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Everything You Need to Know About Island Adventures on St. George Island

A relaxing paradise awaits on St. George Island. Pristine beaches, swaying palms, and blue skies make it one of the most beautiful islands off of Florida’s coast. To experience the area to its fullest, you’ll want to hit the beach and get out on the water. Island Adventures on St. George Island can help!

Island Adventures on St. George Island has everything you need to enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor fun in style during your trip to the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more St. George Island activities for your family? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best companies and activities that the island has to offer. In addition to outdoor excursions, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love!

Upgrade Your Beach Day
When you’re on vacation, you don’t want to have to worry about packing up your beach items and lugging them to your vacation rental. Luckily for you, Island Adventures on St. George Island has everything you need for you and your family to enjoy all the beautiful beaches here! You can rent chairs, umbrellas, or packages including both. For those who need a different way to access our shores, there is also a beach wheelchair for rent.

See the Island
Island Adventures on St. George Island offers a few fun ways to get around the island. Whether it’s for sightseeing, exercise, or transportation, bike rentals are one of our favorite offerings. There’s nothing like riding around the beach! The bikes can be delivered straight to your door for you to use your entire stay. They also offer two or four-person surreys for a different way to explore! Plus, they rent out golf carts the entire family can pile onto! Make sure to check out their rental page to see all the goodies they offer.

Island Adventures on St. George Island Souvenirs
In addition to covering your beach rental needs, Island Adventures on St. George Island also offers a range of gifts and souvenirs. Whether you are looking to pick something up to remember your trip by or a gift for a loved one back home, you are sure to find it here! With everything from resort wear to a stuffed animal for the kids, there is something for everyone at this beach shop.

Experience Island Life at a Collins Vacation Home
Using a resource like Island Adventures on St. George Island will take your getaway to the next level. The convenience of getting your beach supplies delivered right to your Collins Vacation Home can’t be beat! Plus, our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. With over 200 properties to choose from, we know we have the perfect one for you!
When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!


Where Are the Best Grocery Stores near St. George Island, FL?

One of the best parts about renting a home from Collins Vacation Rentals is the seclusion you’ll experience on the island. Once you cross over the bridge, there’s no reason to cross it again until you leave, giving you the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are even grocery stores near St. George Island, FL, just in case you want to cook in your own kitchen or are looking for some snacks for the beach! Here is all you need to know about them.

If you’re planning a vacation to St. George Island, you might need a little help planning your trip. Our company has been on the island for more than 40 years, so we know the ins and outs of the area! Take a look at our Things to Do page for a handpicked list of local businesses and activities you won’t want to miss during your stay like grocery stores near St. George Island, FL. Whether you are looking for family fun or a romantic date night, we have recommendations for you!

These are the Best Grocery Stores near St. George Island, FL
Piggly Wiggly Xpress
St. George Island is home to one of the South’s classic grocery stores, a Piggly Wiggly. Located right when you get off the bridge onto the island, it can easily be your first stop to pick up anything you have forgotten to pack! You never know when a family member might forget a toothbrush or that incredibly important bottle of sunscreen. The goal of this shop is to have anything you might need on the island so you don’t have to worry about leaving and looking elsewhere. Plus, they have a variety of food and drink so you’ll never have to go off the island to restock.

Sparks & Sons’ Island Grocery
SGI Fresh Market is the newest grocery store on St. George Island. It’s a great spot to visit if you’re looking to do some grocery shopping during your stay. Get some frozen foods for easy meals and snacks after the beach, stock up on pantry items, and pick out some selections from their butcher area to grill. They even have an area of fresh produce! However, one of our favorite items they have available is fresh, local shrimp. Yum!

Sometimes It’s Hotter Seasoning Company 
Sometimes It’s Hotter Seasoning Company is not technically a grocery store, but you’ll definitely want to make a stop here if you like wine! This is primarily a spice company, but we recommend browsing their wine selection then purchasing one of their baguettes or cheese and crackers to enjoy on the beach. There’s nothing better than enjoying a glass with your sweetheart on your porch overlooking the ocean!

Book Your Stay Today
It’s time to start planning your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals! Browse through our gorgeous homes based on size and location. Whether you are looking to be in the gated community of St. George Island Plantation or closer to town, we have a property for you! The best part about our island is that no matter where you are, you will be close to town, all the grocery stores near St. George Island, FL, and moments from the beach. We look forward to seeing you on SGI!


Here Are the Best Reasons to Visit Paddy's Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL

Are you craving fresh Apalachicola oysters? Perhaps you’re in the mood for straight-from-the-Gulf seafood? When it comes to dining along the Forgotten Coast, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is where to go first! While there are several excellent restaurants here, one of our top recommendations is Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL. With great food, cold beer, and daily live music, this waterfront bar is a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike. Come grab a bite to eat and enjoy the Paddy’s experience for yourself. Once you visit, you’ll want to come back again and again!

After you visit Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, make sure to check out the other great dining options in our area. Visit our Things to Do Page for more tips about restaurants, attractions, and nightlife on St. George Island. It’s full of great suggestions to help you plan your trip!

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL

1. Delicious Apalachicola Oysters
The Apalachicola Bay oysters at Paddy’s Raw Bar are always fresh. That’s because they are brought straight from the fishing boats every single day! Order them raw or steamed, or choose from a wide array of tasty recipes. In addition to some of the best oysters on St. George Island, the menu at Paddy’s Raw Bar features several other mouthwatering dishes. Their offerings mainly include fresh seafood that has been caught just off the coast. You’ll find everything from Southern classics like steamed shrimp to unique dishes like seafood quesadillas. Non-seafood options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads are also available.

2. Great Drinks
Is there a more perfect combination than fresh oysters and ice-cold beer? With wine, cider, and more than 16 beers on tap, there is something to please every palate here! The draft beers range from hoppy IPA’s to lagers, ambers, and dark stouts. If you would like to try something new, we recommend the local Oyster City Apalach IPA or the Hooter Brown. And if you prefer wine, they have a wonderful selection of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Champagne, White Zinfandel, Mimosas, and even Sangria!

3. Daily Live Music
Would you like to enjoy dinner and a show? One thing that sets this bar apart from other local restaurants is the great live music! From blues and soul music to rock and roll, it’s easy to dance the night away here. Check out their Facebook Page to see a complete list of upcoming Paddy’s Raw Bar events!

4. Family Trivia Night
If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, make sure to visit during one of the trivia nights. Team Trivia is held on Mondays at 7 p.m. Pair up with the family, or make some new friends and work together to put your knowledge to the test. Before you know it, this may just become your new weekly tradition!

5. The Overall Experience
When you dine at Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, you will feel just like a local! Besides the great food, beer, and entertainment, the atmosphere is very welcoming and friendly. Grab a table on the outdoor patio and enjoy the waterfront views and fresh sea breezes. Or, head inside the restaurant for a casual vibe and an open-air setting. Even your four-legged friends are welcome (and encouraged) to join in the fun. There is even a special menu exclusively for dogs!

Where to Stay on St. George Island
After your delicious meal at Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island, FL, come back and relax at your gorgeous Collins Vacation rental. With hundreds of rentals to choose from, your perfect home-away-from-home awaits you on our island paradise! Many of our accommodations are located just moments from the best beaches, golf courses, restaurants, bars, and attractions.

When you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, you can choose from an extensive selection of properties that range in size and location. From cozy beachfront condos to large family homes, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay! We also offer pet-friendly lodging for guests who are traveling with dogs. Make sure to check our current specials. Then, contact us to begin planning your St. George Island getaway today. We can’t wait to welcome you!


Why You Need to Say "I Do" With a St. George Island Wedding!

The day of your wedding will be one of the most important days of your life. It should be amazing, meaningful, and memorable. Committing to the love of your life is wonderful, and is reason for a celebration you’ll never forget. Still, with so many things to consider, the process of planning the wedding can become stressful. However, there is one easy-to-make decision that will put your mind at ease – the choice to get married on SGI. When you have a St. George Island wedding you can rest assured that the beauty and ease of your day will match the love that you feel!

Start planning your gorgeous St. George Island wedding today! It is a stunning location, and the island has plenty for your family and friends to do while in town. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island has to offer. In addition to local attractions, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your wedding party will love! When you are planning your wedding, or any trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to ensure an amazing stay!

Enjoy the Beautiful Forgotten Coast During Your St. George Island Wedding
The Forgotten Coast is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the Florida Gulf. Couples that love the beach will find perfection here. Make your wedding unique when you include boat tours, kayaking, or family fishing trips on your list of events. Go on a Full Moon Climb at the St. George Island Lighthouse, or enjoy the sunset from points along the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Whatever you choose to incorporate into your St. George Island wedding, your guests are sure to be impressed by the gorgeous coastal environment.

Find the Perfect Venue for Your Special Day
Your day is just that – your day. St. George Island and the surrounding area have plenty of wedding venues to suit every couple’s style. There are historic churches, a rustic warehouse, a tree-lined park and a riverside veranda, in addition to pristine white sand beaches. You can go all out or opt to keep it simple. We also have some of the best wedding vendors in the area available to make your day special. Find peace of mind and flexibility when you plan your St. George Island wedding!

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
In addition to great venues and activities, SGI has amazing vacation homes where your friends and family can spend quality time together before and after the big day. Collins Vacation Homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have the St. George Island wedding you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast.

When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!


Why You Need to Visit Island Outfitters on St. George Island on Your Vacation

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

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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!


How Far is St. George Island from Panama City, FL?

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!


Here Are the Best St. George Island Beach Chair Rentals

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!


Everything You Need to Know About Carrabelle, FL, Deep Sea Fishing

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!


5 St. George Island Family Activities You'll Want to Add to Your Bucket List

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!


Everything You Need to Know About Crooked River Lighthouse

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!