St. George Island in Florida Offers a Great Beach Experience
The epitome of summer is sunbathing and frolicking on the beach. For those seeking a beach paradise characterized by pristine, powdery white sand, tranquil waters, family-friendly amenities, and an abundance of wildlife, a trip to St. George Island State Park in Florida should be on the agenda.
St. George Island Has a Great Beach
St. George Island State Park is 1,962 acres and located on a barrier island along the Sunshine State’s coastline. It has recently been crowned as the top beach in the United States by coastal experts in their annual rankings of America’s premier beaches.
St. George State Park showcases some of the most exquisite and purest sand found anywhere in the world. Spanning nine miles, the park offers an unspoiled, pristine beach with sparkling turquoise waters. Situated within the enchanting realm of the Forgotten Coast in Florida, a collection of stunning and lesser-known coastal destinations southwest of Tallahassee, St. George Island creates an impression of an entirely separate realm. With a population of approximately 1,000 permanent residents and an absence of extensive real estate or commercial developments, the island emanates a distinct sense of tranquility and unspoiled beauty.
The Island Offers Many Amenities
Within the island, one can find numerous family-owned restaurants that serve the freshest seafood. A range of grocery stores and independent boutiques contribute significantly to the island’s commercial landscape. Although St. George Island endured significant damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018, the beaches have since made a remarkable recovery, restoring their natural splendor.
Access to St. George Island can be conveniently attained by car, utilizing the Brian Patton Memorial Bridge. Travelers may choose to fly into either the Tallahassee International Airport, located approximately 80 miles away, or the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City, situated around 100 miles northwest of the island.
The unspoiled nature of this area, coupled with its absence of light pollution, makes it a captivating destination for stargazing enthusiasts. Throughout the day, the island’s shores come alive with an array of activities, as vacationers engage in beachcombing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, and sunbathing. For nature enthusiasts, the island has 60 campsites in family-friendly campgrounds with amenities such as a playground, electricity, and shared shower and bathroom facilities.