St George Island: A Hidden Gem on the Florida Panhandle

St George Island - Florida - Panhandle
St George Island - Florida - Panhandle

St George Island is a 22-mile-long barrier island with a few of the Florida Panhandle’s more beautiful beaches. Also, it’s one of the last unspoiled barrier islands in the state of Florida.

With miles of sprawling, uncrowded, white sandy beaches and emerald waters you can enjoy plenty of fish and fun here.

Rent a cute beach cottage, go big with a multi-story luxury beach home, or lodge at one of the four Island hotels or inns. Continue reading and we’ll tell you about St George Island: A Hidden Gem on the Florida Panhandle.

St George Island Lighthouse

The St George Island Lighthouse has a rich history that dates back to 1852. The original structure, a 153-year-old veteran of hurricanes, wars, and erosion, collapsed on October 21, 2005.

Worry not. In 2011 the structure was rebuilt. Visit, climb the 92 stairs to the top of the Light, and learn about the rich history beneath your feet.

St George Island - Florida - Panhandle

Natural Attractions Near St George Island

The St George Island Area boasts a plethora of natural attractions.  The state or federal government manages nearly 90% of Franklin County’s 545 square miles.

Thus, explorers will have ample opportunities given the sheer size of this mostly untouched wilderness. There are both highland and lowland trails from which to choose. What follows is a quick list of great natural attractions near St. George Island.

  • Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve encompasses over 245, 000 square acres. And it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation.
  • The Apalachicola River Blueway provides the opportunity for visitors to paddle the 106-mile length of the Apalachicola River from the Jim Woodruff Dam to the city of Apalachicola.
  • Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park offers visitors nine miles of undeveloped beach, a gorgeous shoreline, majestic dunes, and a bay forest. And a series of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms provide the perfect opportunity to take it all in.
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St George Island Dining Options

At St. George Island visitors can dine on locally inspired food choices as well as some chain eateries for a taste of home. so, read on and you may find one you like.

  • At The Blue Parrot off West Gorrie Road, you can enjoy fresh local seafood and certified Black Angus Steaks while enjoying the sea air and a breathtaking view.
  • If pizza, subs, and beer tempt you, you’ll surely stop by BJ’s Piza and Subs on St George Island. Also, they have a large assortment of chicken wings and fried foods. It’s a go-to if you got a fried food craving.
  • For fresh seafood and live music, head over to Gunn St. to Paddy’s Raw Bar. You’ll enjoy a live band while shuckin’ oysters in the open sea air.
  • Who doesn’t like donuts? A 10-minute drive down Franklin Blvd. from St George Island sits Weber’s Little Donut Shop just waiting to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Whatever it is you and your family crave, there’s something for the whole family near St George Island: A Hidden Gem on the Florida Panhandle. Return to Travel Hop often for the latest travel news and updates.