Posts

 

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

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

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

1. Mild Winter Weather & Pristine Beaches

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

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

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

2. Outdoor Adventures Perfect for Winter Travel

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

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

Cool, comfortable weather makes outdoor activities refreshing and enjoyable

3. Fresh Seafood & Relaxed Island Dining

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

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

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

4. Cozy Winter Stays With Collins Vacation Rentals

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

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

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

5. A Peaceful Escape From Winter Blues

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

Plan Your January Getaway to St. George Island

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

 

 

When you’re on vacation, you deserve to indulge a little. What better way is there to begin your morning than with a delicious donut? No matter what age you are, you can’t help but love this tasty treat. If you’d like to start your day off right with a pastry, we recommend visiting Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island!

If you consider yourself a foodie, you’re probably planning out your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Learn more about eateries like Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island when you take a look at our Things to Do page! As experts on our island, we created a list of the best businesses and activities you can enjoy during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental. Now, you can spend less time planning and more time doing what’s important: making memories.

About Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island
Weber’s Little Donut Shop is located right in the center of St. George Island at 65 West Gorrie Drive. Their opening and closing time varies depending on the season, but they are usually open at 7 or 7:30 a.m. They are also closed at certain times during the off-season, so make sure you check before you visit! Their Facebook page usually has all of the correct info.

How Much are Donuts?
The kids will love it when you come back to your Collins Vacation Rental with a box of goodies. Or, take them and let them pick out their own! Plus, their displays look so delicious that you will want to try them all.

Insider Tip:
Wake up early! There’s a good chance the donuts will sell out if you don’t. During the high season, you might even see some visitors lining up in front of the shop before it opens!

The Donuts
The donuts at Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island are all cake donuts. This means that they are pretty dense and have great flavor! They are made fresh daily, so they are often still warm when you get them. They make multiple varieties that change from time to time, so you never know what you will get! Some of our favorite flavors are the blueberry, cinnamon sugar, and caramel chocolate. Plus, when it’s a holiday, they will always have special flavors and decorations! There’s nothing like getting some red, white, and blue donuts for the 4th of July.

Book Your Vacation Today
It’s time to book your getaway to SGI! Collins Vacation Rentals has a variety of properties located across the island. Whether you are looking to be close enough to ride your bike to spots in town like Weber’s Little Donut Shop on St. George Island or would like to be secluded in the Plantation, we have a home for you. Browse our properties to start planning your trip! We look forward to giving you the vacation of a lifetime.

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

Here Are the Best Old Florida Towns to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driving the St. George Island Bridge

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

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

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

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entertainment for All Ages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When you go on vacation, you’re sure to get hungry! All that fun in the sun will definitely work up an appetite. The Beach Pit on St. George Island is a favorite of our island’s locals and visitors alike. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the chefs here are serving fresh, amazing food for every meal of the day. If you’re looking for a place to eat great food in style on SGI, we know you’ll love The Beach Pit!

For more of the best restaurants like The Beach Pit on St. George Island, take a look at our Things to Do page. We know that planning a vacation can challenging, so we created a list of local, handpicked recommendations for you to enjoy. Browse through to find other eateries, family-friendly activities, and more!

The Cuisine at The Beach Pit on St. George Island
The Beach Pit on St. George Island is a surf and turf utopia. The waters surrounding our island and beyond provide incredible fresh seafood for chefs to prepare. Here, you can enjoy Apalachicola Bay oysters, freshly prepared fish, and shrimp dishes. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, don’t worry! There are plenty of other items on the menu for you to enjoy. Not only does the restaurant serve coastal classics, it also boasts a barbecue selection that meat lovers won’t want to miss. Smoky, savory, and delicious, their barbecue plates are the perfect meal to follow a light appetizer of oysters on the half shell. Take a look at their full menu to check out the full list of mouth-watering meal options.

Breakfast at The Beach Pit on St. George Island
Treat yourself to breakfast during your stay at a Collins Vacation Rental! Take the whole family or go on a breakfast date with your sweetheart at The Beach Pit on St. George Island. They offer a wide array of options, so everyone is sure to find something that they’ll love. If you’re in the mood for a small bite, grab a bagel or a biscuit. Eat it there or take it to-go to munch on at the beach! Want something a little heartier? Try one of the three egg omelets. Those with a sweet tooth will have the decadent choice of pancakes, waffles, French toast, and crepes hot off the griddle!

Your Collins Vacation Rental Will Be Your Home Base on SGI
Your Collins Vacation Rental will be your home away from home during your beach getaway! When you opt for a vacation rental, you can make it your own. Cook your meals in the kitchen or indulge in some island cuisine at The Beach Pit on St. George Island. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the beaches, restaurants, family activities, and more. Your family deserves a great place to rest during your beach vacation, and our rentals are beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve taken care of all of 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!

Every vacation destination has an attraction you can’t miss. On SGI, you won’t want to miss the St. George Island Lighthouse! An incredible history and great views combine for this must-see activity. Now located in the center of our island, it once illuminated the Gulf of Mexico. Come stand in the light of this honored island treasure and learn an important bit of St. George history on your next trip to the Forgotten Coast!

Are you thinking about coming to St. George Island for a vacation? Take a look at our Things to Do page for all of our most trusted businesses and activities! Collins Vacation Rentals has been on the island for more than 40 years, so we know the ins and outs of the Forgotten Coast. Here, you will find more spots like the St. George Island Lighthouse, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and more!

St. George Island Lighthouse History
The St. George Island Lighthouse has become a huge part of our island history . It has seen several reincarnations, making it clear that it has become a beloved symbol of the community over the ages. The first lighthouse was erected in 1833 on the western tip of the island. However, ships found it difficult to see when coming in from the eastern gulf. When storms damaged it in 1846, a new lighthouse was rebuilt on the southern cape. Unfortunately, that lighthouse lasted only three years after its completion. 

The third St. George Island lighthouse, completed in 1852, was much more sturdy. Aside from a stint during the Civil War when the light was turned off to avoid guiding Northern ships, the light remained lit until 1994. Brutal storms attacked the lighthouse repeatedly, so a “Save the Light” campaign began to raise money for renovations. Unfortunately, it ended up collapsing into the Gulf of Mexico in 2005. 

The Current Lighthouse
Because the St. George Island Lighthouse was so important to the community, the newly-established St. George Lighthouse Association worked with the State of Florida DEP to painstakingly salvage the fallen light piece by piece. Volunteers cleaned the old mortar off more than 20,000 of the original bricks so that they could be reused in the reconstruction of the lighthouse! 

Visiting the St. George Island Lighthouse 
Every time someone asks us what to do when visiting our island, we tell them they have to climb the St. George Island Lighthouse. Such a simple activity has so much to offer! Begin your visit in the replica of the original Keeper’s House, located right next to the lighthouse. Here, you can purchase your ticket to climb the light, plus explore the small museum inside. There are artifacts from the original lighthouse and the lightkeepers that once lived there. 
Once you have gotten your ticket, it’s time for the St. George Island Lighthouse climb. 92 steps will take you to the top where you will have to scale a small ladder. Once you are up, you will have a 360-degree view of the island around you! You’ll see everything from your favorite island restaurants to the blue ocean. 

St. George Island Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
If you’re looking for something extra special, consider a Full Moon Climb. Full Moon Climbs are held monthly, and admission includes hors d’oeuvres and sparkling cider. The climb costs just $10 for the general public, but reservations are recommended as space is limited. You’ll get to see the entire island in the moonlight! 

Start Planning Today
It’s time to start planning the vacation of a lifetime on our secluded island. Start by booking your stay at one of our gorgeous homes at Collins Vacation Rentals! Stocked with top-of-the-line amenities and located within convenient drives to many of the area’s top attractions like the St. George Island Lighthouse, our homes are the perfect place for a tranquil island getaway. When you stay with us on beautiful St. George, you can leave your worries at the door knowing that we have thoroughly considered and planned for all of your needs. Have fun and relax without a care in the world! Book your stay today!
 

Fall is the local’s favorite season on St. George Island. Between serene beaches and quiet restaurants, the island boasts a peaceful feel as opposed to the busy summer season. Take a bike ride, attend a fall festival, or visit some of the island’s most stunning sights. What are you waiting for? There is so much to be seen on St. George Island in October!
Learn even more about the island and all of the best things to do and see today. We have everything you need to know when planning your perfect Gulf Coast getaway.

Everything You Need to Know About St. George Island in October
It’s true—life is a little more peaceful on St. George Island. Factor in fewer visitors and scenic beaches, and St. George Island in October is pure gold. Discover it for yourself today!

Stroll the Quiet Beaches

Enjoy the sandy Gulf Coast beaches without the crowds when you visit in October. Temperatures average out in the mid-70s during the fall months, making it perfect for a boat outing, kayaking, jet-skiing, or simply strolling the coastline. Bring a kite or pack a picnic and enjoy the stillness of the sea. Fewer people means endless possibilities on St. George Island!

Climb Cape St. George Lighthouse

Venture out to one of the island’s oldest monuments, Cape St. George Lighthouse. The Lighthouse is open through October 31st, and everyone in your crew will love climbing the steps to see the stunning view of the top! Visit Monday-Saturday (except Thursdays) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. or Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a full moon, you won’t want to miss their one-of-a-kind full moon tour.

Take a Bike Ride

Strap on your helmet and hit the trails at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park. The ocean-front park features four miles of paved bike trails and three and a half miles of nature trails available for bike riding. Stroll next to the sugary white sands and through some of the Gulf’s untouched scenery. It’s the perfect escape from the mainstream.

Attend a Fall Event

Fall is the perfect setting for beach bonfires and family get-togethers. Let St. George Island provide the entertainment when you attend one of our annual island events. Apalach Oktoberfest occurs during the second week of October and features beer, brats, and the bash. Lantern Fest usually occurs towards the end of the month and lights up the sky with hundreds of beautiful lanterns.

Cozy Up Beachside With Collins Vacation Rentals
Find your piece of paradise with Collins Vacation Rentals. Retreat to a stunning Gulf-front home or share your vacation with your favorite four-legged friend in one of our pet-friendly homes. All of our vacation rentals feature stylish furnishings and enough room for the whole crew. Many properties offer private pools, elevators, hot tubs, boat docks, and more!

Staying less than a week? No problem! Plan your mini-vacation in one of our short-term rentals and enjoy the blissfulness of St. George Island while you can! Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, romantic getaway, or family reunion, we have just the home for you at Collins Vacation Rental. Welcome to St. George Island!

St. George Island’s nickname, the Forgotten Coast, says it all. Legend has it that our island oasis was once left off the Florida map, earning it this title. We  think it fits perfectly, since it’s one of the best secluded beach vacations the state has to offer! Collins Vacation Rentals offers the opportunity to visit one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Come experience the beauty of natural coastal living when you stay on St. George Island!

As you prepare for one of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast, don’t forget to head over to our Things to Do page. We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite activities and companies to save you from hours of research! Find everything from date night ideas to fun for the whole family. It has everything you need to plan an amazing getaway to beautiful St. George!

The Best Secluded Beach Vacations on the Forgotten Coast
St. George Island Beach
Even SGI’s most popular beach, St. George Island Beach, is still so calm and uncrowded that it makes one of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast. Known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the United States, its clear waters still remain pure. The only signs of use are the added bath house facilities, pavilions for picnics, and a playground a ball court for some fun with family or friends.

Unit Four Beach
Unit Four Beach is located on the bay side of St. George Island. This is one of the best spots to come if you are truly looking for seclusion. Here, you will find a purist’s paradise with only one picnic table and limited parking. We recommend bringing binoculars for excellent birding. Willet, plover, heron, diving osprey, and marauding eagles are just a few of the feathered creatures you will most likely see here. This beach also connects to some of the most productive shallow-water oyster bars in the bay, making for great fishing. Cast a line as you gaze out over the calm waters.

St. George Island State Park
The soft white sand of St. George Island State Park lines the glistening gulf to create a stunning scene that you’ll ever forget. This area of the Forgotten Coast is the perfect balance of seclusion and island fun. Grills and boardwalks dot the 9-mile expanse, but there are plenty of areas to enjoy your solitude.
Make sure to bring your fishing gear; the spring season brings pompano and Spanish mackerel to the shore while fall is full of redfish and speckled trout. Check out the East End Fishing Beach, a fishing-only area within St. George Island State Park, for some of the best fishing on the island!

Stay at Collins Vacation Rentals for the Best Secluded Beach Vacation
When you take advantage of the best secluded beach vacations on the Forgotten Coast, stay with us at a gorgeous Collins Vacation Home. Our properties are full of the amenities that you need to enjoy a luxurious trip to the coast whether it’s with family, friends, or your sweetheart. With over 200 properties, we know that we have the perfect home to help you get here and start making memories! 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!