Have you ever wanted to explore the Gulf Coast? It’s time to pack up the car and travel Route 98! Whether you’re starting your journey from the bottom of Florida or the Gulf Shores of Alabama, you’ll be treated to all of the wonders this region holds. We know one hidden spot you absolutely have to stop by on your Gulf Coast road trip, along with some tips and tricks!
You Have to Stop Along This Secret Spot on the Forgotten Coast
What if we told you there was an island along the Gulf Coast of Florida that has been untouched by the typical builders and contractors like the rest of the area? With spaced-out houses, no sky-high hotels, and miles of beach, St. George Island is a dream. With so much to do and see on the island, it is a must-see during your Gulf Coast road trip
Do you want a taste of what St. George Island has to offer? Check out our Things to Do page! We know all the best activities and places to see to get the most out of your Gulf Coast road trip. Whether you need a place to stop and eat or want to know about visiting the state park here, you’ll find it on this carefully curated list.
What You’ll Find on St. George Island
Pristine Beaches
There is nothing worse than being packed into a crowded beach. With no room to spread out, you can’t enjoy the beauty of the ocean properly! On St. George Island, there is plenty of shoreline to go around. Because the island is not built up, you’ll never run into crowds of people crammed onto the beach. We recommend staying in a beachfront home so you’ll have access to the sand right from your door! You’ll probably even see a dolphin or two swimming by.
The Freshest Seafood
When you come to St. George Island, look out into the horizon. You’ll see boats dotting the surface of the ocean; these vessels are catching the fresh shrimp our island is known for! In the bay, the famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters are harvested. The rest of our waters are teeming with fresh fish! No matter which island restaurant you go to here, you’ll be treated to some of the best, freshest seafood you have ever experienced. Because much of it is caught just off our shore, restaurants buy their ingredients right from the fishermen. From peel-and-eat shrimp to grouper sandwiches, you can indulge in a variety of local specialties.
The Lighthouse
Have you ever climbed to the top of a lighthouse? You can on St. George Island! The St. George Island Lighthouse has become a staple on our island. After being rebuilt multiple times, it has been resurrected in the heart of SGI. Start your time in the small museum where you can learn about previous lightkeepers and their families. Then, climb 92 steps and a short ladder to the top! Here, you will find stunning panoramic views of the island.
Outdoor Activities
St. George Island is a nature lover’s dream. Because there is limited housing on the island and no big-name hotels, it is never crowded. You’ll never have to fight through hoards of people to claim a spot on the beach or run into others while exploring. Here are some of our favorite places and activities to enjoy on the island:
St. George Island State Park– The St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of the island. Here, you can find a balance of oak forests and sandy beach. Pack a picnic to enjoy the sand or launch a kayak from the shore. This is the perfect spot to enjoy everything SGI has to offer!
Paddleboarding– Get out on the water during your Gulf Coast road trip! The bayside of the island always boasts calm waters, so you can paddle your day away. There are multiple places on SGI to rent a SUP from, and you can even go on a tour to see the area from a local’s perspective.
Fishing- Pack your fishing poles and cast a line during your visit! You can fish practically anywhere on our island. Try the beach, fishing pier, or the park. Just make sure you have a fishing license!
Stay at Collins Vacation Rentals
Making St. George Island a stop on your Gulf Coast road trip is a must. So, where do you stay? Collins Vacation Rentals has plenty of properties to choose from! From beachfront homes to gated communities, we are sure we have the perfect rental for you. Take a break from your travels on one of the most peaceful stops on the entire Gulf Coast. We look forward to seeing you!
More Gulf Coast Road Trip Stops
You have SGI on your Gulf Coast road trip itinerary, but where else should you go? Here are some of our recommendations for your travels.
30A, Florida
Head west from St. George Island about two and a half hours to 30A. The 30A scenic highway will give you stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The sand here is pristine and white and the waters are blue. At the very least, make sure you catch a sunset here. They are stunning!
Mobile, Alabama
If you continue west, you’ll have a quick drive through Alabama. History buffs will love stopping in Mobile! Their 300-year history shines through the entire city. The USS Alabama, a WWII-era battleship, stays anchored at Battleship Memorial Park. The stunning architecture of historic buildings line the streets. Visit the 1850 Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception to see its incredible German stained glass windows.
New Orleans, Louisiana
What would a Gulf Coast road trip be without a stop in New Orleans? Head straight to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter to experience one of the oldest cities in America. The street itself dates all the way back to 1798 and is full of gorgeous architecture, live music, and legend. Make sure to order some gumbo, a New Orleans staple, while you’re there!
