddy’s experience for yourself. Once you visit, you’ll want to come back again and again!

After you visit Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, make sure to check out the other great dining options in our area. Visit our Things to Do Page for more tips about restaurants, attractions, and nightlife on St. George Island. It’s full of great suggestions to help you plan your trip!

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL

1. Delicious Apalachicola Oysters
The Apalachicola Bay oysters at Paddy’s Raw Bar are always fresh. That’s because they are brought straight from the fishing boats every single day! Order them raw or steamed, or choose from a wide array of tasty recipes. In addition to some of the best oysters on St. George Island, the menu at Paddy’s Raw Bar features several other mouthwatering dishes. Their offerings mainly include fresh seafood that has been caught just off the coast. You’ll find everything from Southern classics like steamed shrimp to unique dishes like seafood quesadillas. Non-seafood options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads are also available.

2. Great Drinks
Is there a more perfect combination than fresh oysters and ice-cold beer? With wine, cider, and more than 16 beers on tap, there is something to please every palate here! The draft beers range from hoppy IPA’s to lagers, ambers, and dark stouts. If you would like to try something new, we recommend the local Oyster City Apalach IPA or the Hooter Brown. And if you prefer wine, they have a wonderful selection of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Champagne, White Zinfandel, Mimosas, and even Sangria!

3. Daily Live Music
Would you like to enjoy dinner and a show? One thing that sets this bar apart from other local restaurants is the great live music! From blues and soul music to rock and roll, it’s easy to dance the night away here. Check out their Facebook Page to see a complete list of upcoming Paddy’s Raw Bar events!

4. Family Trivia Night
If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, make sure to visit during one of the trivia nights. Team Trivia is held on Mondays at 7 p.m. Pair up with the family, or make some new friends and work together to put your knowledge to the test. Before you know it, this may just become your new weekly tradition!

5. The Overall Experience
When you dine at Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, you will feel just like a local! Besides the great food, beer, and entertainment, the atmosphere is very welcoming and friendly. Grab a table on the outdoor patio and enjoy the waterfront views and fresh sea breezes. Or, head inside the restaurant for a casual vibe and an open-air setting. Even your four-legged friends are welcome (and encouraged) to join in the fun. There is even a special menu exclusively for dogs!

Where to Stay on St. George Island
After your delicious meal at Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, come back and relax at your gorgeous Collins Vacation rental. With hundreds of rentals to choose from, your perfect home-away-from-home awaits you on our island paradise! Many of our accommodations are located just moments from the best beaches, golf courses, restaurants, bars, and attractions.

When you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, you can choose from an extensive selection of properties that range in size and location. From cozy beachfront condos to large family homes, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay! We also offer pet-friendly lodging for guests who are traveling with dogs. Make sure to check our current specials. Then, contact us to begin planning your St. George Island getaway today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Why You Need to Visit the Forgotten Coast in Florida

Florida is a state full of wonders. The peninsula-shaped land mass has plenty to offer when it comes to sun, sand, and shore. It’s no wonder that the state is such a popular travel destination. However, there is one amazing part of the area that even some experienced travelers haven’t seen. If you haven’t yet been to the Forgotten Coast in Florida, some would say that you haven’t really been to Florida at all! Don’t miss your chance to plan a trip to one of the most natural, untouched, and relaxed regions in the Sunshine State!

Start planning your trip to the Forgotten Coast in Florida today! After you read about the area below, 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!

What You’ll See on the Forgotten Coast in Florida
Scenery
The Forgotten Coast in Florida is a laid-back, naturally beautiful area of the Florida Panhandle. The pristine beaches will catch your attention right away. Watch the waves come in, take a dip, or bring your gear and go fishing! The Forgotten Coast – especially St. George Island – is known for its amazing year-round fishing opportunities. You can engage in virtually every other water-based activity here as well!

Attractions
The Forgotten Coast in Florida also features some really interesting attractions. The St. George Island Lighthouse has a story that stretches all the way back to 1833. You can visit it to learn more, and even climb the tower during a Full Moon Climb. The Apalachicola Maritime Museum is another place to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Seafood
While you’re here, it would be a crime not to experience the seafood! Our famous Apalachicola oysters have a reputation as some of the best, and you can also find a myriad of other types of fresh seafood from local vendors. Try Lynn’s Quality Oysters for a fresh catch that you can take home as well as several prepared options you can enjoy right on the porch!

Big Bend Scenic Byway
Explore even more of the Panhandle’s wild appeal on a 2-hour driving tour. The Big Bend Scenic Byway will take you through several different types of landscapes on the loop between here and Tallahassee.

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the Forgotten Coast of Florida, 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!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Why You Need to Visit Island Outfitters on St. George Island on Your Vacation

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!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Amazing Fun and Facts at the John Gorrie Museum!

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!