Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:St. George Island, Florida
St. George Island State Park Beaches take up 9 miles of some of the most unspoiled, undeveloped natural beauties in all of Florida, located on St. George Barrier Island, 75 miles from Tallahassee. These beaches are extremely relaxed and laid-back, and provide a perfect beach experience in the warm, sparkling aqua Gulf water, surrounded by green pine groves and golden sand dunes. The park is a true testament to the natural beauty of Florida.
There are two beach areas. The first four miles are accessible by car and you'll find it along the main drive of the park. For those wanting a true beach experience, in a totally tranquil environment, the next 5 miles of beach can only be reached by foot, but you'll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being in a place that doesn't allow any cars. The water is great for swimming, fishing, and boating, and there are ramps allowing boat access to the Apalachee Bay, where fishermen pull in trout, flounder, whiting, redfish, and Spanish mackerel. There are six picnic areas, and each one has standing grills. When you come back onshore, throw your finds on the grill and enjoy a fresh seafood meal while gazing out at the beautiful water it came from.
The swimming at St. George Island beaches provides some much needed refreshment from the heat of the day, but there are no lifeguards anywhere on the island. There are restrooms, changing areas, and showers, and some all-inclusive camp grounds for those who enjoy seeing the stars above as they drift off to sleep at night. Make sure you reserve a spot beforehand. Those visitors who are less fond of sleeping outdoors can find accommodations in one of the sweet little cottages along the beach, or go to one of the lovely hotels on the island of St. George itself. There are beautiful shops and a fun nightlife on St. George, with yummy seafood meals served at its local restaurants, and clubs with live bands serving tall frosties while you try your hand at a game of darts or a round of pool.
St. George Island Park and its beaches are open from 8am-sundown every day of the year. The area is affected by the occasional hurricane so be sure to check before you come. Hurricane season is between June and November, but hurricanes aside it's usually warm and sunny. The area is a little known secret in Florida's panhandle. It's for beach lovers and nature lovers alike, looking for a virtually no-thrills location to have a quiet beach vacation right in the middle of a pristine, magical, natural wonderland.