Florida’s Forgotten Coast

About

Florida's Forgotten Coast stretches along the Gulf of Mexico in the state's panhandle, encompassing the communities of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Eastpoint, and Carrabelle. This region earned its name because it remains refreshingly undeveloped compared to other Florida coastal destinations, offering visitors a glimpse of Old Florida charm.

The area centers around Apalachicola Bay, renowned for producing some of the world's finest oysters. Historic Apalachicola features well-preserved Victorian architecture, antique shops, and seafood restaurants serving fresh Gulf catches.

The crown jewel is St. George Island, a 28-mile barrier island accessible by bridge, where sugar-white sand beaches meet emerald waters. St. George Island State Park protects nine miles of pristine coastline, complete with towering dunes and coastal woodlands.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and over 240 bird species. The nearby Apalachicola National Forest offers additional outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy kayaking through salt marshes, fishing for redfish and speckled trout, and exploring lighthouse museums. The pace here is deliberately slow, with no high-rise hotels or chain restaurants cluttering the scenery. Local festivals celebrate the area's maritime heritage, including the annual Oyster Cook-Off.

Whether you're seeking peaceful beach days, fresh seafood, or authentic coastal culture, the Forgotten Coast delivers an authentic Florida experience that's becoming increasingly rare.

Accessibility

St. George Island State Park provides several accessibility features for visitors with mobility challenges. The park offers three non-motorized beach wheelchairs, two electric beach wheelchairs, and a recumbent floating wheelchair available for use.

Mobi-mats provide stable pathways across sand, allowing unobstructed access to beach, bay, and campground areas within the park. These temporary walkways help wheelchair users and those with mobility devices reach the waterfront more easily. The park's beach wheelchair program allows visitors to enjoy the Gulf waters and shoreline activities.

For other areas along the Forgotten Coast, accessibility features vary by location. Many local restaurants and shops in historic Apalachicola are housed in older buildings that may have limited accessibility, though some have added ramps and accessible entrances. Parking availability and restroom accessibility differ throughout the region. The Apalachicola Maritime Museum and other attractions may have specific accommodations, but it's best to call ahead.

For fishing charters and boat tours, accessibility depends on individual operators and vessel designs. Contact the venues directly for current accessibility details, as features and equipment availability can change seasonally. St. George Island State Park can be reached at their main number for the most up-to-date information about beach wheelchair reservations and other accessibility services.

More accessible places in Florida

• Adventure Island (Tampa)
• The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)
• Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (Sarasota)
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa)
• Big Cypress National Preserve (Ochopee)