#VacationOnStGeorgeIslandFlorida

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Apalachicola Bay Estuary Class October 4 @ 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm |Recurring Event Free

Do you know what an estuary is and why it is so vital our economy and way of life? Join the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve this Fall as we explore the estuary we depend on. Participants will learn about the habitats and creatures that make up our estuary and how the river and bay are intricately connected. We will see these habitats up close aboard the Reserve’s research vessel the Henry Lee.

The class cost is free to attend but you must get tickets before class on our eventbrite page, as spaces fill up fast. Please be sure to bring weather appropriate clothing, and eat lunch in advance.

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A Romantic Evening on St. George Island, Florida

The Milky Way and the Lighthouse!

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The Raney House Museum Apalachicola

Built in 1838 for cotton commission merchant David Greenway Raney, this Greek Revival mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Homes. The museum contains furniture, documents and artifacts of the 19th century. It is open to the public 1:00 pm–4:00 pm Sunday – Friday; and 10:00 am–4:00 pm on Saturdays. Admission is free.

128 Market Street Apalachicola, Florida 32320

Website: Visit Website

Phone: 850-653-1700

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  Florida’s Forgotten Coast is back in business, and we offer some of most breathtaking and uncrowded beaches in the Sunshine State! If you’re on the hunt for a laidback beach destination with plenty of elbow room and tons of outdoor activities, St. George Island (SGI) is the place to be.

Ranked time and again as one of the best beaches in the country, this beautiful 22-mile barrier island is home to the most pristine coastline in the Florida panhandle. You won’t find high rises or noisy crowds of tourists here. Just sugar white sand, fresh air and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. And here’s some news that will really get tails wagging: Most of St. George Island’s beaches are pet-friendly, which means your furry friends can tag along for the trip!

To top it off, St. George Island offers a wide range of outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy. Here are a few of our favorites:

Calling all cyclists! Home to miles of paved bike paths, St. George Island is a dream-come-true for bike enthusiasts. In addition to the paved paths, there are heaps of back roads and sandy trails where you can coast along the Gulf and bay side of the island. Whether you bring your own bike or rent one from a local shop, you’re certain to get a great workout and plenty of fresh air.

Even better, St. George Island offers an extremely safe biking environment for riders of all ages. The St. George Island Bike Path is a public paved recreational path that runs six miles paralleling Gulf Beach Drive, the island’s main road. This path is a great way to get around the island and visit shops, restaurants and other local businesses. Explore the island via the path and ride all the way to St. George Island State Park. There, you can park your bike and pick up the hiking trails. Which brings us to our next outdoor activity…

Hiking

Ready to hit the trails? You’re in luck! There are loads of hiking opportunities across Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Here on the island, St. George Island State Park spans nine miles of undeveloped beaches and high dunes, surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay. Inside the state park, hikers can hit the two-mile marked trail along the bayside. There is also a series of trails and boardwalks throughout the park, which offer exceptional wildlife sighting opportunities. Be sure to bring your binos and a camera! During your trek, you may spot raccoons, ghost crabs, loggerhead turtles, eagles and a variety of other birds.

Paddling

Whether you prefer SUP, canoeing or kayaking, St. George Island is every type of paddler’s paradise. No matter what floats your boat, you’re certain to have an memorable paddling adventure here.

Grab your paddles and hit the Gulf or Apalachicola Bay for peace and quiet, spectacular sights and a great workout. During your journey, keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of cool critters—from dolphins and manatees to rare sea birds and turtles. If you don’t have your own paddleboard or kayak, no worries! There are a number of shops on the island offering kayaks, canoes and paddle board rentals.

Fishing

Whether you’re a first-time fisher or an experienced angler, you’ll get hooked on St. George Island in no time. There are so many productive inshore and offshore fishing spots here. Plus, the island is home to several bait and tackle shops as well as two public boat ramps.

Whether you cast a rod from the beach, a pier, a kayak or motor boat, you’re certain to be rewarded with an incredible catch. Want a whole boatload of fish? Book a charter fishing excursion with one of our experienced local guides for a truly unforgettable adventure.

St. George Island is bursting with awesome outdoor activities for the whole family!

Travel Tip created by Tim in association with Vacation Soup

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St. George Island Ranks as a Favorite Destination for Families

Year after year, St. George Island ranks as one of the greatest destinations for families—and of course 2020 is no different! In a recent article called, “12 Best Vacations for Families,” TripstoDiscover.com included St. George Island near the top of the list. “If you and your family are looking to immerse yourself in some of Florida’s most tranquil landscapes visit St. George Island,” suggests writer Charity De Souza. “Escape the crowds at this Northwest Florida gem nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, where the entire family will enjoy climbing the 92 steps up Cape Saint George Lighthouse for beautiful views of the island, taking a scenic bike ride along the 17 miles of paved bike paths and can enjoy a peaceful picnic at the undeveloped beaches on St. George Island State Park.”

Travel Tip created by Tim in association with Vacation Soup

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Fabulous Fishing on St. George Island

If you want to plan an exhilarating Florida fishing trip, it’s time to discover the Forgotten Coast! Renowned for prolific freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, Franklin County is every angler’s paradise. Whether you’re a reel rookie or a fishing pro, you’re certain to have the angling adventure of a lifetime here. Want to try your hand at some inshore Apalachicola fishing? Wade, paddle or motor out into one of our many bays, where you’ll have a chance to hook into redfish, speckled trout, flounder, tripletail, black drum, pompano, Spanish mackerel and more. When you’re ready to catch some saltwater species, it’s time for some Carrabelle fishing, St. George Island fishing or Alligator Point angling. If you’re looking to land the big one (or a whole cooler full of them), take an offshore charter off the coast of Franklin County. The high-volume Gulf waters around the Forgotten Coast are teeming with grouper, mackerel, snapper, hogfish, tripletail, amberjack, jack crevalle, cobia, mahi mahi, blackfin tuna, yellowfin tuna, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, wahoo and more!

Ready to reel in a majorly massive monster? One of our area’s experienced fishing captains can take you 10 to 55 miles offshore to fish the Gulf’s dynamic federal waters, where you could score an epic marlin or sailfish.

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The Gift that Keeps on Giving: Discover Unforgettable Holiday Shopping on the Forgotten Coast

With Turkey Day just around the corner, you may be itching to get a head-start on your holiday shopping. Look no further than ! Franklin County is home to an array of charming boutiques, antique stores and art galleries brimming with rare treasures, handmade goodies and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Don’t plan to dive into holiday shopping until after Thanksgiving? We’ve got you covered. On Saturday, November 30, Franklin County shops will be participating in the Small Business Saturday campaign. This is the perfect time to come on down to the Forgotten Coast for a seasonal shopping spree.

All across our communities, from Carrabelle and Eastpoint to St. George Island and Apalachicola, you’ll discover great deals on everything from art and jewelry to food and apparel to home décor and fishing gear. Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list without fighting crowds at the mall—all while supporting small, locally owned businesses.

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The 2019 Florida Seafood Festival Is Sure to Be a Shucking Good Time!

Fall is finally here, and y’all know what that means: The world-famous Florida Seafood Festival is right around the corner! The 56th annual festival will be held on November 1-2, 2019 in Apalachicola’s beautiful waterfront Battery Park. Featuring fresh local seafood, arts and crafts exhibits, live entertainment and tons of family-friendly activities, this year’s event is certain to be absolutely unforgettable.

Save the Date 2019 Florida Seafood Festival Friday & Saturday, November 1 & 2, 2019 Battery Park in downtown Apalachicola (At the foot of the John Gorrie Memorial Bridge on Bay Avenue)

The oldest maritime event in the Sunshine State, this 56-year-old festival draws thousands of visitors to the hip and historic port town of Apalachicola every year. Here are just a few of the fun-filled events, sights and activities in store for this year’s festival.

Blessing of the Fleet

Head down to Battery Park Friday afternoon to witness one of the Florida Seafood Festival’s most important traditions: The Blessing of the Fleet. Several clergymen bless the parade of passing fishing, shrimping and oystering vessels as well as recreational vessels from across the country.

King Retsyo and Miss Florida Seafood are also present for this blessing ceremony. King Retsyo (oyster spelled backwards), son of Neptune, is the guardian of inland waters, bays and estuaries, and he protects our local seafood industry. Each year, the Florida Seafood Festival board selects a new king.

The Florida Seafood Festival Parade

This delightful parade kicks off on Saturday, November 2nd at 10 am EST. Featuring bands, floats and dignitaries from throughout the region, the lively procession winds eastward down U.S. Highway 98 to the Apalachicola River. This event is a treat for visitors of all ages, particularly the little ones!

Live Entertainment

The 2019 Florida Seafood Festival will showcase a variety of memorable musical acts. The tunes crank up around noon on Friday, and it keeps on rocking until the park closes. There will be more live acts all day Saturday, leading up to the main musical event that night.

This year’s music headliner will be Parmalee, the quintessential American Country band from North Carolina. This talented band’s 2013 breakout single, “Carolina,” rose to a Platinum-certified #1 hit, and their debut album landed in the Top 10.

Food Row

If you’re hankering for fresh Florida seafood, swing by Food Row. This is seafood lover’s paradise, where vendors serve up delicious delicacies from fresh oysters on the half shell to smoked mullet and everything in between. If it’s caught in our local waters, you’ll find it here—along with tons of tasty non-seafood dishes.

Carnival

At the south end of the festival grounds, discover a delightful world of kid-friendly fun! This colorful carnival features a variety of thrilling rides and games to keep you and the whole family busy for hours.

Arts and Crafts Exhibits

The Florida Seafood Festival features up to 90 arts and crafts booths, where you can purchase hand-made gifts and unique local items. These booths are lined up across beautiful Battery Park throughout the festival.

Red Fish Run 5K

Ready to race? Don’t miss the annual Red Fish Run on Saturday, November 2nd. The historic Gibson Inn in downtown Apalachicola is the starting line for this scenic 5K. Racers then wind their way through the streets of the charming historic district and along the banks of the Apalachicola River and Bay. Registration starts at 7 am on Saturday, and the race begins at 8 am.

Blue Crab Races

During this crab-tastic event, kids get to race their very own clawed competitors! Up to 20 children can participate at a time. We provide the blue crabs and the fun. This event is free for children under the age of 12, and everyone who participates receives a prize. Be sure to sign up early because slots fill up fast.

Oyster Shucking Contest

If you decide to stop by and watch this fast-paced contest, don’t blink! With their oyster knife in hand, each gloved contestant stands over a tray of 18 world-famous Apalachicola Bay Oysters. Usually within two short minutes, one competitor thrusts his or her hands into the air, signaling completion. But the fastest shucker isn’t necessarily the champion. When all the contestants have finished, the judges inspect their work, and competitors are penalized or even disqualified for shoddy shucking. The winner goes on to compete in national oyster shucking championships.

Oyster Eating Contest

During this must-see contest, contestants guzzle as many oysters as possible in a 15-minute span. The big, juicy oysters are shucked in advance, counted and placed in paper cups so the competitors can quickly shovel them down. The catch is that they have to keep them down—a rule that many participants end up breaking.

The Oyster Eating Contest will be held on Saturday around mid-day. A dozen or more men and women usually compete in the contest, which draws thousands of cheering spectators. Some of the top eaters consume more than 250 to 300 oysters during the competition!

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Cape St. George Lighthouse Museum and Gift Shop

https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/florida-lights-cape-st-george-light/

  A Historic Treasure on Florida's Forgotten Coast

On Friday, October 21, 2005, the Cape St. George Light collapsed into the Gulf of Mexico. On Monday, December 1, 2008, the reconstructed lighthouse was opened to the public. First built in 1833 and rebuilt in 1848 and 1852 on what is now Little St. George Island, the Light finally succumbed to beach erosion and pounding waves. Working with state and federal government support, the St. George Lighthouse Association spearheaded the effort to salvage the pieces of the Light. Volunteers cleaned the mortar off thousands of the old bricks. The original plans were obtained from the National Archives in Washington, D.C. and the lighthouse was reconstructed on St. George Island, using as much of the original materials as possible.

Construction of a replica of the original keeper’s house was begun next to the lighthouse in the fall of 2009.  The two story brick building was opened in the summer of 2011 and houses a museum which tells the story of the lighthouse and its keepers and a gift shop that offers visitors the opportunity to take home a memento of their visit to the historic lighthouse

Please browse the accompanying pages to read about the Light’s history and to see photos of the Light through the years. Take a look at our volunteer and membership opportunities, and the calendar of upcoming events. And come visit and climb the 92 stairs to the top of the Light. Your continued support of the Cape St. George Light is important to help maintain our historic lighthouse for future generations!

The Cape St. George Light is located at 2B East Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, FL 32328.

What's New

The St. George Lighthouse Association Blog

August Full Moon Climb

Full Moon Climb at Cape St. George Lighthouse The August Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2019.  The Sunset/Full Moon Climb will take place from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will include light hors d'oeuvres.  Because space is limited, reservations are … [Read More...]

Full Moon Climb July 16, 2019

Full Moon Climb at Cape St. George Lighthouse The July Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2019.  The Sunset/Full Moon Climb will take place from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will include light hors d'oeuvres and a sparkling cider toast to the full moon.  The sun … [Read More...]

200,000th Climber

Cape St. George Lighthouse Welcomed 200,000th climber The morning of Friday June 21, the Cape St. George Light welcomed its 200,000th individual to climb the historic lighthouse since its reconstruction. Fiona Huffman from Birmingham, AL., was the history making climber.

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Exhibit on the Science and History of Atomic Bombs

In the month of August, The Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, on The Forgotten Coast, will feature a special exhibit on the science and history of the atomic bombs used by the Allies to end the war. On August 6, 1945, the first atomic bomb was dropped on the city of Hiroshima. A second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki on August 9. What made these bombs so destructive, and how were they kept secret? Come and learn about the people, the places, the science and the aftermath of this significant event that ended WWII.

Due to public interest, the current exhibit on the role of women in WWII will be expanded and extended to August 31. Both of these exhibits include photographs, vintage film footage, artifacts and models.

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Pet Friendly Activities on the Forgotten Coast

Searching for pet friendly Florida beaches and other doggone good fun? Look no further than Florida’s Forgotten Coast! With tons of dog friendly beaches and pet friendly restaurants and shops, Franklin County gets the paw of approval from all of our four-legged guests.

When it comes to pet friendly activities, Franklin County is chock-full of furry fun! There are pet friendly beaches, shops and restaurants all across our coastal communities that welcome dog and cat guests with open arms.

See below for a full list of pet friendly restaurants, shops and beaches across Franklin County. Our furry visitors give all of these hotspots two paws up!

Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream St. George Island

BJ’s Pizza & Subs St. George Island

Hole in the Wall Apalachicola

Lynn’s Quality Oysters & Raw Bar Eastpoint

Café con Leche Apalachicola

The Station Apalachicola

Pesky Pelican Eastpoint

Tamaras Café Apalachicola

Apalachicola Seafood Grill Apalachicola

Apalachicola Chocolate Company Apalachicola

Red Pirate Family Grill and Oyster Bar Eastpoint

Family Coastal Restaurant Eastpoint

Doc Myers’ Island Pub & Sports Bar St. George Island

Half Shell Dockside Apalachicola

Paddy’s Raw Bar St. George Island

Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café St. George Island

Up The Creek Raw Bar Apalachicola

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Full Moon Climb at the Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle July 16 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

The Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle is hosting a Full Moon & Sunset Lighthouse Climb on Tuesday, July 16 from 7:30-10 pm. Visitors can climb to the top of the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast, Crooked River Lighthouse, to see breathtaking views of the bay with the sun setting and the full moon.

For the July full moon climb we have exciting live music out of Tallahassee featuring Afro-Cuban drumming by Master Yazid along with several of his fellow drummers. Yazid Johnson has played in professional orchestras, is a jazz musician, has performed at the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and for former presidents and has been an instructor and leader for the FSU African Drumming Ensemble.

Enjoy this special opportunity to see the gorgeous natural surroundings of the St. George Sound, Carrabelle Beach, and Dog Island, under the glow of the setting sun while listening to the sounds of African-Cuban drums with this special Crooked River Lighthouse evening climb. Guests can also enjoy s’mores around the new fire pit. Cost is just $8. Music will start at 7:30 pm. So be sure to come early if you’d like to experience the music. The museum and gift shop will also be open. All climbers must be 44 inches tall.

Crooked River Lighthouse is located in Carrabelle, just west of the Carrabelle Public Beach Park. 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle. For more information, contact the Museum and Gift Shop at 850-697-2732. Reservations appreciated but not required.

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Discover Apalachicola, Florida

Apalachicola Florida is a warm, welcoming port town bursting with hometown charm, friendly folks and rich maritime history. Nestled on the mouth of the Apalachicola River near St. George Island, this small coastal city is home to bustling seafood houses, weather-worn shrimp boats and stately historical buildings.

The name "Apalachicola" is a combination of the Hitchoti Indian words "apalahchi," meaning "on the other side," and "okli," meaning "people.” However, Apalachicola locals will tell you it means "land of the friendly people.” As soon as you set foot in this genial small town, you’ll understand why. Brimming with warm hospitality and smiling faces, Apalachicola makes everyone feel at home.

Hip & Historical Apalachicola has managed to retain its historic charm while evolving into a hip destination teeming with arts and culture. Affectionately called "Apalach” by locals, this picturesque town gives visitors a delightful taste of Old Florida while offering countless activities and events.

The town lays claim to a beautifully restored historic district like none other in the Panhandle. Throughout Apalachicola’s historic downtown commercial district, visitors will stumble across eclectic boutiques, unique eateries, art galleries and popular music venues tucked into brick, tin-roofed warehouses. It’s a distinctive destination that offers the best of both worlds: old world charm and new world cool.

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Beaches on the Forgotten Coast

The 28 miles of St. George Island Florida's beaches are serene and pet-friendly. The island consistently rates as one of the top beaches in the U.S., with miles of uncrowded expanses for sunning and shelling, clear Gulf waters for swimming and fishing, and pristine marshes for wildlife viewing. Visitors can rent a quaint beach cottage, a multi-story luxury beach home, or lodge at one of the two island hotels or inns. Except for the Julian G. Bruce State Park beach, St. George Island beaches are pet-friendly for well-behaved and leashed pets. Start planning your island getaway today at www.islevaca.com

The public beach on St. George Island is easy to find. From Island Drive, the only access to the island, Go over the five-mile long Bryant Patton Bridge with a gorgeous view of Apalachicola Bay. When you get to the island stop sign, turn right and then left into convenient island parking. The public beach is not only easy to find but there are bath house facilities, covered pavilions for picnics, a playground and ball court for the younger generations. The Cape St. George Lighthouse and lighthouse Keeper's House are also located in nearby Lighthouse Park.

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Apalachicola Classic Boat & Car Show April 20 @ 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

We would like to invite you to the 20th Anniversary of the Apalachicola Classic Boat & Car Show on April 20, 2019 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Come to Riverfront Park in Apalachicola to see many antique & classic vessels, workboats and runabouts. Fiberglass, wood and aluminum as well as motor displays. Boat building demonstrations will be on display as well.

Antiques, classic and late model cars will be on display from Studebakers, Model Ts , Mustangs, Classic Chevys and much more. The Apalachicola Traders’ Canoe, a hand built 50-foot long vessel used between 1750-1850, recovered from the Apalachicola River will be on display at History Culture & Art Center during the day as well. The Apalachicola Classic Boat & Car Show also will feature a few arts and crafts vendors that focus on nautical themes.

Paddle Wheel

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A Doctor Is Using Oysters To Treat Patients With Anxiety And Depression

And we have oysters!

Delish Newsletter By Megan Schaltegger

Dr. Drew Ramsey is prescribing his patients an alternative treatment for anxiety and depression that deviates from the standard Prozac, Zoloft, and Celexa: oysters. Yep, we're talking about shellfish. According to the Columbia University assistant professor and psychiatrist, the popular dish can improve mental health.

Ramsey credits the food's high vitamin b12 for reducing brain shrinkage, while noting the link between long chain omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies and depression, New York Times reports. Given the oyster's high level of the polyunsaturated fatty acid, they can reduce symptoms.

It's a treatment method his patients are clearly fond of. In fact, one took Ramsey's advice a step further and ordered three dozen oysters in one weekend. "You're the only person I've prescribed them to who came back and said he ate 36!" Ramsey reportedly told the 48-year-old, who was suffering from mild depression and anxiety.

Ramsey's belief in the ties between food and mental health extends beyond shellfish. In fact, the psychiatrist has published a number of books exploring the "food mood connection." The author of "Eat Complete," "Fifty Shades of Kale," and "The Happiness Diet," claims poor diet choices can contribute to depression.