If you are looking for a day trip or a place to escape it all, the Forgotten Coast is an unforgettable experience. Florida's Forgotten Coast is a picturesque and largely unspoiled stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico in the eastern Florida Panhandle. Natural beauty is a defining feature of the Forgotten Coast without a doubt.
Hidden gem beach towns on Florida's Forgotten Coast
The Forgotten Coast encompasses towns in Franklin, Gulf, Jefferson, and Wakulla counties, plus a little bit of Bay county, too. This stretch of coastline is renowned for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, hiking, and exploring untouched natural landscapes.
Mexico Beach
The white sand and emerald waters are a beach lover's dream. Mexico Beach was hit hard by Hurricane Michael in 2018 but with cleanup and rebuilding, the town is flourishing once again. This quaint small town neighboring Panama City is a growing coastal community with charm to spare. You will discover beachfront parking, fishing, ecotourism, paddling, wildlife viewing and more. There are several local eateries in the area including many serving up fresh local seafood.
Sailfish Beach House rental in Mexico Beach is a stunning 5 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom, direct beachfront vacation home with a private pool and secluded stretch of beach right outside your door.
Port St. Joe
Port St. Joe is one of the oldest towns along the Forgotten Coast, with a delightful historic downtown area. Several mom-and-pop shops line the area with local dining and shopping. You can savor craft cocktails with water views, sit down to upscale surf and turf, or enjoy fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine in Port St. Joe.
Community events are spectacular on the weekends such as farmers' markets selling fresh produce, the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival full of arts and crafts and festive holiday parades. In the middle of town along the bayside is a beautiful lighthouse lit up at night. There are plenty of boating and fishing excursions for your enjoyment. Port St. Joe is known for its perfect sunsets.
Indian Pass
Indian Pass is a small, picturesque community located in Gulf County, Florida, 8 miles south of Port St. Joe. It is nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. With a small population, Indian Pass exudes a tight-knit, laid-back vibe. Many visitors are drawn to its low key environment, ideal for relaxation and unwinding. The community also has a rich history influenced by Native American heritage and early settlers, with local festivals and events celebrating this cultural background.
Indian Pass is a charming getaway for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations. Pictured above are three vacation rentals in Indian Pass, Seahorse, Sandpiper, and Starfish. Each of these homes sleeps 22 guests and can be rented individually or as one rental for your big group or family reunion.
Cape San Blas
This hidden jewel offers nature areas and unique activities. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is a great place to explore the untouched beaches, dock your boat, picnic, or enjoy the waterfront community grills. Indian Pass offers horseback riding excursions on the beach during the day and at sunset. You will want to check out Indian Raw Bar for fresh oysters. You will certainly enjoy your surroundings without high-rise buildings to block your views and where establishments are locally owned and operated.
Apalachicola
Apalachicola is famous for its oyster harvest and is nicknamed Oystertown. This small friendly port town is a historical treasure. The Victorian-era buildings offer shopping and dining. Several restaurants serve up local oysters and seafood ensuring you are getting the freshest seafood in the area. Oyster City Brewing Company is a favorite for a cold drink. Be sure to check out the local events in town such as the Florida Seafood Festival and the Oyster Cookoffs.
St. George Island
If you enjoy outdoor activities, St. George Island has plenty of family friendly outdoor adventures for you and your family. Canoeing, paddle boarding, hiking, kayaking, shelling, and picnicking are just some of the activities that are in store for you. You can explore St. George Island State Park, bike ride along the 17 miles of paved bike paths, or enjoy dining at one of the oceanside eateries serving fresh coastal cuisine, pub fare, barbecue, pizza, and more. St.George Island is also a pet-friendly community where four-legged family members are welcome to visit the dog-friendly beach, restaurants, and attractions.
East Point
This waterfront town is located in the heart of the commercial oyster industry. East Point offers a great fishing pier, two boat ramps, and bait and tackle shops in this authentic fishing community. This seafood-centric town is home to an array of family-owned seafood markets where you can buy the catch of the day and oysters from Apalachicola Bay. For dining options, there are several four-generation, locally owned and operated restaurants like Lynn’s Quality Oysters and Family Coastal Restaurant.
Nature lovers get ready to explore Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve and Visitor Center, one of the state’s premier research and education facilities, with fish tanks, walking trails, interactive displays, and ongoing public education programs and activities.
Carrabelle
Carrabelle’s small-town charm, rich history, and outdoor activities make it a perfect spot to explore. With unique attractions such as chartered fishing adventures, three museums, and the World’s Largest Police Station tucked away in a phone booth from 1965, there's something for everyone. Swimming, paddling, snorkeling, walking the beach, and nature exploration are all offered in the quiet town.
With a full-service marina, this is a boating paradise as well. You can enjoy shopping for furniture, nautical decor, antiques, and more. There are several waterfront restaurants to enjoy seafood, BBQ, pizza, and more. If you enjoy golf, check out the championship course at St James Bay Golf Course.
Alligator Point
Visitors will enjoy wildlife at its finest at this coastal jewel where you can explore eight miles of quiet shoreline with birds, deer, and possibly a bobcat sighting. This coastal wilderness boosts freshwater pounds, tidal marshes, and gulf front beaches. There is plenty of inshore and offshore fishing. The Bald Point State Park offers picnic pavilions, restrooms, and a fishing dock. Park visitors can enjoy beaches, bicycling, birding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, swimming, and, of course, observing the abundant wildlife. The nearby St. Marks Wildlife Refuge is another popular destination for nature lovers.
Explore the Towns Along Florida’s Forgotten Coast
Each small town along the Forgotten Coast has something wonderful to offer. Overall, Florida's Forgotten Coast is a tranquil and picturesque destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, historic charm, and delicious seafood, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a more laid-back and authentic coastal experience. Whether you are looking to explore nature, spend time on the water fishing, or have some of the freshest seafood in the Florida Panhandle, these areas have something for everyone.
Panhandle Getaways has some great vacation rentals on the Forgotten Coast, so check them out and book your stay.