Category: Things to Do

A short drive or boat ride off Florida’s panhandle, you’ll find a tropical oasis. St. George Island offers many natural wonders like Cape St. George State Reserve, Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, and the Apalachicola National Forest. The island’s natural allure coaxes locals and tourists to celebrate its breathtaking beauty at unique local events. Throughout your stay, family-friendly events on St. George Island are an excellent way to enjoy the island, and mingle with locals! To discover all the Forgotten Coast fun, visit our Things to Do page. As you browse through all the St. George Island family activities, you’ll find that this destination has everything you need to alternate leisure with captivating island adventures!

Our Favorite Recurring Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island

Let the Moonlight be Your Guide As You Climb Up a Stupendous Lighthouse
Although you can visit Cape St. George Light during the day, seeing the lighthouse at night is even more mesmerizing. Once a month, the lighthouse association hosts a Full Moon Climb. This is a one-of-a-kind experience you don’t want to miss. As the sun sets, you’ll ascend more than nine stories to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point. Once you reach the top, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset, the rise of the full moon, and you’ll see the island and all its surroundings illuminated by the moon’s soft glow.
Local tip: Sign-up early and reserve your spot. Space for this highly anticipated event is limited and fills up quickly.  

Find Fresh Ingredients for Your Favorite Meal at Apalachicola Farmers Market
Fresh seafood, live music, and handmade crafts are just some of the things to experience at the Apalachicola Farmers Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Let the kids dance and sing, while you sample the delicious local fare, pick fresh vegetables, and choose seafood to prepare for your next meal.

The Best Holiday Events on St. George Island
Celebrate the Season With a Holly Jolly Tree Lighting
Of course, the holiday season isn’t complete without a tree lighting! SGI jumpstarts the holiday with the Lighting of the Palms at Lighthouse Park on the first weekend of December. Santa’s lighted golf cart parade then delights spectators all over the park. Throughout the event, attendees can play games, get a picture with St. Nick, and even enjoy some Christmas carols. The highlight of the celebration comes at dusk when the palms are illuminated with hundreds of sparkling lights.    

Spread Christmas Cheer at the Holiday Fresh Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas spirit with the annual Holiday Fresh Market. The holiday market is set up in early December to showcase local businesses, and it’s an excellent spot for last-minute shopping. At the market, you’ll find a fantastic array of handcrafted treasures and local culture. Be sure to stop by for a dose of SGIs contagious holiday cheer, to finish your holiday shopping, or to treat yourself to a unique island souvenir.

Witness a Spectacular Show at Holiday Lights on the Harbor
If you’re spending the holidays in St. George Island, be sure to attend the Holiday Lights on the Harbor and Boat Parade of Lights in early December. Boats decorated for the season cascade down Carrabelle River and spark the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see the lights. This spectacular holiday show is undoubtedly one you won’t forget!

Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to attend all of the delightful events on SGI? Collins Vacation Rentals are located in the best areas on the island so you can be close to all the fun, and retreat to a magical island vacation home at the end of the day. Wake up refreshed and relaxed with access to everything you need for the perfect vacation on the Florida Coast. Browse our properties to find the ideal rental for you. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends, or a romantic trip for two, Collins Vacation Rentals promises an excellent, worry-free adventure on St. George Island. 

Check our availability and book your stay! We can’t wait to meet you.  

St. George Island is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly fun, and laid-back coastal vibe. While you’re on vacation, you’ll want to play in the Gulf, enjoy fresh seafood, and of course, do some shopping! Our island is home to several charming boutiques and specialty stores. However, for a truly unique experience, you must visit Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop. From local art and jewelry to craft beer and beach gear, this dog-friendly shop has it all! Here’s what you’ll find when you go.

Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop is one of many amazing places to go shopping on St. George Island. For even more great recommendations, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of tips about the best local outlets, gift shops, and art galleries. Planning the perfect vacation has never been easier!

What You’ll Find at Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop
From the moment you step inside Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop, you will feel welcomed. This retail gift and apparel shop is known for their friendly service, quality selection, and dog-friendly atmosphere. The store has a wide range of unique items, including local works of art, coastal jewelry, apparel, beach gear, souvenirs, gifts, and pet products. Some examples of the brands you’ll find here include Reef flip flops, KAVU, Scout, 4Ocean, Tidewater sandals, Puppie Love, Sea Dog, and Buddy by the Sea. The shop also carries a great selection of craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages – perfect for a hot summer day! If you opt for beer, they even offer the option to create your own custom 6-pack.
Another thing that we love about this shop is that dogs are welcome too, so feel free to bring Fido. Did you forget to pack a leash or toys while getting ready for vacation? No worries! Island Dog Beach & Surf Shop also offers pet essentials such as leashes, toys, dog clothing, collars, and even gourmet dog treats. Your four-legged friends will thank you!

Are you looking for more great shopping and pet-friendly attractions on St. George Island? Check out our blog for recommendations!

Book a Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental on St. George Island Today!
St. George Island is known as a pet-friendly destination, so there’s no reason you have to leave your pups behind while you’re visiting us. And when it comes to the best dog-friendly rentals on the island, look no further than Collins Vacation Rentals! We offer a wide range of gorgeous properties, many of which are just steps from the Gulf. Choose from homes with private pools, beautiful Gulf views, or beach access. If you’re planning to bring your dog, A Great Escape would be an excellent choice for your getaway. This beachfront home features four bedrooms, sun decks, beautiful furnishings, and complimentary activities included with your reservation. Plus, it’s just a short walk away from nature trails at the State Park!

Come experience all that our island paradise has to offer. Browse all Collins Vacation Rentals and book your vacation on St. George Island today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

BOOK NOW

So, you’ve been dreaming about sun-kissed beaches and blue skies, but Mother Nature has other plans? Don’t let a little rain ruin your day at the beach! There are so many fun rainy day activities on St. George Island that the whole family will enjoy. Find unique treasures at the local boutiques and galleries, dive into local history, or explore the island’s lighthouse. Read on to discover the best ways to cure those rainy day blues!

For even more great recommendations about St. George Island rainy day activities, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of great tips about the best indoor attractions, dining, shopping, events, and more.

How to Enjoy a Rain Day on St. George Island

1. Tour the Cape St. George Lighthouse
If there’s one thing you absolutely must do during your Forgotten Coast getaway, this is it! The historic Cape St. George Lighthouse is an iconic attraction of the island. Here, you’ll discover a museum, gift shop, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. 92 steps and a small ladder will take you all the way to the top, where you’ll be greeted with some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ve ever seen. You’ll need to purchase tickets to climb the lighthouse, but admission to the museum and gift shop are free.

2. Go on a Shopping Spree
A rainy day is a perfect time to browse the coastal shops and galleries on St. George Island. Take your time browsing for apparel and coastal home decor at Seaside Cotton Boutique.  Stylish clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are just a few of the treasures awaiting you here. Are you searching for gifts or souvenirs? Check out Two Gulls for Mermaids. This unique shop features one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find elsewhere! And if you’re looking for resort wear, jewelry, accessories, or watersport rentals, head over to Island Outfitters.
After a fabulous day of shopping, stop by Aunt Ebby’s for a big scoop (or two!) of ice cream. This popular dessert shop is just steps away from Island Outfitters.

3. Explore Florida’s Forgotten Coast Museums
If you have any history-buffs traveling with you, they will love touring the local museums! Dive into Forgotten Coast history at the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, where you’ll discover the coastal heritage of the Florida Gulf. Next, take a step back in time to the 19th century at the Raney House Museum. Learn all about the family of cotton merchants who occupied the home during the Antebellum South. Finally, visit the Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum and find out what life was like for the soldiers who trained and served here during WWII.

4. Tour Apalachicola
If you’re looking for the best things to do near St. George Island, spend a day in historic Apalachicola. Just a stone’s throw from our island paradise, the mainland offers plenty of rainy day activities. See the beautiful antebellum homes in downtown’s historic district, sample delicious craft beer at Oyster City Brewing Company, or catch the latest play at the Dixie Theatre. Check out our blog to learn about more fun Apalachicola activities.

5. Stay Cozy in Your Collins Vacation Rental
Sometimes the best way to spend a rainy day is enjoying your St. George Island vacation rental! Sip your coffee on the porch and watch as the summer storms roll in over the Gulf. Bring a puzzle or deck of cards and challenge the family to a game of Poker, Blackjack, or Crazy Eights. Or, relax on the sofa, pop some popcorn, and have a family movie day. Participating Collins Vacation Rentals offer unlimited complimentary movie rentals every day of your stay. Choose from the latest releases, award-winning films, or family favorites. Order food delivery from your favorite restaurants and you never even have to leave your vacation rental!

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
Don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation! When planning your getaway, consider a Collins Vacation Rental with a heated pool or hot tub. That way, your family can still enjoy swimming even if it starts to rain. We offer an extensive selection of vacation rentals on St. George Island, including pet-friendly accommodations, beachfront properties, and homes with breathtaking Gulf views.

Select participating Collins Vacation Rentals even offer complimentary activities through Xplorie! Activities may include yoga on the beach, kayaking or SUP Eco tours, bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Bay Golf Course, ice cream at Aunt Eby’s, unlimited movie rentals, or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning the vacation you deserve and contact us to book your stay today! We can’t wait to welcome you!

CONTACT NOW

With a rich and fascinating past, St. George Island is a prime destination for history-lovers! Visitors return year after year to explore the pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and world-class museums. However, the true beauty of the island lies in the customs, traditions, and beliefs that have been passed down for generations. Are you interested in learning more about our local history? Here are the best ways to discover St. George Island folklore!

St. George Island folklore is just the beginning of what you’ll find along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Our island paradise is also home to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, eclectic art galleries, and renowned historic sites. Head over to our Things to Do page for more tips about things to see and do during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. It’s full of recommendations about the best attractions to see during your vacation!

How to Learn About St. George Island Folklore
1. Explore a Historic Lighthouse
The St. George Island lighthouse is a time-honored treasure and a beloved symbol of the local community. If there is one attraction you must see during your visit, this is it! Originally built in 1833 on the western tip of the island, the very first lighthouse was damaged by storms in 1846. It was rebuilt on the southern cape of St. George Island, and destroyed again just 3 years later. The third lighthouse, completed in 1852, was much stronger than its predecessors. Built to last, it served as a beacon of light, granting ships safe passage through the Gulf of Mexico. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2005.

Because the St.George Island lighthouse was so important to the community, it was rebuilt again, piece by piece. Volunteers cleaned the old mortar off of more than 20,000 of the original bricks so that they could be used in the reconstruction. At a whopping 72-feet, the current lighthouse stands tall in the center of the island. Come see this iconic symbol for yourself and climb the 92 steps to the top. Once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the island! Afterward, take some time to browse the Lighthouse Museum and gift shop next door.

2. Take a Ghost Walk
Perhaps you’re interested in learning about haunted St. George Island folklore? Experience all the thrills and chills when you take an Apalachicola ghost walk! Held annually in the spring and fall by the Apalachicola Historic Society, these chilling cemetery walks are sure to give you goosebumps. The ghost tours are led by local history enthusiasts dressed in costume, portraying figures from eras past who are now buried at Chestnut Street Cemetery. Take a step back in time as your local guide tells you about life in Apalachicola in the 1800s. You may even spot a ghost or two!

3. Visit a Local Museum 
Of course, one of the best ways to immerse yourself into St. George Island history is by visiting a local museum. Dive into the culture of the Forgotten Coast at the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, where you’ll learn all about our coastal heritage. Browse the engaging exhibits, attend a class or workshop, or take an educational riverboat tour along the Apalachicola Waterfront. Or, journey back in time to the 19th century when you visit the Raney House Museum. Discover what life was like for the home’s original inhabitants during the antebellum South.
Next, stop by the John Gorrie Museum. Learn all about Dr. Gorrie and how he helped pioneer the invention of air conditioning and refrigeration. Take your time observing a replica of Gorrie’s ice-making machine, among other interesting artifacts. Finally, no trip to the Forgotten Coast is complete without stopping by the Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum. A vital piece of Franklin County history, it honors the heritage of the men who trained and served at Camp Gordon Johnston during WWII. It’s one of the best things to do during your stay on St. George Island!

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
If you’re searching for accommodations on St. George Island, we invite you to stay in a Collins Vacation Rental. Our St. George Island, Florida, vacation rentals feature the privacy and comfort you desire. With top-notch amenities and plush furnishings, you’re guaranteed a relaxing stay every time. Whether you’re searching for a pet-friendly rental, a home with a heated pool, or an intimate beachfront villa, we are sure to have the ideal property for your stay. Plus, all of the best attractions, museums, beaches, and nature trails are just minutes away! Browse all properties and contact us to start planning your getaway to St. George Island today. We look forward to seeing you soon!

You’re ready to go on vacation, but you’re still in the planning stages. Where do I go? What do I pack? If you’re heading to a tropical spot like St. George Island (we hope you are!), use our summer vacation packing list to get rid of some of that pre-trip planning anxiety. Plus, St. George Island has a handful of stores that are stocked with anything you might have forgotten.

You have your summer vacation packing list, so now start planning all the things to do. If you’re staying on St. George Island, we made it easy! We created our Things to Do page so you’ll have easy access to all of the best activities and businesses on our island. Whether you’re looking for the perfect restaurant for a date night or something the kids will enjoy, you’ll find it here.

Here’s Your Summer Vacation Packing List
We’ve broken down your summer vacation packing list into different categories so you can decide which suits you!

Packing Your Main Suitcase
Of course, when it comes to packing, we immediately think of how much we can fit in our suitcase. Keep it minimal– don’t forget that our Collins Vacation Rentals all come with washers and dryers! Here’s what to put in your suitcase:

Shorts and pants
Shirts, t-shirts, a nice shirt or two for dinner, and tank tops
Dresses/ skirts
Sleepwear
Socks and shoes (We recommend flip flops, sandals, and sneakers.)
Don’t forget the basics (like underwear)!
A sweater that you can layer over your outfits
Bathing suits (We recommend more than one.)
Cover-ups
Clothes you can explore in

Toiletries 

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Soap, facewash, shampoo, and conditioner
Makeup
Hairbrush and comb
Styling product
Razors and shave gel
Flatiron or curling iron (Many of our rentals have hair dryers, but you are welcome to bring your own.)
Lip balm
After sun gel or aloe vera
Lotion
Scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers

Accessories

Sun hat or baseball cap for the beach
Jewelry (Packing jewelry can be a challenge, but putting a necklace through a straw and keeping your jewelry in a silk bag will keep it safe.)
Sunglasses
Belts
Hair ties and accessories

Beach and Pool Gear 
You can pack your own beach gear, but many guests of Collins Vacation Rentals opt to buy or rent their gear here. This way, you don’t have to lug your beach chairs all the way here, and you can get them delivered right to your vacation rental! Island Adventures is one of our favorite places to rent gear from.

Beach chairs
Umbrellas
Sunscreen (You can never have too much of this stuff!)
A beach bag
A good book
Floaties and beach toys
Beach towels
A reusable water bottle

Book Your Summer Getaway Today
Now that you have our summer vacation packing list, it’s time to book your actual summer vacation! St. George Island is one of a kind– our small island has stood the test of time. Our beaches are never crowded, our seafood is fresh, and our island is welcoming. Book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals to see for yourself. We can’t wait to host you!

There are so many Florida islands to visit, so how do you pick the best one? Luckily for you, we know the best island off the coast. St. George Island is unique in so many ways. Our visitors love it so much that they find themselves coming back year after year. It’s time to make SGI your tradition, too!
Get the inside scoop on all the things to do and see on St. George Island when you take a look at our Things to Do page! It’s a great resource for discovering all the activities on our island, and you can also use it to plan your trip. We’ve listed the businesses we trust, the best restaurants, and more.

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Is the Best Florida Island to Visit 

Easy to Get To 
Travel to St. George Island with ease! If you need to fly in, the Tallahassee International Airport is less than two hours away. From there, you’ll have an easy drive! There are no taxis or Ubers on the island, so it’s always beneficial to have a car. If you choose to drive the whole way, you’ll be on highways for most of your journey. There are many major highways coming toward the Gulf Coast! Plus, there’s no ferry necessary to get to the island. We have a bridge so you can easily come and go as you please.

Never Crowded 
A lot of Florida islands to visit have become so popular that they are overcrowded during the best times to vacation. That’s not the case with St. George Island! Our island’s preservation has become very important to locals. You’ll find no big-name hotels or resorts here– the island is not allowed to be built up. Traffic is minimal, and you’ll always have more than enough room to spread out on the beach. Even the busiest summer months mean only a short wait at our local restaurants! Even so, the wait will fly by with a cold drink in your hand as you take in the sights and sounds of our island.

You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Even though our island is small, there are countless things to do here. Split your vacation between relaxing with your toes in the sand, taking a dip in your vacation rental’s private pool, and exploring the island. To help you experience all the activities here, we partnered with Xplorie to add this complimentary amenity to select vacation rental reservations. Enjoy everything from kayaking to a round of golf!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Now that you know the best Florida island to visit, it’s time to book your getaway! Browse our variety of vacation rentals at Collins Vacation Rentals to start planning your stay. We have more than 200 properties to choose from, and each offers something different. Choose based on size, location, and amenities to find your perfect fit. We can’t wait to host you!

Some of the best parts about going on vacation are all the lasting memories you are going to make. Keep these cherished times forever when you have a family photo shoot on the beach! Come back year after year and watch your family grow up in your collection of photos. There’s nothing like a family vacation spot that feels like home.
Are you thinking about taking a family photo shoot on the beach? St. George Island is the perfect place to do it! Consider bringing the family for a vacation they will never forget. Check out our Things to Do page for a list of all the best activities on the island to start planning your getaway!

Your Photographer for Your Family Photoshoot on the Beach
If you’re having a family photo shoot on the beach on St. George Island, you’ll want to work with Royce Rolstad. He is a local here that takes stunning family photos. Not only does he know the best places and times to shoot, but he’s also well-versed in making the entire family comfortable. Rolstad explains, “I have families who come to St. George every year and schedule a beach portrait session.  I have watched the kids and grandkids grow up. My repeat clients are like family.” We completely agree and recommend him to anyone looking for a shoot on the island!

3 Steps to Have the Best Family Photoshoot on the Beach

1. Choose Your Outfits
To have a successful family photoshoot, you’ll need to choose your outfits! Some families go for the typical all white ensemble while others want more of a vacation feel. No matter what you choose, you’ll just want to make sure you plan it out so you can pack the right things.

2. Pick a Time
Two of Royce Rolstad’s favorite times to shoot are sunrise and sunset. Yes, the kids might have to have a 7:00 a.m. wake up call, or you might have to make sure they get in an afternoon nap to shoot at sunset. However, it’s all worth it in the end!

3. Have Fun!
Don’t take the fun out of this memory! The best shoots are when the family is relaxed and having a great time. Having photos taken can be nerve-wracking, but a good photographer will make you feel relaxed. Plus, keeping calm and a good attitude will ensure young children won’t be fussy.

Book Your Family Getaway Today
St. George Island is a place that families come back to year after year. We have customers that rent from Collins Vacation Rentals every year; we’ve seen the kids grow up, and we have even met grandkids from our typical renters. Because our island is never crowded, it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family. Browse our vacation rentals to start planning your getaway. With more than 200 to choose from and locations all over the island, we know we have the perfect one for you!

Featured photo by Royce Rolstad

St. George Island has been a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast of Florida for hundreds of years. Somehow, our small island has escaped the fate of many other beach towns and still retains its old-town charm. So, when is the best time to visit St. George Island? That depends on what you are looking for! 

Have you ever been to St. George Island? Are you thinking about vacationing here? Check out our Things to Do page for ideas on all the best things to do and see! Once you figure out the answer to the question when is the best time to visit St. George Island, you’ll be able to plan your getaway with ease. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit St George Island? It’s up to You to Decide!
The answer to this question depends on what you are looking for in a vacation. Anyone that has fallen in love with SGI will tell you that there’s no bad time to visit! There are a few factors you should keep in mind when making your travel plans. 

St. George Island in the Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit St. George Island, and there are definitely pros and cons of coming during this season. Of course, the weather is gorgeous. The temperature hovers in the 80s for nearly the entire summer! It’s perfect for hitting the beach or renting a charter to explore the area from the water. The downside is that the summers are the most crowded St. George Island will ever be. Luckily, because our island has no big-name hotels or touristy attractions, it doesn’t get as crowded as other areas. The biggest impact you’ll see is an occasional wait at a restaurant !

St. George Island in the Fall
If you’re looking for warm weather with fewer crowds, the best time to visit St. George Island is in the early fall. September and early October are still in the 80s! If laying out on the beach isn’t your top priority, you’ll love coming during any time in the fall. The kids are back in school and the island is still experiencing great weather. It’s the perfect time to go hiking at St. George Island State Park or kayak the bay! 

St. George Island in the Winter
Those looking to escape the cold northern weather flock to St. George Island every winter. Temperatures in the winter range from the high 40s to high 60s, so usually all you need is a jacket to enjoy everything SGI has to offer. Wake up every morning to walk the nearly-empty beach and indulge in our island cuisine without having to wait for a table! 

St. George Island in the Spring
St. George Island in the spring is similar to the island in the fall. The weather starts to get warm again in May, and any time before Memorial Day will give you great rates on rentals. This is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and it is almost ensured that you will get a hot day or two that’s perfect for the beach. 

Book Your Getaway
Did you decide when the best time to visit St. George Island is? It’s time to book your getaway! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 200 rentals to choose from throughout the year. They vary in size and location, so we know we have the perfect one for you. Browse our properties to start planning your stay today! 

Landlocked in Orlando, Florida? It’s time for a vacation! Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life when you head to St. George Island. Our small island is within driving distance, and it has everything you need for the perfect getaway from Orlando. Here’s why!

5 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Getaway From Orlando

1. You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Whether you’re looking to spend day after day relaxing on the sand or want to get out and have an adventure, St. George Island has something for everyone. Cast your line off the famous Fishing Pier, paddleboard through the bay, or relax with some beach yoga. If you want to get an inside look at all our island has to offer, take a peek at our Things to Do page! We even partnered with Xplorie to bring complimentary activities to our guests.

2. A Break From City Life

There’s nothing better than falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the sand and waking up to gorgeous views of the sun glistening on the ocean. With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

3. A Short Drive Away

If you’re looking for a reasonable getaway from Orlando, you’ll want something within driving distance.  St. George Island is just over five hours away!  With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

4. Reconnect With Family and Friends

St. George Island is an amazing place to reconnect with family and friends. Our small island is free of distractions and full of activities you can enjoy together. Our Collins Vacation Rentals are the perfect place to have a family game night or a nice meal together. Grill outside as the sun sets over the water or spend the day laying out by your private pool. No matter what you do, you can do it together!

5. An Easy Getaway

When you’re on vacation, you don’t want to have to worry about a thing. When you rent with us at Collins Vacation Rentals, you don’t have to! Our properties come with everything you need, and you can even have things like beach chairs and bikes delivered to the home to use while you are there. Plus, everything from grocery stores to restaurants is right on the island, so you don’t have to worry about driving for miles for something you need.

Book Your Getaway From Orlando Today
You deserve a vacation! Come to the uncrowded beaches of St. George Island to relax with your toes in the sand. We have more than 200 rentals to choose from, so we know we have the perfect property for you. Our homes are spread out across the entire island and come in all different sizes, so you can search based on your desired criteria. Browse our vacation rentals to stay planning your getaway from Orlando today! We look forward to seeing you!

When you’re about to go on vacation, the last thing you want is to leave a family member behind, especially one that has four legs! If you are looking for dog-friendly vacations in Florida, you came to the right place. Our island oasis welcomes pups, so pack up your furry friend’s leash and favorite chew toy and make your way to St. George Island!

For a quick look at everything St. George Island has to offer, browse through our Things to Do page. As locals on the island, we want to share our list of trusted businesses with you to help you start planning. Here, you’ll find everything from the best restaurants to outdoor adventures perfect for any dog-friendly vacation in Florida!

3 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Dog-Friendly Vacation in Florida

Pugs Can Play on the Beach
St. George Island is home to many pet-friendly beaches! Dogs are allowed on both the beach and bay side of the island as long as they are leashed per the July 2017 Franklin County Animal Control Ordinance. Wake up early and take Fido out for a walk on the beach to watch the sunrise, or take a nighttime stroll to see the stars.
Dogs are restricted in some areas of the St. George Island State Park on the eastern end of the island, so check out the State Park website before bringing them there. Dogs must also be leashed at all times in St. George Plantation, the private community at the western end of the island.

Restaurants Are Welcoming
You don’t have to leave your pet home when you go out to eat! As long as you sit outside, you can take your four-legged friend to nearly any restaurant on the island. They’ll be treated like royalty with water bowls and possibly even the occasional treat. We recommend heading somewhere with ample outdoor seating like Paddy’s Raw Bar. Their laid-back picnic tables and beautiful views of the bay are the perfect place to bring the whole family. Plus, the food is great, too!

A Place to Stay
Of course, the most important part of choosing the perfect dog-friendly vacation in Florida is where to stay. Collins Vacation Rentals has tons of dog-friendly properties! Choose based on size, location, and preferred dates. Vacation rentals are limited to two dogs, but some properties limit the size of the dogs. We are happy to help you find the perfect rental for your trip!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Your dog-friendly vacation in Florida awaits! Collins Vacation Rentals will make sure you have the getaway of a lifetime. After browsing our rentals, you can start planning your trip. Our free activities are a great place to start! From gorgeous properties to the Xplorie activities included in your stay, there’s no company like Collins Vacation Rentals. Book your stay today to experience St. George Island for yourself.