Category: Uncategorized

One of our favorite parts of St. George Island is its rich nautical history. Its first inhabitants, the Creek Indians, used its coast and seas for survival. As times went on, fishing fleets and other vessels began to access the Gulf of Mexico through Apalachicola Bay. Because of this, lighthouses were erected on SGI as well as the neighboring Dog Island and the coast of the Florida mainland. You’ll see some during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, like the famous Crooked River Lighthouse!

You’ll most likely come across landmarks like the Crooked River Lighthouse as you explore the island. If you’re unsure of other activities to enjoy during your stay, check out our Things to Do page! We know planning a vacation can be time consuming and challenging, so we’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do so you can spend more time choosing your perfect Collins Vacation Rental. You’ll find restaurants, shops, excursions, and more!

Crooked River Lighthouse History
Crooked River Lighthouse was erected on the Florida coast in 1895 as a replacement to a lighthouse that had been destroyed on Dog Island. Its light has stood for over 100 years as a beacon to guide ships and fishing vessels through the dangerous passage between Dog Island and SGI. The grounds of the tower originally included a house for the light keeper and his family, but when the light switched to automated electricity in 1952, there was no more need for light keepers. The buildings on the grounds were sold and removed.

The Crooked River Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1995. A struggle commenced between the town and the government when the U.S. Coast Guard attempted to sell the lighthouse. In response, the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association was formed by residents so the lighthouse could be restored to its former glory and opened to the public.

Visiting the Crooked River Lighthouse

Not only is the Crooked River Lighthouse gorgeous to view, it is open to the public! Climb to the top of the tower Wednesday through Sunday. All you have to do to climb the 138 steps is make a $15 donation to the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association that goes towards keeping up the grounds. After climbing, make sure to check out the museum with relics from the past, then browse through the gift shop for a souvenir. The park area around the tower has picnic tables and a small playground in case you would like to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy some time outdoors there.

Come Back and Relax at Your Collins Vacation Home
After you climb the Crooked River Lighthouse and explore its history, come back and relax at one of our gorgeous Collins Vacation Homes. If you want to be close to the water, you’ll love staying at one of our beachfront or bayfront homes. With gorgeous views of the sparkling ocean, you can’t go wrong! With more than 200 properties to choose from that vary in location and size, we know we have the perfect rental for you. Start planning your unforgettable vacation today!

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!

If you’re looking for an amazing fishing destination, look no further than St. George Island. Walk out the door of your beachfront Collins Vacation Rental to cast a line off the pristine white sand, or venture out onto the ocean. There are many places on and off the island that offer charters. If you’re looking to get out onto the open waters, try some Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing!

Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing is just the beginning of what our area has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to the Forgotten Coast, start with our Things to Do page. We know planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite activities and businesses on the island to start off your planning. Whether you’re looking for things to do on a date night or excursions the whole family will enjoy, we have suggestions for you!

What You’ll Catch While Carrabelle, FL, Deep Sea Fishing
There are tons of fish you can catch while Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing. Imagine yourself miles from shore surrounded by open water as you cast your line. You will have the opportunity for a big catch during offshore fishing. Some fish you may find are grouper, snapper, mackerel, sea bass, and more! Feel the tug on your line and embrace the excitement of Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing.

Carrabelle, FL. Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Somethin’  Fishy Fishing Charters

When you choose Somethin’ Fishy Fishing Charters, you will be in good hands. You can hop on the boat at either Carrabelle or St. George Island, so it’s perfect for your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental! When you book with Captain Tim Edwards, a fisherman with 28 years experience, you’ll be provided with everything you need for a day out on the water. Bait, tackle, and all other equipment are included as well as the incredible knowledge the captain and first mate hold about deep sea fishing.

Sea Breeze Fishing
The captain of Sea Breeze Fishing, Johnny Irwin, has been a fishing guide to the Florida coast for over 50 years. Hop aboard the 22’ Sea Chaser bay boat and let Captain Irwin guide you through the Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing. You may have up to 4 people fish on this boat, so it’s perfect for small families. Choose from different excursions of varying lengths and locations; they offer full days of fishing and even a Tarpon Sunset Trip. Reels, tackle, and live bait are included, and they’ll even clean and fillet your fish!

Enjoy Your Catch at a Collins Vacation Rental
After enjoying your day Carrabelle, FL, deep sea fishing, come back and relax at your Collins Vacation Rental. A variety of our vacation rentals feature breathtaking views of the coast; gaze out at pristine beaches and sparkling waters from your window or beachfront deck. We have everything you need to create vacation memories that will last a lifetime! First, browse through our gorgeous homes. Then, start planning your sun-filled Florida getaway!

With sugar-white sand and sparkling emerald water, St. George Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. This Gulf Coast paradise is known for its uncrowded beaches and natural beauty; you won’t find any high rises here! If you’ve been dreaming about a vacation where you can truly unwind, now is your chance. Come lounge on the beach, play in the Gulf, or sink your toes into the powder-soft sand and relax. All you’ll need to bring is your sunscreen and your St. George Island beach chair rentals! 

If you’re looking for St. George Island beach chair rentals, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn where you can pick up chair rentals, umbrellas, and more. Then, make sure to check out our Things to Do page for more recommendations about things to see and do during your Florida getaway. It’s full of great tips to help you plan your vacation, including the best restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Where to Find St. George Island Beach Chair Rentals
Island Adventures:
Island Adventures is our number one recommendation for St. George Island beach chair rentals. They have everything you need to enjoy the beautiful beaches on our island! Here, you can rent chairs, umbrellas, or packages that include both. They also offer a great selection of lounge chairs, fishing carts, bikes, golf carts, and beach wheelchairs. For a small fee, you can even have your items delivered right to the doorstep of your Collins Vacation Home!
When you rent from Island Adventures, you may choose to keep the rentals for the duration of your stay. Not only is this easier than returning your chairs after a long day at the beach, but you also get a discounted rate the longer you rent! They also typically offer discounts for active duty, retired military, and more, so check out their website for current promotions and pricing.

St. George Island Beach Service:
Another option is St. George Island Beach Service. In addition to beach chairs and umbrellas, you can rent cabanas, surfboards, kayaks, lounges, and more. They also offer fast and free delivery right to your vacation home. Umbrellas are $20 per day or $60 per week. Canvas chairs are just $5 daily. For $50, you can rent two chairs for the entire week.

Enjoy Complimentary Activities Through Xplorie!
In addition to beautiful beaches, there are tons of fun activities to enjoy on St. George Island. In fact, you can enjoy complimentary activities when you book your stay at select Collins Vacation Homes. We have recently partnered with Xplorie to ensure our guests enjoy our beautiful barrier island to the fullest. Complimentary activities may include Island Adventures bike rentals, yoga on the beach, kayak rentals, golfing at St. Joe Bay Golf Course, unlimited movie rentals, ice cream cones from Aunt Eby’s, an art class at Art of Glass or admission into the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. The possibilities are endless! Check your favorite property to see if Xplorie services are included and take your getaway to the next level!

Experience Paradise in a Collins Vacation Rental
When your fun in the sun is done for the day, come back and relax at a Collins Vacation Home. With more than 250 rentals to choose from, we are sure to have the ideal property for your stay! From intimate condos to 7-bedroom beachfront homes, we offer an extensive selection of properties. All our rental homes offer free linens, and many are handicap-accessible, offer wireless internet, and are pet-friendly. Some even have heated pools and hot tubs! Browse our homes, choose your property, then contact us to start planning your stay. We look forward to seeing you on St. George Island!

How far is St. George Island from Panama City, FL? We’re glad you asked! Panama City is just a short drive to our island oasis. Your trip can last  anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours, making it the perfect getaway. Sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Escape the everyday when you stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals!

Now that you know the answer to how far is St. George Island from Panama City, FL, you can start planning your trip. Our Things to Do page is the perfect resource to get you started! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we’ve listed some of our favorite businesses and activities in the area to save you from hours of research. Find everything from date night ideas to family-friendly excursions!

Why You Should Vacation on St. George Island
St. George Island is unlike anything you have ever experienced before. Life in Panama City can be busy; your stay on the Forgotten Coast will slow things down. Leave your stresses behind when you feel the sun on your face and sand between your toes! Just one look at the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico will calm you and prepare you for the amazing vacation ahead.

3 of the Best Things to Do on St. George Island
There are so many things to do on SGI that it can be hard to choose! Here are a few of our favorites to get you started on planning your trip.

1. Cast a Line
Fishing is huge here on St. George Island. With over 100 species of fish in these waters, this relaxing pastime is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. You have many choices when deciding where you want to cast your line! Choose from fishing spots onshore or get out on the water with help from Island Charters. During your excursion, everything you need will be provided from licenses to bait and tackle!

2. Hit the Beach
As soon as you set foot on the pristine sands of SGI, you won’t want to leave. Many of our Collins Vacation Rentals are only steps away from the uncrowded, natural white sandy beaches here. Rent some beach chairs, pack a lunch, then have some fun in the sun. You’ll love working on your tan between splashing around in the ocean!

3. Indulge in Island Cuisine
You are sure to get hungry during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals. Luckily for you, you can find nearly every type of cuisine here from pizza to surf and turf. The selection of restaurants on St. George Island will not disappoint. We recommend trying some local seafood: it doesn’t get fresher than the fish caught in our waters!

Stay with Collins Vacation Rentals
Now that you know the answer to how far is St. George Island from Panama City, FL, and some of the amazing things to do here, it is time to book your stay! With more than 200 properties to choose from, we know we have the perfect Collins Vacation Rental for you. Choose from various sizes and locations, book your stay, then start planning your relaxing getaway to our island paradise!

When you stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, everything you need for the perfect getaway is at your fingertips. The island’s beaches are pristine, activities are endless, and downtown is always bustling with activity. Start your vacation by visiting Island Outfitters on St. George Island. They are a one-stop-shop for starting your trip off right!

Want to know even more stores like Island Outfitters on St. George Island to visit during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental? Our Things to Do page can help! We know that planning your vacation can be challenging, so we have mapped out some of our favorite businesses on the island to save you from hours of research. You’ll find family-friendly activities, shopping spots, restaurants, and more

!
Rentals at Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Are you looking for some fun in the sun during your Forgotten Coast vacation? Start with Island Outfitters on St. George Island! Here, you can get rentals for watersports. Choose from multiple types of kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and body boards for ocean excursions! Even seats, life jackets, paddles, and roof racks are included in your rental so the only thing you need to worry about is having fun. You can also rent a kayak cart to transport your crafts to and from the water.

Shop ‘Til You Drop at Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Want to do a little shopping during your vacation? Browse through Island Outfitters on St. George Island! They have everything from sportswear to leisurely beach apparel. A favorite item to pick up is some sun protective clothing for your time out on the water. Plus, they have accessories and souvenirs that are perfect to remember your trip by or bring back to a loved one at home.

Fish with Island Outfitters on St. George Island
Fishing is a favorite pastime here on the Forgotten Coast, and Island Outfitters on St. George Island is a great place to get a charter! Captains of the boats are all coast guard certified and fishing experts, so you know you are in good hands. Your excursion includes rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, and licenses. All you have to worry about is bringing drinks, snacks, and sunscreen! Your guide will take you to some of the best places to cast a line so you can fish your day away.

Where to Stay on St. George Island
If you’re looking to vacation on SGI, Collins Vacation Rentals is the way to go. With more than 200 rentals to choose from, we know there is the perfect property out there to be your home away from home while you’re experiencing our island paradise. With everything from condos to 7-bedroom beachfront homes, you are sure to find something you’ll love. When browsing through our rentals, make your decision based on size and location. We have homes all around the island, so you can either be oceanfront or close to downtown for easy access to stores like Island Outfitters on St. George Island! Browse our homes, choose your property, then start planning your stay. We look forward to seeing you!

You may automatically think summer when you think of St. George Island, but the holiday season is a great time for visiting!
The air is cooler in the winter on SGI–we typically experience that perfect “sweater weather” for most of the season–but not so cold that heavy coats and scarves are a necessity. The day time is perfect for hikes and strolls on the beach, and our roomy rentals offer the perfect place to gather the whole family for holiday meals.

Read a book on the porch while taking in the salty air, and spend the evening with family near the fireplace. SGI will make your holiday season unforgettable!

Best of all, you’ll take advantage of our great low rates!
 

A short drive or boat ride off Florida’s panhandle, St. George Island offers a secluded retreat for you and your family from the hustle and bustle of other tourist destinations in Florida. Natural beauty and wonder surround this barrier island with access to state reserves such as Cape St. George State Reserve, Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, and Apalachicola National Forest. With all the natural allure, the island coaxes locals and tourists outdoors to appreciate its breathtaking beauty, temperate climate, and sunny beaches. In addition to all of the incredible outdoor activities to enjoy, here are a few of our favorite family-friendly events you can experience during your stay.

A trip to St. George Island can be both relaxing and exciting. With so many activities available, you can alternate lazy days with adventurous excursions, as well as shopping, dining and more. Visit our Things to Do page for insider info on local activities and events!
Top 5 Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island
1. First Day Hike
Start your New Year off island style. The annual First Day Hike allows you and your family to explore the area’s natural surroundings while learning more about St. George Island’s landscape and local sea creatures. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours and ends at the East Slough Overlook Platform. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the amazing flora and fauna as well as a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico!
2. Apalachicola Farmers Market
Delicious food, 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 and pick up fresh vegetables and seafood to prepare for dinner at your vacation rental.
3. Full Moon Climb
While you can visit the Cape St. George Light during the day, the monthly Full Moon Climb is one experience you won’t want to miss. Ascend to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point, which is over 9 stories high, for spectacular views of the sunset and the full moon. Light refreshments are served.
4. Holiday Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas lifestyle with the Holiday Fresh Market. This annual market, held in early December in front of the Dixie Theater, showcases local businesses offering an array of handcrafted gifts for loved ones.
5. 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 the Carrabelle River and illuminate the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see it.
Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to visit? Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help with your family’s vacation needs. Take a few minutes to browse our properties. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends or a romantic trip for two. What’s more, our local, knowledgeable staff can assist you with recommending local restaurants, shopping around the island, and experiencing all St. George Island has to offer.

A short drive or boat ride off Florida’s panhandle, St. George Island offers a secluded retreat for you and your family from the hustle and bustle of other tourist destinations in Florida. Natural beauty and wonder surround this barrier island with access to state reserves such as Cape St. George State Reserve, Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, and Apalachicola National Forest. With all the natural allure, the island coaxes locals and tourists outdoors to appreciate its breathtaking beauty, temperate climate, and sunny beaches. In addition to all of the incredible outdoor activities to enjoy, here are a few of our favorite family-friendly events you can experience during your stay.

A trip to St. George Island can be both relaxing and exciting. With so many activities available, you can alternate lazy days with adventurous excursions, as well as shopping, dining and more. Visit our Things to Do page for insider info on local activities and events!

Top 5 Family-Friendly Events on St. George Island

1. First Day Hike
Start your New Year off island style. The annual First Day Hike allows you and your family to explore the area’s natural surroundings while learning more about St. George Island’s landscape and local sea creatures. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours and ends at the East Slough Overlook Platform. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the amazing flora and fauna as well as a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico!

2. Apalachicola Farmers Market
Delicious food, 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 and pick up fresh vegetables and seafood to prepare for dinner at your vacation rental.

3. Full Moon Climb
While you can visit the Cape St. George Light during the day, the monthly Full Moon Climb is one experience you won’t want to miss. Ascend to the lighthouse’s highest lookout point, which is over 9 stories high, for spectacular views of the sunset and the full moon. Light refreshments are served.

4. Holiday Market
During the holiday season, our barrier island defines the coastal Christmas lifestyle with the Holiday Fresh Market. This annual market, held in early December in front of the Dixie Theater, showcases local businesses offering an array of handcrafted gifts for loved ones.

5. 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 the Carrabelle River and illuminate the Christmas spirit in the hearts of all who see it.

Start Planning Your Visit to St. George Island
Ready to visit? Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help with your family’s vacation needs. Take a few minutes to browse our properties. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends or a romantic trip for two. What’s more, our local, knowledgeable staff can assist you with recommending local restaurants, shopping around the island, and experiencing all St. George Island has to offer.

St. George Island has an abundance of outdoor activities to make your next family trip amazing! When you’re trying to choose the right excursion for your family, visit Journeys of St. George Island. It’s the perfect adventure tour company to help plan your daily treks across our stunning island. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are always ready to help you get the most out of your next trip to the Forgotten Coast!

Before you grab your sunglasses and head over to Journeys of St. George Island, make sure you check out our Things to Do page! It’s filled with fun ideas and local outings sure to excite everyone in your family!

Witness the Natural Beauty of the Forgotten Coast with Journeys of St. George Island
Journeys of St. George Island has everything you need to explore the natural, unblemished landscapes of St. George. Whether you prefer to sightsee by land or by water, the staff at Journeys will get you equipped for your day outdoors.
For those who want to see the island from the water, there are several options available. See the sunset and watch for dolphins on a guided powerboat tour, or sail over the Apalachicola Bay. If kayaking is more your speed, not to worry! Take a tour with an experienced professional, or have rentals delivered to the door of your Collins Vacation Home.

Those who prefer to look out onto the water from the shore can rent a golf cart to traverse St. George without leaving a heavy carbon footprint. Explore the natural beauty of the island, or visit boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. All golf carts are equipped with all-terrain tires for easy travel across beautiful St. George Island.

Sunset and Dolphin Cruises are  perfect for the whole family.  Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Apalachicola Bay.  Watch the dolphins frolic in the waves created by the waves created by the powerboats and learn interesting facts along the way.  This fun adventure  gives children an appreciation of nature, and indulges them in a few hours of unforgettable fun! Make sure your kids don’t miss out on these awesome excursions. Take them to Journeys of St. George Island the next time you visit!

Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home 
After you and your little ones have done a day of exploring with Journeys of St. George Island, come back to one of our gorgeous vacation homes to rest. All Collins Vacation Rentals are complete with the amenities you need to have a peaceful, carefree evening after a day of trekking across our beautiful landscape. Located throughout the island, all of our rentals are near some of the best activities, restaurants, and views available in St. George. Many are just steps away from the beautiful white sand beaches for which the island is known. Let us help you choose the perfect vacation home for you and your family – contact us today! We are looking forward to helping you plan a family trip everyone will love!
Get even more out of your trip to St. George Island. Check out our specials!