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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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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 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.

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!

There’s so much to do on your trip to the Florida coast. For starters, you can relax on the sandy beaches, bike under the Florida sun, and try out some local cuisine. One of our favorite things to do here is to take a fishing trip. Imagine yourself out on the open water, fishing rods in hand! Out of all the offshore spots to cast a line, one of the best is the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico. The underwater structure of this tower creates a prime habitat for fish! With so many opportunities for a great catch during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, you absolutely have to get out on the water and cast a line.

Fishing at the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico is just one of the many things you should plan to do while staying at one of our St. George Island properties. After your day out on the water, head back to the island and take some time to explore the sights and sounds of the area. For ideas on island activities, explore our Things to Do page. Find everything from outdoor activities to some of our favorite restaurants. Let Collins Vacation Rentals make planning easier by giving you helpful recommendations that you can use to have an unforgettable vacation!

What is the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico?
The Department of Defense maintains 5 towers spread along the Forgotten Coast. While their full purpose is unknown, they are mainly used for training exercises. The towers create the ideal habitat for fish to live underneath, as they have been designed as artificial coral reefs. These ocean fortresses are easy to find as long as you have the coordinates; you can find the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico at 25 02.0’N, 82 22.0’W. Dock your boat at this tower, then enjoy your day of fishing!

Fishing Tips for the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico
You have very little chance of catching fish without knowing where they are! Luckily for you, we know that the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico is a treasure trove of underwater creatures. Fish usually flock to this tower in the spring as the waters warm up. Some of the most effective methods for success in this area are chumming and live bait. Your best bet is to start your day off by catching live bait, then use it throughout the day. If you’re not an experienced fisherman, you can always go through a fishing charter like Island Charters. They’ll have everything you need to have a successful fishing excursion!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After your day of fishing at the S Tower in the Gulf of Mexico, come back and relax at your luxurious Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals have all the amenities you’ll need to have a perfect island getaway. Choose from multiple locations to create your perfect stay; we have everything from oceanfront to bay view homes just waiting for you to come make some memories.

It’s time to start planning your trip to St. George Island! Contact us anytime; we’d be happy to help you with your next steps. Come enjoy the island life!

Nothing compares to the thrill of Apalachicola Bay fishing! Known as one of the world’s best fishing holes, these waters are teeming with more than a hundred species of colorful fish. Whether you choose to hop on a charter or cast a line right from the dock, you’re sure to enjoy the angling adventure of a lifetime. Are you ready to reel in your next trophy catch? Read on to learn how you can experience some of the best fishing Florida has to offer!
Apalachicola Bay is bordered by the beautiful shores of St. George Island, FL. If you’re planning an Apalachicola Bay fishing trip, this island paradise offers the ideal accommodations for your getaway. Make sure to check out our Things to Do page for recommendations about the best lodging, dining, and activities on St. George Island. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate vacation!

Apalachicola Bay Fishing Charters
If you’re looking to get out on the open water, a charter is the way to go! While there are dozens of amazing fishing charters to choose from, here are some of our top recommendations.

1. Island Charters
Island Charters will take you on an amazing fishing trip that will be fun for the whole family. Choose from 3 main excursions including Apalachicola Bay fishing. During your tour, everything you need will be provided from licenses to bait and tackle. Captain Krista and her crew will not disappoint!

2. Apalachicola Charters
Would you like to experience a fishing trip that’s tailored to you? Embark on a custom journey with Apalachicola Charters! Choose anywhere from a three-hour trip to a full day of fishing. They provide all of the gear, licenses, and bait for bay charters.

3. Robinson Brothers Guide Service
Whether you’re a pro angler or a beginner looking to hone your skills, Robinson Brothers Guide Service offers experiences for every skill level. This is a great option for families, couples, and experienced fisherman alike. Enjoy a fabulous day catching heaps of fish in Apalachicola Bay!

4. Williams Charter Fishing Adventures
Get ready for an angling excursion like no other! Williams Charter Fishing Adventures will guide you to the many bayous and oyster bars of the Apalachicola Bay. You’ll be in good hands from the moment you climb aboard Captain Bruce’s 21 foot Mako center console.

5. Journeys of SGI
Another awesome charter service is Journeys of SGI. Your captain will guide you to the hottest spots of the bay where the fish are biting. Licenses, bait, tackle, water, cleaning, and packing are all included in your trip. Get ready for a fun day out on the water!

Shore Fishing
You don’t have to go far to cast a line! Enjoy some Apalachicola Bay fishing right from the shore. There are many fishing spots on St. George Island that are easily accessible so you don’t have to worry about securing a charter. One of the best and most popular spots is the St. George Island Fishing Pier. This long pier spans 600 feet into the water to provide plenty of room for anglers to gather and cast.
If you didn’t bring your fishing gear with you on your trip, don’t worry! There are many stores on the island like Island Adventures that have everything you need to cast a line. Rent fishing poles here, buy some bait, then sit back and relax until the fish start biting!

What You’ll Catch
With more than 100 different Apalachicola Bay fish species, the amount of fish you can catch is astounding. There is so much variety in landscape here, allowing many species to thrive in the different habitats. You’ll find certain fish like flounder, redfish, and speckled trout year-round, but others are seasonal. Just check an Apalachicola Bay fishing report to see what’s in season while you’re saying in one of our Collins Vacation Rentals!

Haul Your Catch to a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After you’ve enjoyed your day of Apalachicola Bay fishing, come back and relax at one of our gorgeous Collins Vacation Homes. If you’re interested in a fishing stay, you’ll love one of our beachfront or bayfront homes. Imagine being able to wake up and walk straight out your front door to the beach! With your choice of over 250 homes, we know we’ll have the best one to create your perfect vacation. Browse all properties and contact us to start planning your fishing trip today. We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!

St. George Island’s balance of leisure, adventure, and coastal fun make your vacation an experience you will never want to forget. During your stay in one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll want to relax on the beach, cast a line off the pier, and of course, do some shopping! Whether you’re looking for that perfect souvenir to remember your stay, a great gift to bring back home to a loved one, or something fun that you can enjoy during your vacation, we’ve got you covered. We know the best places for St. George Island shopping!

Doing some St. George Island shopping is just one of the many things you should plan to do while staying on the Forgotten Coast. Vacation is all about making memories, so take a look at our Things to Do page to learn more about activities on the island. We have everything from our favorite restaurants to our favorite excursions listed. Discover the best ways to experience SGI and make lasting memories during your time in paradise!

4 of the Best Places for St. George Island Shopping

1. Island Outfitters
Island Outfitters has everything you need for a day on SGI. Here, you can find useful items like sun protective apparel. If you’re planning to be out on the water for the day, protection from the sun is important. This extra layer could be the difference between you and sunburn! They also have gorgeous resort wear, accessories, and jewelry. You’re sure to find some unique memorabilia here!

2. Sea Oats Art Gallery
If you’re looking for some local works, check out Sea Oats Art Gallery! You’ll have a wonderful time browsing through art created by more than 80 artisans and crafters. There is a wide variety of mediums featured, and many of the works are for sale. Here, you will find paintings, photographs, jewelry, glassware, and ceramics. Get something inspired by the Forgotten Coast to remember your trip by!

3. SGI Trading Company
SGI Trading Company has everything you need to go to the beach! Browse for a new bathing suit to show off on the sand or grab some beach toys for the kids. We recommend this to be one of your first stops when you come to your Collins Vacation Rental so you can stock up on all you need for some fun in the sun!

4. Two Gulls for Mermaids
Two Gulls for Mermaids is a quaint little gift shop you’ll love doing some St. George Island shopping at. They are stocked full of artwork, souvenirs, and gifts you can’t find anywhere else. It’s a great place to come if you are looking for something to remember your trip by!

After Doing Some St. George Island Shopping
After doing some St. George Island shopping, make your way back to your Collins Vacation Rental. Relax in one of our gorgeous vacation homes or get ready for your next excursion! Whether you are looking for a home right on the beach or one a little closer to town, we have the perfect rentals for you to discover. Enjoy beauty and comfort during your stay from gorgeous ocean views to convenient locations. We are sure your rental will feel like a home away from home in paradise!

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

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

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

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

Visiting the Crooked River Lighthouse

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

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