St. George Island, FL
Located just off North Florida’s Gulf Coast, the 28-mile St. George Island is one of the last inhabited yet unspoiled barrier islands in Florida – a serene and pet-friendly vacation paradise. St. George 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.
St. George Island is protected by low-density zoning and strict building codes. This makes St. George Island a tranquil beach community with no high rises or chain stores. Visitors can rent a quaint beach cottage, a multi-story luxury beach home, or lodge at one of the two island hotels or inns.
Cape San Blas, FL
Only a short 20-minute drive from Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas is your go-to destination for beautiful sites and seclusion. Cape San Blas is a narrow stretch of land that extends out from Port St. Joe and curves around St. Joseph Bay. The locals will tell you that “the Cape” has a laid-back vibe offering up popular family-friendly activities such as fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and hiking.
Some can’t-miss attractions in the area include the Loggerhead Trail, an 8.7-mile paved pathway that runs the length of the Cape. You can catch the start of the Loggerhead Trail at Salinas Park. Located right on 30E (or CSB Road), Salinas Park boasts both Beach Access and Bay Access. You’ll also find Serenity Trail, pickle ball courts, a playground, and screened-in pavilions for picnics. Here is a hint: Salinas Park Gulf Side is where you will begin any horseback riding on the beach!
You can’t forget about the local stores and small businesses along 30E. You’ll find restaurants peppered throughout the area and several convenience stores that keep their shelves stocked with any necessary items, including beach supplies and groceries. Plus, there are tons of options to find Cape San Blas and Gulf County souvenirs to take back home.