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You’re ready to go on vacation, but you’re still in the planning stages. Where do I go? What do I pack? If you’re heading to a tropical spot like St. George Island (we hope you are!), use our summer vacation packing list to get rid of some of that pre-trip planning anxiety. Plus, St. George Island has a handful of stores that are stocked with anything you might have forgotten.

You have your summer vacation packing list, so now start planning all the things to do. If you’re staying on St. George Island, we made it easy! We created our Things to Do page so you’ll have easy access to all of the best activities and businesses on our island. Whether you’re looking for the perfect restaurant for a date night or something the kids will enjoy, you’ll find it here.

Here’s Your Summer Vacation Packing List
We’ve broken down your summer vacation packing list into different categories so you can decide which suits you!

Packing Your Main Suitcase
Of course, when it comes to packing, we immediately think of how much we can fit in our suitcase. Keep it minimal– don’t forget that our Collins Vacation Rentals all come with washers and dryers! Here’s what to put in your suitcase:

Shorts and pants
Shirts, t-shirts, a nice shirt or two for dinner, and tank tops
Dresses/ skirts
Sleepwear
Socks and shoes (We recommend flip flops, sandals, and sneakers.)
Don’t forget the basics (like underwear)!
A sweater that you can layer over your outfits
Bathing suits (We recommend more than one.)
Cover-ups
Clothes you can explore in

Toiletries 

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Soap, facewash, shampoo, and conditioner
Makeup
Hairbrush and comb
Styling product
Razors and shave gel
Flatiron or curling iron (Many of our rentals have hair dryers, but you are welcome to bring your own.)
Lip balm
After sun gel or aloe vera
Lotion
Scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers

Accessories

Sun hat or baseball cap for the beach
Jewelry (Packing jewelry can be a challenge, but putting a necklace through a straw and keeping your jewelry in a silk bag will keep it safe.)
Sunglasses
Belts
Hair ties and accessories

Beach and Pool Gear 
You can pack your own beach gear, but many guests of Collins Vacation Rentals opt to buy or rent their gear here. This way, you don’t have to lug your beach chairs all the way here, and you can get them delivered right to your vacation rental! Island Adventures is one of our favorite places to rent gear from.

Beach chairs
Umbrellas
Sunscreen (You can never have too much of this stuff!)
A beach bag
A good book
Floaties and beach toys
Beach towels
A reusable water bottle

Book Your Summer Getaway Today
Now that you have our summer vacation packing list, it’s time to book your actual summer vacation! St. George Island is one of a kind– our small island has stood the test of time. Our beaches are never crowded, our seafood is fresh, and our island is welcoming. Book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals to see for yourself. We can’t wait to host you!

There are so many Florida islands to visit, so how do you pick the best one? Luckily for you, we know the best island off the coast. St. George Island is unique in so many ways. Our visitors love it so much that they find themselves coming back year after year. It’s time to make SGI your tradition, too!
Get the inside scoop on all the things to do and see on St. George Island when you take a look at our Things to Do page! It’s a great resource for discovering all the activities on our island, and you can also use it to plan your trip. We’ve listed the businesses we trust, the best restaurants, and more.

3 Reasons Why St. George Island Is the Best Florida Island to Visit 

Easy to Get To 
Travel to St. George Island with ease! If you need to fly in, the Tallahassee International Airport is less than two hours away. From there, you’ll have an easy drive! There are no taxis or Ubers on the island, so it’s always beneficial to have a car. If you choose to drive the whole way, you’ll be on highways for most of your journey. There are many major highways coming toward the Gulf Coast! Plus, there’s no ferry necessary to get to the island. We have a bridge so you can easily come and go as you please.

Never Crowded 
A lot of Florida islands to visit have become so popular that they are overcrowded during the best times to vacation. That’s not the case with St. George Island! Our island’s preservation has become very important to locals. You’ll find no big-name hotels or resorts here– the island is not allowed to be built up. Traffic is minimal, and you’ll always have more than enough room to spread out on the beach. Even the busiest summer months mean only a short wait at our local restaurants! Even so, the wait will fly by with a cold drink in your hand as you take in the sights and sounds of our island.

You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Even though our island is small, there are countless things to do here. Split your vacation between relaxing with your toes in the sand, taking a dip in your vacation rental’s private pool, and exploring the island. To help you experience all the activities here, we partnered with Xplorie to add this complimentary amenity to select vacation rental reservations. Enjoy everything from kayaking to a round of golf!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Now that you know the best Florida island to visit, it’s time to book your getaway! Browse our variety of vacation rentals at Collins Vacation Rentals to start planning your stay. We have more than 200 properties to choose from, and each offers something different. Choose based on size, location, and amenities to find your perfect fit. We can’t wait to host you!

Some of the best parts about going on vacation are all the lasting memories you are going to make. Keep these cherished times forever when you have a family photo shoot on the beach! Come back year after year and watch your family grow up in your collection of photos. There’s nothing like a family vacation spot that feels like home.
Are you thinking about taking a family photo shoot on the beach? St. George Island is the perfect place to do it! Consider bringing the family for a vacation they will never forget. Check out our Things to Do page for a list of all the best activities on the island to start planning your getaway!

Your Photographer for Your Family Photoshoot on the Beach
If you’re having a family photo shoot on the beach on St. George Island, you’ll want to work with Royce Rolstad. He is a local here that takes stunning family photos. Not only does he know the best places and times to shoot, but he’s also well-versed in making the entire family comfortable. Rolstad explains, “I have families who come to St. George every year and schedule a beach portrait session.  I have watched the kids and grandkids grow up. My repeat clients are like family.” We completely agree and recommend him to anyone looking for a shoot on the island!

3 Steps to Have the Best Family Photoshoot on the Beach

1. Choose Your Outfits
To have a successful family photoshoot, you’ll need to choose your outfits! Some families go for the typical all white ensemble while others want more of a vacation feel. No matter what you choose, you’ll just want to make sure you plan it out so you can pack the right things.

2. Pick a Time
Two of Royce Rolstad’s favorite times to shoot are sunrise and sunset. Yes, the kids might have to have a 7:00 a.m. wake up call, or you might have to make sure they get in an afternoon nap to shoot at sunset. However, it’s all worth it in the end!

3. Have Fun!
Don’t take the fun out of this memory! The best shoots are when the family is relaxed and having a great time. Having photos taken can be nerve-wracking, but a good photographer will make you feel relaxed. Plus, keeping calm and a good attitude will ensure young children won’t be fussy.

Book Your Family Getaway Today
St. George Island is a place that families come back to year after year. We have customers that rent from Collins Vacation Rentals every year; we’ve seen the kids grow up, and we have even met grandkids from our typical renters. Because our island is never crowded, it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family. Browse our vacation rentals to start planning your getaway. With more than 200 to choose from and locations all over the island, we know we have the perfect one for you!

Featured photo by Royce Rolstad

St. George Island has been a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast of Florida for hundreds of years. Somehow, our small island has escaped the fate of many other beach towns and still retains its old-town charm. So, when is the best time to visit St. George Island? That depends on what you are looking for! 

Have you ever been to St. George Island? Are you thinking about vacationing here? Check out our Things to Do page for ideas on all the best things to do and see! Once you figure out the answer to the question when is the best time to visit St. George Island, you’ll be able to plan your getaway with ease. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit St George Island? It’s up to You to Decide!
The answer to this question depends on what you are looking for in a vacation. Anyone that has fallen in love with SGI will tell you that there’s no bad time to visit! There are a few factors you should keep in mind when making your travel plans. 

St. George Island in the Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit St. George Island, and there are definitely pros and cons of coming during this season. Of course, the weather is gorgeous. The temperature hovers in the 80s for nearly the entire summer! It’s perfect for hitting the beach or renting a charter to explore the area from the water. The downside is that the summers are the most crowded St. George Island will ever be. Luckily, because our island has no big-name hotels or touristy attractions, it doesn’t get as crowded as other areas. The biggest impact you’ll see is an occasional wait at a restaurant !

St. George Island in the Fall
If you’re looking for warm weather with fewer crowds, the best time to visit St. George Island is in the early fall. September and early October are still in the 80s! If laying out on the beach isn’t your top priority, you’ll love coming during any time in the fall. The kids are back in school and the island is still experiencing great weather. It’s the perfect time to go hiking at St. George Island State Park or kayak the bay! 

St. George Island in the Winter
Those looking to escape the cold northern weather flock to St. George Island every winter. Temperatures in the winter range from the high 40s to high 60s, so usually all you need is a jacket to enjoy everything SGI has to offer. Wake up every morning to walk the nearly-empty beach and indulge in our island cuisine without having to wait for a table! 

St. George Island in the Spring
St. George Island in the spring is similar to the island in the fall. The weather starts to get warm again in May, and any time before Memorial Day will give you great rates on rentals. This is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and it is almost ensured that you will get a hot day or two that’s perfect for the beach. 

Book Your Getaway
Did you decide when the best time to visit St. George Island is? It’s time to book your getaway! Collins Vacation Rentals has more than 200 rentals to choose from throughout the year. They vary in size and location, so we know we have the perfect one for you. Browse our properties to start planning your stay today! 

Do you dream of exploring the open ocean? Does your idea of paradise include a fishing rod in your hand? Do you want to see the magic of dolphins swimming alongside the boat? If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider SGI Charters on St. George Island, FL. They offer a variety of boating excursions that are sure to make your vacation memorable.

Are you thinking of vacationing on St. George Island? Check out our Things to Do page! Here, you’ll find some of the most trusted and best businesses on the island, plus all of the best activities to enjoy here. It makes planning your stay easier than ever!

About SGI Charters on St. George Island, FL
Captain Lee Chapin will take good care of you at SGI Charters! He offers a variety of tours and charters out on the open water. Each tour is designed with your entertainment in mind, so you’ll be in good hands no matter which excursion you choose. The captains are all very knowledgeable and have been boating in this area for years. They can teach you the ins and outs of the water around St. George Island!

The Excursions
SGI Charters on St. George Island, FL, offers many trips and tours! Read our descriptions to choose which one is the best for you.

Dolphin Encounters 
There’s something magical about seeing dolphins jumping in and out of the water. You can even see them from the shores of our beaches! The Dolphin Encounters tour lasts for four hours. The captain knows exactly where to go to see dolphins playing in their pods, and many times, they will catch a ride on the wake of the boat.

Sunset Cruises
Our St. George Island sunsets are known for being extraordinarily beautiful, but watching one from a boat takes it to the next level. This tour lasts for four hours. It begins with a relaxing cruise so you can keep an eye out for our wildlife. You’ll get fresh oysters to snack on as you watch the sun go down.

Shelling Trips
Do you want a unique souvenir? A shelling trip is a perfect way to get one! SGI Charters will take you to some of our barrier islands so you can hunt for shells. You never know what you will find!

Fishing Charters

SGI Charters offers a variety of fishing charters. These charters vary based on time on the boat and what fish you would like to catch. (Of course, fishing in the flats will give you a different catch than going miles offshore!) Think about how deep you would like to go and what you would like to catch. Then, make your decision.

Book Your Island Getaway
Enjoy our slice of paradise when you rent from Collins Vacation Rentals. We offer properties of all shapes and sizes, so we know we have the perfect one for you. Browse our vacation rentals to see for yourself! You can spend hours enjoying SGI Charters on St. George Island, FL, and all the other activities here. We can’t wait to see you!

Landlocked in Orlando, Florida? It’s time for a vacation! Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life when you head to St. George Island. Our small island is within driving distance, and it has everything you need for the perfect getaway from Orlando. Here’s why!

5 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Getaway From Orlando

1. You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
Whether you’re looking to spend day after day relaxing on the sand or want to get out and have an adventure, St. George Island has something for everyone. Cast your line off the famous Fishing Pier, paddleboard through the bay, or relax with some beach yoga. If you want to get an inside look at all our island has to offer, take a peek at our Things to Do page! We even partnered with Xplorie to bring complimentary activities to our guests.

2. A Break From City Life

There’s nothing better than falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the sand and waking up to gorgeous views of the sun glistening on the ocean. With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

3. A Short Drive Away

If you’re looking for a reasonable getaway from Orlando, you’ll want something within driving distance.  St. George Island is just over five hours away!  With barely any traffic and more than enough room to spread out, our island is a breath of fresh air.

4. Reconnect With Family and Friends

St. George Island is an amazing place to reconnect with family and friends. Our small island is free of distractions and full of activities you can enjoy together. Our Collins Vacation Rentals are the perfect place to have a family game night or a nice meal together. Grill outside as the sun sets over the water or spend the day laying out by your private pool. No matter what you do, you can do it together!

5. An Easy Getaway

When you’re on vacation, you don’t want to have to worry about a thing. When you rent with us at Collins Vacation Rentals, you don’t have to! Our properties come with everything you need, and you can even have things like beach chairs and bikes delivered to the home to use while you are there. Plus, everything from grocery stores to restaurants is right on the island, so you don’t have to worry about driving for miles for something you need.

Book Your Getaway From Orlando Today
You deserve a vacation! Come to the uncrowded beaches of St. George Island to relax with your toes in the sand. We have more than 200 rentals to choose from, so we know we have the perfect property for you. Our homes are spread out across the entire island and come in all different sizes, so you can search based on your desired criteria. Browse our vacation rentals to stay planning your getaway from Orlando today! We look forward to seeing you!

We all dream of clear, blue water and swaying palms every once in a while. There’s nothing better than a great day on the beach! On St. George Island, the beaches are one of our favorite things to enjoy year round. Each season offers something different! So, when is the best time to visit Florida beaches? That’s for you to decide.
Have you ever heard of St. George Island before? Our sleepy beach town is the perfect place for a vacation. Unlike most of Florida, our little island is not built up. You can still see the wildlife and plants that are indigenous to the Gulf Coast. Take a look at our Things to Do page to get a sneak peek into what our island offers!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Florida Beaches?
To answer this question, you need to think about what you want to get out of your beach vacation. Do you care about running into crowds? Is sitting on the sand with a blanket and a good book your idea of a beach day? Do you enjoy riding your bike down the shoreline in cool weather? What weather do you prefer? Take all of this into account when picking your time to visit.

If You’re Looking for Fun in the Sun…
For a typical beach vacation full of crashing waves, sandy toes, and hot sun, you’ll definitely want to visit St. George Island between late spring and early fall. The weather during this time period usually ranges in the 80s with highs in the 90s! July and August are our hottest months, so a dip in the ocean is an absolute must if you are visiting during these times. Here are the highs and lows during this time:

May- High of 84, low of 65 degrees Fahrenheit
June- High of 89, low of 72 degrees Fahrenheit
July- High of 90, low of 74 degrees Fahrenheit
August- High of 90, low of 74 degrees Fahrenheit
September- High of 87, low of 71 degrees Fahrenheit
October- High of 81, low of 61 degrees Fahrenheit

Our Secret Sunny Season 
St. George Island is never crowded. No big-name hotels or high rises are allowed to be built, and we do our best to preserve the natural state of our land. Even during the busiest seasons, you’ll always be able to get a spot at the beach. However, there are certain times of the year when the weather is warm but the island is less crowded than usual!
If this is what you are looking for, try to come during the end of spring or beginning of fall. Any time before Memorial Day Weekend is usually a little less crowded. In the fall, kids go back to school and less families stay on St. George Island. It’s still great weather during these times; some even prefer it as opposed to 90 degree days!

If You Want Peace and Quiet…
Is your top priority a peaceful and quiet vacation by the beach? Come to St. George Island during the offseason! Our weather is pleasant year-round, and the island remains serene. Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy your coffee on your porch each morning. Ride bikes on the beach in the afternoon, and don’t forget to go to a spot like Paddy’s Raw Bar to watch the sunset.

Book Your Getaway Today
Have you decided when the best time to visit Florida beaches is? It’s time to book your getaway! Come experience the beauty of St. George Island when you book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals. We even have rentals right on the water so you can make the most out of your beach vacation. We look forward to seeing you!

You’re going on vacation to de-stress, but you find yourself stressing out over what to pack! Yikes! Pour yourself a drink, sit back, and relax. We have you covered with our beach packing list for a family vacation! We created this list for a St. George Island getaway, our family-friendly island retreat.

St. George Island is unlike any other place off the coast of Florida. It is never crowded, and you will always find a spot on the beach. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation! Get a sneak peek into all our paradise has to offer when you browse through our things to do page. In it, you’ll find the most trusted businesses and best activities to enjoy!

Your Beach Packing List for a Family Getaway
Here are our must-haves for a beach getaway! If you forget anything during your stay at Collins Vacation Rentals, we have everything you could need on the island. Stores like Island Adventures have everything from beachwear to fun games the whole family will love. If you need something in particular, just ask! We will point you in the right direction.

Sunscreen– This one is a no-brainer, but we just don’t want you to forget! Protect yourself and your family from harmful UV rays. We recommend getting a water-resistant brand so you can go in and out of the ocean all day long.
An umbrella or beach tent– This one goes hand-in-hand with sunscreen. It’s important to have some shade, especially if you have young children.
Bathing suits– Everyone needs at least one swimsuit for a beach vacation, but it’s always a good idea to have more. No one wants to put a wet suit back on!
Baby powder or cornstarch– This is a local tip from us islanders that are constantly on the beach. Sprinkle a little on your feet after you are done with the beach and sand will come right off. It’s magic!
Buckets and pails– Kids can play with just about anything on the beach, but you can make sure they are occupied with some beach toys. Give your kids fond memories of creating brilliant sand castles during your stay on St. George Island.
A good book– Not everything is about the kids! There will be times where they are playing peacefully in the sand, so focus on yourself and relax.
Snacks, lunch, and water– Of course, water is one of the most important things on a beach packing list for the family. You need to stay hydrated! You and the kids are sure to get hungry after spending hours in the sun, so light snacks are always appreciated. You can head to Sparks & Sons’ Island Grocery or the Piggly Wiggly Express to pick up some fruit, chips, and sandwich ingredients.
A beach cart– A beach cart always makes it easier to lug all your necessities back and forth. However, if you are renting one of our Collins Vacation Rentals beachfront homes, you won’t have to worry about it! All you need to do is step out your door onto the beach.
Beach chairs– You don’t have to worry about packing beach chairs for your vacation if there isn’t room in the car; we can have them delivered right to your vacation rental. Just don’t forget to bring them to the beach!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Your beach packing list for a family vacation is complete, so what are you waiting for? It’s time to gather your gear and book your stay with Collins Vacation Rentals! Our quiet island is perfect for a family getaway, and we have more than 200 rentals to choose from. Browse and book today! We look forward to seeing you.

There’s something relaxing and magical about being out on the open water, fishing pole in hand. When you stay on St. George Island, you’re not just limited to what our island offers. Head over to the mainland for fun activities like Apalachicola, FL, fishing charters! This coastal town is just over the bridge, so it is very convenient if you’re looking for a day of fishing. 

Are you thinking about planning a trip to St. George Island? Take a look at our Things to Do page! Here, you’ll find trusted companies like Apalachicola, FL, fishing charters, restaurants, places to explore, and more! As locals on the island, we’re dedicated to making sure you have the vacation of a lifetime, so let us help you plan it. 

4 of the Best Apalachicola, FL, Fishing Charters
Apalachicola Charters 
Whether you consider yourself to be an expert angler or have never been on a fishing charter before, you’ll be in good hands with Apalachicola Charters. Captain Rudy is passionate about fishing and the waters off the Gulf Coast. He’s full of tips and tricks, and he can tell you all about the ecosystem here. This company offers both day and night charters, so take your pick before booking. 

Robinson Brothers Guide Service 
Robinson Brothers Guide Service is always an excellent choice for Apalachicola, FL, fishing charters! They will take you out on an 18 foot “Flats” skiff with either light tackle or fly fishing gear. They will help you catch speckled trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, flounder, sheepshead, sharks, pompano, tripletail, and tarpon. The fish you’re able to catch depend on the season, but a lot of visitors have luck casting their line here! 

Williams Charter Fishing Adventures
Captain Bruce Williams of Williams Charter Fishing Adventures has been fishing for his entire life, and he’s ready to help you make a catch. His time in the Coast Guard gave him a love for the ocean, and he is ready to share that with you. He will take you out on a 21-foot Mako center console, a boat great for its durability, space, and dry ride. 

Book Me a Charter
Book Me a Charter will take you anywhere in the Apalachicola area! If you have a favorite place to cast your line, just let them know. Otherwise, these fishing experts will take you where they know the fish are biting. You can choose between half and full day charters. Many of their guides were once commercial fishermen, so you know you’re in good hands!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Are you ready for an Apalachicola, FL, fishing charter? Book your getaway with Collins Vacation Rentals! We have more than 200 rentals available on the island, so we know we have the perfect property for you. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront oasis or a cozy cottage, we can help. Browse our properties to start planning today! 
 

When you’re about to go on vacation, the last thing you want is to leave a family member behind, especially one that has four legs! If you are looking for dog-friendly vacations in Florida, you came to the right place. Our island oasis welcomes pups, so pack up your furry friend’s leash and favorite chew toy and make your way to St. George Island!

For a quick look at everything St. George Island has to offer, browse through our Things to Do page. As locals on the island, we want to share our list of trusted businesses with you to help you start planning. Here, you’ll find everything from the best restaurants to outdoor adventures perfect for any dog-friendly vacation in Florida!

3 Reasons St. George Island Is the Best Dog-Friendly Vacation in Florida

Pugs Can Play on the Beach
St. George Island is home to many pet-friendly beaches! Dogs are allowed on both the beach and bay side of the island as long as they are leashed per the July 2017 Franklin County Animal Control Ordinance. Wake up early and take Fido out for a walk on the beach to watch the sunrise, or take a nighttime stroll to see the stars.
Dogs are restricted in some areas of the St. George Island State Park on the eastern end of the island, so check out the State Park website before bringing them there. Dogs must also be leashed at all times in St. George Plantation, the private community at the western end of the island.

Restaurants Are Welcoming
You don’t have to leave your pet home when you go out to eat! As long as you sit outside, you can take your four-legged friend to nearly any restaurant on the island. They’ll be treated like royalty with water bowls and possibly even the occasional treat. We recommend heading somewhere with ample outdoor seating like Paddy’s Raw Bar. Their laid-back picnic tables and beautiful views of the bay are the perfect place to bring the whole family. Plus, the food is great, too!

A Place to Stay
Of course, the most important part of choosing the perfect dog-friendly vacation in Florida is where to stay. Collins Vacation Rentals has tons of dog-friendly properties! Choose based on size, location, and preferred dates. Vacation rentals are limited to two dogs, but some properties limit the size of the dogs. We are happy to help you find the perfect rental for your trip!

Book Your Island Getaway Today
Your dog-friendly vacation in Florida awaits! Collins Vacation Rentals will make sure you have the getaway of a lifetime. After browsing our rentals, you can start planning your trip. Our free activities are a great place to start! From gorgeous properties to the Xplorie activities included in your stay, there’s no company like Collins Vacation Rentals. Book your stay today to experience St. George Island for yourself.