Gulf Coast Beaches
The Northern Panhandle of Florida is home to many wonderful Gulf Coast beaches and related attractions. Many area residents and other tourists travel to St. George Island (directions below) and nearby Apalachicola, a fishing village that now attracts many tourists with its bed and breakfasts, restaurants, shops and charm. Other, smaller beaches somewhat closer to Tallahassee are also described below. In addition, you may wish to explore points farther west, including Panama City Beach, Destin and other Panhandle beaches.
St. George Island
This popular 29-mile (47 km) barrier island beach, about 80 miles (130 km) southwest of Tallahassee, offers pristine, clear water. Hotel/motel rooms and many vacation rentals are available. The island features St. George Island State Park (850-927-2111) where visitors can swim (no lifeguard), shell, boat, fish, RV/tent camp, hike trails and use picnic tables with shelters, grills, restrooms and showers. Restaurants and convenience stores are on island.
Directions from the Mag Lab to St. George Island / Apalachicola
- Exit the lab and take a left on Pottsdamer Street
- Take a left on Orange Avenue
- Take a right on Adams Street
- Follow Adams to Crawfordville Road, and onto Highway 319
- Take 319 through Carabelle and onto East Point
- Take the bridge in East Point to St. George Island, or continue straight to Apalachicola
Alligator Point
Natural dune public beach, moderately clear water. No public facilities or lifeguard. Nearby fishing villages offer accommodations, campgrounds, restaurants, gas and grocery stores. 45 miles (72 km) south of Tallahassee, US 98 cross the bridge at Panacea and turn left on CR 370. Tel. (850) 653-9419.
Carrabelle
Coarse public beach, moderately clear water. It has swimming, shelling, restrooms and picnic tables with shelters. No lifeguard. The Moorings offers accommodations, dining, boat charters and other recreational activities. 60 miles (95 km) southwest of Tallahassee, US 98. Tel. (850) 697-2800.
Dekle Beach
Great winter retreat! Boating, fishing, snorkeling, swimming, picnicking and more. No lifeguard. Nearby amenities/accommodations include Eagle's Nest, 2-3 bedroom beach houses, (850) 584-7666. 70 miles (112 km) east of Tallahassee. Tel. (850) 584-5366.
Dog Island
Pristine sandy beach accessible only by boat or airplane, clear water. Private charters/ferry from Carrabelle. No public facilities or lifeguard. 60 miles (95 km) southwest of Tallahassee, US 98. Tel. (850) 653-9419.
Mashes Sands Beach
Public beach, shallow bay water. Swimming, crabbing, picnic tables, shelters, grills, snack bar, restrooms and showers. No lifeguard. Posey's Motel and Restaurant offers accommodations and dining. Campgrounds, gas and grocery stores also nearby. 40 miles (65 km) southwest of Tallahassee, US 98 turn left before the bridge at Panacea. Tel. (850) 926-1848 or (850) 984-0180.
Shell Point
Lovely, small peninsula surrounded by St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Secluded beach and clear water. Popular for sailing and wind surfing. Nearby Shell Point Resort offers accommodations, dining, marina, boat rentals/charters, fishing, golf and more. No lifeguard. 25 miles (40 km) south of Tallahassee, Hwy. 367. Tel. (850) 926-7163 or (800) 926-7163.
