Beachfront Bungalow
Beaches on the Forgotten Coast
Franklin County features more than 250 miles of Florida beaches. Gulf beaches with miles of gently rolling surf, bay beaches with nature and privacy, beaches that are perfect for families, beaches that are great for fishing, beaches you can drive to and beaches you'll need a boat to enjoy. Every beach is beautiful and each one is different.
Recently ranked #4 in America
A beach only a short drive from Tallahassee has been ranked as one of the best in America by Dr. Beach.
Dr. Stephen Leatherman, who has been using the Dr. Beach alias for 30 years, released his comprehensive "Top Ten Beaches" Thursday morning, where St. George Island State Park secured the No. 4 spot.
Leatherman cited assets like great beachcombing, shelling and "sugary fine, white sand beach" for the high ranking of the 2,000-acre park.
"This long barrier island, far from urban areas, is a favorite destination for beachgoers, anglers and bird watchers as nature abounds," he wrote in his rankings. "While St. George Island suffered a big hit in 2018 by Hurricane Michael, the area has substantially recovered, especially the sugary fine, white sand beach. There is much to explore."
St. George State Park, about a two hour drive from the capital city, is the beach mecca for many in Tallahassee, who make a daytrip or take a mini-vacation to visit the often secluded shore. Cost of attendance is $6 per carload.
To land on Leatherman's list, beaches are vetted in 50 categories including number of sunny days, sand softness, watercolor and more.
The barrier island beach was joined by one other Florida beach, Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater.
In 2020, another Florida Panhandle beach, also about 2 hours away from Tallahassee, won the top spot, Grayton Beach State Park.
This is the first time St. George made it on the top ten since Hurricane Michael, which devastated the area. The state park reopened in 2019.
It, however, has been a regular on the best beaches list in the last decade. In 2015, 2014 and 2013, it landed a No. 3 spot in the rankings.
Full 2021 Dr. Beach "Top Ten Beaches" List:
1. Hapuna Beach State Park in Hawaii Island, Hawaii
2. Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York
3. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach in Outer Banks of North Carolina
4. St. George Island State Park, Florida Panhandle
5. Lighthouse Beach in Buxton Outer Banks, North Carolina
6. Duke Kahanamoku Beach Oahu, Hawaii
7. Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater, Florida
8. Coronado Beach in San Diego, California
9. Beachwalker Park Kiawah Island, South Carolina
10. Coast Guard Beach Cape Cod, Massachusetts
From the Tallahassee Democrat May 27, 2021
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Saint George Island
Recently ranked #4 in America
A beach only a short drive from Tallahassee has been ranked as one of the best in America by Dr. Beach.
Dr. Stephen Leatherman, who has been using the Dr. Beach alias for 30 years, released his comprehensive "Top Ten Beaches" Thursday morning, where St. George Island State Park secured the No. 4 spot.
Leatherman cited assets like great beachcombing, shelling and "sugary fine, white sand beach" for the high ranking of the 2,000-acre park.
"This long barrier island, far from urban areas, is a favorite destination for beachgoers, anglers and bird watchers as nature abounds," he wrote in his rankings. "While St. George Island suffered a big hit in 2018 by Hurricane Michael, the area has substantially recovered, especially the sugary fine, white sand beach. There is much to explore."
St. George State Park, about a two hour drive from the capital city, is the beach mecca for many in Tallahassee, who make a daytrip or take a mini-vacation to visit the often secluded shore. Cost of attendance is $6 per carload.
To land on Leatherman's list, beaches are vetted in 50 categories including number of sunny days, sand softness, watercolor and more.
The barrier island beach was joined by one other Florida beach, Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater.
In 2020, another Florida Panhandle beach, also about 2 hours away from Tallahassee, won the top spot, Grayton Beach State Park.
This is the first time St. George made it on the top ten since Hurricane Michael, which devastated the area. The state park reopened in 2019.
It, however, has been a regular on the best beaches list in the last decade. In 2015, 2014 and 2013, it landed a No. 3 spot in the rankings.
Full 2021 Dr. Beach "Top Ten Beaches" List:
1. Hapuna Beach State Park in Hawaii Island, Hawaii
2. Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York
3. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach in Outer Banks of North Carolina
4. St. George Island State Park, Florida Panhandle
5. Lighthouse Beach in Buxton Outer Banks, North Carolina
6. Duke Kahanamoku Beach Oahu, Hawaii
7. Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater, Florida
8. Coronado Beach in San Diego, California
9. Beachwalker Park Kiawah Island, South Carolina
10. Coast Guard Beach Cape Cod, Massachusetts
From the Tallahassee Democrat May 27, 2021
This narrow beach peninsula area boasts eight miles of quiet shoreline and unparalleled fishing. There are two main beaches on Alligator Point, Florida and several public access areas along the beach plus two boat ramps on the bay side. ALLIGATOR POINT BEACH
This beach is on the far east end of Franklin County. Turn off U.S. Highway 98 onto Alligator Point Road and follow it, curving around to the right. This is a long white-sand beach that many locals would probably just as soon stay undiscovered. But it's too pretty to stay hidden. This beach is locally renowned for fishing with spring, summer and fall bringing Trout, Redfish, Pompano and even runs of Tarpon. There are no public facilities and public access is limited to a few areas with minimal parking. If you want a long beach with soft sand and nature to view, try discovering Alligator Point Beach.
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Alligator Point
This narrow beach peninsula area boasts eight miles of quiet shoreline and unparalleled fishing. There are two main beaches on Alligator Point, Florida and several public access areas along the beach plus two boat ramps on the bay side. ALLIGATOR POINT BEACH
This beach is on the far east end of Franklin County. Turn off U.S. Highway 98 onto Alligator Point Road and follow it, curving around to the right. This is a long white-sand beach that many locals would probably just as soon stay undiscovered. But it's too pretty to stay hidden. This beach is locally renowned for fishing with spring, summer and fall bringing Trout, Redfish, Pompano and even runs of Tarpon. There are no public facilities and public access is limited to a few areas with minimal parking. If you want a long beach with soft sand and nature to view, try discovering Alligator Point Beach.
Effective May 21, 2021: T.H. Stone St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Pontoon boat, kayak and canoe rentals are available. The campground and the cabins are closed due to damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018. St. Joseph Peninsula’s beach day use and boat ramp parking area will operate at a limited capacity due to ongoing hurricane recovery efforts and construction projects. Parking spaces will be limited, especially for boats, trailers and larger vehicles on busy days, weekends and holidays. There are other boat ramps available in the area if needed. Please call the park office at 850-227-1327 for updates or information.
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T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Effective May 21, 2021: T.H. Stone St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Pontoon boat, kayak and canoe rentals are available. The campground and the cabins are closed due to damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018. St. Joseph Peninsula’s beach day use and boat ramp parking area will operate at a limited capacity due to ongoing hurricane recovery efforts and construction projects. Parking spaces will be limited, especially for boats, trailers and larger vehicles on busy days, weekends and holidays. There are other boat ramps available in the area if needed. Please call the park office at 850-227-1327 for updates or information.
Located 1.5 miles west of Carrabelle, Florida on US 98. This easily-accessed, curving, white-sand beach is located just west of the City of Carrabelle on U.S. Highway 98. There is plenty of convenient parking, outdoor showers, bathroom facilities and covered picnic tables. Features several small picnic shelters with grills, restrooms and parking for about 40 vehicles. This is a very popular beach with a gently sloping bottom and calm surf. Since the beach is protected by Dog Island from heavy winds and seas, it is often the most suitable of all our major beaches for families with young children. While the center of the beach near the bath houses can get crowded on holidays, this is a long, curving beach with plenty of space to find your own sand and solitude. The beach borders on St. George Sound and the water is clear and inviting. This is a great beach for nature-watching, too. Dolphin hunt mullet up close in the surf in a sometimes spectacular display. Many shore birds can be sighted and it is a hot spot for birders during spring and fall migrations.
OLD CARRABELLE BEACH
This magnificent stretch of soft sand is one of the best-kept secrets in Franklin County. Access is just west of the Carrabelle Bridge on Gulf Beach Road. There is no formal parking area and no facilities. Close to acres of grass beds, this beach offers superb fishing especially in the summer and fall months. But most folks like this lovely stretch of sand for its beauty and tranquility. This romantic beach is locally famous for its sunrises and sunsets.
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Carrabelle Beach
Located 1.5 miles west of Carrabelle, Florida on US 98. This easily-accessed, curving, white-sand beach is located just west of the City of Carrabelle on U.S. Highway 98. There is plenty of convenient parking, outdoor showers, bathroom facilities and covered picnic tables. Features several small picnic shelters with grills, restrooms and parking for about 40 vehicles. This is a very popular beach with a gently sloping bottom and calm surf. Since the beach is protected by Dog Island from heavy winds and seas, it is often the most suitable of all our major beaches for families with young children. While the center of the beach near the bath houses can get crowded on holidays, this is a long, curving beach with plenty of space to find your own sand and solitude. The beach borders on St. George Sound and the water is clear and inviting. This is a great beach for nature-watching, too. Dolphin hunt mullet up close in the surf in a sometimes spectacular display. Many shore birds can be sighted and it is a hot spot for birders during spring and fall migrations.
OLD CARRABELLE BEACH
This magnificent stretch of soft sand is one of the best-kept secrets in Franklin County. Access is just west of the Carrabelle Bridge on Gulf Beach Road. There is no formal parking area and no facilities. Close to acres of grass beds, this beach offers superb fishing especially in the summer and fall months. But most folks like this lovely stretch of sand for its beauty and tranquility. This romantic beach is locally famous for its sunrises and sunsets.
Accessed off U.S. Highway 98 onto Alligator Point Road, you then follow the signage. This state park beach is perfect for nature lovers. There is an entrance fee and there are facilities and easy parking. Because of the flow of nutrient rich waters down the Ochlockonee River, this beach has an individual personality. Depending on flow and up-river rains, the water can look muddy but it supports a great deal of life. Shallow water oyster beds are magnets for fish and birds. Birders in particular will enjoy the range of shore birds and wading birds. You’ll probably want to have some hard-soled footwear for walking off the sand beaches on sharp oyster shells. Bald Point offers access to two Apalachee Bay beaches for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing. Facilities include a fishing dock and picnic pavilions.
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Bald Point State Park
146 Box Cut Rd
Accessed off U.S. Highway 98 onto Alligator Point Road, you then follow the signage. This state park beach is perfect for nature lovers. There is an entrance fee and there are facilities and easy parking. Because of the flow of nutrient rich waters down the Ochlockonee River, this beach has an individual personality. Depending on flow and up-river rains, the water can look muddy but it supports a great deal of life. Shallow water oyster beds are magnets for fish and birds. Birders in particular will enjoy the range of shore birds and wading birds. You’ll probably want to have some hard-soled footwear for walking off the sand beaches on sharp oyster shells. Bald Point offers access to two Apalachee Bay beaches for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing. Facilities include a fishing dock and picnic pavilions.
Sightseeing
This pristine park has hiking trails, swimming area, picnic tables and grills, play ground, kayak rental. Less than 20 minute drive from Beachfront Bungalow.
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Ochlockonee River State Park
Sopchoppy HighwayThis pristine park has hiking trails, swimming area, picnic tables and grills, play ground, kayak rental. Less than 20 minute drive from Beachfront Bungalow.
At the head of Apalachee Bay stands the 80-foot St. Marks Lighthouse, fashioned of limestone blocks taken from the ruins of a 17th-century fort. The light has cast its beam into the night skies above the Gulf of Mexico since the early 1830s.
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St. Mark's Fyr
At the head of Apalachee Bay stands the 80-foot St. Marks Lighthouse, fashioned of limestone blocks taken from the ruins of a 17th-century fort. The light has cast its beam into the night skies above the Gulf of Mexico since the early 1830s.
16 mile trail follows the abandoned rail bed of Florida’s first and longest operating rail line from 1836 to 1983. Great for hiking, biking, and skateboarding due to smooth pavement, no large hills. Bring your own water.
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Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
4778 Woodville Highway16 mile trail follows the abandoned rail bed of Florida’s first and longest operating rail line from 1836 to 1983. Great for hiking, biking, and skateboarding due to smooth pavement, no large hills. Bring your own water.
Roadside Rusted Ford Trucks
4210 Crawfordville HighwayJust for fun...
Drive east on Hwy 98, turn south on Hwy 59 to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. From observation decks overlooking dense woods and swampland, visitors can view the plumage and listen to the voices of bright yellow prothonotary warblers, Acadian flycatchers, eastern meadowlarks, and some 200 other kinds of birds.
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St Marks National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Centre
1255 Lighthouse RoadDrive east on Hwy 98, turn south on Hwy 59 to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. From observation decks overlooking dense woods and swampland, visitors can view the plumage and listen to the voices of bright yellow prothonotary warblers, Acadian flycatchers, eastern meadowlarks, and some 200 other kinds of birds.
The John Gorrie State Museum is a Florida State Park located in Apalachicola, a block off U.S. 98. It commemorates the man who was a pioneer in developing air conditioning, receiving the first U.S. Patent for mechanical refrigeration in 1851. Located at 46 Sixth St., Apalachicola FL 32320 850-653-9347
Update: museum is currently closed
John Gorrie Museum State Park
46 6th StThe John Gorrie State Museum is a Florida State Park located in Apalachicola, a block off U.S. 98. It commemorates the man who was a pioneer in developing air conditioning, receiving the first U.S. Patent for mechanical refrigeration in 1851. Located at 46 Sixth St., Apalachicola FL 32320 850-653-9347
Update: museum is currently closed
Hollywood filmed its early Tarzan movies at Wakulla Springs, a pristine riverbank environment preserved by the far-sighted efforts of financier Edward Ball. You can enjoy this watery realm - vibrant with snakes, alligators, and waterfowl -from the safety of a riverboat or hike the hospitable trails of the park's magnificent virgin upland hardwood forest. The spring itself was discovered long ago by Indians, and according to legend it was also visited by the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon, seeker of the Fountain of Youth, who is said to have wintered here. The crystal-clear pool, nearly 125 feet deep, is fed by an underground river that discharges some 600,000 gallons per minutes into the spring's basin and then into the Wakulla River. With the aid of a glass-bottomed excursion boat, visitors to the spring can look down to the entrance of a cave where mastodon bones are lodged-and from which a complete skeleton of one of the prehistoric creatures was retrieved by paleontologists in 1935. Spring is open to swimmers. Dining room recommends reservations for lunch and dinner.
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Wakulla Springs delstatspark
465 Wakulla Park DrHollywood filmed its early Tarzan movies at Wakulla Springs, a pristine riverbank environment preserved by the far-sighted efforts of financier Edward Ball. You can enjoy this watery realm - vibrant with snakes, alligators, and waterfowl -from the safety of a riverboat or hike the hospitable trails of the park's magnificent virgin upland hardwood forest. The spring itself was discovered long ago by Indians, and according to legend it was also visited by the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon, seeker of the Fountain of Youth, who is said to have wintered here. The crystal-clear pool, nearly 125 feet deep, is fed by an underground river that discharges some 600,000 gallons per minutes into the spring's basin and then into the Wakulla River. With the aid of a glass-bottomed excursion boat, visitors to the spring can look down to the entrance of a cave where mastodon bones are lodged-and from which a complete skeleton of one of the prehistoric creatures was retrieved by paleontologists in 1935. Spring is open to swimmers. Dining room recommends reservations for lunch and dinner.
Lil’ Herc was kept at Marineland in St. Augustine for several years before moving to SeaWorld, eventually moving here to GSML in January of 2017. She has been in captivity for close to 20 years. She was struck by a boat, which blinded her, making her a permanent resident turtle utilized in teaching people about sea turtles and the impacts humans have on them.
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Gulf Specimen Marine Lab & Aquarium
222 Clark DrLil’ Herc was kept at Marineland in St. Augustine for several years before moving to SeaWorld, eventually moving here to GSML in January of 2017. She has been in captivity for close to 20 years. She was struck by a boat, which blinded her, making her a permanent resident turtle utilized in teaching people about sea turtles and the impacts humans have on them.
Camp Gordon Johnston Museum
1873 Hwy 98 WRecommended by one of our guests!
Nearby Towns and Communities
Apalachicola, Florida, is a welcoming small town found on the southern tip of the Florida Panhandle. The name of the town says it all since it is an Indian name which means “friendly people”. Currently, the most important industry in this town is seafood harvesting. Local fishing industry includes blue crab, shrimp and various types of fish. John Gorrie State Museum resides here.
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Apalachicola
Apalachicola, Florida, is a welcoming small town found on the southern tip of the Florida Panhandle. The name of the town says it all since it is an Indian name which means “friendly people”. Currently, the most important industry in this town is seafood harvesting. Local fishing industry includes blue crab, shrimp and various types of fish. John Gorrie State Museum resides here.
Natural Attractions
Over 87% of Franklin County's 545 square miles are preserved and managed by the state or federal government. These open lands provide endless opportunities to explore both uplands and coastal lowlands. From a dwarf cypress boardwalk and observation tower to primitive beaches, there are miles of trails available for hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, bicycling or horseback riding. The links below will help you find your way.
Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve
Encompassing over 246,000 acres in Apalachicola Bay, it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation. Educational center located on Island Drive in Eastpoint. Exhibits on the flora and fauna of the area, an aviary and live giant fish tanks. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 670-7700.
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Eastpoint
Natural Attractions
Over 87% of Franklin County's 545 square miles are preserved and managed by the state or federal government. These open lands provide endless opportunities to explore both uplands and coastal lowlands. From a dwarf cypress boardwalk and observation tower to primitive beaches, there are miles of trails available for hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, bicycling or horseback riding. The links below will help you find your way.
Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve
Encompassing over 246,000 acres in Apalachicola Bay, it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation. Educational center located on Island Drive in Eastpoint. Exhibits on the flora and fauna of the area, an aviary and live giant fish tanks. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 670-7700.
PANACEA, FL
Nestled between the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and Apalachicola National Forest, Panacea is a nature lover's paradise. Towering pine forests, shady palmetto and hardwood hammocks, a bountiful freshwater lake, healthy tidal marshes, and pristine estuaries provide opportunities for bird and wildlife observation. The sweeping views are compelling. Otter Lake, located one mile west of town, features an amazing feathered performance of birds, which roost at dusk. Follow Bottoms Road to Skipper Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. The end of the road reveals an open sky ideal for watching sunsets and for stargazing.
Panacea is one of several Natural North Florida communities located along U.S. Highway 98, the Gulf Coastal Highway, and is approximately 40 miles south of the city of Tallahassee, the state capital. Panacea was originally known as Smith Springs until 1893 when the land around the five springs located here was purchased and the community was renamed Panacea, after the goddess of universal remedy, due to the supposed curative properties of the spring waters.
Panacea is steeped in a rich maritime history, shaped by generations of proud families who still work the water in the time-honored traditions of boat-building, shrimping, crabbing, and fishing. Visitors can learn the about the maritime history of the area, or even how to build a boat, at the Big Bend Maritime Center located in town.
The Rock Landing dock features breathtaking views of Dickerson Bay. This is where commercial and sport fishermen bring home their daily catches of blue crab, oysters, pink and white shrimp, mullet, trout, and grouper, which is sold to local restaurants and markets. Plan to attend the Blue Crab Festival held the first Saturday each May, as well as the Mighty Mullet Maritime Festival, which takes place in the fall.
Panacea is home to the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory. The laboratory houses touch tanks allowing children to see and/or touch creatures from the nearby Gulf such as seahorses and hermit crabs, emerald eyed spiny box fish, electric rays and red and white spotted calico crabs.
The Wakulla County Welcome Center is located on U.S. Highway 98 near Dickerson Bay. Stop in to browse displays of old photographs, artifacts, and artwork while discovering Panacea's attractions, as well as for local nature guides and charter boat captains at your service.
Panacea
PANACEA, FL
Nestled between the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and Apalachicola National Forest, Panacea is a nature lover's paradise. Towering pine forests, shady palmetto and hardwood hammocks, a bountiful freshwater lake, healthy tidal marshes, and pristine estuaries provide opportunities for bird and wildlife observation. The sweeping views are compelling. Otter Lake, located one mile west of town, features an amazing feathered performance of birds, which roost at dusk. Follow Bottoms Road to Skipper Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. The end of the road reveals an open sky ideal for watching sunsets and for stargazing.
Panacea is one of several Natural North Florida communities located along U.S. Highway 98, the Gulf Coastal Highway, and is approximately 40 miles south of the city of Tallahassee, the state capital. Panacea was originally known as Smith Springs until 1893 when the land around the five springs located here was purchased and the community was renamed Panacea, after the goddess of universal remedy, due to the supposed curative properties of the spring waters.
Panacea is steeped in a rich maritime history, shaped by generations of proud families who still work the water in the time-honored traditions of boat-building, shrimping, crabbing, and fishing. Visitors can learn the about the maritime history of the area, or even how to build a boat, at the Big Bend Maritime Center located in town.
The Rock Landing dock features breathtaking views of Dickerson Bay. This is where commercial and sport fishermen bring home their daily catches of blue crab, oysters, pink and white shrimp, mullet, trout, and grouper, which is sold to local restaurants and markets. Plan to attend the Blue Crab Festival held the first Saturday each May, as well as the Mighty Mullet Maritime Festival, which takes place in the fall.
Panacea is home to the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory. The laboratory houses touch tanks allowing children to see and/or touch creatures from the nearby Gulf such as seahorses and hermit crabs, emerald eyed spiny box fish, electric rays and red and white spotted calico crabs.
The Wakulla County Welcome Center is located on U.S. Highway 98 near Dickerson Bay. Stop in to browse displays of old photographs, artifacts, and artwork while discovering Panacea's attractions, as well as for local nature guides and charter boat captains at your service.
Port St. Joe
Crawfordville
Known as the Florida Panhandle's Gateway to the Gulf, Carrabelle is nature lover's paradise. Although the area is probably most famous for its beautiful beaches, there are countless other things to see and do here—from fishing, boating and paddling to hiking, shopping and dining on fresh, local seafood. At easy going Carrabelle, a celebrated local attraction is a telephone booth billed as the world's smallest police station. From Carrabelle's impressive marina, charter boats head out into the gulf in search of tarpons, groupers, amberjacks, and red snappers. A little ferry, by reservation, motors out to Dog Island on weekends, where 100 or so householders share sand and serenity with a vast Nature Conservancy preserve. There are no stores, restaurants, or public restrooms on Dog Island.
Carrabelle River flows into St. George Sound in Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The area has been a base for commercial fishermen. It is home to a river festival. It is crossed by the Carrabelle River Bridge on U.S. Route 98.
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Carrabelle
Known as the Florida Panhandle's Gateway to the Gulf, Carrabelle is nature lover's paradise. Although the area is probably most famous for its beautiful beaches, there are countless other things to see and do here—from fishing, boating and paddling to hiking, shopping and dining on fresh, local seafood. At easy going Carrabelle, a celebrated local attraction is a telephone booth billed as the world's smallest police station. From Carrabelle's impressive marina, charter boats head out into the gulf in search of tarpons, groupers, amberjacks, and red snappers. A little ferry, by reservation, motors out to Dog Island on weekends, where 100 or so householders share sand and serenity with a vast Nature Conservancy preserve. There are no stores, restaurants, or public restrooms on Dog Island.
Carrabelle River flows into St. George Sound in Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The area has been a base for commercial fishermen. It is home to a river festival. It is crossed by the Carrabelle River Bridge on U.S. Route 98.
Lanark (pronounced Lan-ark) Village is an unincorporated community in Franklin County, Florida, United States, located along U.S. 98, on the Gulf of Mexico. It is 5 miles east of Carrabelle, Florida. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was known as Lanark-on-the-Gulf.
Lanark Village
Lanark (pronounced Lan-ark) Village is an unincorporated community in Franklin County, Florida, United States, located along U.S. 98, on the Gulf of Mexico. It is 5 miles east of Carrabelle, Florida. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was known as Lanark-on-the-Gulf.
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
21. Carrabelle
• Number of beaches: 1
• Miles of shoreline: 3.8
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $261,205
Carrabelle Beach
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
21. Carrabelle
• Number of beaches: 1
• Miles of shoreline: 3.8
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $261,205
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
24. Eastpoint
• Number of beaches: 3
• Miles of shoreline: 14.4
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $738,216
FL-30, Eastpoint, FL, USA
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
24. Eastpoint
• Number of beaches: 3
• Miles of shoreline: 14.4
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $738,216
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
11. Port Saint Joe
• Number of beaches: 7
• Miles of shoreline: 37.1
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $470,271
Reeser Str. 106, 46446 Emmerich am Rhein, Tyskland
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
11. Port Saint Joe
• Number of beaches: 7
• Miles of shoreline: 37.1
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $470,271
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
10. Panacea
• Number of beaches: 2
• Miles of shoreline: 13.9
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $365,863
FL-377, Florida, USA
JUNE 12, 2023
What Are the Best Fla. Beach Towns?
Rather than consider the quality of sand or sunsets, a study ranked metros’ median home price, number of beaches, miles of shoreline and average temperature.
10. Panacea
• Number of beaches: 2
• Miles of shoreline: 13.9
• Average swim season length: 244 days
• Average county summer temperature: 82 degrees
• Median home price: $365,863
Food & Drink
Florida’s Forgotten Coast is home to heaps of awesome restaurants, from casual beachfront cafes to riverside oyster dives to fine dining experiences. With more than 30 restaurants across Franklin County, you’re certain to find mouthwatering menus and delicious dishes to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. While you’re here, be sure to sample the fresh, local seafood, including our world-famous Apalachicola oysters, clams, shrimp, blue crabs and the catch of the day straight from the Gulf of Mexico.
Great food, beautiful water view, great service. Indoor and outdoor seating.
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Family Coastal Restaurant
397 US-98Great food, beautiful water view, great service. Indoor and outdoor seating.
The Fisherman's Wife
201 8th St WGood food and service
Excellent food and gorgeous water views. Inside and outside dining tables. Full liquor bar. Family-owned business for over 30 years.
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Angelo's Seafood Restaurant
5 Mashes Sands RdExcellent food and gorgeous water views. Inside and outside dining tables. Full liquor bar. Family-owned business for over 30 years.
Great menu selection, great food, great view with outdoor seating. Caught daily and served fresh are mahi mahi and grouper. The bread pudding is very special, prepared using their special recipe!
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Blue Parrot Ocean Front Cafe
68 Gorrie Drive EastGreat menu selection, great food, great view with outdoor seating. Caught daily and served fresh are mahi mahi and grouper. The bread pudding is very special, prepared using their special recipe!
Paddy's Raw Bar
240 3rd St EWe have not experienced this one - yet:)
We have enjoyed many lunches here with friends and family. All have enjoyed the location, atmosphere, delicious food and southern hospitality!
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The Tap Room of Owl Cafe
75 Commerce StreetWe have enjoyed many lunches here with friends and family. All have enjoyed the location, atmosphere, delicious food and southern hospitality!
Recommended by one of our guests! Food was great (1 lb peel & eat shrimp, The Greedy Grouper and The Tropical Trader Platter) and we highly recommend the Hippie Juice if you like sweet cocktails.
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Tropical Trader Shrimp Co.
91 Coastal HwyRecommended by one of our guests! Food was great (1 lb peel & eat shrimp, The Greedy Grouper and The Tropical Trader Platter) and we highly recommend the Hippie Juice if you like sweet cocktails.
Located within Apalachicola's historic Gibson Inn. Delicious food and full of character!
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The Franklin
51 Ave CLocated within Apalachicola's historic Gibson Inn. Delicious food and full of character!
Neighborhoods
Beach Flag Warnings (info herein provided by Franklin County Parks website) The safety and enjoyment of Franklin County, Florida’s public beaches are affected by changes in tide and surf conditions. To minimize the risks of drowning or serious injury, the Florida Coastal Management Program worked with the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association, the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), and the International Life Saving Federation to develop a uniform warning flag program for use by Florida’s beachfront communities.
How Does It Work?
Florida’s beach warning flag program uses flags in four colors accompanied by interpretive signs along the beach to explain the meaning of each color. The beach flags provide general warnings about overall surf conditions and do not specifically advise the public of the presence of rip currents. Rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.
Where Can I Find Beach Flags?
2 East Gulf Beach Drive & Franklin Blvd
St. George Island, FL 32328
Carrabelle Beach Wayside Park
1860 West Highway 98
Carrabelle, FL 32322
1336 Alligator Drive
Alligator Point, FL 32346
***ABSENCE OF FLAGS DOES NOT ASSURE SAFE WATERS***
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Carrabelle Beach
Beach Flag Warnings (info herein provided by Franklin County Parks website) The safety and enjoyment of Franklin County, Florida’s public beaches are affected by changes in tide and surf conditions. To minimize the risks of drowning or serious injury, the Florida Coastal Management Program worked with the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association, the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), and the International Life Saving Federation to develop a uniform warning flag program for use by Florida’s beachfront communities.
How Does It Work?
Florida’s beach warning flag program uses flags in four colors accompanied by interpretive signs along the beach to explain the meaning of each color. The beach flags provide general warnings about overall surf conditions and do not specifically advise the public of the presence of rip currents. Rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.
Where Can I Find Beach Flags?
2 East Gulf Beach Drive & Franklin Blvd
St. George Island, FL 32328
Carrabelle Beach Wayside Park
1860 West Highway 98
Carrabelle, FL 32322
1336 Alligator Drive
Alligator Point, FL 32346
***ABSENCE OF FLAGS DOES NOT ASSURE SAFE WATERS***
Fishing and Boating
Franklin County is a boater’s heaven with hundreds of miles of freshwater creeks, sloughs and rivers that empty into nutrient-rich bays and out to the Gulf of Mexico.
Getting out on the water is the easy part here – Franklin County, Florida features more than 40 boat ramps and primitive paddling launches stretching from Alligator Point to Apalachicola. Bring your boat and tie up at one of the area’s 10 commercial marinas. Some can even accommodate you and your boat.
No boat? No problem! You can rent a boat from boat rental operations or charter a trip from one of the many experienced guides in the area.
Just off Hwy 98 on CR 370, 14.62 miles southwest of Panacea and 25.03 miles east of Carrabelle is Alligator Point Marina. The marina offers dry storage, wet slips with floating docks, ships store, tiki nut, and more.
Address: 1648 Alligator Dr, Panacea, FL 32346
Phone: (850) 349-2511
Alligator Point Marina
1648 Alligator DriveJust off Hwy 98 on CR 370, 14.62 miles southwest of Panacea and 25.03 miles east of Carrabelle is Alligator Point Marina. The marina offers dry storage, wet slips with floating docks, ships store, tiki nut, and more.
Address: 1648 Alligator Dr, Panacea, FL 32346
Phone: (850) 349-2511
Food scene
Hamaknockers BBQ
2837 Coastal HwyDelicious BBQ! and friendly folk, of course!
Aunt Ebby's Ice Cream
147 E Gulf Beach DrRecommended by one our guests for delicious ice cream!