Category: Beaches

Some Florida beach destinations are known for packed shorelines, high-rise hotels, and busy entertainment districts. St. George Island offers something different. This barrier island on Florida’s Forgotten Coast is known for miles of white sand, natural landscapes, and plenty of room to slow down.

Travelers searching for quiet Florida beach vacations can spend their days swimming, fishing, shelling, watching wildlife, or simply enjoying the Gulf without the atmosphere of a major resort town. From protected state park shoreline to lesser-known bayside spots, there are several places to find a quieter stretch of coast.

Where is St. George Island Located?

If you are wondering “Where is St. George Island?”, you will find it off the coast of Franklin County in the Florida Panhandle. The approximately 20-mile barrier island sits about four miles offshore, between the Gulf and Apalachicola Bay.

Its location along Florida’s Forgotten Coast helps give the island its laid-back character. There are no towering beachfront resorts dominating the shoreline. Instead, vacation homes, dunes, coastal vegetation, and protected natural areas shape much of the landscape.

Where Are the Most Secluded Beaches on St. George Island?

St. George Island Beach

The island’s central Gulf beaches provide convenient access to soft sand and open water while still offering a relaxed setting. Public beach access points throughout the developed portion of the island make it easy to explore different stretches of shoreline.

These beaches are a good starting point for families looking for secluded beaches on St. George Island without traveling far from restaurants, shops, and other island conveniences. Walking farther from the busiest access points can often provide additional breathing room.

Unit Four Beach

Unit Four Beach is one of the island’s lesser-known natural areas. Located on the bay side near East 6th Street, it has minimal parking and only basic facilities, helping preserve its quiet feel. The surrounding habitats also make it a notable spot for birding and wildlife watching.

Shallow oyster bars and calm bayside scenery make this area especially appealing for nature walks and fishing. Protective footwear is recommended around oyster shells.

St. George Island State Park

Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park protects the eastern nine miles of the island and offers some of its most undeveloped shoreline. The park has nine miles of Gulf beaches, with four miles accessible along the main park drive.

Travelers can swim, shell, fish, kayak, hike, and watch wildlife. Those seeking even more solitude can explore farther toward the East End, where access becomes more limited.

The Plantation

The gated St. George Plantation covers the island’s western end and includes five miles of white-sand Gulf shoreline. Guests staying within the community can reach the beach through nature trails and 31 common boardwalks.

Its low-density coastal setting makes The Plantation especially attractive when searching for secret beach vacation rentals in St. George Island. Vacation homes here can provide a peaceful home base while keeping the Gulf close at hand.

East End Beaches

For a more remote experience, head east. St. George Island State Park’s East End Special Use Area extends beyond the primary vehicle-accessible beach areas. The far eastern shoreline can be reached by walking, bicycle, or boat rather than by regular vehicle access.

The extra effort can reward visitors with long stretches of undeveloped coast, excellent beachcombing, wildlife sightings, and a stronger sense of escape. Always respect marked shorebird nesting areas and other protected habitat.

Book Your St. George Island Secluded Beach Vacation Rental with Collins Vacation Rentals

A peaceful beach trip starts with choosing the right place to stay. Collins Vacation Rentals offers beachfront St. George Island vacation rentals for families, couples, pet owners, and groups ready to experience the island at a slower pace.

Choose a home near your favorite stretch of sand, settle into island time, and make the shoreline part of your daily routine. With more than 50 years of local experience in St. George Island vacation rentals, Collins Vacation Rentals can help you find a St. George Island home that fits the way your family likes to vacation.

Sources

• Florida State Parks: Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

• Florida State Parks: Experiences & Amenities

• Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Beaches

• St. George Plantation: Beach Access

• St. George Plantation: Visitor Information

Late summer on St. George Island offers a quieter and more relaxing coastal experience without losing the beauty that makes the island so popular. The Gulf waters remain warm, the beaches are less crowded, and sunsets over the shoreline feel even more peaceful as the busy summer season winds down.

Choosing one of our St. George Island vacation rentals gives travelers the chance to enjoy the beach at their own pace. From morning walks along the sand to evenings spent watching waves roll in from a private deck, beachfront stays create a simple and comfortable way to enjoy the Forgotten Coast.

Why Is Late Summer the Absolute Best Time to Visit St. George Island?

August and September bring many of the same benefits as peak summer travel, but with fewer visitors. Beaches feel less crowded, restaurants often have shorter wait times, and local attractions move at a slower pace.

The Gulf of Mexico stays warm well into the fall, making swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing enjoyable throughout late summer. Late summer weather also creates excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. Early mornings are ideal for bike rides or shell hunting, while evenings offer cooler temperatures perfect for waterfront dining or relaxing outside with family.

Travelers who choose our beachfront St. George vacation rentals during this season often enjoy easier beach access and more opportunities to experience the natural side of the island without large crowds nearby.

What Makes SGI Beachfront Rentals Ideal for a Late Summer Getaway?

Beachfront rentals offer a level of convenience that can completely change the vacation experience. Instead of driving to public beach access points or carrying gear long distances, guests can step directly onto the sand from their rental property. Late summer makes this even more enjoyable because the beaches feel more open and peaceful.

Many of our SGI beachfront rentals also include features designed for comfort after a day outside, including:

• Private pools

• Spacious decks with Gulf views

• Outdoor showers

• Fully equipped kitchens

• Multiple bedrooms for larger families

• Pet-friendly accommodations

Beachfront homes also provide flexibility during changing weather patterns. Guests can still enjoy ocean views, covered patios, and indoor gathering spaces even during brief summer rain showers.

What Exclusive Amenities Can You Enjoy in St. George Island Plantation Rentals?

The Plantation area offers one of the island’s most private and peaceful vacation experiences. Guests staying in St. George Island Plantation rentals enjoy access to a gated community known for its quiet beaches and upscale amenities.

Many Plantation properties offer features that make extended stays especially comfortable during late-summer vacations. Depending on the home, guests may enjoy:

The Plantation area is also popular with families looking for a calmer beach environment and travelers seeking extra space between neighboring properties.

What Natural Wildlife Activities Happen Along the Shore in August and September?

Late summer is one of the best times to experience the natural beauty of St. George Island. Wildlife activity remains high along the shoreline and nearby bay areas.

Sea turtle nesting season continues into late summer, and visitors may spot protected nesting areas along the beach. Shorebirds gather near the waterline during migration periods, creating excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Fishing also remains strong during this time of year. Kayakers and paddleboarders frequently encounter dolphins swimming close to shore during calm mornings.

The nearby St. George Island State Park offers another excellent option for nature lovers. Trails, undeveloped beaches, and protected coastal habitats provide a quieter way to explore the island’s environment.

Book Your Beachfront St. George Island Vacation Rental With Collins Vacation Rentals

Late summer offers the perfect balance of warm weather, peaceful beaches, and relaxing coastal scenery. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a couples getaway, or a multi-generational beach trip, staying close to the Gulf helps you experience the very best of St. George Island.

At Collins Vacation Rentals, we offer a wide selection of beachfront homes designed for every type of traveler. From private pools and pet-friendly homes to spacious Gulf-front properties with room for the entire family, our team helps guests find the right rental for a stress-free island getaway.

Sources

• Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce – St. George Island

• Visit Florida – St. George Island

• Florida State Parks – Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

Buckle up: It’s time to hit the beach! When it comes to the best tropical destinations near Nashville, TN, St. George Island should be at the very top of your list. With gorgeous white-sand beaches, delicious cuisine, and plenty of sunshine, this little slice of paradise along Florida’s Forgotten Coast has everything you need for a tropical getaway. Are you ready to escape to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast? Here’s how to plan the ultimate road trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL!
Before you start packing your bags, make sure to check out our Things to Do page. It’s full of recommendations about the best restaurants, shops, attractions, and activities on St. George Island. Planning a trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL, has never been easier!

How Far Is it From Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL?
Driving from Nashville to St. George Island is easy. It takes approximately 8 ½ hours to drive here via I-65 S, so you can easily reach our island in just one day. The entire trip is 519 miles. However, we would allow an extra hour for traffic or stops along the way. If you are looking for a good halfway point to rest, you might consider breaking for lunch in Montgomery, AL. There are many quick fast food places and great sit-down restaurants right next to the interstate. From here, it’s just four more hours to the beach!

Things to Do in St. George Island, FL
Once you’ve reached St. George Island, settle into your Collins Vacation Home and get a great night’s rest. The next morning, enjoy all that the island has to offer! From kayaking and paddle boarding to snorkeling and fishing, there is no shortage of things to do along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Here are some suggestions to get you started. For even more recommendations, check out our blog or Things to Do page.

1. Relax at the Beach
St. George Island is home to the world’s most beautiful beaches – it’s no secret. Unlike other Florida beaches, you won’t find large commercial high rises and hotels here. Instead, the island offers a beautiful and secluded location away from all the crowds. Enjoy lounging on sugar-white shorelines, splashing in the Gulf, and soaking up the sun. If adventure is what you seek, you’ll surely find it here as well. Rent jet skis and race your friends over the waves, hop on a fishing charter, or kayak along our beautiful waterways. The possibilities are endless!

2. Shop For Coastal Treasures
Whether you’re searching for beach gear, souvenirs, apparel, jewelry or art, you’ll discover it all on St. George Island. Take your time browsing the island’s unique beach shops and specialty stores. Shop for unique gifts at St. George Island Trading Co., find upscale clothing and accessories at Seaside Cotton Boutique, or stop for a scoop of ice cream at Aunt Ebby’s Shopping is the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon on beautiful St. George!

3. Dig Into the Catch of the Day
From oceanfront cafes and romantic bistros to fine dining establishments, there are many excellent restaurants on St. George Island. While you’ll find different types of mouthwatering cuisine here, we are especially known for our seafood. After all, there’s nothing better than the taste of fresh fish, crab, and shrimp caught straight from the Gulf of Mexico. While you’re visiting, make sure to try our Apalachicola Bay Oysters. 

Relax and Unwind in Your Collins Vacation Rental
Wouldn’t you rather be relaxing on the beach right now? Plan a road trip to St. George Island right now and experience the getaway you’ve been dreaming about. When you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental, you can experience your family vacation to the fullest. Our gorgeous collection of rentals includes beachfront properties, homes with Gulf views and heated pools, pet-friendly accommodations and much more. No matter which vacation home you choose, we guarantee you will make memories to last a lifetime along our sandy shores!

Browse our St. George Island properties and book your stay today. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most desirable spring break destinations. Each year, families and students flock to The Sunshine State to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy a much-needed break from work and school.  The St. George Island State Park was Voted the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2023!  If you’re looking to avoid the crowds this year, why not plan a relaxing getaway to St. George Island, FL? With pristine shorelines and exciting activities, the island is home to the best Florida spring break beaches for a family getaway.
Once you visit, we think you’ll agree; St. George Island has the best Florida spring break beaches! For more recommendations about things to do on spring break in Florida, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate beach vacation, including suggestions about the best family activities local dining, excursions, attractions, and more. Vacation planning has never been easier!

4 of the Best Florida Spring Break Beaches
There’s no place more beautiful than Florida in the spring. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing vacation, consider one of the following St. George Island beaches:

1. St. George Island Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the country, St. George Island beach boasts some of the clearest waters you have ever seen. The uncrowded shorelines are ideal for swimming, beachcombing, or simply lounging in the sunshine. Build a sandcastle with the kids, splash in the Gulf, or sink your toes in the sand and relax. The sound of gentle waves will carry you to a state of pure bliss!
In addition to pristine shorelines, St. George Island beach has bathhouse facilities, pavilions for picnics, a playground for the kiddos, and a ball court. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach, so feel free to bring Fido!

2. Unit 4 Beach
Unit 4 Beach is located on the bayside of the island and offers total seclusion. Lounge by the shoreline and enjoy the natural setting of this peaceful oasis. Or, bring kayaks and enjoy a family paddle through serene waters. Unit Four Beach is also a prime destination for birding, fishing, and hiking. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for heron, diving osprey, eagles, and more. There is limited parking, so we recommend arriving early. Leashed dogs are welcome.

3. St. George Island State Park
With powder-soft sand and sparkling blue waters, St. George Island State Park is by far one of the best beaches in Florida for Spring Break.  Located on the Gulf-side of the island, this beach offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. Comb the shore for shells, play in the Gulf, and look for dolphins leaping in the distance. Although some areas of the park are currently undergoing repairs, the East Slough Beach Use Area is now open for parking and beach access.

4. Cape St. George Island State Reserve
You may just have the entire beach to yourself when you visit the Cape St. George Island State Reserve! Located on Little St. George Island, this 9-mile stretch of shoreline features untouched beaches, scenic hiking trails, and plentiful wildlife-viewing opportunities. The reserve is only accessible by boat, which makes it even more secluded. To get there, we recommend hopping on a sailing charter, or taking a guided tour to the reserve with Journey’s of Saint George Island.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
So, there you have it! When it comes to the best Florida spring break destinations for families, no place compares to St. George Island! Experience our island paradise to the fullest when you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental. We offer a wide array of incredible vacation homes, many of which are located right on the beach! From pet-friendly rentals to large, luxury homes, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay.

Quick FAQ: St. George Island Spring Break

1. Is St. George Island good for families?

Guests staying at select, participating Collins Vacation homes can also access several complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayak rental, complimentary bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Golf Course, Aunt Eby’s Ice Cream, Coffee & Ceam or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. So, what are you waiting for? Browse all properties and contact us to book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome your family for spring break!

Island Adventures is a one stop shop for all of your outdoors and souvenir needs while you’re on vacation here in St. George Island. They have a great list of rental items that you can use on your excursions to the beach or throughout the town, and a welcoming staff that will be glad to help you get acquainted with the area. Pay them a visit during your stay for quality rentals and great service. Pick up some gifts to take home for family and friends while you’re there!

Island Adventures has everything you need to enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor fun in style during your trip to the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more St. George Island activities for your family? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the island 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!

Island Adventures Rentals
Island Adventures provides the items that you and your family will need to enjoy all of the beautiful beaches around St. George Island. Rent chairs, umbrellas, golf carts or packages including both. For those who are differently abled and need a way to access our shores, there is also a beach wheelchair for rent.

The store also offers a few fun ways to get around the island. Whether it’s for sightseeing, exercise, or transportation, contact Island Adventures when you need bike rentals or golf carts on St. George Island. Looking for something a little less traditional? A two- or four-person surrey is a whimsical way to get moving and explore.

Most of the items provided by Island Adventures (surreys excluded) can also be delivered straight to you Collins Vacation Home for a very small fee. No need to clear the trunk or invest in a bike rack; let your rentals come to you!

Island Adventures Souvenirs
In addition to covering your beach rental needs, Island Adventures also offers a range of gifts and souvenirs. Pick up something for yourself to help you remember your amazing trip to SGI, or take something home for friends and family. Also, if you get home and realize you forgot someone on your list, they have a convenient online store.

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After a fun day with your rentals from Island Adventures, come enjoy 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!

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.

Imagine the sound of waves crashing gently on a beautiful shoreline while you practice deep breathing techniques. Imagine the feel of sand beneath your toes as you let all of your worries slip away with the ebb and flow of the tides. There’s nothing more relaxing than beach yoga on St. George Island, FL. During your next getaway, you must give it a try! 
If you’re interested in beach yoga on St. George Island, you’ll also love embarking on paddle boarding, kayaking, or fishing excursion. Head over to our Things to Do page for more suggestions about the best activities and attractions around the island. It’s full of tips to help you plan the perfect getaway!

How to Experience Beach Yoga With Island Fit 
Island Fit has the only Paddlefit and Yoga Alliance certified instructor on the entire Forgotten Coast, so you can expect a fun and professional experience every time. Here are some different ways to enjoy a class with Island Fit.

1. Attend Guided Beach Yoga on St. George Island
Beach yoga classes with Island Fit are open to the public, and reservations are not necessary. Just bring your beach towel, bottled water, sunscreen, and a great attitude! During the class, you’ll practice deep breathing and stretching along St. George Island’s beautiful sugar-white shores. Everyone is welcome to participate in this gentle yoga class — even well-mannered pets! Breathe in the fresh sea breezes and exhale all of your stress away. 
Classes meet at the Lighthouse Public Beach and run seasonally from March – September. During these months, beach yoga is held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9 a.m. The cost is just $15 and we recommend checking their Facebook page ahead of time to see the most current class status and cancellations.

2. Try Yoga on a Paddle Board
If you’re really up for a challenge, we recommend signing up for a Paddle board Yoga class. This is one of the best St. George Island fitness classes for improving strength, stamina, and balance. Paddle out onto calm waters and begin your lesson with Island Fit. First, you will go over the basics of paddle boarding. Then the real fun begins! Enjoy a relaxing yoga flow on the water and reconnect with yourself and nature. Not only will you improve your sea legs, but you’ll also leave this class feeling relaxed and refreshed. 
In addition to Paddle board Yoga classes, Island fit also offers regular paddle board lessons and rentals, guided excursions, and Eco Tours.

3. Take a Private Lesson
For a more intimate experience, we recommend signing up for a private yoga lesson with Island Fit. This way, your instructor can focus on your specific needs and customize your experience. Private lessons can be held right in your Collins Vacation Rental or on the beach at the location of your choosing. 
Are you planning a friend’s getaway, family reunion, or wedding? Island Fit also offers private lessons for your entire group. No matter the occasion, your family and friends will love having a personalized and fun yoga class together on the beach! 

Make Your Getaway Even Sweeter With Complimentary Activities on St. George Island
Did you know that it’s possible to enjoy complimentary yoga on the beach when you book a stay at select, participating Collins Vacation Rentals? Book your stay at one of our participating vacation homes and you’ll enjoy one complimentary adult yoga lesson per paid night stay. Just make your reservations in advance to take advantage of this amazing offer! 
Collins Vacation Rentals has proudly partnered with Xplorie to give our guests the ultimate St. George Island experience. In addition to beach yoga, our guests staying at select, participating homes can access several other complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include St. George Island kayak rentals and bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Bay Golf Club, unlimited movie rentals, and free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. Check out our website for more details and get ready for an action-packed vacation! 

Enjoy a Relaxing Stay With Collins Vacation Rentals
Now that you’re ready to experience beach yoga on St. George Island, it’s time to start planning your getaway! Come relax, unwind, and escape to our Forgotten Coast paradise. When it comes to the best accommodations on the island, we invite you to book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Our beautiful beachfront homes are designed with your ultimate comfort in mind. Whether you prefer a home with a heated pool, a pet-friendly accommodation, or an intimate seaside condo, we are sure to have the ideal property for your stay. Explore our properties and book your stay with us today! We can’t wait to welcome you to sunny St. George Island, Florida!

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We all dream of clear, blue water and swaying palms every once in a while. There’s nothing better than a great day on the beach! On St. George Island, the beaches are one of our favorite things to enjoy year round. Each season offers something different! So, when is the best time to visit Florida beaches? That’s for you to decide.
Have you ever heard of St. George Island before? Our sleepy beach town is the perfect place for a vacation. Unlike most of Florida, our little island is not built up. You can still see the wildlife and plants that are indigenous to the Gulf Coast. Take a look at our Things to Do page to get a sneak peek into what our island offers!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Florida Beaches?
To answer this question, you need to think about what you want to get out of your beach vacation. Do you care about running into crowds? Is sitting on the sand with a blanket and a good book your idea of a beach day? Do you enjoy riding your bike down the shoreline in cool weather? What weather do you prefer? Take all of this into account when picking your time to visit.

If You’re Looking for Fun in the Sun…
For a typical beach vacation full of crashing waves, sandy toes, and hot sun, you’ll definitely want to visit St. George Island between late spring and early fall. The weather during this time period usually ranges in the 80s with highs in the 90s! July and August are our hottest months, so a dip in the ocean is an absolute must if you are visiting during these times. Here are the highs and lows during this time:

May- High of 84, low of 65 degrees Fahrenheit
June- High of 89, low of 72 degrees Fahrenheit
July- High of 90, low of 74 degrees Fahrenheit
August- High of 90, low of 74 degrees Fahrenheit
September- High of 87, low of 71 degrees Fahrenheit
October- High of 81, low of 61 degrees Fahrenheit

Our Secret Sunny Season 
St. George Island is never crowded. No big-name hotels or high rises are allowed to be built, and we do our best to preserve the natural state of our land. Even during the busiest seasons, you’ll always be able to get a spot at the beach. However, there are certain times of the year when the weather is warm but the island is less crowded than usual!
If this is what you are looking for, try to come during the end of spring or beginning of fall. Any time before Memorial Day Weekend is usually a little less crowded. In the fall, kids go back to school and less families stay on St. George Island. It’s still great weather during these times; some even prefer it as opposed to 90 degree days!

If You Want Peace and Quiet…
Is your top priority a peaceful and quiet vacation by the beach? Come to St. George Island during the offseason! Our weather is pleasant year-round, and the island remains serene. Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy your coffee on your porch each morning. Ride bikes on the beach in the afternoon, and don’t forget to go to a spot like Paddy’s Raw Bar to watch the sunset.

Book Your Getaway Today
Have you decided when the best time to visit Florida beaches is? It’s time to book your getaway! Come experience the beauty of St. George Island when you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. We even have rentals right on the water so you can make the most out of your beach vacation. We look forward to seeing you!

You’re going on vacation to de-stress, but you find yourself stressing out over what to pack! Yikes! Pour yourself a drink, sit back, and relax. We have you covered with our beach packing list for a family vacation! We created this list for a St. George Island getaway, our family-friendly island retreat.

St. George Island is unlike any other place off the coast of Florida. It is never crowded, and you will always find a spot on the beach. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation! Get a sneak peek into all our paradise has to offer when you browse through our things to do page. In it, you’ll find the most trusted businesses and best activities to enjoy!

Your Beach Packing List for a Family Getaway
Here are our must-haves for a beach getaway! If you forget anything during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, we have everything you could need on the island. Stores like Island Adventures have everything from beachwear to fun games the whole family will love. If you need something in particular, just ask! We will point you in the right direction.

Sunscreen– This one is a no-brainer, but we just don’t want you to forget! Protect yourself and your family from harmful UV rays. We recommend getting a water-resistant brand so you can go in and out of the ocean all day long.
An umbrella or beach tent– This one goes hand-in-hand with sunscreen. It’s important to have some shade, especially if you have young children.
Bathing suits– Everyone needs at least one swimsuit for a beach vacation, but it’s always a good idea to have more. No one wants to put a wet suit back on!
Baby powder or cornstarch– This is a local tip from us islanders that are constantly on the beach. Sprinkle a little on your feet after you are done with the beach and sand will come right off. It’s magic!
Buckets and pails– Kids can play with just about anything on the beach, but you can make sure they are occupied with some beach toys. Give your kids fond memories of creating brilliant sand castles during your stay on St. George Island.
A good book– Not everything is about the kids! There will be times where they are playing peacefully in the sand, so focus on yourself and relax.
Snacks, lunch, and water– Of course, water is one of the most important things on a beach packing list for the family. You need to stay hydrated! You and the kids are sure to get hungry after spending hours in the sun, so light snacks are always appreciated. You can head to Sparks & Sons’ Island Grocery or the Piggly Wiggly Express to pick up some fruit, chips, and sandwich ingredients.
A beach cart– A beach cart always makes it easier to lug all your necessities back and forth. However, if you are renting one of our Collins Vacation Rentals beachfront homes, you won’t have to worry about it! All you need to do is step out your door onto the beach.
Beach chairs– You don’t have to worry about packing beach chairs for your vacation if there isn’t room in the car; we can have them delivered right to your vacation rental. Just don’t forget to bring them to the beach!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Your beach packing list for a family vacation is complete, so what are you waiting for? It’s time to gather your gear and book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals! Our quiet island is perfect for a family getaway, and we have more than 200 rentals to choose from. Browse and book today! We look forward to seeing you.

Nothing brings a family together like a vacation! Make some lasting memories this year on the Forgotten Coast. Start by choosing one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, then plan your trip. The list of St. George Island family activities is endless. Whether you’re looking for fun excursions or to relax together, SGI has it all!

Not only do we have the best vacation rentals on St. George Island, we want to help you plan your best trip yet! We know that researching for a vacation can be difficult, so we created our things to do page to help. Here, you’ll find everything from outdoor activities to our favorite places to shop. Start planning your best family vacation yet with Collins Vacation Rentals!

5 of the Best St. George Island Family Activities

1. Have a Beach Day
Who doesn’t love a trip to the beach? Soak up the sun and sand with your family.
St. George Island Adventures has everything you need to create your perfect beach day. Rent chairs, umbrellas, and more. Stop at the grocery store and stock up on snacks, lunch, and of course, plenty of water! Relax under your umbrella as the kids run in and out of the water, then build sandcastles together. Sometimes the simplest St. George family activities make the best memories!

2. Visit a Lighthouse
When thinking of St. George Island family activities, look for something unique. One of our favorite things to do on the island is to visit some of the lighthouses on its coast. Kids will love visiting the Cape St. George Light. Climb to the top of the 200-year-old tower to see amazing views, then visit the adjoining museum to learn about its incredible history. Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop to pick up a souvenir!

3. Go on a Fishing Trip
The thrill you get as you reel in a fish is exciting for any member of the family. Get out on the open water with Island Charters! This charter service offers a variety of excursions that are customized to the needs of your family to make sure you’ll have the best experience possible. They’ll take you around to the best places to cast a line around the island and will provide you with everything you need for the trip. Choose the Fish & Fun Charter to get a little bit of everything; this tour includes fishing, dolphin watching, and shelling.

4. Seek Some Thrills on a Jet Ski
Looking for something out of the ordinary the whole family will enjoy? Rent some jet skis! Indulge in a little fun on your vacation as you ride the waves. Challenge your family members to a race as you speed around the Florida Gulf. Getting out on the water is the perfect way to see the island from another perspective.

5. Attend a Family-Friendly Event
St. George Island hosts some of the best family-friendly events every year. Attend the Apalachicola Farmers Market and snag some great deals on the freshest fruits and veggies. Hike to the top of Cape St. George Island Light during their monthly full moon trek. Or spend your Yuletide season at the beach and enjoy our annual tree lighting and Holiday Lights on the Harbor!

Enjoy Some Family Time at Your Collins Vacation Rental
The St. George family activities don’t have to stop when you get back to your Collins Vacation Rental! Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. Choose your rental based on family size; we have more than 250 homes to choose from! Search based on the number of rooms, location, and more. We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!