St. George Island is a peacefully stunning island off of the panhandle in Florida. Here is everything you need to know about a family vacation to St. George Island.
My first visit to St. George Island with my husband’s family was long before there were any little Houstons running around. We stayed in a gorgeous home on the beach over Memorial Day weekend in 2009. I was shocked by the untouched aura of the island compared to the panhandle itself. Florida’s panhandle is known for busy white beaches, crystal blue waters, and an abundance of things to do. SGI is quite different, as the water is darker and the beaches are quieter. Every business on the island is intentional – there are no fast food chains and only one grocery store. I think that’s what makes St. George Island even more charming and exclusive.
St. George Island is picturesque, with pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and wildlife around every corner. The coastline is a canvas for some of the most breathtaking sunrises I’ve ever seen in my life. It’s no wonder families (like ours!) return to visit this hidden gem in the Gulf of Mexico every summer.
How to Get to St. George Island
We have traveled to SGI a few different ways since our first visit in 2009. While living in Georgia, it was a quick 7 hour drive. However after moving back to New England, we first fly to Panama City Beach and then drive 2 hours to the island.
Where to Stay
The best place to stay on St. George Island is a vacation rental home. There are only a handful of hotels, but we always rent a home to accommodate the multiple families we travel with. Through sites like vrbo or airbnb, you can find a multitude of homes in various sizes and locations on the island. Whether it’s beachfront or inland, pet friendly or poolside, there is a home for every couple or family.
What to Do on St. George Island
If we are being honest, I rarely leave our vacation home when we visit SGI. Every week we spend on the island I want to do nothing more than rest and relax in the sand, ocean, or by the pool. My children feel the same way – except for the occasional drive for ice cream and souvenir shopping. If you’re the adventurous type, here are some things to do on St. George Island.
- Visit Cape St. George Lighthouse, Museum, and Gift Shop
- Fishing – I’ve never been but the Gulf is where to fish! Charter a fishing excursion with a guide!
- Lunch + Tiki Bar Drinks at the Blue Parrot – their fish is the FRESHEST!
- Dinner at BJ’s Pizza & Subs (try the bacon chicken pizza!)
- Dessert at Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream
- Sugar Kingdom – the biggest candy store I’ve ever seen
- Kayaking/Paddleboard/Boogie Board
- Explore St. George State Park
- Spend a day in Apalachicola – you have to travel through this fishing town to get to SGI
- Walk the Nature Trails – it’s a dream destination for nature lovers and bird fanatics
- Wake for the Sunrise or chase the sunset
- Shell Hunting – we have found some of the most beautiful shells on this beach
This is on my vacation list even if I have to drive two hours from the airport!