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!
