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St. George Island is a great place for adults to retreat for some much-needed relaxation, but there are many reasons that kids love it, too! One of the sights that your little maritime enthusiasts will love is the Cape St. George Light. Take your children to see the lighthouse tower and corresponding museum the next time you vacation on SGI!

The Cape St. George Light is a favorite attraction among visitors to SGI and the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more good times near St. George Island? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the area has to offer. In addition to restaurants and bars, it also contains a range of outdoor activities and local businesses that your friends or family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

Here’s Why Your Kids Will Love the Cape St. George Light
A Cool History
The Cape St. George Light has a storied past. It stretches almost 200 years – the first incarnation of the light was erected in 1833! It’s seen war, storms, and tons of Florida Gulf Coast history. Take your kids to the museum right beside the tower to learn more about the light and the Forgotten Coast.

A Great Climb and Awesome Views
The best part about visiting the Cape St. George Light is climbing the tower. As long as your children are at least 40-inches tall, you can take them on the journey up the 92-step spiral staircase and an 8-rung ladder to get some of the best views on SGI! Kids love making it all the way to the top; it’s much better than climbing the walls at home!

Fun Souvenirs
When you’re ready to leave, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop first! Pick up some cool souvenirs for the family to take home, including t-shirts, books, jewelry, and more. It’s the perfect way to remember the amazing time you had climbing the Cape St. George Light!
Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast

After you take your kids out for a day at the Cape St. George Light, come enjoy the rest of your evening at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. You deserve an amazing place to get away during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway.

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!

St. George Island seafood is one of the best reasons to visit SGI. The beaches are stunning, the atmosphere is amazing, the homes are beautiful, but the seafood may be some of the best you’ll ever have! Our location on the Florida Gulf means easy access to a variety of excellent fish, oysters, shrimp, and crab. Unlike purchasing it other places in the state, when you buy seafood on SGI, it comes fresh from the boat to you!

Trying delicious St. George Island seafood is just one of the things you should plan to do while you’re here. After your amazing meal gives you a taste of SGI, take some time to explore its sights and sounds as well. Discover the best ways to experience St. George Island and make wonderful memories during your time on this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists great outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the best of the island. The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, make sure you check our Things to Do page first. It contains helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an unforgettable vacation!

Get Great St. George Island Seafood From Lynn’s Quality Oysters

Lynn’s Quality Oysters sells some of the freshest St. George Island seafood, Located just a stone’s throw away in Eastpoint, FL, Lynn’s has been family owned and operated for the last 40 years. Lynn Martina, the current owner, purchased the company from her parents in 1997, after working there since the age of 9.

Lynn and her staff are known for serving their customers with delicious fresh oysters (hence the name).   However, they also carry several other kinds of seafood. In addition to the fresh catches, you can also buy some prepared or partially prepared items, such as smoked fish dip or crab cakes. Check their products page to see all that they offer.

Visit the  Raw Bar at Lynn’s

On the days when you’re craving fresh St. George Island seafood, but don’t have time to prepare it yourself, head to the raw bar at Lynn’s Quality Oysters. Dine inside or outside and on raw, steamed or topped oysters, steamed shrimp, shrimp salad, or seafood gumbo. Wash it down with a glass of beer or wine and enjoy the views of the bay!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home

When you purchase fresh St. George Island seafood from Lynn’s Quality Oysters or one of the local vendors, come prepare and enjoy your feast at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, and you’ll love spending quality time with family around our table or out on the deck. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.

Take full advantage of your beach vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties, or opt for a peaceful place a few minutes away from the Gulf.  Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

When you visit St. George Island, you’ll experience pristine beaches, an amazing atmosphere, and beautiful homes. Whether you are looking to relax or adventure, there is always an abundance of things to do. Bask in the Florida sunlight while you relax on the sand, take a leisurely bike ride, then experience the area’s cuisine. When you’re on vacation, food isn’t just a necessity. It’s part of the experience. Sitting down to a delicious meal at a place like Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL is an excellent reprieve between activities. The dishes at this amazing restaurant range from delicious steaks to fresh local seafood. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views of the bay while enjoying a delicious dinner!

Trying the delectable cuisine at Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL is just one of the many things you should plan to do while staying on St. George Island. After your amazing meal, head back to the island and take some time to explore the sights and sounds of the area. Discover the best ways to experience SGI and make lasting memories during your time in paradise! For ideas on island activities, explore our Things to Do page. It contains great outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the best of the island. Let Collins Vacation Rentals make planning easier by giving you helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an unforgettable vacation!

Dining at Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL
When dining at Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL, you will be in good hands. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions as well as make suggestions. The dining room’s pristine white tablecloths and views of the bay give the restaurant an upscale feel while still keeping a casual atmosphere. The menu changes depending on what is in season, and there is always a daily special depending on which local ingredients are available. Their dishes vary from pastas to fresh seafood, so there is always something for everyone. Just make sure you save room for dessert!

Owl Cafe Tap Room
After you have had a delicious dinner, go next door for some nightlife! The Owl Cafe Tap Room is located right beside the restaurant. Exposed brick adds a bit of ambiance to the decor. If you saved some room after your delicious meal, you can try some of their famous Pulled Duck Confit Fries or Crab Dip. They offer a great beer selection, specialty cocktails, wine, and spirits from their full bar. Visit with friends for happy hour then stay all night for the food and atmosphere!

After Dining at Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL
After you’ve experienced the amazing cuisine and atmosphere of Owl Cafe in Apalachicola, FL, come back to relax in one of our Collins Vacation Homes. St. George Island is perfect for a Labor Day getaway. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the Owl Cafe and other great restaurants, not to mention beaches, outdoor fun, and more. You deserve an amazing place to get away during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Choose from a variety of beachfront homes, quaint cottages, and luxurious villas when you plan your island getaway!

The Big Bend Scenic Byway stretches from Tallahassee, FL all the way to gorgeous St. George Island, and then loops back again. The drive is about two days long, and makes a fun road trip for families or groups of friends. Along the way, there are all types of natural wonders that are well-worth stopping to see. When you take the drive you’ll have plenty of opportunity to experience the best of “The Bend.” It’s the place where Florida`s Gulf Coast begins to curve westward, leading to the beautiful region of the panhandle.

After the first leg of your road trip on the Big Bend Scenic Byway, take some time to rest, relax and explore the awesome scenery of SGI. Discover the best ways to see St. George Island and make amazing memories during your time on this island paradise! Our Things to Do page lists amazing outdoor activities, restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones active as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the island. The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, make sure you check our Things to Do page first. It contains helpful recommendations that you can use to plan an amazing vacation!

What You’ll See On the Big Bend Scenic Byway
The Big Bend Scenic Byway showcases the natural diversity of the Florida Panhandle. See towering pines, marshes and seagrass beds, beautiful white sand beaches, and more! In addition to the variety of scenery, you’ll be able to see several different kinds of animals as well. White-tail deer, otter, hogs, turkeys, black bear, and alligator are just a sample of what may come across your path. Much of the road winds through unfenced public land, so you may even see some of them up close! (This is one of the reasons it’s important to obey the speed limit. Also, remember that feeding the wildlife is prohibited!)

Stops to Make Along the Big Bend
If you have time to veer slightly off the trail of the Big Bend Scenic Byway, you’ll be able to enjoy even more great attractions in the region. The Apalachicola Maritime Museum offers interpretive displays, activities, and classes to help immerse you in the culture and history of Florida’s “Forgotten Coast.” The St. George Island Lighthouse is another point of interest, standing as a symbol of the island – the original was completed in 1833. Finally, anglers will love the St. George Island Fishing Pier. Take a break and relax on the pier until the tug on your line says it’s time for dinner!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
Have more than a weekend to spare? Why not extend your road trip along the Big Bend Scenic Byway and make it a real vacation? After you make the drive from Tallahassee to St. George Island, unpack and unwind at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our stunning rentals are comfortable, full of amenities and conveniently located on SGI. Many of the homes can be found in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.

Take full advantage of your Florida Gulf vacation when you stay in one of our premier oceanfront properties, or opt for a peaceful place a few minutes away from the Gulf. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway. Once you find your perfect vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

St. George Island has everything you need for a great coastal vacation at any time of year. With excellent fishing, beautiful beaches, and plenty of ways to enjoy the water, a trip here is always unforgettable. However, if you’re looking to plan a vacation around an extra special occasion, these St. George Island events are a great place to start. The following are a few fun ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the region. Take a look, and enjoy a celebration on SGI!

Mingle with locals and have some fun at any of these St. George Island events during your next trip to the Forgotten Coast. Are you looking for even more Forgotten Coast events and activities for your family? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best functions that the island has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page. It has everything you need to plan a fantastic vacation!

Have Fun All Year Long at These St. George Island Events!
Find Your Favorite Brew at St. George Island Brewfest 
Brews, beaches, and benefits for the animals! Everything about the St. George Island Brewfest is perfect for beer and animal lovers. The event  features a broad selection of craft beers and innovative food! If that isn’t enough, all proceeds from the event benefit the Franklin County Animal Shelter. Head over to Paddy’s Raw Bar and Journeys of SGI to join in on this unforgettable event!

Jam out to the Best Music at Rock by the Sea  
Come to Harry A’s to participate in Rock By The Sea. This annual charity music festival is one of the best St. George Island events for lovers of good tunes and live entertainment. For several days, Rock By The Sea  features a variety of bands and artists, while raising funds to support a great cause.

Delight Your Inner Foodie at the Florida Seafood Festival 
What better place to unite seafood lovers than the Apalachicola River? You’ll thoroughly enjoy spending time at the annual Florida Seafood Festival. Gather under the shady oaks of Apalachicola’s Battery Park to see the blue crab races and the parade. Then, enjoy arts and crafts, live entertainment, and, of course, seafood!

Bask in the Moonlight at These Full Moon Climbs
Ready to climb the coolest lighthouses on the Forgotten Coast? Stop by the Crooked River Lighthouse or the Cape St. George Island Lighthouse for a unique moonlit experience. From the Crooked River Lighthouse you’ll enjoy the gorgeous sight of the St. George sound, Carrabelle Beach, and Dog Island. Full Moon climbs are family-friendly and take place several times throughout the year. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After a fun day at one of these St. George Island events, enjoy your evening at a Collins vacation home. You deserve a fantastic place to retreat to during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Request one of our rental guides to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway.
Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island vibes! Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you start planning your next trip to St. George Island!

Florida is a state full of wonders. The peninsula-shaped land mass has plenty to offer when it comes to sun, sand, and shore. It’s no wonder that the state is such a popular travel destination. However, there is one amazing part of the area that even some experienced travelers haven’t seen. If you haven’t yet been to the Forgotten Coast in Florida, some would say that you haven’t really been to Florida at all! Don’t miss your chance to plan a trip to one of the most natural, untouched, and relaxed regions in the Sunshine State!

Start planning your trip to the Forgotten Coast in Florida today! After you read about the area below, find even more amazing vacation activities for you and your family. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island – the premier destination on the Forgotten Coast – has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

What You’ll See on the Forgotten Coast in Florida
Scenery
The Forgotten Coast in Florida is a laid-back, naturally beautiful area of the Florida Panhandle. The pristine beaches will catch your attention right away. Watch the waves come in, take a dip, or bring your gear and go fishing! The Forgotten Coast – especially St. George Island – is known for its amazing year-round fishing opportunities. You can engage in virtually every other water-based activity here as well!

Attractions
The Forgotten Coast in Florida also features some really interesting attractions. The St. George Island Lighthouse has a story that stretches all the way back to 1833. You can visit it to learn more, and even climb the tower during a Full Moon Climb. The Apalachicola Maritime Museum is another place to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Seafood
While you’re here, it would be a crime not to experience the seafood! Our famous Apalachicola oysters have a reputation as some of the best, and you can also find a myriad of other types of fresh seafood from local vendors. Try Lynn’s Quality Oysters for a fresh catch that you can take home as well as several prepared options you can enjoy right on the porch!

Big Bend Scenic Byway
Explore even more of the Panhandle’s wild appeal on a 2-hour driving tour. The Big Bend Scenic Byway will take you through several different types of landscapes on the loop between here and Tallahassee.

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the Forgotten Coast of Florida, spend your nights at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. Our Fall and Winter Specials are a great way to experience all that the area has to offer, without the seasonal crowds!

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!

Looking for a way to add an intriguing educational component to your trip? Visit the John Gorrie Museum! Historians, curious travelers, and collectors of fun facts will love exploring this unique piece of Apalachicola history.

Start planning your trip to the John Gorrie Museum today! After you pencil it in to your vacation schedule, find even more amazing vacation activities for you and your family. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island – the premier destination on the Forgotten Coast – has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

History of the John Gorrie Museum
The John Gorrie Museum is named for John Gorrie, a physician who moved to this area in the early 1800s. His influence was felt throughout Apalachicola in many ways. During his life in the town, he served as postmaster, city treasurer, town councilman, and bank director, in addition to treating patients.

On top of all of these achievements, John Gorrie also became an inventor. In a quest to assist his patients suffering from yellow fever, he designed a machine to help cool their rooms. This development made him an early pioneer of air conditioning and refrigeration and eventually earned him a U.S. patent.

Visiting the John Gorrie Museum State Park
To find out more about Dr. Gorrie, his many achievements, and his contributions to The Forgotten Coast, visit the John Gorrie Museum State Park. The park includes several interpretive exhibits, including a replica of Gorrie’s original ice machine and displays about the history of Apalachicola. There are also spaces for picnicking at the site.
The address of the John Gorrie Museum State Park is 46 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday through Monday. (It is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.) The admission fee is $2 per person; children 5 and under are free.

Rent one of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the John Gorrie Museum and other fun historical sites, spend your nights at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. Our Fall and Winter Specials are a great way to experience all that the area has to offer, without the seasonal crowds!

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!

Looking for a great meal with an added touch of ambiance? Try the Crooked River Grill in Carrabelle, FL, just minutes from St. George Island. They serve several amazing dishes, so make sure to go hungry!

Crooked River Grill can provide you with an unforgettable meal during your stay on the Forgotten Coast. Interested in finding even more good times near St. George Island? Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the area has to offer. In addition to restaurants and bars, it also contains a range of outdoor activities and local businesses that your friends or family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

Get Ready for a Great Meal at Crooked River Grill
Crooked River Grill is one of the best places for a great lunch on the Forgotten Coast. You can also get a wonderful dinner there on Friday and Saturday nights, or go for the phenomenal brunch on Sundays. Try one of their fresh seafood dishes, or opt for a turf option like the filet mignon with bacon wrapped shrimp. They are also known for having one of the best wine lists in the area! Check out their menu for full details.

Crooked River Grill is located at 151 Laughing Gull Lane in Carrabelle, FL. It is on the site of the St. James Bay Golf Resort. (The restaurant is open to the public.)

Days and hours for the Crooked River Grill change seasonally. Be sure to call for updated times before you go. You can reach the restaurant at (850) 697-5050

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After a great meal at Crooked River Grill, come enjoy the rest of your day at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. You deserve an amazing place to get away during your vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Request one of our rental guides today to see the full range of options available for your next St. George Island getaway.

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!

History lovers will find that the Forgotten Coast has much to offer. There are plenty of museums and historical sites to visit and learn about. One of them is the Raney House Museum. Prepare to be whisked back in time to the 19th Century when you visit!

Start planning your trip to the Raney House Museum today! After you pencil it into your vacation schedule, find even more amazing vacation activities for you and your family. Our Things to Do page lists all of the best that the St. George Island – the premier destination on the Forgotten Coast – has to offer. In addition to outdoor activities, it also contains a range of restaurants and local businesses that your family will love! The next time you find yourself planning a trip to St. George Island, don’t forget to check our Things to Do page first. It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation!

History of the Raney House Museum
The Raney House Museum was once a family home. It was completed in 1838 by David Greenway Raney. Mr. Raney was a prosperous cotton merchant during a time when the trade was especially lucrative in Florida – the three decades right before the Civil War. He also served two terms as mayor of Apalachicola.

The history of the Raney family is a storied one. It includes the tales of three of David and Harriet Raney’s sons, who fought in war. After the conflict, members of the family continued to live in the home until 1914. In 1973, the City of Apalachicola purchased the structure and turned it into the Raney House Museum, which features furniture documents, and artifacts from the 19th Century. The museum is operated by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society.

Visiting the Raney House Museum
The Raney House Museum is located at 128 Market Street at the corner of Avenue F in historic downtown Apalachicola. It is open to the public from 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 10 am to 4 pm Friday and Saturday. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

You can contact the Raney House Museum at (850) 653-1700.

Rent One of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Forgotten Coast
When you spend your days exploring the Raney House Museum and other fun historical sites, spend your nights at a Collins Vacation Home. Our homes come fully stocked with all of the amenities you need to have a vacation you’ll never forget. We even have rental homes right on the beach, so that you can take full advantage of our location on the stunning Forgotten Coast. Our Fall and Winter Specials are a great way to experience all that the area has to offer, without the seasonal crowds!

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!

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!