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February 14, 2024February 14, 2024

3 of the Best St. George Island Fishing Charters for Your Vacation

St. George Island has some of the best fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to beautiful waters and great weather, there are several ways to enjoy your favorite pastime. You can head over to one of the island’s most loved fishing spots, or step outside your oceanfront rental to cast a line in the surf. For extended fun, choose a fantastic St. George Island fishing charter to explore the waters of the Gulf. Whether you are new to this hobby or have participated in the pastime for many years, you’ll never forget fishing the waters of the Forgotten Coast. Take a look at our Things to Do page before you arrange your fishing trip and plan the best vacation you’ve ever had!

Discover the Forgotten Coast’s Remarkable Beauty on These St. George island Fishing Charters

Find the Rarest Seashells With Bay View Charters of SGI

Plan a charter and go shelling with the whole family! Bay View Charters of SGI offers a unique experience that will take your breath away. On this charter, Captain Wes McCall will take you and your crew to the uninhabited islands of St. Vincent and Little St. George Island, where you’ll find thousands of seashells and other rare items that have washed ashore. If you’re also looking for an offshore fishing opportunity, Bay View Charters, is the place for you. Captain McCall is one of three captains on the island with a Federal Waters permit. No matter which adventure you choose, we know you and your family will have a blast!

Try Your Hand at In-Shore Fishing With Journeys of St. George Island

Gear up the whole family and get ready for a day full of adventure on the Gulf Coast. Journeys of St. George Island charters offer a marvelous in-shore fishing trip. This charter trip pairs you with an experienced fishing guide and can even provide all the equipment you will need while you are out on the water. This trip is perfect for anyone looking to catch snapper, grouper, and kingfish. There’s no doubt you’ll be in good hands with Captain Jeremy, Captain Tim, and the rest of the crew at Journeys of St. George Island.

Go on an Off-Shore Fishing Adventure With St. George Island Charters

For the ultimate fishing experience, cast a line in the Apalachicola Bay or the beautiful Florida Gulf with guidance from St. George Island Charters and Captain Krista Miller. Captain Krista is a St. George Island native and 5th generation fisherman, specializing in bay and Gulf fishing charters around St. George Island. Fish Inshore, Offshore – up to 9 miles from land and Deep Sea-Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters: 10-40 Miles. Captain Krista also offers Fish ‘n fun Charter with Fishing – Dolphin – Shelling – Sunset trips.
Try to Find These Fish While You’re on the Water!

Tripletail
Speckled trout
Flounder
Wahoo
Tuna
Mahi

Relax in a Collins Vacation Rental
After a fun day filled with great fishing, enjoy your evening at a Collins vacation home. Our homes have all of the amenities you need for a getaway you’ll never forget. Collins vacation rentals are located all over St. George Island, so you can take full advantage of the stunning Forgotten Coast. To see the full range of property options, request one of our rental guides.
When you stay with us on St. George Island, you can unwind knowing that we’ve taken care of all the details. Arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

December 13, 2023December 13, 2023

3 of the Best Reasons to Visit St. George Island in March

Spring is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your next beach getaway! If you’re trying to decide on a tropical destination, why not take a trip to St. George Island, Florida? The St. George Island State Park was voted the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2023! March is a wonderful time to visit our island paradise; the sun is shining, the weather is perfect, and there is no shortage of exciting spring festivals to attend along our sugar-white shores.

From spring festivals and concerts to family-friendly activities, there are so many fun things to do on St. George Island in March. Head over to our Things to Do page to see recommendations about the best events, attractions, and activities to enjoy during your stay on the island. It’s full of tips to help you enjoy your getaway to the fullest!

3 Reasons to Visit St. George Island in March

1. Enjoy the Beautiful Weather
Unlike many areas of the country, The Forgotten Coast experiences balmy weather in March. The St. George Island, FL, average monthly temperatures in March range from the mid-50’s to the high 60’s. While this may be too chilly for swimming, the weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Take a stroll along the beach, bask in the sunshine, and breathe in the fresh sea breezes. Get out and explore miles of hiking and biking trails or paddle along the island’s secluded beaches. The possibilities are endless!

2. Take Advantage of the Lower Rates
March is secretly the best time to visit St. George Island. The summer peak season has not yet arrived, which means that vacation rates are still low. Anytime before Memorial Day you can find some amazing deals on accommodations, travel, dining out, and more. It’s a win-win because you’ll save money and you’ll feel like you have the entire beach to yourself!

3. Celebrate the Season
The warmer weather welcomes the return of spring festivals along the island, and there are so many exciting events planned each year! In March, it’s all about the annual Chili Cook-Off. A beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, the 3-day event includes a chili tournament, a golf outing, live music, and tons of family-friendly fun. Mark your calendar for the first weekend in March, and start making plans to attend now! Other Forgotten Coast events planned this March include the Carrabelle Culture Crawl, the Saturday Apalachicola Farmers Market, and a Full Moon Lighthouse Climb at Crooked River Lighthouse.

Book Your Spring Getaway in a Collins Vacation Rental
Whether you’re joining us for Spring Break, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, you’ll love every second of your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. Our gorgeous St. George Island vacation rentals feature top-notch amenities to ensure your stay is a relaxing one. Many of them are just steps away from all of the best restaurants, shops, attractions, and the Gulf!

If you’re visiting in March, you may be interested in a property with a heated pool or hot tub. Consider booking your stay in A Piece of Heaven or Chill Inn on SGI! Are you looking for dog-friendly rentals? We offer a wide range of pet-friendly options as well. No matter what you are searching for, we are sure to have the ideal accommodation for your stay. Browse all of our properties and contact us to plan your getaway to St. George Island today! We’ll see you soon.

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December 13, 2023December 13, 2023

These Are the Best Florida Spring Break Beaches For Your Family Vacation

Multiracial group of friends walking at the beach

It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most desirable spring break destinations. Each year, families and students flock to The Sunshine State to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy a much-needed break from work and school. The St. George Island State Park was Voted the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2023! If you’re looking to avoid the crowds this year, why not plan a relaxing getaway to St. George Island, FL? With pristine shorelines and exciting activities, the island is home to the best Florida spring break beaches for a family getaway.
Once you visit, we think you’ll agree; St. George Island has the best Florida spring break beaches! For more recommendations about things to do on spring break in Florida, head over to our Things to Do page. It’s full of tips to help you plan the ultimate beach vacation, including suggestions about the best family activities local dining, excursions, attractions, and more. Vacation planning has never been easier!

4 of the Best Florida Spring Break Beaches
There’s no place more beautiful than Florida in the spring. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing vacation, consider one of the following St. George Island beaches:

1. St. George Island Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful destination beaches in the country, St. George Island beach boasts some of the clearest waters you have ever seen. The uncrowded shorelines are ideal for swimming, beachcombing, or simply lounging in the sunshine. Build a sandcastle with the kids, splash in the Gulf, or sink your toes in the sand and relax. The sound of gentle waves will carry you to a state of pure bliss!
In addition to pristine shorelines, St. George Island beach has bathhouse facilities, pavilions for picnics, a playground for the kiddos, and a ball court. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach, so feel free to bring Fido!

2. Unit 4 Beach
Unit 4 Beach is located on the bayside of the island and offers total seclusion. Lounge by the shoreline and enjoy the natural setting of this peaceful oasis. Or, bring kayaks and enjoy a family paddle through serene waters. Unit Four Beach is also a prime destination for birding, fishing, and hiking. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for heron, diving osprey, eagles, and more. There is limited parking, so we recommend arriving early. Leashed dogs are welcome.

3. St. George Island State Park
With powder-soft sand and sparkling blue waters, St. George Island State Park is by far one of the best beaches in Florida for Spring Break. Located on the Gulf-side of the island, this beach offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. Comb the shore for shells, play in the Gulf, and look for dolphins leaping in the distance. Although some areas of the park are currently undergoing repairs, the East Slough Beach Use Area is now open for parking and beach access.

4. Cape St. George Island State Reserve
You may just have the entire beach to yourself when you visit the Cape St. George Island State Reserve! Located on Little St. George Island, this 9-mile stretch of shoreline features untouched beaches, scenic hiking trails, and plentiful wildlife-viewing opportunities. The reserve is only accessible by boat, which makes it even more secluded. To get there, we recommend hopping on a sailing charter, or taking a guided tour to the reserve with Journey’s of Saint George Island.

Book Your Stay in a Collins Vacation Rental
So, there you have it! When it comes to the best Florida spring break destinations for families, no place compares to St. George Island! Experience our island paradise to the fullest when you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental. We offer a wide array of incredible vacation homes, many of which are located right on the beach! From pet-friendly rentals to large, luxury homes, we are sure to have the ideal accommodations for your stay.

Guests staying at select, participating Collins Vacation homes can also access several complimentary activities through Xplorie. These may include yoga on the beach, kayak rental, complimentary bike rentals, golfing at St. Joe Golf Course, Aunt Eby’s Ice Cream, Coffee & Ceam or free admission to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. So, what are you waiting for? Browse all properties and contact us to book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome your family for spring break!

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December 13, 2023December 13, 2023

Where Is the Best Spring Break Family Beach Vacation?

Child in swimming pool. Kid eating orange

Spring break only comes once a year, and it’s the perfect time to take the family on vacation. St. George Island State Park was voted the #1 Beach in America in 2023! You don’t have to worry about the kids missing any important school, and by the time spring rolls around, you’re all ready for some time off. Renting a beach house on St. George Island is the best spring break family beach vacation available! Here’s why.

4 Reasons Why SGI Is the Best Spring Break Family Beach Vacation

Countless Things to Do
You and the kids will never be bored on St. George Island! There are countless activities on the Forgotten Coast, and Collins Vacation Rentals is here to help you plan your trip. For a summary on all the things to do here, check out our Things to Do page. As locals in the area, we know where to go! From relaxing on the beach to fishing to kayaking to visiting historic sites, there is something for everyone.

It’s Not Crowded
One thing travelers worry about during spring break is going to a crowded area. With so many kids out of school at the same time, many hotspots are so full of people that you can’t enjoy yourself. That’s not the case with St. George Island! Our small island is not built up with big-name hotels and countless condo complexes like most of Florida, so you’ll always find a spot on the beach. Don’t fight the crowds and wait in line for every little thing you do this year!

The Option to Dine out or Stay In
Having a vacation rental for your spring break is the best of both worlds. There’s more than enough room to spread out in your home, and it gives you the option to choose to dine out or stay in. There are many great restaurants on SGI, but sometimes, it’s easier to cook up a grilled cheese or a family meal instead. Head to one of the grocery stores just moments away! If you don’t feel like cooking on vacation, the kids will love a spot like the Blue Parrot right on the beach.

Great Weather
Escape the cold this spring break when you visit St. George Island! Our temperatures will most likely be in the 70s while the kids are on break, so you won’t have to worry about snow or winter coats. This weather is perfect for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities after being cooped up all winter long.

Book Your Spring Break Getaway Today
The sooner you book your best spring break family beach vacation, the better! You know that spring break is a popular time to go on vacation, so book today in order to get your first choice of property and dates. Browse our properties to start planning your stay. You can choose based on size and location—you can easily make sure your vacation perfect. With everything from small cottages to beachfront villas, we have something to fit the size and needs of your family. We look forward to seeing you on the island this spring!

June 12, 2023June 12, 2023

These Are the Best Things to Do on St. George Island With Kids

Portrait Of Three Generation Family On Beach Holiday

If you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate the summertime with your family, St. George Island has everything you need! There are so many things to do on St. George Island with kids, from exploring beautiful beaches to cruising through the ocean on kayaks. The magic of St. George Island will leave you and your crew with lasting memories! For more vacation information and fun island activities, check out our Things to do page and begin planning the ultimate family vacation!

Top 3 Things to Do on St. George Island With Kids

Spend an Afternoon at the St. George Island State Park
The stunning landscape of St. George Island State Park is unparalleled. This nature reserve extends along the east end of the island for more than 2,000 acres, and its home to much of the flora and fauna that makes up our island. On the Forgotten Coast, you and the kids can enjoy nine miles of serene white sand beaches that overlook the beautiful Apalachicola Bay. St. George Island State Park was named the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach for 2023. The park also offers a variety of activities that are bound to captivate and engage kids of all ages. Swimming on St. George Island is a family favorite and keeps the kids entertained for hours.
While your family enjoys the spectacular ocean views, take some time to go shelling. These small treasures are a perfect reminder of the Forgotten Coast’s magic and can be appreciated by people of all ages.

Other amenities that will be useful for the whole family:
Playground
Restroom facilities
Shower station
Canoe and kayak launch
Wheelchair accessibility

Ride Kayaks Into the Sunset
Pack some snacks, grab the kids, and rent kayaks for a remarkable island adventure. You’ll get to see the Forgotten Coast from a different vantage point, and you won’t be disappointed. Several local shops offer kayak rentals and guided tours of varying lengths. One of our family-friendly favorites is the sunset trip.

Dine at the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants on St. George Island, FL
All of these island adventures are bound to make you hungry! Luckily, St. George Island has many amazing family-friendly restaurants that offer you great food, fun, and a laid-back island experience.
Check out these tasty local restaurants when you get hungry:

BJ’s Pizza and Subs
Mango Mike’s
Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream & Deli
Harry A’s
Paddy’s Raw Bar
The Beach Pit
The Blue Parrot

Delight in More Island Adventures with Collins Vacation Rentals
Once you’ve discovered what St. George Island has to offer, retreat to a perfect island-style vacation rental. Unwinding in a Collins VR is perfect if you need a little time out of the sun or if it’s a rainy day. We have more than 300 private properties with plenty of space for everyone in your party, and, in some cases, your furry friend! Make your home away from home minutes away from the beach and give your family the getaway they deserve. Spend your spring break, summer, or any other vacation with us. We can’t wait to meet you! Browse our properties and contact us to book an unforgettable beach getaway today!

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May 23, 2023May 23, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to St. George Island State Park

Dr. Beach named St. George Island State Park the #1 Beach in the Nation for 2023!

St. George is the number one ranked beach in the 33rd annual Top 10 Beach List, produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, professor in the Department of Earth & Environment at Florida International University in Miami.

St. George Island is full of scenic areas and fun activities that will make any vacation here unforgettable. One of our island’s gems you won’t want to miss during your Collins Vacation Rentals getaway is St. George Island State Park. Serene views paired with undisturbed beaches provide the perfect backdrop for some quality time. Discover everything you need to know about the park today!

Are you thinking of a St. George Island getaway? We can help you plan your trip! Collins Vacation Rentals was founded on the island more than 40 years ago, so we are versed in all of the best spots to enjoy during your next vacation. Take a look at our Things to Do page to start planning! Whether you’re looking for more spots like St. George Island State Park or where to go out to eat, you’ll find it here.

What to See at St. George Island State Park

Explore the Incredible Landscape
St. George Island State Park is a 2,023-acre reserve on the east end of St. George Island. The park is a stunning display of the gorgeous nature our island holds. Oak forests, sandy coves, pine trees, and salt marshes are dotted along the landscape.
The pristine park is best known for its nine miles of unspoiled beaches. Long stretches of white sand and dunes overlook the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay. You’ll definitely want to make it a point to visit this gorgeous area during your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals!

Discover the Native Wildlife
Countless species of wildlife call St. George Island State Park their home. You’ll see several kinds of shorebirds swimming and scavenging along the coast such as snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, and willet nest.
You can also expect to share the area with sea turtles. They nest on the island from approximately May 1 to October 31 each year!

Handicap Accessibility
St. George Island State Park keeps everyone in mind and aims to be as accessible as possible. There are beach wheelchairs available, two Beach Cruiser electric mobility devices, a floating Mobi-Chair, and three mobility mats. You can learn more on their site!

What to Do at St. George Island State Park

Relax on the Sand
Nine miles of pristine coastline at St. George Island State Park means plenty of room for spreading out on the sand. One of our favorite things about our island is that there is so much shore that the beaches are never crowded! Rent some chairs and umbrellas to bring with you, then set up here for the day.

Go For a Swim
During the warm months on the Forgotten Coast, ocean water is a welcomed relief from the hot sun. You’ll love taking a dip in the clear water when you visit St. George Island State Park! If you bring the kids, they’ll most likely spend the entire day splashing around. You won’t even have to entertain them like usual!

Cast a Line
Fishing is one of the most relaxing pastimes, and there is plenty of opportunity for it on St. George Island. If you want to cast your line in St. George Island State Park, you’ll have the opportunity to catch flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting, and sometimes even Spanish mackerel! Just make sure you have your fishing license.

Pack a Picnic
Before you make your way over to St. George Island State Park, make sure you stop at the grocery store to get some picnic necessities. At the park, you’ll have your choice of six picnic shelters, each with grills and picnic tables. They can even be reserved if you’re having a large gathering!

Search for Shells
Shells are some of the best souvenirs to take home on vacation, and St. George Island State Park is an excellent spot to look for them! Stroll the beach and look down at the sand— you are sure to find some.

Launch a Canoe or Kayak
See SGI from a different perspective when you get out on a kayak or canoe! There are two natural ramps in the park that can launch your craft into the bay.

Go on a Hike
There’s more to St. George Island State Park than just a beach! There are multiple hiking trails to enjoy here, especially when the winter weather is a little too cold to lay out. Each trailhead is marked by a kiosk so you can easily find them. The trail to Gap Point is 2.5 miles and takes you through pine flatwood forests to the bay, and the East Slough Overlook Trail will bring you across boardwalks lined with benches and information on the resources.

Go Birding
Bring your binoculars to St. George Island State Park! More than 300 species of birds have been documented here, so it’s the perfect place to go birding during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals. Pelicans and gulls are the most common, but endangered and rare species have also been seen.

Take the Kids to the Playground
There is a community playground at the camping area that the kids will love. Even if you are not camping, all are welcome. It’s the perfect place to go if the kids have a little energy they need to get rid of.

Stargaze at Night
When you stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll notice something about our night sky. It’s filled with stars! Unlike the light pollution in the big cities and towns, our island has some of the darkest skies you have ever experienced. The Gulf of Mexico makes it so we have hardly any light pollution at all, and the closest city is more than 70 miles away. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way and faint constellations!

Experience Our Island With Collins Vacation Rentals

St. George Island State Park has something for every kind of nature lover. After you and your family explore the amazing surroundings, you’ll be ready to rest your feet at your Collins Vacation Rental.
Located throughout St. George Island, our homes come complete with everything you need to have the vacation of a lifetime. Whether you’re searching for a beachfront view or a stunning property on Apalachicola Bay, we have just what you’re searching for. Looking to bring Fido along? View our pet-friendly properties perfect for the whole family! We can’t wait to welcome you to St. George Island!

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

3 Reasons You Need to Eat at the Blue Parrot on St. George Island

If “sand, sun, fun, and food” are anywhere near the top of your vacation list, we have the perfect place for you to try. The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is a way to get the best of island life all at once! Amazing seafood and great drinks become even better when you enjoy them at this coveted seaside location. Get the best view when you enjoy your meal beside the water!

Before you head to The Blue Parrot on St. George Island for an amazing oceanside dining experience, make sure to take a look at our Things to Do page. It’s a wonderful way to learn about all that St. George and the Forgotten Coast have to offer. Full of the information you need, it includes, great restaurants, local attractions, shopping venues, and more! It contains everything you need to plan an amazing vacation to beautiful St. George!

3 Reasons You’ll Love The Blue Parrot on St. George Island

1. The Food
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is known for serving some of the freshest local seafood around. Start with the Peel & Eat Shrimp, or try the Cocktail Claws (fresh blue crab claws breaded and deep fried) for an appetizer. The Lobster Bisque or Seafood Gumbo will make the perfect seafood lover’s soup course. Then move on to the World Famous Blue Parrot Seafood Platter, or one of the restaurants other amazing surfside dishes, for an entrée.
If you’re not into the catch of the day, try one of their certified Black Angus steaks. There are also burgers, sandwiches and chicken dishes that will please meat and poultry fans in your group.

2. The Drinks
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island has a Tiki Bar famous for the island-inspired cocktails. Try a classic margarita or Mai Tai as you watch the waves, or branch out and try their Sand Blaster. This specialty drink is a mix of mango, blackberry, lime, and rum with a 151 floater. The Tiki Bar also has several beers to choose from. You can have your wine by the glass or the bottle.

3. The Jet Skis
Once your food settles and the drinks wear off, you’ll be ready for some adventure. Luckily, you won’t have to go far to find it. You can rent jet skis on the beach right beside The Blue Parrot. Rentals hours run from 10 am to 6 pm from early March to early October. Cruise around on the water until you work up another appetite, then come back to the sand for your next delicious meal!

Ready to Eat?
The Blue Parrot on St. George Island is located at 68 West Gorrie Drive. It’s open daily from 11 am until 9 pm. The restaurant is a great place for casual family dining. They are also pet-friendly, so every member of your family can feel welcome to this awesome experience in beachside dining!

After Your Oceanside Meal, Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After a full day of great food, amazing drinks, and fun jet skis at the Blue Parrot on St. George Island, make your way back to your Collins Vacation Home to relax for the evening. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the Blue Parrot 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. 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!

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

Where Are the Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in Florida?

If you are looking for a vacation the whole family will enjoy, you came to the right place. Our small island has countless activities for people of all ages! Plus, it is surrounded by some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Florida. Here is what you need to know about planning your sandy getaway!
Have you ever been to St. George Island? Our secluded island is a taste of old Florida. Because there are so many ordinances, there are no big-name hotels, so our island stays peaceful year-round. However, that doesn’t stop it from being full of things to do! Check out our Things to Do page for more activities to enjoy after visiting our best kid-friendly beaches in Florida.

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Has the Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in Florida

1. They’re Never Crowded
There’s nothing worse than not having enough space on the beach. You’re on vacation– you want to spread out and relax! There’s more than enough space on St. George Island. Because there are limited places to stay, our island never gets crowded. Lay out your blankets, chairs, and umbrellas, and let the kids have their own space to make sandcastles as you finally read that new book you’ve been meaning to start.
If spending most of your getaway on the beach is important to you, we recommend renting a property that is right on the water. Our beachfront properties are your best bet. This way, you can walk right out onto your own strip of beach.

2. They’re Clean!
We pride ourselves in keeping our beaches clean. Not only do we want locals to enjoy the beaches, we want visitors to, too! You won’t be bogged down by tons of rules on the beaches here, but we aim to protect our wildlife and keep our island preserved. During the summer, it is Turtle Season. Sea turtles return to the island to nest, so all items must be cleared off the beach each night due to the “Leave No Trace Ordinance” of 2014. Because of this, our beaches are kept safe and clean for people, wildlife, and endangered turtles.

3. You Can Bring the Whole Family… Including Pets!
Our island is dog-friendly, including the beaches! When we talk about kid-friendly beaches in Florida, that means dogs, too. They’re just like your children! Dogs are allowed on both the beach and bay side of the island as long as they are leashed. Plus, you can bring them to the restaurants on the island when you sit outside. They will get a bowl of water and be treated like royalty!

Book Your Family Getaway Today
St. George Island has the best kid-friendly beaches in Florida, so book your family vacation today! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 275 properties to choose from all over the island. Many of our customers come back year after year, so browse our properties and make it a tradition for you, too! We can’t wait to see you and your family on the island.

March 13, 2023March 13, 2023

The Best Things to Do for Big Groups on St. George Island

Looking for a place to gather a large group of people without any disruptions? The Forgotten Coast is the answer you’ve been searching for! We know all the best things to do for big groups on St. George Island, from exploring the outdoors to savoring the best food in town. On our Things to Do page, you’ll find many more team-building activities to add to your itinerary, and your whole group will have a blast! So, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a company retreat, or any other large group encounter, a get-together on St. George Island will be unforgettable.

Try These Exciting Things to Do for Big Groups on St. George Island

Explore the Island’s Coolest Spots
With lovely white sand and twinkling blue water, St. George Island State Park is one of the best places on the island. The park offers plenty of spots for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and more. The 2,000-acre park is the perfect place to get your crew together and search the shoreline for seashells, splash around in the Gulf, or try to spot Dolphins leaping in the distance.
Another spot you’ll have to visit is the St. George Island Lighthouse. Your group will love climbing to the top of the lighthouse for remarkable views of our gorgeous barrier island. Plus, whenever there is a full moon, the lighthouse opens its doors for a special full moon climb. Visitors from far and near love taking advantage of this rare occasion.

Dine at the Best Restaurants on SGI
It’s no secret that cooking while you’re on vacation can be a bit of a struggle, especially when there are a lot of people to feed. Instead of trying to cook a huge meal that will please everyone, we suggest trying out the island’s local restaurants. Our eateries take pride in serving fresh seafood and providing an outstanding atmosphere with live music and relaxing coastal vibes.

No matter the size of your group, these local restaurants would love to host you:
The Beach Pit
Mango Mike’s
Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café
Paddy’s Raw Bar
BJ’s Pizza and Subs

Local tip: Call the restaurant ahead of time, so they will be ready to accommodate your group when you arrive.

Discover the History of the Gulf Coast

Just over the St. George Island Bridge, you’ll find the charming coastal cities of Apalachicola and Eastpoint. Here your group can check out several museums, where they’ll learn about the Forgotten Coast’s fascinating history and culture. Two of our favorites are the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, and the Apalachicola Maritime Museum.

Stay Together at a Collins Vacation Home
What better way to spend your group retreat than all together in an oceanfront beach house? Our beautiful vacation homes offer plenty of space for everyone in your group and sleep up to 17 guests. Plus, our peaceful beaches are perfect for hosting group activities, and our private pools are great for late-night swims. Trust us, when you stay with us, everyone in your group will beg to return to the Forgotten Coast.

Check our availability and book your stay now!

March 13, 2023March 13, 2023

Why You Need to Make a Trip From Atlanta to St George Island

You Need to Make This Stop on a Gulf Coast Road Trip

The Big Peach, City of Trees, Hotlanta, The A – Atlanta, Georgia is a city with many names, millions of people, and innumerable things going on at any given moment. The fast-paced lifestyle of the Empire City of The South can be exhilarating, but every now and then even the most thoroughbred ATL native may need a little break. Luckily, the trip from Atlanta to St. George Island is an easy drive. It can be done in about 5.5 hours, and SGI is under 350 miles from the buzzing Georgia city. There are also a few interesting things to see along the way.

Make the drive from Atlanta to St. George Island and experience a whole new lifestyle on SGI! The perfect mix of laid-back island life and fun activity, St. George Island, Florida is a vacation destination the whole family will love. Make amazing memories and explore the best of the Forgotten Coast when you visit our Things to Do page. It lists entertaining attractions, great restaurants, and local businesses that will keep your loved ones engaged as you enjoy your vacation together. 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 everything you need to have great time bonding during your family vacation!

Atlanta to St. George Island: The Route
The quickest way from Atlanta to St. George Island by car is via US 27 South. The trip is about 339 miles from the heart of the city to arrival on SGI. The drive sticks closely to the Georgia-Alabama border, but you’ll stay in Georgia until you cross into the Florida Panhandle. Except for a few mild curves, it heads almost due South to the Gulf of Mexico.

Atlanta to St. George Island: What You’ll See Along the Way
On the drive from Atlanta to St. George Island, there are a few sights to look out for along the way. About half of the way through your Georgia state drive, you’ll pass through the town of Cusseta. If you’re looking for a place to stop and stretch your legs, take a quick jaunt around their charming downtown area.

Once you pass the Florida line, it won’t be long until the road takes you through Apalachicola National Forest. It’s the largest U.S. National Forest in the state of Florida, and the only one in the Panhandle. Finally, the St. George Island Bridge provides some amazing views of the water, the oyster fishermen, and the St. George Lighthouse.

Find the Perfect Vacation Home to Enjoy SGI
Once you make the trip from Atlanta to St. George Island, prepare to revel in the laid back lifestyle. A Collins Vacation Home is the perfect place to kick back and breathe easy. All of our gorgeous rentals are complete with everything you’ll want for a great vacation. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities.
Find the best place for your family and maximize your next vacation. Once you find your Collins vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!