ICNDadmin, Author at Collins Vacation Rentals Blog

May 23, 2023May 23, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to St. George Island State Park

Dr. Beach named St. George Island State Park the #1 Beach in the Nation for 2023!

St. George is the number one ranked beach in the 33rd annual Top 10 Beach List, produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, professor in the Department of Earth & Environment at Florida International University in Miami.

St. George Island is full of scenic areas and fun activities that will make any vacation here unforgettable. One of our island’s gems you won’t want to miss during your Collins Vacation Rentals getaway is St. George Island State Park. Serene views paired with undisturbed beaches provide the perfect backdrop for some quality time. Discover everything you need to know about the park today!

Are you thinking of a St. George Island getaway? We can help you plan your trip! Collins Vacation Rentals was founded on the island more than 40 years ago, so we are versed in all of the best spots to enjoy during your next vacation. Take a look at our Things to Do page to start planning! Whether you’re looking for more spots like St. George Island State Park or where to go out to eat, you’ll find it here.

What to See at St. George Island State Park

Explore the Incredible Landscape
St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of St. George Island. The park is a stunning display of the gorgeous nature our island holds. Oak forests, sandy coves, pine trees, and salt marshes are dotted along the landscape.
The pristine park is best known for its nine miles of unspoiled beaches. Long stretches of white sand and dunes overlook the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay. You’ll definitely want to make it a point to visit this gorgeous area during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals!

Discover the Native Wildlife
Countless species of wildlife call St. George Island State Park their home. You’ll see several kinds of shorebirds swimming and scavenging along the coast such as snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, and willet nest.
You can also expect to share the area with sea turtles. They nest on the island from approximately May 1 to October 31 each year!

Handicap Accessibility
St. George Island State Park keeps everyone in mind and aims to be as accessible as possible. There are beach wheelchairs available, two Beach Cruiser electric mobility devices, a floating Mobi-Chair, and three mobility mats. You can learn more on their site!

What to Do at St. George Island State Park

Relax on the Sand
Nine miles of pristine coastline at St. George Island State Park means plenty of room for spreading out on the sand. One of our favorite things about our island is that there is so much shore that the beaches are never crowded! Rent some chairs and umbrellas to bring with you, then set up here for the day.

Go For a Swim
During the warm months on the Forgotten Coast, ocean water is a welcomed relief from the hot sun. You’ll love taking a dip in the clear water when you visit St. George Island State Park! If you bring the kids, they’ll most likely spend the entire day splashing around. You won’t even have to entertain them like usual!

Cast a Line
Fishing is one of the most relaxing pastimes, and there is plenty of opportunity for it on St. George Island. If you want to cast your line in St. George Island State Park, you’ll have the opportunity to catch flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting, and sometimes even Spanish mackerel! Just make sure you have your fishing license.

Pack a Picnic
Before you make your way over to St. George Island State Park, make sure you stop at the grocery store to get some picnic necessities. At the park, you’ll have your choice of six picnic shelters, each with grills and picnic tables. They can even be reserved if you’re having a large gathering!

Search for Shells
Shells are some of the best souvenirs to take home on vacation, and St. George Island State Park is an excellent spot to look for them! Stroll the beach and look down at the sand— you are sure to find some.

Launch a Canoe or Kayak
See SGI from a different perspective when you get out on a kayak or canoe! There are two natural ramps in the park that can launch your craft into the bay.

Go on a Hike
There’s more to St. George Island State Park than just a beach! There are multiple hiking trails to enjoy here, especially when the winter weather is a little too cold to lay out. Each trailhead is marked by a kiosk so you can easily find them. The trail to Gap Point is 2.5 miles and takes you through pine flatwood forests to the bay, and the East Slough Overlook Trail will bring you across boardwalks lined with benches and information on the resources.

Go Birding
Bring your binoculars to St. George Island State Park! More than 300 species of birds have been documented here, so it’s the perfect place to go birding during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals. Pelicans and gulls are the most common, but endangered and rare species have also been seen.

Take the Kids to the Playground
There is a community playground at the camping area that the kids will love. Even if you are not camping, all are welcome. It’s the perfect place to go if the kids have a little energy they need to get rid of.

Stargaze at Night
When you stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll notice something about our night sky. It’s filled with stars! Unlike the light pollution in the big cities and towns, our island has some of the darkest skies you have ever experienced. The Gulf of Mexico makes it so we have hardly any light pollution at all, and the closest city is more than 70 miles away. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way and faint constellations!

Experience Our Island With Collins Vacation Rentals

St. George Island State Park has something for every kind of nature lover. After you and your family explore the amazing surroundings, you’ll be ready to rest your feet at your Collins Vacation Rental.
Located throughout St. George Island, our homes come complete with everything you need to have the vacation of a lifetime. Whether you’re searching for a beachfront view or a stunning property on Apalachicola Bay, we have just what you’re searching for. Looking to bring Fido along? View our pet-friendly properties perfect for the whole family! We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

3 Reasons You Need to Eat at the Blue Parrot on St. George Island

If “sand, sun, fun, and food” are anywhere near the top of your vacation list, we have the perfect place for you to try. The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is a way to get the best of island life all at once! Amazing seafood and great drinks become even better when you enjoy them at this coveted seaside location. Get the best view when you enjoy your meal beside the water!

Before you head to The Blue Parrot on St. George Island for an amazing oceanside dining experience, make sure to take a look at our Things to Do page. It’s a wonderful way to learn about all that St. George and the Forgotten Coast have to offer. Full of the information you need, it includes, great restaurants, local attractions, shopping venues, and more! It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation to beautiful St. George!

3 Reasons You’ll Love The Blue Parrot on St. George Island

1. The Food
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is known for serving some of the freshest local seafood around. Start with the Peel & Eat Shrimp, or try the Cocktail Claws (fresh blue crab claws breaded and deep fried) for an appetizer. The Lobster Bisque or Seafood Gumbo will make the perfect seafood lover’s soup course. Then move on to the World Famous Blue Parrot Seafood Platter, or one of the restaurants other amazing surfside dishes, for an entrée.
If you’re not into the catch of the day, try one of their certified Black Angus steaks. There are also burgers, sandwiches and chicken dishes that will please meat and poultry fans in your group.

2. The Drinks
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island has a Tiki Bar famous for the island-inspired cocktails. Try a classic margarita or Mai Tai as you watch the waves, or branch out and try their Sand Blaster. This specialty drink is a mix of mango, blackberry, lime, and rum with a 151 floater. The Tiki Bar also has several beers to choose from. You can have your wine by the glass or the bottle.

3. The Jet Skis
Once your food settles and the drinks wear off, you’ll be ready for some adventure. Luckily, you won’t have to go far to find it. You can rent jet skis on the beach right beside The Blue Parrot. Rentals hours run from 10 am to 6 pm from early March to early October. Cruise around on the water until you work up another appetite, then come back to the sand for your next delicious meal!

Ready to Eat?
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is located at 68 West Gorrie Drive. It’s open daily from 11 am until 9 pm. The restaurant is a great place for casual family dining. They are also pet-friendly, so every member of your family can feel welcome to this awesome experience in beachside dining!

After Your Oceanside Meal, Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After a full day of great food, amazing drinks, and fun jet skis at the Blue Parrot on St. George Island, make your way back to your Collins Vacation Home to relax for the evening. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the Blue Parrot and other great restaurants, not to mention beaches, outdoor fun, and more. 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 of 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!

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

Where Are the Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in Florida?

If you are looking for a vacation the whole family will enjoy, you came to the right place. Our small island has countless activities for people of all ages! Plus, it is surrounded by some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Florida. Here is what you need to know about planning your sandy getaway!
Have you ever been to St. George Island? Our secluded island is a taste of old Florida. Because there are so many ordinances, there are no big-name hotels, so our island stays peaceful year-round. However, that doesn’t stop it from being full of things to do! Check out our Things to Do page for more activities to enjoy after visiting our best kid-friendly beaches in Florida.

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Has the Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in Florida

1. They’re Never Crowded
There’s nothing worse than not having enough space on the beach. You’re on vacation– you want to spread out and relax! There’s more than enough space on St. George Island. Because there are limited places to stay, our island never gets crowded. Lay out your blankets, chairs, and umbrellas, and let the kids have their own space to make sandcastles as you finally read that new book you’ve been meaning to start.
If spending most of your getaway on the beach is important to you, we recommend renting a property that is right on the water. Our beachfront properties are your best bet. This way, you can walk right out onto your own strip of beach.

2. They’re Clean!
We pride ourselves in keeping our beaches clean. Not only do we want locals to enjoy the beaches, we want visitors to, too! You won’t be bogged down by tons of rules on the beaches here, but we aim to protect our wildlife and keep our island preserved. During the summer, it is Turtle Season. Sea turtles return to the island to nest, so all items must be cleared off the beach each night due to the “Leave No Trace Ordinance” of 2014. Because of this, our beaches are kept safe and clean for people, wildlife, and endangered turtles.

3. You Can Bring the Whole Family… Including Pets!
Our island is dog-friendly, including the beaches! When we talk about kid-friendly beaches in Florida, that means dogs, too. They’re just like your children! Dogs are allowed on both the beach and bay side of the island as long as they are leashed. Plus, you can bring them to the restaurants on the island when you sit outside. They will get a bowl of water and be treated like royalty!

Book Your Family Getaway Today
St. George Island has the best kid-friendly beaches in Florida, so book your family vacation today! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 275 properties to choose from all over the island. Many of our customers come back year after year, so browse our properties and make it a tradition for you, too! We can’t wait to see you and your family on the island.

March 23, 2023March 23, 2023

How to Plan the Ultimate Florida Summer Vacation

Are you dreaming of sugar-white sand and sparkling blue water? When it comes to the world’s most beautiful beaches, no place can compare to Florida’s Forgotten Coast. From Apalachicola to the pristine shores of St. George Island, this slice of paradise offers stunning natural beauty around every corner. Come dive into the Gulf, indulge in fresh seafood, and get ready for a family vacation you’ll remember for years to come. Read on to learn how you can plan the best Florida summer vacation. Then, start planning your trip!

For more recommendations about things to see and do on St. George Island, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of great tips about the best local restaurants, beaches, shopping, and attractions along the Forgotten Coast. Planning the ultimate Florida summer vacation has never been easier!

How to Have the Best Florida Summer Vacation on St. George Island
See for yourself why St. George Island is one of the most desirable vacation spots in Florida. You won’t high-rises, hotels, or large crowds here. Instead, you’ll discover beautiful secluded beaches and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Get out and explore miles of scenic hiking trails, go for a family bike ride, or play in the waves. You’ll find that many of our vacation homes are just steps away from the shoreline!

5 of the Best Summer Florida Vacation Ideas for Families

1. Hit the Beach
St. George Island is home to the best beaches in Florida — it’s no secret. Year after year, visitors are drawn to the island’s powder-soft sands and aquamarine waters. Lounge by the shoreline and soak up the sun, help the kids build sandcastles, or cool off with a refreshing swim. The island also offers watersports galore! From snorkeling and diving to boating and kayaking, there are endless ways to play in the Gulf. Rent jet skis and have a blast on the waves, embark on a paddling adventure, or take a dolphin tour with the whole family. At the end of each day, enjoy a postcard-perfect sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Tour the St. George Island Lighthouse
If there’s one thing that must be on your Florida summer itinerary, this is it! The St. George Island Lighthouse is a famous landmark of Florida’s Forgotten Coast, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Purchase your tickets inside a replica of the original Keeper’s House. Explore the lighthouse museum. Then, climb 92 steps to the top of the lighthouse to see panoramic vistas of the island. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

3. Cast a Line into the Gulf
Are you interested in doing some fishing while on vacation? You’ve come to the right place! St. George Island is one of the best angling destinations in the country! From the Gulf of Mexico to Apalachicola Bay, these waters are teeming with colorful fish. Flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting and Spanish mackerel are just some of the species you can catch. Make sure to visit some of these popular St. George Island fishing holes during your getaway!

4. Grab a Scoop of Ice Cream
On a hot summer day, nothing sounds better than a giant scoop of ice cream! When you’re ready to take a break from the sun and surf, stop into Aunt Eby’s. This local ice-cream shop offers some of the biggest (and tastiest) scoops on the island!

5. Explore Historic Apalachicola
With beautiful beaches, delicious dining options, and charming coastal shops, St. George Island has everything you need for a fabulous Florida summer vacation. However, if you’d like to venture off the island for a day, we recommend checking out Apalachicola. Just over the St. George Island Bridge, this charming town is home to interesting museums and beautiful state parks.
Take a step back in time at the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, where you’ll learn about Forgotten Coast history and culture. Next, take a stroll through Chapman Botanical Gardens and admire the gorgeous flora and fauna. When you start to work up an appetite, stop into the Owl Cafe for fresh Apalachicola Bay oysters, gourmet cuisine, and fine spirits. Then, head back home to the island and unwind in your comfortable Collins Vacation Rental.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
Whether you’re joining us for spring break or an unforgettable summer getaway, you’ll never forget your stay along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Experience your family vacation to the fullest when you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. We offer a wide range of gorgeous vacation rentals on St. George Island, FL. Whether your family prefers to stay in a beachfront property, a home with a heated pool, or a pet-friendly rental, we are sure to have the ideal accommodation for your stay.
Guests staying at select, participating Collins Vacation Homes can also access complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayaking or stand up paddleboarding adventures, bike rentals, golfing at St. James Bay Golf Club, unlimited movie rentals, or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. Don’t wait to start planning your getaway!
View our properties and contact us to reserve your desired Florida summer vacation dates now. We’ll see you soon!

CONTACT NOW

March 13, 2023March 13, 2023

The Best Things to Do for Big Groups on St. George Island

Looking for a place to gather a large group of people without any disruptions? The Forgotten Coast is the answer you’ve been searching for! We know all the best things to do for big groups on St. George Island, from exploring the outdoors to savoring the best food in town. On our Things to Do page, you’ll find many more team-building activities to add to your itinerary, and your whole group will have a blast! So, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a company retreat, or any other large group encounter, a get-together on St. George Island will be unforgettable.

Try These Exciting Things to Do for Big Groups on St. George Island

Explore the Island’s Coolest Spots
With lovely white sand and twinkling blue water, St. George Island State Park is one of the best places on the island. The park offers plenty of spots for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. The 2,000-acre park is the perfect place to get your crew together and search the shoreline for seashells, splash around in the Gulf, or try to spot Dolphins leaping in the distance.
Another spot you’ll have to visit is the St. George Island Lighthouse. Your group will love climbing to the top of the lighthouse for remarkable views of our gorgeous barrier island. Plus, whenever there is a full moon, the lighthouse opens its doors for a special full moon climb. Visitors from far and near love taking advantage of this rare occasion.

Dine at the Best Restaurants on SGI
It’s no secret that cooking while you’re on vacation can be a bit of a struggle, especially when there are a lot of people to feed. Instead of trying to cook a huge meal that will please everyone, we suggest trying out the island’s local restaurants. Our eateries take pride in serving fresh seafood and providing an outstanding atmosphere with live music and relaxing coastal vibes.

No matter the size of your group, these local restaurants would love to host you:
The Beach Pit
Mango Mike’s
Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café
Paddy’s Raw Bar
BJ’s Pizza and Subs

Local tip: Call the restaurant ahead of time, so they will be ready to accommodate your group when you arrive.

Discover the History of the Gulf Coast

Just over the St. George Island Bridge, you’ll find the charming coastal cities of Apalachicola and Eastpoint. Here your group can check out several museums, where they’ll learn about the Forgotten Coast’s fascinating history and culture. Two of our favorites are the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, and the Apalachicola Maritime Museum.

Stay Together at a Collins Vacation Home
What better way to spend your group retreat than all together in an oceanfront beach house? Our beautiful vacation homes offer plenty of space for everyone in your group and sleep up to 17 guests. Plus, our peaceful beaches are perfect for hosting group activities, and our private pools are great for late-night swims. Trust us, when you stay with us, everyone in your group will beg to return to the Forgotten Coast.

Check our availability and book your stay now!

March 13, 2023March 13, 2023

Why You Need to Make a Trip From Atlanta to St George Island

You Need to Make This Stop on a Gulf Coast Road Trip

The Big Peach, City of Trees, Hotlanta, The A – Atlanta, Georgia is a city with many names, millions of people, and innumerable things going on at any given moment. The fast-paced lifestyle of the Empire City of The South can be exhilarating, but every now and then even the most thoroughbred ATL native may need a little break. Luckily, the trip from Atlanta to St. George Island is an easy drive. It can be done in about 5.5 hours, and SGI is under 350 miles from the buzzing Georgia city. There are also a few interesting things to see along the way.

Make the drive from Atlanta to St. George Island and experience a whole new lifestyle on SGI! The perfect mix of laid-back island life and fun activity, St. George Island, Florida is a vacation destination the whole family will love. Make amazing memories and explore the best of the Forgotten Coast when you visit our Things to Do page. It lists entertaining attractions, great restaurants, and local businesses that will keep your loved ones engaged as you enjoy your vacation together. 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 everything you need to have great time bonding during your family vacation!

Atlanta to St. George Island: The Route
The quickest way from Atlanta to St. George Island by car is via US 27 South. The trip is about 339 miles from the heart of the city to arrival on SGI. The drive sticks closely to the Georgia-Alabama border, but you’ll stay in Georgia until you cross into the Florida Panhandle. Except for a few mild curves, it heads almost due South to the Gulf of Mexico.

Atlanta to St. George Island: What You’ll See Along the Way
On the drive from Atlanta to St. George Island, there are a few sights to look out for along the way. About half of the way through your Georgia state drive, you’ll pass through the town of Cusseta. If you’re looking for a place to stop and stretch your legs, take a quick jaunt around their charming downtown area.

Once you pass the Florida line, it won’t be long until the road takes you through Apalachicola National Forest. It’s the largest U.S. National Forest in the state of Florida, and the only one in the Panhandle. Finally, the St. George Island Bridge provides some amazing views of the water, the oyster fishermen, and the St. George Lighthouse.

Find the Perfect Vacation Home to Enjoy SGI
Once you make the trip from Atlanta to St. George Island, prepare to revel in the laid back lifestyle. A Collins Vacation Home is the perfect place to kick back and breathe easy. All of our gorgeous rentals are complete with everything you’ll want for a great vacation. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.
Find the best place for your family and maximize your next vacation. 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!

January 6, 2023January 6, 2023

We Know the Best Family Reunion Beach Vacation Rentals

We know how challenging planning a family get together can be! With so many conflicting schedules to keep in mind and destinations to decide on, taking on a vacation like this can be a lot of work. Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help! St. George Island has everything you need for people of all ages, so check out our family reunion beach vacation rentals to get planning!

When you reserve one of these amazing family reunion beach vacation rentals, you’ll be at a great location to experience all the fun on SGI! The perfect mix of laid-back island life and fun activity, St. George Island, Florida, is a place your family will want to come again and again. To take a quick peek at everyone our island oasis has to offer, browse through our Things to Do page. With a list of trusted businesses, it’s a great tool to plan your trip!

Top 3 Reasons You Need an SGI Family Reunion Beach Vacation Rental
Fun for All Ages
Whether you are 2, 22, or 82 years old, you’ll have a great time on St. George Island. No matter what your age is, you can’t help but love the beach. Our island has mile after mile of sand, so you will have more than enough room to spread out! Start the day with a walk on the beach or bike trail with your family before setting up your beach chair rentals to have some fun in the sun. Older relatives love to catch some rays while the children splash around in the ocean! Plus, there are countless other family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as climbing to the top of the St. George Island Lighthouse, paddle boarding, fishing, and more.

Less Crowded
Admit it: some of the fun gets taken away when you’re constantly waiting in line and fighting crowds on vacation. St. George Island is not your typical Florida destination! When you visit us, you’ll see how the Gulf Coast once was many years ago. The natural beauty is still here, and the views are not ruined by big-name hotels and condo complexes.

Everything You Need
From grocery stores right on the island to some amazing restaurants, everything you could possibly need is located within a few square miles from your family reunion beach vacation rental. If you have anything particular in mind, just give us a call at Collins Vacation Rentals! We are happy to help.

Finding the Perfect Family Reunion Beach Vacation Rental
Are you ready to book your family reunion beach vacation rental? Collins Vacation Rentals has tons of options for you! With more than 250 properties to choose from, we are sure you’ll find the perfect beach house. Browse our vacation rentals to start planning your stay. Our properties vary in size and location, so we know we can accommodate the whole family. Or, there is always the option to rent a few houses in the same neighborhood so members of the family can have some privacy. Your family reunion beach vacation rental awaits!

January 6, 2023January 6, 2023

Everything You Need to Know About the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off

St. George Island is one of the most calm and serene spots in all of Florida. However, for one day out of the year, the island turns competitive. The St. George Island Chili Cook-Off is one of the most anticipated events of the season. Every spring, locals and visitors come together to cook chili and enjoy events to raise money for charity. Book your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals to experience it for yourself!

If you’re thinking about heading to our island for the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off, take a look at our Things to Do page . Here, you will find everything you need to know about the things to do and see on the Forgotten Coast. Whether you’re looking for the perfect restaurant for date night or family-friendly activities for the kids, you can get our recommendations here.

About the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off
Every year, more than 5,000 people gather on St. George Island for the event. Not only is there a chili cook-off, there is also a 5K, Miss Chili Pepper and Mr. Hot Sauce contests, golf tournament, salsa contest, and an auction.

Where Do the Proceeds Go?
Proceeds of the St. George Island Chili Cook Off benefit our amazing Volunteer Fire Department. This contest was started to benefit the fire department from the very beginning and continues to do so to this day.

Can I Participate in Events?
Yes! As long as you register in time and pay a small fee, events at the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off are open to the public. We urge our guests at Collins Vacation Rentals to participate! Entry fees are usually about $5 for food competitions, and you might take home a prize. No matter what, you’ll get to go home with fond memories of competing in one of the most treasured events on the island. You might even get a chance to win Mister Hot Sauce or Miss Chili Pepper if you try out!
If you don’t want to participate, attendees have a great time watching all the events. You can try chilis and watch the contests. Check out the schedule to see when everything is, then plan your time around that.

The Official Chili Cook-Off
The official chili cook-off portion of the event is sanctioned by the International Chili Society. Their rules and regulations apply to the cook-off. It is $40 for ICS members and $90 for non-members, and winners get a cash prize. If this cook-off is too intense for you, you are always welcome to participate in the crockpot chili contest! ICS rules do not apply, and the entry fee is only $5.

Book Your Vacation Today
If you’re looking to attend the St. George Island Chili Cook-Off, book your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals! We have properties across the entire island, so we know we have one for you. Browse our rentals based on size and location, then book your stay. From beachfront homes to cozy cottages, our company has curated some of the best properties on the island for you to enjoy. We look forward to seeing you!

November 2, 2022November 1, 2022

How to Plan the Best Vacation With Xplorie

When you stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, we do everything we can to make sure you have the getaway of a lifetime. Staying on the gorgeous St. George Island in a beautiful beach rental is the recipe for an amazing trip, but we aim to go above and beyond during your stay. Take advantage of Xplorie, our partnership that we made with select properties to give you complimentary activities all over the island. It will take your island getaway to the next level!

Are you ready to start planning your St. George Island getaway? Take a look at our Things to Do page for an overview of what our island offers! Our Xplorie activities are a great start, but this page includes every trusted business and activity our island offers. As St. George Island locals, we know how important it is to know where to go and what to see while you’re here, so we made this carefully curated guide to help.

What Is Xplorie?
Xplorie is a way to make experiences on the island more accessible. As part of the booking process, you can choose complimentary activities you would like to enjoy during your stay with select properties at Collins Vacation Rentals. Each day, you can get one pass to each activity, and you can purchase more passes depending on how many people are in your party. It’s easy, complimentary, and fun!

What Does Xplorie Offer?
Collins Vacation Rentals has worked with Xplorie to offer some of the best activities on the island! All activities are booked directly through Xplorie, and they will do the work to make sure everything is in place and ready for you to enjoy. Hello, stress-free vacation!

Bike the Beach
Visitors love getting around our island by bike! When you book a bike rental with Island Adventures through Xplorie, you can get a free rental. Bike to breakfast from your vacation rental, or wake up early to bike the beach as the sun rises.

Relax With Beach Yoga
Nothing is more relaxing than yoga on a beach! Enjoy beach yoga with Island Fit! Breathe in the salt air as you practice yoga on the sand. Vacation is all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and this is the perfect way to do it.

Take an Eco Tour
One of our favorite parts about St. George Island is that it’s not built up like other Florida vacation destinations. Much of the land on our island remains untouched, so you can explore the beautiful landscape. Get your kayak rental with with Journeys of SGI and enjoy the beautiful waterways of the Island.

Enjoy Ice Cream at the Beach
Enjoy your favorite ice cream cone on the beach and the friendliest service in town! Aunt Eby’s has great classic music, views of the Gulf and a large variety of hand dipped ice cream.

Art at the Beach
Creative fun for the whole family and great for all ages with Art of Glass by Island Girl. Have fun creating your own unique glass piece and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Enjoy a Round of Golf
Golfing is an excellent vacation pastime, and Xplorie offers a free round of golf during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Practice your swing among towering trees in the Florida sun at the St. Joseph Bay Golf Course.

Gulf Specimen Marine Lab

At Gulf Specimen Lab you will get a better understanding of Marine Life. See creatures such as seahorses, emerald-eyed spiny boxfish, electric rays and red and white spotted calico crabs, just to name a few of the endless living treasures of north Florida’s coast.

Have a Movie Night
With the help of the Xplorie movie kiosk, you can plan a movie night with the family! You can take two movies out at a time to enjoy in your Collins Vacation Rental.

Book Your Getaway Today
Browse our vacation rentals and pick out your Xplorie activities to start planning your St. George Island getaway! Whether you’re coming with family or a group of friends, we know you’ll love our island as much as we do. Check your favorite property to see if Xplorie services are included! We look forward to seeing you!

November 1, 2022November 1, 2022

St. George Island: One of the Best January Vacations in the USA

Are you tired of shoveling snow out of the driveway? Have you been daydreaming about balmy weather and days filled with sunshine? It may be time for a getaway to St. George Island! Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the only thing missing from this gorgeous island paradise is you. Trade your winter jacket and boots for shades and flip flops, and start planning your trip. Here’s what makes St. George Island one of the best January vacations in the USA!
Pristine beaches, pleasant weather, and award-winning restaurants are just a few things that make St. George Island one of the best January vacations in the USA. Make sure to check out our Things to Do page for more recommendations about the best local attractions. It’s full of great tips about things to see and do during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals.

Why St. George Island Is One of the Best January Vacations in the USA
With sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water, The Forgotten Coast is one of the most beautiful places to visit in winter in the USA. St. George Island experiences mild weather this time of year, offering the best winter vacations for families and couples. In January, the average temperature ranges between the mid 50’s to 60’s. While it’s too cool to swim, this is the ideal time to walk, bike, or jog along the beach! Begin your day by watching a postcard-worthy sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico. Then, enjoy a stroll along the uncrowded shoreline while you comb the beach for shells.

In addition to beautiful beaches, you’ll find tons of other fun activities to enjoy here in winter. Take a hike at the 2023-acre state park or take a bike ride along the island’s scenic 6.3-mile bike path. Are you feeling adventurous? Climb the 92 steps of the historic St. George Island Lighthouse and enjoy the spectacular views from the top!
When you start to work up an appetite, you’ll find several amazing restaurants to tantalize your taste buds. St. George Island is especially known for our delicious seafood! Indulge in fresh shrimp, fish, crab, oysters without having to wait for a table. Then, take your time browsing the nearby boutiques and art galleries. There is so much to see and do here, and it’s all just minutes from your Collins Vacation Rental!

Plan Your Winter Getaway With Collins Vacation Rentals
After a fabulous day exploring St. George Island, come home to your Collins Vacation Rental and unwind. From beachfront homes and luxurious villas to quaint cottages, we offer a wide array of accommodation options. Select properties even feature private heated pools, bubbling hot tubs, or complimentary activities through Xplorie! Enjoy the fresh sea breezes while you read a book on the porch, or spend an evening watching movies near the fireplace. Take advantage of our low winter rates and browse our properties now!

Are you ready for a break from the ice and snow? Escape to one of the best warm winter vacations in the USA. Contact us to plan your St. George Island getaway today!