Everything You Need to Know About the Florida Seafood Festival

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. Most of Florida’s oysters, the famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters, are produced right here in the bay of Apalachicola. 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!

How to Find the Best St. George Island Jet Ski Rentals

If you’re looking for St. George Island jet ski rentals, we know the perfect place to go! Get ready for a day of excitement on the beautiful waters of the Florida Gulf. These top quality wave runners will keep you and your family entertained for hours. Afterward, you’ll be just steps from one of the best restaurants in town!

Find your amazing St. George Island jet ski rentals at the Jet Ski Hut. After your adrenaline pumping day riding the waves, find out about all of the other exciting activities the island offers 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 fun things to do, great restaurants and local businesses that will keep your loved ones engaged 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 everything you need to have great time bonding during your family vacation!

St. George Island Jet Ski Rentals at the Jet Ski Hut
You can find amazing St. George Island jet ski rentals at the Jet Ski Hut, located adjacent to the Blue Parrot. Jet ski rentals are available during the warmer months, from early March through early October. The Jet Ski Hut is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm when weather permits and you can rent their wave runners for as little as 30 minutes or as long as 8 hours! Rates are as follows:
30 minutes: $85
1 hour: $165

For more information about securing your jet ski, contact SGI Rentals at (850) 927-5150.

Stop for a Bite at The Blue Parrot Afterward!

When you make your way back to dry land to drop off your St. George Island jet ski rentals, you’ll probably be ready for a good meal. Luckily, you only have to take a few step from the Jet Ski Hut to end up at The Blue Parrot! It serves some amazing seafood, as well as other dishes that will leave you with a full belly and a smile on your face!

Relax at a Gorgeous Collins Vacation Home
After an amazing day on the water with your St. George Island jet ski rentals, you deserve to come home to a comfortable, beautiful place to relax. When you’re ready to rest up for the next day of fun, do it at a beautiful Collins Vacation Home. Our gorgeous rentals come stocked with all of the amenities you’ll need for a great vacation. Many of the homes are located in close proximity to some of the island’s best beaches, attractions, and activities. Enjoy the sound of the waves all night from one of our premier oceanfront homes.

Find the perfect place for your family and maximize your next vacation. 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 Collins vacation home, you can start the countdown to a fantastic trip! Then just arrive, relax, and enjoy the island life!

How to Plan the Ultimate Trip From Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL

Beach road trip

Buckle up: It’s time to hit the beach! When it comes to the best tropical destinations near Nashville, TN, St. George Island should be at the very top of your list. With gorgeous white-sand beaches, delicious cuisine, and plenty of sunshine, this little slice of paradise along Florida’s Forgotten Coast has everything you need for a tropical getaway. Are you ready to escape to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast? Here’s how to plan the ultimate road trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL!
Before you start packing your bags, make sure to check out our Things to Do page. It’s full of recommendations about the best restaurants, shops, attractions, and activities on St. George Island. Planning a trip from Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL, has never been easier!

How Far Is it From Nashville, TN, to St. George Island, FL?
Driving from Nashville to St. George Island is easy. It takes approximately 8 ½ hours to drive here via I-65 S, so you can easily reach our island in just one day. The entire trip is 519 miles. However, we would allow an extra hour for traffic or stops along the way. If you are looking for a good halfway point to rest, you might consider breaking for lunch in Montgomery, AL. There are many quick fast food places and great sit-down restaurants right next to the interstate. From here, it’s just four more hours to the beach!

Things to Do in St. George Island, FL
Once you’ve reached St. George Island, settle into your Collins Vacation Home and get a great night’s rest. The next morning, enjoy all that the island has to offer! From kayaking and paddle boarding to snorkeling and fishing, there is no shortage of things to do along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Here are some suggestions to get you started. For even more recommendations, check out our blog or Things to Do page.

1. Relax at the Beach
St. George Island is home to the world’s most beautiful beaches – it’s no secret. Unlike other Florida beaches, you won’t find large commercial high rises and hotels here. Instead, the island offers a beautiful and secluded location away from all the crowds. Enjoy lounging on sugar-white shorelines, splashing in the Gulf, and soaking up the sun. If adventure is what you seek, you’ll surely find it here as well. Rent jet skis and race your friends over the waves, hop on a fishing charter, or kayak along our beautiful waterways. The possibilities are endless!

2. Shop For Coastal Treasures
Whether you’re searching for beach gear, souvenirs, apparel, jewelry or art, you’ll discover it all on St. George Island. Take your time browsing the island’s unique beach shops and specialty stores. Shop for unique gifts at St. George Island Trading Co., find upscale clothing and accessories at Seaside Cotton Boutique, or stop for a scoop of ice cream at Aunt Ebby’s Shopping is the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon on beautiful St. George!

3. Dig Into the Catch of the Day
From oceanfront cafes and romantic bistros to fine dining establishments, there are many excellent restaurants on St. George Island. While you’ll find different types of mouthwatering cuisine here, we are especially known for our seafood. After all, there’s nothing better than the taste of fresh fish, crab, and shrimp caught straight from the Gulf of Mexico. While you’re visiting, make sure to try our Apalachicola Bay Oysters. They are world-famous for a reason!

Relax and Unwind in Your Collins Vacation Rental
Wouldn’t you rather be relaxing on the beach right now? Plan a road trip to St. George Island right now and experience the getaway you’ve been dreaming about. When you book your stay in a Collins Vacation Rental, you can experience your family vacation to the fullest. Our gorgeous collection of rentals includes beachfront properties, homes with Gulf views and heated pools, pet-friendly accommodations and much more. No matter which vacation home you choose, we guarantee you will make memories to last a lifetime along our sandy shores!

Browse our St. George Island properties and book your stay today. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Fall in Love With These Old-Time Florida Towns

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!

Everything You Need to Know About the St. George Island Fishing Pier

When you come to SGI, experiencing the incredible waters surrounding our island is probably at the top of your list. You can splash around, float on top, and cast your line! If you’re looking to experience some fishing during your stay at one of our Collins Vacation Rentals, we recommend trying the St. George Island Fishing Pier. 

If you want to know more ways to get out on the water, take a look at our Things to Do page! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created a list of our favorite businesses in the area and places to go to save you from hours of research. Whether you are looking for more spots like St. George Island Fishing Pier, a romantic date night, or family activity, our page can help!

What is the St. George Island Fishing Pier? 
The St. George Island Fishing Pier is located on the northern side of the island. It juts out 600 feet into the water, giving visitors more than enough room to spread out and enjoy the pier. You can catch fish year round off SGI, but May starts the season of shore and pier fishing each year.

Do I Need a Fishing License? 
If you are planning on fishing from the shore or from a boat, you will need a fishing license. There are a few exceptions such as being a Florida resident over 65 years of age, are under 16 years of age, and participating on catch and release fishing. The exact rules can be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website. However, if you go on a charter, your license will most likely be provided.

3 Game Fish to Reel In on the St. George Island Fishing Pier
Florida Pompano
These school fish are remarkably fast swimmers. Normally feeding on zoobenthos and small clams, you can catch them with light jigs and popping corks. Look for the compressed body and short snout. The colors of pompano range from silver with hints of blue-green on the dorsal areas to silver or yellow on the body and fins.

Black Drum
Black or gray in color, the black drum has powerful jaws. When you head to the St. George Island fishing pier, shrimp or squid work well to hook them. Sometimes, the older fish are drawn in using portions of blue crab. They can also be caught on spoons and jigs!

Spanish Mackerel
Silver sides, a green back, and a few rows of yellow spots are characteristic of the Spanish mackerel. These fish are carnivorous and love live bait! Spanish mackerel move quickly, so you’ll need to be quicker to pull these in during your trip to the St. George Island fishing pier.

Come Relax at a Collins Vacation Home
After reeling in your catch on the St. George Island fishing pier, come back to your Collins Vacation Home to relax. We offer a variety of gorgeous rentals within a short drive from the pier, not to mention great local attractions, beaches, and more. Browse through our properties , then start planning your stay! If you have any questions, you are more than welcome to contact us ; we’re happy to help! We look forward to hosting you for the vacation of a lifetime.

We Know the Best Beach Vacations for Families With Toddlers

We Know the Best Beaches for Families with Toddlers

Your dream beach vacation is probably lounging on the sand with a drink in your hand. Once a toddler comes into the picture, it might seem like those days are over. Not on St. George Island! Collins Vacation Rentals knows how to make the best beach vacations for families with toddlers. Pack up your floaties and swimmies and head to the Gulf Coast!

Get a sneak peek into all our island offers when you take a look at our Things to Do page! Here, you will find our favorite businesses and activities in our area. Whether you are wondering about which restaurants to get some local bites at or the best spot to cast your fishing line, you’ll find it here. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our awesome staff!

How to Have the Best Beach Vacations for Families With Toddlers on SGI

Secluded Beaches
There’s nothing more stressful than having to keep an eye on your toddler at the beach. Crowded beaches are easy to get lost in and make the day unenjoyable for everyone. We can assure you that the beaches on St. George Island are the most secluded you have ever experience. With mile after mile of soft sand, there is more than enough room to spread out. The waves are never big, especially on the bayside, so you can relax knowing your toddler is in the safest beach environment possible. Consider a beachfront home so you can walk out your door onto the sand and go inside whenever your toddler gets fussy!

Close Activities
St. George Island is only 28 miles long and one mile wide at its widest point. This means that no matter where you stay, you will be close to everything! If you toddler needs a nap, you don’t have to worry about hitting heavy traffic to get back to your vacation rental. Head home within minutes, rest, then get back out and enjoy the island.

Everything You Need
St. George Island may be small, but we have everything you need to have the best beach vacations for families with toddlers. Whether you need extra diapers or realize you forgot to pack the all-important sunscreen, you can easily get it on the island. We have multiple grocery stores right here on SGI so you don’t even have to cross the bridge!

Convenience of a Vacation Rental 
The recipe for success on a vacation with a toddler is convenience. A vacation rental is your home base during your getaway. You can easily cook meals in the fully-equipped kitchen if your toddler isn’t up to going to one of the many restaurants on the island. We also have rentals with pools available; sometimes, it is much more convenient to take a dip in the pool rather than lug all your supplies to the beach.

Book Your Family Getaway Today!
Come experience one of the best beach vacations for families with toddlers when you book one of our Collins Vacation Rentals. Our properties are located all over the island so you can choose based on size and neighborhood. Whether you want to be in the gated community of the Plantation or close to town, we have one for you! Browse our rentals to start planning your stay. We look forward to seeing you!

Have the Best Angling Adventure With Big Fish SGI Charters

St. George Island and Apalachicola Bay offer some of the best fishing along Florida’s Gulf Coast ⁠— it’s no secret. If you’re looking to plan the ultimate offshore adventure, you must book a trip with Big Fish Charters SGI! Climb aboard Captain Clint Taylor’s boat and get ready for the deep sea experience of a lifetime. Once you reel in your next trophy fish, you’ll be glad you did!

After an unforgettable day with Big Fish Charters SGI, you’ll want to check out all the amazing seafood restaurants on St. George Island! Head over to our Things to Do page for recommendations about the best local restaurants, seafood markets, and more. From dining and nightlife to attractions and entertainment, it’s full of great tips to help you plan your Florida getaway!

About Big Fish Charters SGI

While there are many amazing Forgotten Coast fishing charters, none can compare to Big Fish Charters SGI. Captain Clint Taylor is renowned as one of the most experienced and well-respected captains on the island. From the moment you set foot on his 28-foot Contender, you’ll be in great hands. As Captain Clint helps you navigate the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll discover coral reefs, hidden shipwrecks, and towers teeming with colorful fish. Cast your line into the sparkling water for grouper, snapper, amberjack, cobia, mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, tripletail, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, wahoo, barracuda, and more.

Your excursion takes place in federally-controlled waters only accessible to a handful of St. George Island fishing charters. Spanning between 10 and 55 miles off the coast, it’s known as one of the best fishing destinations in the entire state! Enjoy the peace and quiet while you sink your line in uncrowded waters. Because this area is filled with a variety of species, you are guaranteed to catch something! In fact, Captain Clint averages around 35 “keeper” fish for each offshore trip. Whether you prefer to catch and release or keep your fish to cook later, it’s completely up to you!

Choose Your Angling Excursion

Big Fish Charters SGI offers four different fishing trips. There is no need to bring any gear with you, as they provide state-of-the-art rods, reels, and tackle. With room to comfortably accommodate six anglers, the boat is fully-equipped with everything you need for your excursion. Are you ready to enjoy the best offshore fishing on St. George Island? Choose the adventure that’s right for you and book your trip now!

6-Hour Trip:

A half-day of fishing is the perfect option for a fun family outing! Captain Clint will guide you to all of the hottest angling spots in the Gulf. After you reel in the catch (or multiple catches) of the day, enjoy the rest of your afternoon sightseeing on St. George Island. 

9-Hour Trip:

Would you like to catch a boatload of fish? With three additional hours, you’ll have plenty of time to fill up your cooler! Cast your line for grouper, snapper, amberjack, cobia, mahi-mahi, tripletail, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and more. 

12-Hour Trip:

For those interested in a full day of fishing, we recommend the 12-hour trip. This is an ideal choice for anglers who are looking for more of a challenge. If you’d like, you can even target the monster-sized sailfish! Captain Clint will help you wrangle these massive fish onto the boat — an experience you will never forget!

10-Hour Trolling Trip:

Big Fish Charters SGI offers the only offshore trolling trip in St. George Island. Fish for tuna and wahoo at a slow and steady pace. Then, come kick back and relax in the comfort of your Collins Vacation Rental.

Cook Your Seafood in a Collins Vacation Rental

After a thrilling day of fishing in the Gulf, come cook the catch of the day in your Collins Vacation Rental! Located near all of the best area attractions, our St. George Island vacation rentals offer the ideal accommodations for your stay. All of the best beaches, fishing charters, and restaurants are just minutes away! Stop into one of the nearby seafood markets and pick up some fresh Apalachicola oysters to enjoy with dinner. Or, explore the many other great shore fishing spots on St. George Island.

When you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing vacation. Not only do we offer luxurious amenities, but many of our rentals also include spacious kitchens, heated pools, hot tubs, patios, boat docks, and more. We even offer pet-friendly rentals for guests who are bringing their four-legged friends. Make sure to take advantage of our current specials. Then,contact us today to start planning your St. George Island fishing trip. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Celebrating Vacation Rental Week, March 8-12

Collins Vacation Rentals is thrilled to participate in the second annual Vacation Rental Week!  We’d like to use this opportunity to highlight the value and key benefits of professionally-managed vacation rentals for both guests and property owners alike, and to encourage you to book a stay or entrust your vacation property to a professional manager.

As a guest, vacation rentals are a great alternative to hotels in every aspect, offering you much more for your money, with additional space, privacy, convenience and amenities included.  Vacation rentals offer a cleaner, more socially-distanced experience as well, with less touchpoints and outside interaction compared to hotels, which is a key benefit as we navigate the last mile of the pandemic.

Vacation rentals also present you with a unique opportunity to create a more personalized, memorable vacation experience when compared with traditional hotels, which is a key benefit as we navigate the last mile of the pandemic.

Vacation rentals also present you with a unique opportunity to create a more personalized, memorable vacation experience when compared with traditional hotels.  You’ll have the practical comfort of an actual residence, the ability to explore the neighborhood, and the opportunity to discover aspects of your destination you might not encounter when staying at a hotel. If you’re vacationing with family, vacation rentals are an excellent option, typically offering multiple bedrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and easy access to local entertainment. 

For property owners, safely renting your second property through a professional manager can be an easy and reliable revenue source, transforming it into an asset that offers a significant return on your investment.  You’ll also be able to use the property when you choose, spending your own vacations there with family, while renting it to guests the rest of the year.

A professional vacation rental manager will handle all the logistics, securing responsible guests, and maximizing your return through an expert understanding of the industry and in-depth knowledge of the local community.  They’ll also handle cleaning the property to the highest standards, advertise, handle inquiries, collect deposits and balances, generate agreements, and follow-up post-rental, so you can sit back and simply enjoy the experience.

If you would like to join Collins Vacation Rentals and get involved in Vacation Rental Week, visit the Vacation Rental Week homepage https://bit.ly/2TTokav to download the toolkit and help spread the word about professionally managed vacation rentals.  Be sure to join the conversation on social media as well with the official #VacationRentalWeek hashtag.

4 Reasons You Need to Visit St. George Island in October

Sunset on the bay with dock

 

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 homeschool trip, romantic getaway, or family reunion, we have just the home for you at Collins Vacation Rental. Welcome to St. George Island!

5 of the Best St. George Island Wedding Photographers

Barefooted bride and groom on the beach

Capturing your big day is one of the most treasured parts of planning your wedding. Finding a photographer who understands your wants and needs is vital to having pictures that you will love for a lifetime. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or a local island resident, we have everything you need to know about St. George Island wedding photographers.
Are you looking for the perfect spot to house your friends and family for your big day? Explore all of our St. George Island vacation rentals and find your wedding headquarters today!

Everything You Need to Know About St. George Island Wedding Photographers
Find the perfect St. George Island wedding photographer to capture your big day. Our list of recommended photographers comprises local Floridians who know our beautiful island like the back of their hand. Discover the one that fits your needs today!

Royce Rolstad Photography

Royce Rolstad Photography specializes in weddings and beach portraits on St. George Island and the surrounding areas.  Royce is a local and takes stunning family photos and beach wedding photographs.  Not only does he know the best places to shoot, but he’s well-versed in making everyone feel comfortable.

Lisa Silva Photography

Lisa Silva Photography has been serving the Northern Florida wedding community for over ten years. Her timeless, warm images capture the romance in every moment and promise to tell your love story with every emotion. In addition to booking your wedding photographer, you’ll want to inquire about engagement sessions through Lisa to complete your package.

Whitney Fletcher Photography

Whitney Fletcher Photography provides North Florida, South Georgia, and Nashville, Tennessee with stunning wedding photography. Her services include a beautiful wedding album, a copyright-free flash drive with digital images, a second shooter, and prints as requested.

Thomas Maddi Photography

Thomas Maddi Photography specializes in beachside weddings, engagement sessions, and portrait photography. Thomas Maddi has been serving the North Florida community for over twenty years and knows the area inside and out. You can expect detailed precision for capturing all of your best moments during your big day from this talented photographer.

Find Your Wedding Headquarters in With Collins Vacation Rentals
Find the perfect place to call home during your wedding celebration. We offer Gulf-front homes, pet-friendly residences, bayside estates, poolside homes, and so much more. Whether it’s a bungalow for you and your beau or a spacious home big enough for the whole crew, we have just what you’re searching for here at Collins Vacation Rentals.
Learn more about planning your perfect wedding on St. George Island. Explore venues, beaches, and vacation rentals perfect for your big day. We know you will never forget saying “I do” in St. George Island!