St George Island Florida: Things to Do for an Unforgettable Vacation

St. George Island, a tranquil barrier island on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, combines pristine beaches, rich history, and exciting outdoor activities. With its uncrowded shores, abundant wildlife, and charming nearby towns like Apalachicola, it’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful yet adventurous getaway. Below, we’ve curated a list of 8 must-do activities to explore the best of St. George Island.

1. Relax and Explore at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

St. George Island State Park, covering over 2,000 acres, is a highlight with nine miles of undeveloped, sugary-white beaches, ranked the No. 1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing for shells and shark teeth along the Gulf of Mexico. The park offers four miles of paved trails and five miles of stabilized roads for hiking, biking, or birdwatching—look for bald eagles and snowy plovers. Visit in summer to spot nesting sea turtles or stay late for exceptional stargazing. Entry is $6 per vehicle, and pets are welcome (leashed, not on beaches or boardwalks).

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic for a full day of fun use the park where you can utilize the park's restrooms, showers, and picnic shelters.

2. Climb the Historic Cape St. George Lighthouse

The Cape St. George Lighthouse, located in the island’s center, is a must-visit for its historical charm. Reconstructed in 2008 after multiple rebuilds since 1833, it offers a $5 climb up 92 wooden steps for 360-degree views of the Gulf and Apalachicola Bay. The adjacent museum and gift shop feature exhibits like the Fresnel Lens and unique souvenirs. Check for full moon or sunset climbs in June and July for stunning photo opportunities.

Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a stop at Bayside Coffee Co. or Weber’s Little Donut Shop nearby for a coffee or sweet treat.

3. Shop and Dine in Charming Apalachicola

A 20-minute drive across the St. George Island Bridge, Apalachicola is a historic seaside town known for its world-famous oysters. Browse boutiques like Downtown Books for unique books or the Apalachicola Chocolate Company for sweet souvenirs. Explore over 900 historic structures in the National Historic District or visit the 1838 Orman House Historic State Park ($2 entry). Savor seafood at The Owl, Half Shell Dockside, or The Franklin, located inside the historic Gibson Inn. The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center in nearby Eastpoint has interactive wildlife exhibits.

Pro Tip: Time your visit for the Apalachicola Boat & Car Show (April) or Florida Seafood Festival for a cultural experience.

4. Book a Fishing Charter for an Angler’s Paradise

St. George Island is a fishing haven, with Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico offering diverse catches. Book a charter with Big Fish SGI, Southern Salinity, or Island Charters for inshore or deep-sea trips. Catch redfish, flounder, speckled trout, or sheepshead in the bay year-round, or target snapper, grouper, amberjack, or sharks in the Gulf (March–November). Family-friendly charters like Captain Jeremy’s with Southern Salinity include dolphin-watching or shelling. Kayak fishing or surf fishing at Bob Sikes Cut or Pelican Reef for flounder is also popular. Keep in mind a Florida fishing license is required for shore fishing.

Pro Tip: Some charters even offer a “no fish, no pay” guarantee, and restaurants like Harry A’s will cook your catch.

5. Kayak or Paddleboard Along Apalachicola Bay

Experience St. George Island’s natural beauty by renting a kayak or paddleboard from Island Outfitters or Journeys of St. George Island. Paddle through Apalachicola Bay’s marshes to spot wading birds, dolphins, or manatees. (I've seen many manatees myself from the boardwalk in downtown Apalachicola.) Guided tours with Journeys offer sunset cruises or trips to St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, accessible only by boat. The Apalachicola River Blueway, with 10 mapped paddling trails, is great for exploring cypress-lined creeks. Rentals are available for up to seven days, and some vacation rentals include equipment credits.

Pro Tip: Try a paddleboard yoga class with Island Fit for a relaxing, unique experience.

6. Enjoy Family-Friendly Beach Activities

St. George Island’s 22 miles of pet-friendly, uncrowded beaches are ideal for classic beach days. Build sandcastles, play volleyball, or swim in the gentle Gulf waves. Rent beach gear like chairs, umbrellas, or cornhole sets from Island Dog Outdoor Rentals or Island Adventures. For quieter spots, head to the state park’s beaches or Regatta Park on the bay side for picnics and sunset views. Watch for dolphins or jellyfish, and always wear sunscreen.

Pro Tip: Stop by Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream for a post-beach treat, a local favorite with vibrant flavors.

7. Discover Local Art and Culture

St. George Island’s art scene is vibrant for a small island. Visit Island Dog Beach and Surf Shop for local art, apparel, and outdoor gear. On a rainy day, take an art class at Art of Glass or get a henna tattoo at Pamelot Arts. The Crooked River Lighthouse in nearby Carrabelle, built in 1895 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers historical exhibits in the Keeper’s Room.

Pro Tip: Attend the St. George Island Lighting of the Palms in December for holiday crafts, Santa visits, and a golf cart parade.

8. Savor Fresh Seafood and Local Dining

St. George Island and Apalachicola are seafood paradises. At The Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café, try the World Famous Blue Parrot Seafood Platter with grouper, shrimp, oysters, and crab cakes. Paddy’s Raw Bar is known for Apalachicola oysters and Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Mango Mike’s Sports Bar & Grill offers family-friendly outdoor seating. For breakfast, Weber’s Little Donut Shop and Bayside Coffee Co. are local staples. Pair your meal with a craft beer or cocktail.

Pro Tip: Visit Harry A’s for live music, trivia nights (Wednesdays at 7 p.m.), or karaoke, plus their fresh seafood menu.

Why Visit St. George Island?

St. George Island offers unspoiled beauty, pet-friendly beaches, and no high-rise developments, making it a quieter alternative to Destin or Pensacola Beach. From exploring St. George Island State Park to climbing the lighthouse, shopping in Apalachicola, or fishing, there’s something for everyone. Its proximity to St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge and vibrant wildlife make it a nature lover’s paradise. Bike paths, kayak rentals, and events like the Chili Cook-Off ensure endless unique opportunities year-round.

Plan Your Trip: Book a pet-friendly vacation rental through Fickling Vacation Rentals, Gulf Coast Vacation Properties of SGI, or Cape & Coast Premier Properties, some with fish-cleaning sinks or beach gear credits. Check event schedules for festivals on FloridasForgottenCoast.com, and reserve fishing charters or campsites (available up to 11 months in advance) early.

Visit www.floridastateparks.org for camping at the state park for a low-key Florida escape.

There is no better beach for family portraits than the St. George Island State Park along the Forgotten Coast, reserve your session today. Reservations up to 12 months in advance!

Want to shop some of the photographs here?

Buy St. George Island Florida Fine Art and Framed Prints.