Category: Things to Do

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. 

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, climbing the SGI Lighthouse, kayaking  adventures, bike rentals, ice cream at Aunt Ebby’s, a latte at Coffee and Cream,  golfing at St. Joseph Bay Golf Club, 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!

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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!

Spring is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your next beach getaway! If you’re trying to decide on a tropical destination, why not take a trip to St. George Island, Florida? The St. George Island State Park was voted the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2023!  March is a wonderful time to visit our island paradise; the sun is shining, the weather is perfect, and there is no shortage of exciting spring festivals to attend along our sugar-white shores.

From spring festivals and concerts to family-friendly activities, there are so many fun things to do on St. George Island in March. Head over to our Things to Do page to see recommendations about the best events, attractions, and activities to enjoy during your stay on the island. It’s full of tips to help you enjoy your getaway to the fullest!

3 Reasons to Visit St. George Island in March

1. Enjoy the Beautiful Weather
Unlike many areas of the country, The Forgotten Coast experiences balmy weather in March. The St. George Island, FL, average monthly temperatures in March range from the mid-50’s to the high 60’s. While this may be too chilly for swimming, the weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Take a stroll along the beach, bask in the sunshine, and breathe in the fresh sea breezes. Get out and explore miles of hiking and biking trails or paddle along the island’s secluded beaches. The possibilities are endless!

2. Take Advantage of the Lower Rates
March is secretly the best time to visit St. George Island. The summer peak season has not yet arrived, which means that vacation rates are still low. Anytime before Memorial Day you can find some amazing deals on accommodations, travel, dining out, and more. It’s a win-win because you’ll save money and you’ll feel like you have the entire beach to yourself!

3. Celebrate the Season
The warmer weather welcomes the return of spring festivals along the island, and there are so many exciting events planned each year!   In March, it’s all about the annual Chili Cook-Off. A beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, the 3-day event includes a chili tournament, a golf outing, live music, and tons of family-friendly fun. Mark your calendar for the first weekend in March, and start making plans to attend now! Other Forgotten Coast events planned this March include the Carrabelle Culture Crawl, the Saturday Apalachicola Farmers Market, and a Full Moon Lighthouse Climb at Crooked River Lighthouse.

Book Your Spring Getaway in a Collins Vacation Rental
Whether you’re joining us for Spring Break, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, you’ll love every second of your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Our gorgeous St. George Island vacation rentals feature top-notch amenities to ensure your stay is a relaxing one. Many of them are just steps away from all of the best restaurants, shops, attractions, and the Gulf!

If you’re visiting in March, you may be interested in a property with a heated pool or hot tub. Consider booking your stay in A Piece of Heaven or Chill Inn on SGI! Are you looking for dog-friendly rentals? We offer a wide range of pet-friendly options as well. No matter what you are searching for, we are sure to have the ideal accommodation for your stay. Browse all of our properties and contact us to plan your getaway to St. George Island today! We’ll see you soon.

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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!

 

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

Dreaming of sunshine while shoveling snow? Ready to trade icy driveways for soft, sugar-white sand? A winter escape to St. George Island, Florida may be exactly what you need. Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast on the beautiful Forgotten Coast, SGI offers mild weather, peaceful beaches, and a relaxing coastal atmosphere—making it one of the best January vacation destinations in the USA.

If you’re craving warmth, quiet mornings, and unforgettable Gulf views, here’s why St. George Island is the perfect winter getaway.

1. Mild Winter Weather & Pristine Beaches

With average January temperatures in the mid-50s to 60s, St. George Island is a favorite for travelers seeking a warm winter vacation in Florida without the crowds. While the water is too cool for swimming, the weather is ideal for:

• Beach walks along uncrowded, sugar-white shorelines
• Bike rides and morning jogs by the Gulf
• Shell-collecting as the sun rises over the water
• Peaceful afternoons reading in the sunshine

The Forgotten Coast is known for its natural beauty, and winter is one of the best seasons to enjoy it.

2. Outdoor Adventures Perfect for Winter Travel

January is a fantastic time to explore SGI’s natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking for quiet time in nature or a light adventure, you’ll find plenty to do, including:

• Hiking through the 2,023-acre Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
• Biking the island’s scenic 6.3-mile path
• Climbing the historic St. George Island Lighthouse, where 92 steps lead to breathtaking panoramic views

Cool, comfortable weather makes outdoor activities refreshing and enjoyable

3. Fresh Seafood & Relaxed Island Dining

Winter is one of the best times to experience St. George Island’s award-winning restaurants—with fresh Gulf seafood and no long wait times. Treat yourself to:

• Shrimp, fresh-catch fish, oysters, and crab
• Laid-back waterfront dining
• Charming local boutiques and art galleries just steps away

Enjoy the slower pace of island life while savoring flavors unique to the Gulf Coast.

4. Cozy Winter Stays With Collins Vacation Rentals

After a day of exploring SGI, return to your Collins Vacation Rental for comfort, privacy, and coastal charm. Our homes are perfect for January beach vacations, offering:

• Beachfront homes, cottages, and luxury villas
• Private heated pools, hot tubs, and fireplaces in select homes
• Complimentary Xplorie activities for added vacation value
• Peaceful porches and decks ideal for reading, relaxing, or stargazing

Winter also brings some of our best rates of the year, making it the perfect time to plan a longer stay.

5. A Peaceful Escape From Winter Blues

If you’re searching for warm winter destinations in the USA, romantic winter getaways, or a family-friendly January trip, St. George Island checks every box. Mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, and a calm coastal atmosphere create the perfect setting to reset and recharge.

Plan Your January Getaway to St. George Island

Ready to escape the ice and snow? Discover why travelers return year after year for the best warm winter vacations on the Gulf Coast.
Browse our properties, explore our Things to Do guide, and start planning your St. George Island vacation with Collins Vacation Rentals today.

 

 

Atlanta’s energy and opportunity mean that there’s always something to do in the city, but sometimes, you just need to get away for a while and relax. When you are looking for a getaway from Atlanta, you probably want something the exact opposite of the city. We know just the place: St. George Island. Soft sand and a relaxed, beachy atmosphere make this island the perfect place to take a break for a week or two!

Do you want an inside look on all the things to do and see on out island? We created our Things to Do page just for you! This way, you can save hours of planning time for your getaway from Atlanta. We believe you shouldn’t be wasting time researching, so we did it for you. Now, you can spend your time on what’s important: making memories. 

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Is the Best Getaway From Atlanta

Relaxing Getaway
What’s more relaxing than falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves and waking up each morning to beach views? Our quiet island is one of the best spots to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. During our many days of warm weather, you can soak up the sun on the beach or your private pool. Or, you can hike along the St. George Island State Park nearly any time of the year! Best of all, you can get away from everyday life easier than ever during your time on SGI. 

Never Crowded
Even in the peak season, St. George Island is never crowded. Unlike Atlanta, you’ll never have to sit in hours of traffic or fight through a crowd. It’s refreshing! Our island was never built up by developers, so it’s one of the last true pieces of the Gulf Coast left to experience. You might have to wait for a table at a restaurant during our busy season, but you’ll never have trouble finding a spot on the beach. 

Everything You Need
Sometimes, staying on an island can deter you because of the lengths you’ll have to go to enjoy all the activities during your vacation. Well, don’t worry, we have everything right here! You are more than welcome to leave the island if you’d like to experience any of the attractions in Apalachicola, but you can do all your shopping and enjoy countless activities right here. We have amazing restaurants, outdoor activities, shops, grocery stores, and more right on the island. 

Book Your Getaway From Atlanta Today
Are you ready to experience the beauty of St. George Island for yourself? Browse our properties at Collins Vacation Rentals! We have more than 260 beach homes for you to choose from, so we know we have something for you. Search based on size, location, or just click around until one of our beautiful homes catches your eye. Whether you’re looking to rent a luxurious villa or a quaint cottage, we can help. You deserve some island bliss, so book your stay today! Your getaway from Atlanta awaits!

Are you searching for quaint small towns to visit in Florida? Look no further than the Forgotten Coast! Nestled in the panhandle, this gorgeous stretch of Gulf Coast is home to some of the best old-time Florida towns. Here, you’ll find miles of pristine beaches, stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and activities for the whole family to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to paradise. Once you visit, you won’t ever want to leave!
Before you visit the following old time Florida towns, make sure to check out our Things to Do Page! It’s full of recommendations about the best local restaurants, shops, and attractions on St. George Island to help you plan your vacation.

Here Are the Best Old Florida Towns to Visit

1. St. George Island
Although not technically a “town,” St. George Island fully encompasses that charming small-town feel. This gorgeous 28-mile barrier island is known for its beautiful, unspoiled beaches, delicious seafood, and exciting activities. You won’t find high rises or large crowds here! Instead, you’ll find a peaceful Gulf Coast paradise just waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer to lounge on the beach, dive into the crystal-clear water, or hike miles of picturesque trails, the possibilities are endless!
Although it is small, St. George Island has everything you could ever want or need while on vacation. Check out the local shops and art galleries, explore the island via bike, kayak, or boat, or try one of our waterfront restaurants or bars. Other must-see attractions include the St. George Island Lighthouse and St. George Island State Park. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it all here!

2. Eastpoint
Located just minutes from St. George Island, this charming waterfront town is also an authentic fishing community. On any given day, you’ll see dozens of fishing boats and anglers casting their lines into the Gulf. Stop into one of the seafood markets for the fresh catch of the day or embark on your own angling adventure! If you have time, make sure to visit the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. With interactive displays, fish tanks, and scenic trails, it’s a great place to learn more about the Apalachicola River and Bay.

3. Apalachicola
Just across the bridge from St. George Island, Apalachicola also offers several attractions. Visitors can enjoy kayaking in the bay, wildlife-viewing, fishing, dining, and more. Make sure to visit the Chapman Botanical Garden for a truly magical experience!

4. Carrabelle
When it comes to the best old-time Florida towns, Carrabelle is another one to add to your list! This peaceful village is filled with great shops, popular restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Climb 138 steps to the top of the Crooked River Lighthouse, check out the Camp Gordon Johnston World War II Museum, or visit the Carrabelle History Museum. And don’t forget to stop by the world’s smallest police station! Bring your camera so you can snap a souvenir photo to show family and friends back home.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
You can visit all of these incredible old-time Florida towns when you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Our St. George Island vacation rentals are conveniently located near Eastpoint, Apalachicola, and Carrabelle. However, you don’t even have to leave the island to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. All of the best beaches, fishing locations, golf courses, hiking trails, restaurants, and shops are all right here!

From expansive beachfront homes to quaint cottages, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay. All of our rentals are fully equipped with luxurious amenities and comfortable furnishings. Many of them feature private pools, bubbling hot tubs, elevators, boat docks, and more. We even offer complimentary activities at select properties through our partnership with Xplorie, including yoga, golf, bike rentals, and more. Don’t wait to start planning your next trip to paradise. Contact us today to learn more about planning your St. George Island getaway. We look forward to seeing you soon!

St. George Island is located about eight miles southeast of Apalachicola. It is known for its serene, natural setting and laid-back family atmosphere. The St. George Island Bridge is the connector between Apalachicola and St. George Island, and when you drive it, you’ll feel like you’re crossing the bridge to paradise!

The St. George Island Bridge is just the beginning of the beauty you’ll witness on our amazing island. There are many ways to get around and experience the stunning scenery of SGI. Discover the best ways to see and experience St. George Island and ensure that your family or friends have a memorable getaway to this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists amazing outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the sights and sounds here on SGI. 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 helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an amazing vacation!

Driving the St. George Island Bridge

The St. George Island Bridge is the most convenient and popular way to enter St. George Island. It also gives travelers the chance to experience some great scenic views. Enjoy looking out over the water as you approach the shore of SGI. As you get closer to the island, you’ll also see the town’s iconic Cape St. George light in the distance. The stretch over Apalachicola Bay, from East Point to SGI, is 4-miles long, making it the third longest bridge in the state of Florida.

When You Arrive, See Gorgeous St. George Island Up Close

The St. George Island Bridge, also known as State Road 300, ends right in the heart of St. George Island. While you’re here, you’ll experience all of the amazing sights you observed from a distance up close! Visit the St. George Island Lighthouse to learn about its history or go on a Full Moon Climb. Our beaches are loved for their natural style, and beauty of St .George Island State Park is rare. You can also head back out to the water for a dolphin tour, fishing, or kayaking while you’re here!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home

After you make your way to the island using the St. George Island Bridge, head to your beautiful Collins Vacation Home to relax. Our rental homes are amazing places to spend your SGI vacation. Many of the rentals are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.

Take full advantage of your beach vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties.  Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

St. George Island is a paradise unlike any other. Its pristine white sands complement its rich beach culture highlighted by seafood, fun, and festivals. Known for its amazing fresh catches of the day, you can get some of the best seafood in the state on our island! Celebrate our fishing traditions when you attend the Apalachicola’s Florida Seafood Festival on the mainland. Dubbed Florida’s oldest maritime event, this festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each year.

If you’re planning to visit St. George Island for the Florida Seafood Festival, you’ll have to plan the rest of your stay! Start by looking at our Things to Do page. It provides all of the best recommendations for our most trusted business and activities on the island! You should also check out our Area Events page so you never miss an awesome festival like this one.

When Is the Florida Seafood Festival?
The Apalachicola Florida Seafood Festival comes to town for one weekend every November. If you are looking for specific dates, make sure you check the festival website! Then, you’ll know when to reserve a Collins Vacation Rental.

Things to Do at the Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola
Eat Your Heart Out
What would the Florida Seafood Festival be without seafood? This festival is a seafood lover’s paradise. Thousands of festival-goers make sure to celebrate this fact by watching or participating in oyster eating and oyster shucking contests.
Plus, it is nearly impossible to be hungry at this festival. Attendees can enjoy all sorts of seafood from fresh oysters to smoked mullet. If it is local to Apalachicola, you will find it here! If you aren’t a seafood fan or have a picky eater in your family, don’t worry. There are more than enough choices of non-seafood items to satisfy any hungry visitor.

Entertainment for All Ages

At the Florida Seafood Festival, there is enough entertainment to keep visitors of all ages occupied for hours. Sit back and relax as you listen to the different musical acts throughout the weekend. Saturday night of the festival features one mainstream headliner performing their greatest hits. Once you’ve enjoyed the music, tap into your thrill-seeking side and take the kids on some carnival rides! There are so many different types of rides and games that the kids will never want to leave.
You should also make sure that you walk to the Maritime Exhibit Area. This portion of the festival has recently been revamped to be better than ever. Attendees of all ages will love learning at these hands-on demonstrations. Learn about topics such as the area’s ecosystem, meet the local wildlife, and more! You’ll feel good leaving with some knowledge on your vacation.

Events You Can’t Miss
The weekend of the Florida Seafood Festival is sprinkled with events. One of the most popular is the Festival Parade on Saturday morning; it’s always a favorite of the kids and a great way to start off the day! The Blessing of the Fleet is also popular. It’s fun to see the parade of fishing, shrimping, oystering, and recreational vessels being blessed as they float by. There are also some competitive events. If you are interested in challenging yourself, then the Redfish Run is for you! Race through the streets of the city before you attend the fair. Or, you can participate in the Blue Crab Races and see if your chosen crab will reach the finish line first!

Bring Home Some Memorabilia
Every year, there are more than 90 arts and crafts booths located throughout the festival. Local artisans and crafters feature their handmade goods for purchase. Treat yourself to a souvenir at the Florida Seafood Festival to remember your trip by! Imagine going back to the charming Florida coast every time you look at your uniquely crafted piece on display.

Don’t Wait to Book Your Stay!
With the Apalachicola Florida Seafood Festival bringing thousands of visitors to our area, you won’t want to wait any longer to book your Collins Vacation Rental. The sooner you do, the more choices of size and area you will have! You’ll love coming back to one of our charming properties after a day at the festival.
Share a glass of wine with your sweetheart on your private porch overlooking the ocean or opt to spend more time with the kids during a family game night. Don’t wait—book your stay today! We look forward to seeing you!

It’s never too early to start making plans for winter break! If you’re searching for the best warm-weather getaway, why not plan a relaxing escape to St. George Island, FL? Come bask in the sunshine, stroll the pristine shorelines, and enjoy spending quality time with family. Here’s why our Forgotten Coast paradise is one of the best Florida winter vacations.

Once you visit, we think you’ll agree: St. George Island is one of the best Florida winter vacations. If you’re thinking about visiting our beautiful shores, make sure to take a look at our Things to Do page. It’s full of great recommendations about attractions to see during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals!

Top 3 Things to Do in St. George Island This Winter

1. Escape to the Beach
When it comes to the best Florida beaches in January – or any time of year – no place can compare to St. George Island. In winter, the temperatures typically range from the mid 50’s to 60’s. While it may be too cool for swimming during this time of year, the weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Take a bike ride along the beach, comb the shoreline for shells, or play a game of sand football with the family. With fewer crowds and wide-open beaches, our gorgeous barrier island is one of the best winter vacation locations in Florida.

2. Explore a Lighthouse
The St. George Island Lighthouse is one attraction that you absolutely must add to your winter itinerary. In addition to being a historically significant part of the local culture, it offers some of the best views on the island. Purchase your tickets, take a tour of the lighthouse museum, and then climb the 92 steps to the top. Nothing will prepare you for the breathtaking 360-degree views of the island and the clear blue water of the Gulf!

3. Enjoy Endless Activities
The Forgotten Coast experiences great weather year-round, which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities during any season. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing in the wintertime. On any given day, you’ll see anglers casting their lines into the Gulf for monster redfish, flounder, whiting, and more. Weather permitting, many of the local charters can also take you on an amazing offshore fishing excursion.
Are there any nature enthusiasts traveling with you? If so, they will love hiking miles of scenic trails at St. George Island State Park! Keep an eye out for native wildlife, as the park is home to more than 300 species of birds. And if you’re looking for something fun to do with the whole family, why not take a bike ride along the St. George Island Bike Path? It’s a great way to exercise while taking in the gorgeous scenery of the island. Or, rent kayaks and spend a day paddling through the area’s sparkling waterways together. The possibilities are endless!
Did you know that it’s possible to enjoy complimentary activities on St. George Island? Guests staying at select participating Collins Vacation homes can access several complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayaking at Journey's of St. George, golfing at St. Josephs  Bay Golf Course, climb the SGI Lighthouse, enjoy ice cream at Aunt Ebby's, Latte at Coffee and Cream or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. Check out our website for more details and start planning your fun-filled winter getaway!

Book Your Stay With Collins Vacation Rentals
Are you ready to experience one of the best Florida winter vacations? When it comes to lodging options along the Forgotten Coast, look no further than Collins Vacation Rentals! We offer an extensive selection of St. George Island vacation rentals, including homes with Gulf views, heated pools, beach access, and more. Many of them also feature luxury amenities such as hot tubs, patios, elevators, boat docks, full kitchens, and more. Plus, all of the best restaurants, activities, and attractions are just minutes away!

Another benefit of booking during the cooler season is our amazing Florida winter vacation deals. Collins Vacation Rentals offers seasonal specials throughout the year, as well as complimentary activities at select participating properties through Xplorie. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our properties and contact us to book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome you!