Uncategorized Archives - Page 8 of 12 - Collins Vacation Rentals Blog

March 28, 2018January 21, 2021

3 Reasons You Need to Fish Pelican Reef off St. George Island

When it comes to the best fishing destinations in Florida, St. George Island should be at the top of your list. From Apalachicola Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, the entire island is an anglers dream. While there are tons of amazing fishing holes on the island, one of the best-kept-secrets is Pelican Reef. This hidden gem off the coast of St. George Island is only reachable by charter, but the trip is well-worth it. Here’s why you must fish Pelican Reef during your next visit!

After you fish Pelican Reef, check out the other amazing attractions on St. George Island. Head over to our Things to Do page for recommendations about the best local boat tours, excursions, dining, shopping, and more. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate St. George Island getaway!

3 Reasons to Fish Pelican Reef off St. George Island

Discover the Best Flounder Fishing
Pelican Reef off St. George Island is one the best places to go fishing offshore. Stock your boat with plenty of bait before you head out onto the water. Anglers who fish this spot are known to bring in large quantities of flounder. Pelican Reef off St. George Island has two ends: West and East. For the best flounder fishing, head to the western end. Be aware that the fish move up and down the bar with the tide. Also, they are most active when the current is at its peak.

Enjoy a More Secluded Angling Experience
Because Pelican Reef is a lesser-known fishing destination, you can enjoy a more intimate experience. You will never have to worry about tons of boats or other fisherman crowding the reef! Enjoy the peace and quiet while you cast a line into calm waters.

Have Quality Bonding Time With Friends and Family
Navigating your own boat to a beautiful secluded reef, reeling heaps of fish, and enjoying quality time together: is there a better way to spend a day with your loved ones? Bring your family and friends to Pelican Reef and enjoy a fabulous day together on the water. Afterwards, haul your catch home to your Collins Vacation Rental and cook your fresh flounder for dinner. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Other Great Fishing Spots on St. George Island
Once you’ve tried your hand at fishing Pelican Reef off St. George Island, venture out to some of the other amazing fishing areas on and around SGI. St. George Island State Park is another great place for flounder, as well as whiting, pompano, redfish, whiting, and more. Also, the St. George Island Fishing Pier is well-loved by local anglers and visitors alike. If it’s your first time, we also highly recommend taking a fishing charter. Enjoy the best of St. George Island angling under the guidance of experienced professionals who will take you out to all the best fishing spots.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Home
After a day of fishing Pelican Reef off St. George Island, or one of our area’s other premier fishing spots, come relax at a Collins Vacation Home. Our waterfront homes are the ideal place to spend your next fishing trip. Many of our rentals are just steps from the beach, making them perfect for anglers who want to wake up and cast their lines from the shore.

Take full advantage of your beach vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties. So, what are you waiting for? Make sure to check out our current vacation specials and book your stay today! Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip. Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!
Book Now!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Have a Fantastic Meal at Crooked River Grill!

Looking for a great meal with an added touch of ambiance? Try the Crooked River Grill in Carrabelle, FL, just minutes from St. George Island. They serve several amazing dishes, so make sure to go hungry!

Crooked River Grill can provide you with an unforgettable meal during your stay on the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more good times near St. George Island? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the area has to offer. In addition to restaurants and bars, it also contains a range of outdoor activities and local businesses that your friends or family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

Get Ready for a Great Meal at Crooked River Grill
Crooked River Grill is one of the best places for a great lunch on the Forgotten Coast. You can also get a wonderful dinner there on Friday and Saturday nights, or go for the phenomenal brunch on Sundays. Try one of their fresh seafood dishes, or opt for a turf option like the filet mignon with bacon wrapped shrimp. They are also known for having one of the best wine lists in the area! Check out their menu for full details.

Crooked River Grill is located at 151 Laughing Gull Lane in Carrabelle, FL. It is on the site of the St. James Bay Golf Resort. (The restaurant is open to the public.)

Days and hours for the Crooked River Grill change seasonally. Be sure to call for updated times before you go. You can reach the restaurant at (850) 697-5050

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

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

March 28, 2018January 27, 2021

3 of the Best Reasons You’ll Love St. George Island Surf Fishing

St. George Island has an excellent reputation as a fishing destination. The waters around the island are teeming with many types of fish (which also why our restaurants serve some the freshest seafood most people have ever tasted). Anglers have more than a few options for where and how they want to cast their lines, but St. George Island surf fishing is a method that everyone who fishes on SGI should try!

St. George Island surf fishing is just one of the fun things you can do on our amazing island. There are many ways to have an amazing vacation here on SGI. Discover the best ways to see and experience St. George Island and ensure that your family or friends have a memorable getaway to this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists amazing outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the sights and sounds of St. George. The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, make sure you check our Things to Do page first. It contains helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an amazing vacation!

Top 3 Reasons to Love St. George Island Surf Fishing
The Scenery

St. George Island surf fishing is a great way to spend time on the island’s amazing beaches. Stand at the edge of the shore and let the clear water wash around your calves as you cast your line out into the Gulf. Enjoy the unadulterated white sands as you wait, and bring a bathing suit in case you decide to take a dip!

The Convenience

Another reason to love St. George Island surf fishing is because of how easy it is to do. You don’t have to schedule time on a boat or kayak or drive out to the pier. Simply find a stretch of beach that suits you and set up shop for a wonderful day of fishing!

The Fish

St. George Island surf fishing yields a variety of fish. Whiting, flounder, and redfish can generally be found all year, while speckled trout, pompano, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel are available when the water is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer. No matter when you go, you can take your catch to select SGI restaurants to have it cleaned and cooked to your liking!

Stay in a Collins Vacation Home on Your Next Fishing Trip

When you come to the Florida Gulf to experience St. George Island surf fishing, stay in a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our vacation homes are amazing places to spend your SGI vacation. Many of our rentals are located right on the beach, so you can fish all you want just steps away from your gorgeous home.

Take full advantage of your beach vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway. Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Travel to the 19th Century at the Raney House Museum!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Why You Need to Check Out Harry A’s on St. George Island

Harry A’s on St. George Island is the place to go for food and fun on the Forgotten Coast! A great casual restaurant with an exciting entertainment schedule as well, it’s perfect for a family meal or a night out with friends. Check it out the next time you come to SGI for an escape from your normal routine!

Harry A’s on St. George Island is one of the best places to go for a great night on the Florida Gulf Coast! Interested in finding even more good times near St. George Island? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the area has to offer. In addition to restaurants and bars, it also contains a range of outdoor activities and local businesses that your friends or family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

What’s on the Menu at Harry A’s on St. George Island
When you head to Harry A’s on St. George Island, you’ll have your pick of tasty entrees and snacks to choose from. Start off with some of the area’s famous Apalachicola oysters, then move on to a tasty taco, burger, or a full meal. Their menu includes many amazing seafood dishes, like the Grilled Grouper and Sesame Ahi Tuna. For a classic Florida coast option, try one of the Gulf Fried Plates.

Harry A’s also has some great turf-bred options for the meat lovers in your group. Try the Jagermeister Ribeye for a savory marinated beef entrée, or the Kickin’ Karibbean Chicken for some mouth-watering spicy poultry. The restaurant has a kid’s menu, too. It’s full of all the little people’s favorites, like grilled cheese, chicken fingers, and more!

Nightlife and Entertainment at Harry A’s on St. George Island
After you eat at Harry A’s on St. George Island, stick around for some fun! They offer a range of entertainment options for you to enjoy, from karaoke to a mix of DJs. They also host live music, including local and national performers. Check the restaurant’s Facebook page to see all of their upcoming events and shows.

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After you enjoy the music and food at Harry As on St. George Island, come enjoy the rest of your evening at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. You deserve an amazing place to get away during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient.

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

This Is Why You Need a Trip From Tallahassee to St. George Island

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!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

Why You Need to Say “I Do” With a St. George Island Wedding!

The day of your wedding will be one of the most important days of your life. It should be amazing, meaningful, and memorable. Committing to the love of your life is wonderful, and is reason for a celebration you’ll never forget. Still, with so many things to consider, the process of planning the wedding can become stressful. However, there is one easy-to-make decision that will put your mind at ease – the choice to get married on SGI. When you have a St. George Island wedding you can rest assured that the beauty and ease of your day will match the love that you feel!

Start planning your gorgeous St. George Island wedding today! It is a stunning location, and the island has plenty for your family and friends to do while in town. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island has to offer. In addition to local attractions, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your wedding party will love! When you are planning your wedding, or any trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to ensure an amazing stay!

Enjoy the Beautiful Forgotten Coast During Your St. George Island Wedding
The Forgotten Coast is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the Florida Gulf. Couples that love the beach will find perfection here. Make your wedding unique when you include boat tours, kayaking, or family fishing trips on your list of events. Go on a Full Moon Climb at the St. George Island Lighthouse, or enjoy the sunset from points along the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Whatever you choose to incorporate into your St. George Island wedding, your guests are sure to be impressed by the gorgeous coastal environment.

Find the Perfect Venue for Your Special Day
Your day is just that – your day. St. George Island and the surrounding area have plenty of wedding venues to suit every couple’s style. There are historic churches, a rustic warehouse, a tree-lined park and a riverside veranda, in addition to pristine white sand beaches. You can go all out or opt to keep it simple. We also have some of the best wedding vendors in the area available to make your day special. Find peace of mind and flexibility when you plan your St. George Island wedding!

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
In addition to great venues and activities, SGI has amazing vacation homes where your friends and family can spend quality time together before and after the big day. Collins Vacation Homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have the St. George Island wedding 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.

March 28, 2018January 27, 2021

Why You Need to Try Amazing St. George Island Seafood

St. George Island seafood is one of the best reasons to visit SGI. The beaches are stunning, the atmosphere is amazing, the homes are beautiful, but the seafood may be some of the best you’ll ever have! Our location on the Florida Gulf means easy access to a variety of excellent fish, oysters, shrimp, and crab. Unlike purchasing it other places in the state, when you buy seafood on SGI, it comes fresh from the boat to you!

Trying delicious St. George Island seafood is just one of the things you should plan to do while you’re here. After your amazing meal gives you a taste of SGI, take some time to explore its sights and sounds as well. Discover the best ways to experience St. George Island and make wonderful memories during your time on this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists great outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the best of the island. The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, make sure you check our Things to Do page first. It contains helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an unforgettable vacation!

Get Great St. George Island Seafood From Lynn’s Quality Oysters

Lynn’s Quality Oysters sells some of the freshest St. George Island seafood, Located just a stone’s throw away in Eastpoint, FL, Lynn’s has been family owned and operated for the last 40 years. Lynn Martina, the current owner, purchased the company from her parents in 1997, after working there since the age of 9.

Lynn and her staff are known for serving their customers with delicious fresh oysters (hence the name). However, they also carry several other kinds of seafood. In addition to the fresh catches, you can also buy some prepared or partially prepared items, such as smoked fish dip or crab cakes. Check their products page to see all that they offer.

Visit the Raw Bar at Lynn’s

On the days when you’re craving fresh St. George Island seafood, but don’t have time to prepare it yourself, head to the raw bar at Lynn’s Quality Oysters. Dine inside or outside and on raw, steamed or topped oysters, steamed shrimp, shrimp salad, or seafood gumbo. Wash it down with a glass of beer or wine and enjoy the views of the bay!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home

When you purchase fresh St. George Island seafood from Lynn’s Quality Oysters or one of the local vendors, come prepare and enjoy your feast at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, and you’ll love spending quality time with family around our table or out on the deck. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.

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. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway. Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

March 28, 2018January 28, 2021

3 Reasons Why Kids Love the Cape St. George Light

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 28, 2018January 27, 2021

Why You Need to Fish With Island Charters on St. George Island

There are several companies on the Forgotten Coast that can take you out for a day of great fishing. Island Charters on St. George Island is one of the best! If you’re looking for an amazing fishing charter to use on your next SGI vacation, make sure to contact them with you preferred dates!

Experience some of the best fishing in the area when you book a trip with Island Charters on St. George Island. After your awesome day on the water, take some time to explore the other fun activities the island offers as well. Discover the best ways to experience St. George Island and make wonderful memories during your time on this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists great outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the best of the island. The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, make sure you check our Things to Do page first. It contains helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an unforgettable vacation!

Planning Your Fishing Trip With Island Charters on St. George Island

Captain Krista and her crew at Island Charters on St. George Island can take you out for a fishing trip you’ll never forget. Fish the waters of the Apalachicola Bay or the beautiful Florida Gulf with guidance from these local professionals. Each trip is customized to the needs of your family or group to ensure that you have the best experience possible.

Island Charters offers three main fishing excursions – something to suit every kind of angler. The Bay & Flats charter tour takes you to the best places to cast your line around SGI, in the Apalachicola Bay, and on the flats. Four and 5-hour tours are available, and each includes all licenses, bait, tackle, and more! The In/Offshore Excursion is for the group that’s ready for a little excitement! It focuses on the Gulf of Mexico, and includes both top water and bottom fishing. It runs at least 5 hours. Finally, the Fish & Fun Charter is great for families with children. It’s a customized tour that can include a little bit of everything, including fishing, dolphin watching, and shelling.

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home

After you spend an exciting day on a fishing trip with Island Charters on St. George Island, you’ll be ready to put your feet up and relax. When you’re ready to rest up for the next day’s adventure, do it at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals come stocked with all of the amenities you’ll need for a great vacation. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities. Enjoy the sound of the waves all night from one of our premier oceanfront homes.

Find the perfect place for your family and maximize your next vacation. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway. Once you find your Collins vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!