It’s a common question that visitors ask when planning their trip to St. George Island.
“What should we do on our vacation to SGI?”
It’s such a common question that it’s also a point of amusement for locals and long-time SGI travelers when newcomers want to know about excursions and attractions.
St. George Island is a little known barrier island off the Florida Panhandle. You can access the island by a 4 mile bridge that connects it to the mainland. Part of the Forgotten Coast, SGI is a favorite for those who want to go to the beach and simply enjoy the serenity – without crowds, high-rise hotels, chains, attractions and the noise and activity that comes with it.
But for those who get a little antsy after playing in the surf and hanging out by your beach house private pool, St. George Island and the surrounding area has plenty to offer.
9 Things To Do on St. George Island
- Go Shelling on SGI – Grab a bag or bucket because everyday is a different adventure when it comes to shelling on St. George Island, you’ll find Scallop Shells, Cockles, Arks, Oyster Shells, Cardita Shells, Lightning Whelk, Fig, Olives, Sand Dollars, Angel Wing Shells, Starfish and Seahorses. Some days you’ll find driftwood and sponges.
- Souvenir Shopping – Check out the local shops like the St. George Island Trading Company and Seaside Cotton.
- Visit the Lighthouse – The Cape St. George Light stood for over 153 years before tumbling into the Gulf in 2005. Using pieces retrieved from the original, the SGI lighthouse was restored to it’s original beauty in 2008. Take a tour and visit the gift shop.
- Visit the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park – St. George Island boasts one of Florida’s most beautiful state parks and it’s a must-see location. The views from both the Bay and Gulf sides are extraordinary. Soaring dunes, bird watching, beach time, and shelling are just a few of the things you can do. They also host the only RV camping on St. George Island.
- Day Trip – Take the short drive to Apalachicola for a day of shopping, galleries and dining. Be sure to also see the authentic shrimp boats while you’re there. Another favorite is Carrabelle, a historic fishing village.
- Kayak and Paddle Boarding – Grab a kayak or paddle board and take a self-guided adventure on the bay.
- Hire a Fishing or Shelling Charter – there are several charter services that take people out to explore Little St. George Island, St. Vincent and Dog Island. Your catch will depend on conditions and the time of year, but some of the fish around SGI you can expect to catch are Grouper, Mahi Mahi, Red Drum, Swordfish, Pompano, Snapper, Bluefish, Flounder, Cobia, Amberjack, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel and Wahoo.
- Bicycle and Golf Cart Rentals – Explore the island without your car. Jump on a bike and meander through the beach and bayside neighborhoods, follow the bike path across the island, maybe go for an ice cream cone. There are views, shops and things to see in every direction.
- Stargaze at the Beach – With its remote location and minimal light pollution, St. George Island is the perfect place to stargaze. Spread out a blanket and watch the stars twinkle above you, or try to spot constellations with the naked eye. Don’t forget to bring a telescope for a closer look at the wonders of the night sky.
There’s plenty to keep you and your family busy while on SGI, but if you’re like most people, when you get here you’ll be lured to relax by the tranquil atmosphere and salty breezes, mesmerized by the beachside serene sunrise and the bayside sunset, soothed by the waves, and astounded that this island is truly a largely undiscovered treasure.
Come excited and you’ll leave refreshed… and looking forward to your next visit.