Spend a peaceful getaway at St. George Island in Florida

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As one of the best beaches in the United States, St. George Island in Florida is a worthy addition to your must-visit list for a peaceful getaway together with your pets. The island boasts miles of unoccupied coastline for basking under the sun and shelling while the unblemished Gulf waters are suitable for swimming or fishing while the pristine marshes make it the ideal site to observe the wildlife.

The 28-mile island is situated off the Gulf Coast of North Florida and considered as one of the last occupied yet untouched barrier islands. It is the ideal destination for pet-lovers out there who wants to take a break from the hectic city life.

St. George Island is under protection by low-density zoning and stringent building protocols. This makes the location a serene beach community without any towering buildings or chain stores. If you decide to visit this lovely gem, you can rent a charming beach cottage or a multiple level luxury beach house or book in one of the hotels or inns on the island.

Things to do at St. George Island in Florida

Whether you are going to visit St. George Island in Florida for a family vacation or a special weekend getaway with a loved one, there are a variety of things to do on the island.

Pet paradise

For pet lovers out there eager to bring along their furry companion, this lovely gem in Florida is the ideal site. St. George Island is the perfect destination for you and your furry friend. The island is one of the few pet-friendly beaches in Florida.

Many of the vacation houses, restaurants, and stores welcome four-legged visitors warmly. You can choose from several pet-friendly accommodations for you and your furry companion.

Shopping galore

If you are in the mood for shopping, you are in the right place since St. George Island boasts an array of boutiques, art galleries and charming shops brimming with handmade treasures, beachwear, unique gifts, and jewelry. You will surely find a special souvenir or keepsake to bring home.

Great fishing experience

When it comes to fishing, you should not miss this activity while in St. George Island in Florida. Whether you are a newbie or a pro, the island is a well-known fishing destination where you can reel in a speckled trout, sheepshead, whiting, flounder, tripletail, redfish, grouper, snapper, sea bass, amberjack, mahi-mahi, mackerel, cobia, and even sharks.

Delectable dining

For a wonderful gastronomy experience, you can find a good selection of restaurants on the island the features fresh local seafood. Enjoy dining with a scenic view overlooking the gulf or stop by at one of the bayside eateries for cocktails or a delicious pub treat.

Biking adventures

For biking enthusiasts, you can enjoy miles of biking trails at St. George Island. The island highlights a six-mile concrete path that parallels Gulf Beach Drive which is the main road of the island. Whether you will rent a bicycle in one of the local stores or bring your own, explore around the island and make your way to St. George Island State Park.

Family-friendly entertainment

On the island, there are several activities that families can enjoy – rent a boat or charter to explore the bay or neighboring islands, inshore or offshore fishing, renting a kayak or paddleboard, hiking at the state park, bird-watching, stargazing and many more.

Wildlife

The island is also a dream destination for nature lovers. You can explore nine miles of undeveloped shoreline, scenic dunes, salt marshes, and a bay forest. The State Park boasts serene hiking trails, observation platforms, and boardwalks.

Do not miss out on birding which is a popular activity on the island. You might be lucky enough to spot one of the many migratory birds.

Loggerhead sea turtles lay eggs along the beach during early summer. The hatchlings emerge at night and crawl to the gulf. Visitors can help these baby turtles make it safely to the sea during the summer nesting season by removing items from the beach, switching off all outdoor lights, and filling up any man-made holes in the sand.

Nightlife and festivities

Throughout the year, St. George Island in Florida hosts a variety of live music in different venues. The island is also home to several events including the yearly Chili Charity Cook-Off. This tasty yearly event attracts thousands of chili lovers to the island.

During the summer and fall, the music charity event, Rock By the Sea Festival gathers the region’s best musicians to raise money for charity.

Frequently asked questions about St. George Island in Florida

Whether you are planning a family vacation or a weekend break with friends, St. George Island is the ideal destination especially if you have a furry companion. Let us take a look at some of the common questions about the destination.

What are the available hotels/accommodations in St. George Island in Florida?

What are the top attractions to visit in St. George Island in Florida?

What are the restaurants in St. George Island in Florida?

How to get to St. George Island in Florida?

The Tallahassee International Airport is the closest to St. George Island. Upon arriving, you can rent a car and drive down to the island which usually takes less than 2 hours.

If driving is your main choice, it is recommended to have a car available so you can easily move from one place to another.

From Tallahassee, FL to St. George Island: 1 hour, 45 minutes / 78 miles
From Panama City, FL to St, George Island: 1 hour, 45 minutes / 75 miles

Final thoughts

With the variety of activities to enjoy in this peaceful, pet-friendly destination that is ideal for family and friends, you will surely have a wonderful and memorable stay in St. George Island in Florida.