Port St. Joe Cape San Blas St. Joe Beach Wewahitchka Indian Pass Area Map ...... 1 Shop, Dine, nightlife In Gulf County... Retail Therapy ...... 39 destinations Bring Your Appetite ...... 4111 We have always said that we are designed by nature . People Small Town . Big Sound ...... 43 here are connected to the landscape, the waterways and the Port St . Joe...... 3 Our Ingredients . Your Masterpiece . . .45 wildlife . We know that Hurricane Michael was another Indian Pass...... 5 part of nature’s intended plan . Trees and brush were Cape San Blas...... 7 cleared to make way for new growth leaving new St . Joe Beach...... 9 Local & Social spectacular sunset views . Inlets were created to Wewahitchka ...... 111 1 Gulf County Gold ...... 47 allow waters to flow as nature desires creating new secret ‘fishing holes’ . We know this land has Easy-Breezy Side Trips ...... 49 always belonged to the earth and we’re lucky water escapes Wedded Bliss Starts Here ...... 50

to enjoy it while we’re here . We will rebuild our 11 Water is Life...... 13 Our Past Tells A Story ...... 51 community around the beauty created before Reel Adventure...... 15 Festivals & Events ...... 53. us . Once again, we are redesigned by nature Explore Like a Local ...... 55. and will continue to be . Area Boat Ramps...... 17 Go Below the Surface...... 19 Winter Guests ...... 57 Local Resources ...... 58 Marvel Through Your Mask ...... 21 1 We open our arms again to our loyal visitors Glide for Miles...... 22 Be an Instant Insider ...... 59 and ask for your patience and understanding We’re Quite Sociable ...... 60 as we rebuild in this piece of paradise . We know that you love this area as your own and we outdoor playground cannot thank you enough for your overwhelming Home Away from home Hit the Sand, Leash in Hand!...... 23

outpouring of support during this time . We are Find Your Happy Place ...... 61 1 Go Barefoot...... 25 grateful for your passion for Gulf County and ask you to continue being part of our recovery Keep it Wild...... 26 by coming to see us . You will see many new Nature’s Fortune...... 27 The Gulf County TDC would like things on your visit; new landscapes, a fresh Stay Closer to Nature...... 29 to graciously thank the following coat of paint, a new set of linens, but you friends who contributed to this guide: Saddle Up Surfside...... 311 will still find our genuine smiles . Hit the Clubs ...... 32 Carla Ashabranner, Two Bit Stables, Mindy Gilbert, Linda Parks & Playgrounds...... 33 Brannan, Lily & Lakin Hicks, Welcome back to Gulf County, Florida! Ride or Stride ...... 34 Jacob & Costin Marshall, Bailey Port City Trail...... 35 Lake, Anna LaCivita, Gary & Savannah Rose Stewart, The See Our Wild Side...... 37 Terry Family, Higdon Swatts, Karissa & Dillin McGhee, Molly Muth, Judy Herendeen, and Friends of Saint Vincent Island. Overstreet Boat Ramp 386 Land’s Landing Park 4 miles to Wewahitchka & Boat Ramp Overstreet 73 Honeyville 98 Wewahitchka CENTRAL EASTERN Dead Lakes TIME ZONE TIME ZONE Honeyville Park 71 In terco as Dead Lakes Park Beacon Hill tal & Boat Ramp Mexico W Veterans Memorial Park Lake Alice Park Beach at Beacon Hill a 71 te 22 rw St. Joe Beach ay Gaskin Park T L. . James Park & Boat Ramp

98 386 Captain’s Cove White City Marina and Highland View Howard Creek Boat Ramp Windmark Boat Ramp White City Park Beach & Boat Ramp Highland View Gulf County Canal Joe Marina Cape San Blas . Lighthouse Parks ...... page 33 Port St and Jetty Park Port T H. . Stone Lake Boat Ramps . . . . page 18 Memorial St. Joe St . Joseph Wimico State Park GULF COUNTY Reid Ave . Diving ...... page 21 WELCOME CENTER Shopping Frank Pate Park Boat Ramp Constitution Museum 98 Apalachicola River

Eagle Harbor Costin epot C St. Joseph Bay Airport D reek Trail Gulf of Mexico St . Joseph Bay Golf Cape Palms Park Club Apalachicola Black’s 98 Island 30A Loggerhead Run Bike Trail Simmons Bayou 30A St . Joseph Bay St . Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve Apalachicola Bay Cape San Blas Aquatic Preserve Indian Pass Boat Ramp

10 mi 30E Indian Pass Indian Salinas Pass Lagoon St . Vincent Island 10 km Distances are approximate Park National Wildlife Refuge

1 Area Map facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 2 ...... DESTINATIONS...... Charming beach town “Gorgeous coastlines are just one reason to visit Port St. Joe, Florida. This small town holds treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm.” J Mary G., January 2017, batteredandbrewed.com PSteeped o r tin richS history, t . naturaloe beauty and outdoor adventure, most will tell you it’s the people who make this place really special.

Stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors Port St . Joe Marina has been a hub for in one of the many parks, playgrounds boating activity in Port St . Joe . The marina and walking trails in Port St . Joe or stroll was damaged during Hurricane Michael along Historic Downtown which is just one but is being repaired and upgraded during block off Highway 98 . Historic Downtown is 2019 . During this time, you can still access lined with locally owned shops, art galleries the waterways from a variety of boat ramps and restaurants serving fresh seafood, wood throughout Port St . Joe . fired pizza and authentic Mexican cuisine . The shopping district is easily walkable and Gather every year to celebrate one of our connects with quaint inns, the lighthouse local celebrities at the Forgotten Coast park and outfitter stores . Sea Turtle Festival or enjoy listening to Nashville’s sounds at the Blast on the Bay Songwriter’s Festival . Visit page 53 for a complete calendar of events .

FEATURED PARTNERS America’s Mini Storage...... 850-639-2238 Mainstay Suites. . . . 850-229-6246 St. Joe Rent All. . . . . 850-227-2112 The Port Inn ...... 850-229-7678 Small town with a big heart. The Port Cottages. . . 850-229-7678 On the shore of St . Joseph Bay lies Vincent Ivers MD. . . . 850-227-7070 Port St . Joe, a place where visitors instantly feel like locals .

Port St. Joe

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IThe nd perfect ia place n toPass get back to nature.

Apalachicola oysters may be world famous but Indian Pass Lagoon Oysters are some of the best you’ll ever taste . The Gulf around Indian Pass is from a different time — flavorful, rustic and raw in its beauty . Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder and Pompano are an easy catch for the beach fisherman .

Just eight miles from Port St . Joe, Indian Pass feels like a world away . To vacation here is to experience Old Florida . An eclectic array of beach homes line miles of wide, pet-friendly beaches . Beach driving is allowed with a permit, and it’s not unusual to see families fishing, crabbing, grilling or sitting around an evening bonfire . The most relaxing At land’s end you’ve reached Indian Pass Campground, located directly on Indian vacation ever Pass and Apalachicola Bay . Across the water you’ll see St . Vincent Island, a “I vacationed in Destin and PCB and national wildlife refuge, accessible only FEATURED PARTNERS then found the Forgotten Coast and by boat . A daily ferry trip will take you Coastal Joe and your bike across the short passage, Vacation Rentals. . . . 800-581-2910 never went back. That was 15 years or private charters will be glad to plan an Forgotten Coast Property excursion into Big Bayou . ago. We’ve found tons of sand Management . . . . . 850-648-1012 dollars. One year we found Pristine Properties. . . 800-215-0677 many shark teeth, too!” Sunset Reflections by Red Bud, Illinois, January 2016 • tripadvisor.com Natural Retreats. . . . 877-805-7794 Turtle Beach Inn . . . . 850-229-9366

Indian PAss

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CapeA string of soft San white sand beaches,Blas protecting an aquatic preserve with locally-owned stores and shops. ‘Irresistible’ pretty much sums it up.

Located on St . Joseph Peninsula, Cape San Mother Nature divided St . Joseph Peninsula Blas is a narrow stretch of land extending State Park into multiple islands when out from Port St . Joe and curving around Hurricane Michael made landfall in 2018 . St . Joseph Bay . The “Cape,” as most call it, The park will reopen to the public in 2019 . was named the best beach in America in 2002 by Dr . Stephen P . Leatherman (a k. a. . Dr . Beach) . Better still, the St . Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve remains one of the least populated coastal areas in the state where FEATURED PARTNERS residents and visitors have an excellent A Beach Break. . . . . 404-227-2632 opportunity to experience nature . Aqua Shores Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-387-0658 Nearly equal parts pristine beaches, a bay with abundant sea life and a laid-back Baytowne lifestyle, Cape San Blas is truly a vacation Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-227-3300 paradise . The Cape is easily accessible Bay Time from Port St . Joe, about a 20-minute drive . Vacation Rental. . . . 205-835-4278 Families who vacation on the Cape choose Be Our Guest. . . . . 850-677-1332 this spot for its beauty and seclusion . St . Joseph Bay is the only body of water in the Cape San Blas Get Away...... 678-523-1161 eastern Gulf of Mexico not influenced by the inflow of fresh water and hosts one of the Cape San Blas Pristine richest ecosystems along the Florida coast . Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-229-6916 Cape Villas and Natural The 8 7. -mile Loggerhead Trail is a paved Beach Bungalow. . . . 850-294-1811 pathway that runs the length of the Cape . Cottage Rents . . . . . 250-253-5336 “Cape San Blas is a gem in the Along the way, you’ll find local stores Panhandle. Pristine beautiful white stocked with beach supplies and groceries, Happy Cabanas. . . 816-694-5338 and unique restaurants with ice-cold oysters Knot Forgotten sand beaches on the Gulf side, and or hot pizza . Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-229-2512 activities galore in St. Joseph Bay.” Sanctuary Dwight L., October, 2018 • tripadvisor.com at Seacliffs...... 651-385-9552 Take in the sights. Serenity Explore the Cape while horseback Beach Rentals. . . . 850-647-3600 riding, fishing, kayaking, paddle Cape San Blas boarding, biking and hiking .

facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 8 ...... DESTINATIONS...... Family Fun “We love sitting on St. Joe Beach building sandcastles and playing with our kids.” Alyson G., February 2015 • facebook.com J B St.Turn back timeoe along the westerneach edge of Gulf County, literally. It’s here that the Eastern Time Zone meets the Central Time Zone.

The area including St . Joe Beach and WindMark Beach is often called “The Beaches” . Just 10 minutes away from Port St . Joe, it’s the perfect place for a quick trip out to explore our white sand beaches . This laid back beach borders Bay County at the time zone line .

The shoreline faces west for spectacular sunsets and is home to many vacation homes and pet-friendly beaches . With seafood restaurants located nearby, it’s a great place for old fashion relaxation .

FEATURED PARTNERS Ava’s Beach House. . . 850-718-8790 Coastline Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-227-3330 Gulf Coast What’s that island? Vacation Rentals. . . . 800-450-5116 Looking across the bay from St . Joe Beach, No Worries Vacation Rentals. . . . 850-229-6344 many have wondered about the island in the distance . It’s the tip of St . Joseph Seas the Day . . . . . 850-340-0432 Peninsula State Park which became an Teresa’s island when Hurricane Michael opened Beach Home...... 850-229-1522 the pass at Eagle Harbor in 2018 . The only way to reach the tip is by boat where you’ll find sheltered, clear water and white sandy beaches known for great shelling . St. Joe Beach

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WewahitchkaAt the northern end of the county, Wewahitchka takes its unique name from the American Indian expression meaning “water eyes”.

Like much of Gulf County, Wewahitchka is Reportedly formed when sand bars created defined by its waterways, located along by the Apalachicola River’s current blocked the Chipola River and the legendary Dead the Chipola River, the ensuing high water Lakes, home to one of the richest eco- killed thousands of trees in the floodplain, systems in Florida and a true local wonder… leaving a graveyard of bottom heavy Tupelo Honey . cypress skeletons, stumps and knees .

The Dead Lakes offer some of the best freshwater fishing in the nation, and a unique opportunity for nature photographers . Bass anglers regularly travel to this area to lure, then wrestle one of the “big boys” out of the cypress tree stumps that give the lake its name, and nature photographers join other outdoor lovers to capture a glimpse of this hauntingly beautiful body of water . The rugged beauty of this area was featured in Peter Fonda’s 1997 movie “Ulee’s Gold,” a story about the beekeepers who for more than 100 years have harvested world-famous Tupelo Honey from the Hauntingly beautiful swamps of the Apalachicola River Basin . Wewahitchka hosts the Tupelo Honey experience festival each May . “I took a private sunrise pontoon ride out into the Dead Lakes. The scenery is absolutely spectacular and I would recommend this to anyone interested FEATURED PARTNERS Off The Map in nature and photography.” Expeditions...... 850-819-3053 Red Bud Illinois, January 2016 • tripadvisor.com Smiley Honey. . . . . 850-639-5672

wewahitchka

facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 12 ...... WATER...... ESCAPES . . So much to soak up in Gulf County “Kayaking, boating, fishing, scalloping, crabbing and so much more! Whether in the Gulf or on the Bay, Gulf County is the place to play.” Water is life. Julie W., March 2017, facebook.com Born from a heritage of seafarers and fishermen, Gulf County has developed a unique on-the-water culture where families create their own traditions.

Off the beaten path, in the heart of the Gulf Coast, lies one of Florida’s best kept secrets . Open waters and endless possibilities abound here . Authentic, uncrowded and inviting .

Over 244 miles of shoreline wind through Gulf County ranging from clear waters and white sand beaches to tranquil inland passages . Pristine St. Joseph Bay is a coastal sanctuary protected by the peninsula and teeming with marine life . The Gulf of Mexico is easily accessible with outstanding deep-sea fishing and boating . The legendary Dead Lakes are home to one of the richest eco-systems in Florida . The Intercoastal Waterway flows east and west through Lake Wimico . And, Indian Pass Lagoon offers natural beauty and its celebrated oysters .

Water is life in Gulf County with an active-as-you-want-to-be, family-oriented lifestyle . We watch the journey to the water as boats, kayaks and paddleboards are magnetically pulled to the water . The call to the water isn’t for everyone, but those who feel it are part of a tribe, a culture where water is the single most important thing for fueling their soul .

Our waters

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Mullet Red Snapper Salt Water Florida Pompano Reel Grouper Adventure It’s easy to get hooked Flounder Speckled Trout on fishing in Gulf County.

Whiting Spanish Sheepshead Fishing in Gulf County is a year-round Mackerel activity and the thrill of fishing can be dialed down or up a notch depending on your mood . FISHING CHARTERS Triple King Ta il Mackerel Red Fish Looking to just wet a line or seeking 10G Fishing Charters ...... 229-869-7024 bragging rights on a big one? Inshore, Bali-Hai Charters ...... 850-227-5802 offshore, freshwater; the biggest catches Bar Hop’n Charters ...... 850-227-8659 are here . Break-A-Way Charters . . . . 850-227-4159. Captain Alan’s Sea Escapes . . .850-340-0643 Perhaps fishing wasn’t a part of your Cat Daddy Adventures . . . . 850-227-6697. FIND YOUR FISH! childhood, or you can count on your fingers Congo Charters ...... 850-527-2574 Make your fishing adventure more fun…get to know all kinds of Gulf County fish and test your how many times you’ve been in your Dog House Charters ...... 850-527-9350 whole life . Not to worry, friendly guides knowledge with your fellow anglers . See who can identify the most species and have fun! Fishin’ Xpress ...... 850-227-8200 will help you bait your hook, remove your Flat Bottom Fishing . . . . . 850-227-6108. catch from your line and put them on ice, Forgotten Coast Adventures . 850-258-4067. or even clean your fish . Contact one of our Spotted Lady J Charters ...... 850-227-1200. Concierges at visitgulf.com to find the right Bass Bluegill charter captain for you and your family . Liquid Addiction Charters . . 850-899-0366. Perfect Cast Charters . . . . .850-227-5149 Largemouth Bass You don’t have to leave the beach to make Phil’s Charter Service . . . . 850-247-9933. Fresh Water a great catch . We have outfitters that can Premier Sports Fishing . . . . .850-527-2659 get you surf fishing for under $50 even Saltwater Obsessions . . . . 850-227-6550. including your fishing license . Be sure to Shore Thang Charters . . . . .850-227-6272 White check all fishing regulations at myfwc.com . Flathead Catfish Bass Redbreast Southern Lady Charters . . . .850-227-1200 Sunfish Southern Tide Charters . . . 850-227-4542. Regardless of what’s biting, you’ll take Wickerbills ...... 850-229-2710. Channel home a ton of memories . Black Catfish Crappie BOAT RENTALS Presnell’s Bayside Marina . . 850-229-9229. Spotted Sunfish Striped Scallop Cove ...... 850-227-1573. Bass Seahorse Water Safaris . . . .850-227-1099 Warmouth Redear Sunfish FEATURED PARTNER 15 Fishing & Charters facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 16 SECTION TITLE ...... Dead Lakes 14

22 Wewahitchka 5 10

4

15 Chipola River GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA BOAT RAMPS

1 6 16 19 386 381

25 71 Inte rcoa sta l W

St. Joe Beach a Howard's te rw Creek ay 387 Area Boat Ramps & Launches Gulf of 8 12 1 Bryant’s Landing . . . . 899 Bryant’s Landing Road 20 Port St . Joe Marina ...... 344. Marina Drive Mexico 17 2 Buffer Preserve . . . . . 3320 Cape San Blas Road 21 Presnell’s ...... 2115 SR 30-A 24 98 3 Captain’s Cove Marina . . . . . 1617. Grouper Avenue 22 Salinas Park Bayside . . . 225 Cape San Blas Road

4 Cox Landing ...... 672 Cox Landing Road 23 Saul’s Creek ...... 196 Missfitt Landing Road

5 Dead Lakes Park ...... 482 Gary Rowell Road 24 White City ...... 288 Pridgeon Road

6 Douglas Landing ...... 127 Lazy Day Drive 25 Willis Landing ...... 7994 CR 381 3 23 7 Eagle Harbor ...... 9578 Cape San Blas Road 11 =USAGE FEE 8 Fisherman’s Landing . . . 7711 Doc Whitfield Road 20 Lake =F R E E U S E 9 Frank Pate Park ...... 298 Fifth Street 9 Port Wimico 10 Gaskin Park ...... 3980 Lake Grove Road St. Joe 11 Highland View ...... 110 Angel Fish Street St. Joseph Bay 12 Indian Bayou ...... 699 Indian Bayou Road INTERACTIVE Apalachicola River 13 Indian Pass ...... 2850 Indian Pass Road BOAT RAMP GUIDE 7 14 Iola Landing ...... 190 Iola Landing Road 21 98 15 Land’s Landing ...... 790. Land Drive Find boat ramp photos and access 18

16 Lister Landing ...... 618 Lister Landing Road information (such as GPS coordinates and 17 Lower Landing . . . . . 8090 Doc Whitfield Road latitude/longitude) for each boart ramp at

18 Odena Landing ...... 256 Odena Road visitgulf.com/boatramps Simmons Cape 19 Overstreet ...... 440 Mallard Street Bayou San Blas 22 Pass Lagoon 2 13 Indian Indian Pass 17 Boat Ramps & Launches facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 18 ...... WATER...... ESCAPES . .

Go below

Explorethe our surface.underwater wildlife refuge.

Upon your arrival into Port St . Joe you’re likely to hit land’s end at a body of water Underwater Guide known as St . Joseph Bay . Stretching 15 miles north to south and 6 miles wide at Identify some common underwater life in its widest point, the area has one of the St . Joseph Bay . richest and most abundant concentrations Lightning of marine life in Florida . Whelk Egg Case Along with clear, shallow waters, the plentiful seagrass beds make it a prime snorkeling area . Grab a mask, Sea Horse snorkel and dip net from one of our Horsehoe local outfitters and get started on your Crab adventure . Looking for a way to get on the water? Rent your own pontoon boat or hire a private guide who can tailor an eco-tour to your liking where you might Puffer Fish find a seahorse, starfish or sea urchin . Brittle Starfish

Highly Recommend SCALLOP SEASON “We all (including my 6-year-old and Bay Scallop Scalloping is a popular activity the 10-year-old) spent a ton of time in the bay whole family can participate in picking up different sea life. We saw dolphins, while snorkeling in St . Joseph Bay . For more information about the Encrusting urchins, fish, conch, crabs, sand dollars, starfish, Tunicate season, bag limits and more, visit etc.,...seems like everything we picked up was myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/ Sea Urchin alive. Really, it was impressive. ” recreational/bay-scallops

Carmen W., June 2013, tripadvisor.com Spider Crab

underwater

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Marvel through y o ur mask. Glide for miles. Shallow sights and Either oar — deep discoveries. the choice is yours.

With dozens of dive sites close to shore, Grab your kayak or paddleboard and divers can easily get in some bottom catch the drift on one of our diverse time even if you only have half a day . waterways . Thanks to the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association (mbara o. rg) you can Launch your kayak and glide for miles experience over 200 reefs ranging in above the pristine, shallow bottom of depths from 20 to 110 feet . Natural reefs St . Joseph Bay . With clear water, you and historic shipwrecks such as The can easily spot dolphins, sea turtles Vamar, awarded status in 2004 as the 9th and an array of fish; so be sure to pack of Florida’s Underwater Archaeological your binoculars and fishing rod . For the Preserves, provide plenty of diving options . seasoned paddler, the 2 5. -mile paddle from St . Joe Beach to the remote tip of Be sure to grab an underwater camera Cape San Blas is an exhilarating trip . because our waters are like an aquarium where many colorful fish live or you may WATER RENTALS Want a change of scenery where you’re get lucky and be able to snap a turtle likely to find eagles, alligators and an experience with nature you’ll never or dolphin . Daly’s Watersports ...... 850-229-6330 Ever wondered what it’s like to breath forget? Head to North Gulf County to Happy Ours Kayak underwater? kayak the mysterious Dead Lakes in & Bike Outpost ...... 850-229-1991 Wewahitchka . If you are at least 10 years of age, the Discover Kayak Dog Adventures . . . . . 850-630-4252 Scuba Diving program at Daly’s Dock & Dive What’s SUP? Enjoy a bird’s eye view Center is a half-day introduction into our Scallop Cove Rentals ...... 850-227-1573 above one of our calm waters and soak in underwater world led by a certified instructor Seahorse Water Safaris . . . . . 850-227-1099 the beauty of Gulf County . Local outfitters where you’ll explore a shallow shipwreck . can get you on the water with a kayak Daly’s Dock & Dive Center. . . . . 850-229-6330 FEATURED PARTNER or paddleboard for the day or the week . If you’re looking for expert knowledge, hook up with a local guide . No matter what you choose, there is plenty of space (and water) for everyone!

21 Section Title facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 22 ...... OUTDOOR ...... PLAYGROUND

Hit the sand,

Letleash your four-legged in friend hand. run through the sand, splash in the water, shake it off, and then do it all again.

Gulf County is dog heaven and more Many areas on and off the beach are families are taking their pets along on perfect for pets; even the Gulf County vacation . In fact, two of the Top 20 Dog Welcome Center is pet-friendly so stop Beaches in Florida are located in Gulf in and say hello! Located in Port St . Joe, County . Both Cape San Blas and Salinas it’s a great starting point for the Port City Park received the coveted “5-Bone Rating” Trail that meanders nearly four miles from BringFido c. om for its long stretches throughout the town . Many of the local of uncrowded beaches and gentle waves . shops and restaurants also welcome pets on leashes . Pets are welcome on all Gulf County beaches, with the exception of St . Joseph Peninsula State Park . Animals must PET ETIQUETTE remain on a leash at all times, it’s the law . Bring a long lead leash so you and your Always keep your dog on a pet can be active . leash . It’s the law . Respect children and adults There are over 20 pet waste disposal around you who may not be Walking heaven stations with bags and receptacles along familiar with your pet . the public beach access points . However, for people & pets it’s a good idea to pack your waste Always keep waste bags with “Every day, you meet friendly pet owners baggies for all of your adventures with you . We want our beaches to be people friendly, too . and even friendlier pets. Everyone asks if your four legged friend . Don’t bury pet waste . Children their pet can say ‘Hi’ to your dog. It’s enjoy digging in the sand as people and dog heaven.” much as pets . When walking past others, Katy, June 2018 • bringfido.com Need help deciding keep your dog close and give where to stay with your dog? others the right of way . Just look for the paw prints on the vacation rentals starting on page 61 . Pet Friendly

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Go barefoot! Keep it wild. Most visitors make a Gulf County is the beeline for the beach. And largest nesting place for who can blame them? Loggerhead Sea Turtles in Northwest Florida. Once you arrive, you’ll probably be ready to drop your bags and head for Home to more than 28 percent of the the sand . With 43 miles of shoreline you Loggerhead Sea Turtle nests, we covet have come to the right place because and protect these massive, beautiful there’s a beach for everybody . But if you creatures and we ask that our visitors do as want to experience Gulf County like a well . Play your part in turtle conservancy by local, here are a few tips to help you go keeping our beaches clean, flat and dark native on our sandy shores . LEAVE NO TRACE TIPS: and follow our Leave No Trace Ordinance . At the end of your beach day, please do You’ve probably heard of Cape San Blas . All unattended personal items must be your part by leaving only your footprints, It was ranked “America’s #1 Beach”, in removed daily from the beach no later and remove all trash and beach equipment . 2002, for its natural beauty . If you’re than 1 hour after sunset . looking to be inspired, this is a place where you can scan the sparkling emerald waters, All holes must be filled in prior to leaving sink your toes into powdery white sand or the beach each day . Did you know? set your umbrella beneath towering dunes . Bonfires are permissible, but must not It takes 450 years for a Indian Pass provides unpeopled solace be within 100 feet of any structire, and plastic bottle to break where you can be all by yourself or close all remnants must be extinguished and down and at least 10 to to nature . The 8-mile strand of shoreline removed . All items other than natural has wide, flat beaches offering seclusion wood are prohibited from burning . 20 years for a single-use for those wanting to get away . Both Cape For the full ordinance: plastic bag. San Blas and Indian Pass are a short ride visitgulf.com/leave-no-trace U.S. National Park Services out from Port St . Joe . When you come to the fork in the road, just take your pick . BEACH ACCESS POINTS Visit the new Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle For the nearest access to beach fun Cape Palms Park...... Cape San Blas Center or contact a member of our from town, St. Joe Beach is barely a Dunes Drive...... Cape San Blas concierge team to find out how you can 10-minute trip . Many like St . Joe Beach, Salinas Park, Gulf Side...... Cape San Blas accompany our turtle patrol on their and neighboring Beacon Hill, for its dawn walks in search of new nests or miles of beautiful shoreline plus laid- St . Joseph Peninsula State Park. . . Cape San Blas hatchlings . back beach restaurants and bars where Indian Pass Boat Ramp...... Indian Pass you can dine and unwind close by . Veterans Memorial Park...... St . Joe Beach 386 Access...... St . Joe Beach 25 Beaches facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 26 SECTION TITLE ...... OUTDOOR . . . PLAYGROUND SHELLING GUIDE A few local shells you’ll love to gather .

Atlantic Slipper Shell

Scotch Sunray Bonnet Venus Spiny Olive Jewel Box Shell

Sharkeye Moon Florida Auger Crown Conch Shell

Kitten’s Paw

Keyhole Sand Dollar Nature’s Fortune Urchin Shell Giant Heart Cockle Stellar shelling is in season in Gulf County 365 days a year. Tulip Shell Finding the perfect shell on the beach is a little Remember not to take live shells (shells with a like buried treasure . That indescribable feeling living organism still inside) . That includes living Smooth Duck Clam when you find the perfect one to add to your sand dollars you find in the water . Atlantic collection — a gem that will help you enjoy your Coquina memories long after you head back home . Calico Scallop Gulf Coast beaches are considered some of Florida the finest shelling beaches in North America Lightning Whelk Excellent Fighting Conch and Gulf County has long been popular with those who enjoy nature at its best . The beaches Shelling Baby Ear from Indian Pass to St . Joseph State Park are Moon Shell “What a fun trip. We thoroughly Mermaid’s Purse Knobbed especially great for finding these exotic ocean Skate Egg Case Whelk treasures . enjoyed the uncrowded beaches and plentiful shells. The area is The best time to find shells are the hours just Sundial very ‘old Florida’ and relatively Rare before and after the low tides . Don’t let a storm Junonia Rare Download this stop you; some of the best shells are found right quiet, especially in December.” Shelling Guide at: after a storm . And, winter is a great time to shell . travelingcircus, December 30, 2015 • tripadvisor.com visitgulf.com/shelling

Stiff Pen Shell Outside/Inside

27 Shelling facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 28 ...... OUTDOOR ...... PLAYGROUND 5 nights were not enough! “We stayed at a great smaller campground with tons of places to ride bikes & have long walks on the beach. The sunsets on the beach were a nice surprise and became a quick, must see event! ” Stay closer Kettlebell, February 2017, rvparkreviews.com

Getto more nature. outside in —from tent sites at water’s edge to full-service RV marina resorts, and everything in between.

Camping in Gulf County is an experience within itself and is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream location . From views of sugar white beaches to the tranquility of one of CAMPGROUNDS the many waterways, our campgrounds Dead Lakes Park offer true relaxation . No matter which & Campground. . . . 850-639-2238 area you choose, your evenings can be Douglas Landing. . . . 850-814-7139 spent star gazing, telling stories around the campfire or fishing by the moonlight . Indian Pass When mother nature awakens you, your Campground. . . . . 850-227-7203 adventure begins all over again and will Old Salt RV Park . . . 850-227-4246 not be the same as the day before . Gulf Presnell’s Bayside Marina County is one big outdoor playground, so & RV Resort...... 850-229-9229 embrace it and explore . St. Joseph Peninsula State Park...... 850-227-1327 Water’s Edge RV Park...... 850-229-8600 Is home for you where you park it? Gulf County accommodates the RV FEATURED PARTNER lifestyle and makes it easy for you to call Gulf County your home away from home .

CAMPiNG

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Saddle up surfside. Hit the clubs. Cruise the mane drag It’s always tee time in Gulf for a vacation memory. County with mild winters, year-round sunshine and Whether it’s riding off into a sunset, or 18-hole golf conveniently a private excursion for family photos, a horseback ride on Cape San Blas is a located in between Port great way to make memories . Someone St. Joe and Cape San Blas. once said, “you can’t take a bad picture out here” and with local owners who Take a break from the beach and tee love to customize packages for special up an adventure at St . Joseph Bay Golf occasions such as proposals or just a Club . The facility surrounded by luscious romantic campfire on the beach, a picture greenery is open to the public with a is worth a thousand words . All trips are par-72, 18-hole layout . at a comfortable walking pace and last about one hour; riding experience is not Wide open fairways favor players of necessary . Gulf County has had guides in all handicaps but water on 14 of the 18 business, since 1995, with professionally- holes (where it’s not uncommon to see trained horses that love their jobs! a gator!) will provide a challenge to ST. JOSEPH BAY golfers of all skill levels . The club offers a GOLF CLUB driving range, putting green, pool, carts and a small café with fully-stocked bar . Rental clubs are available for both right and HORSEBACK So glad left-handed players . To request a tee time, RIDING we did this!! call 850-227-1751 . Broke-A-Toe “Wonderful experience. It 850-899-7433 was my first time on a horse. Sand N Spur Our guide was very nice and 850-227-5009 welcoming. The horses were Two Bit Stable 850-227-4744 beautiful and the scenery The Rockin M Ranch was amazing. This is a must 850-227-6117 do activity. They even helped us with pictures which turned FEATURED PARTNER out great.”

A. Spears, August 29, 2018 • tripadvisor.com 31 Horseback Riding facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 32 OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND...... OUTDOOR . . . PLAYGROUND

Parks & P laygrounds Ride or stride Leg it out along Park Name Extra Amenities Complex Sports Access Water Boat Ramps Tables Picnic Bathrooms Playground Trails Lighting Grills Shower/Laundry St. Joseph Bay with Cape Palms Park • • • • • • • Rish Park For Special Needs Children & Family • • • • • • • biking and walking trails Salinas Park-Bayside Volleyball, Fire Pit, Screened-In Tables • • • • • • • • for people and pets. Salinas Park-Gulfside • • • • • • • St. Joseph Peninsula State Park RV & Camping Facilities Who can resist a little exercise when the • • • • • • • • • backdrop is St . Joseph Bay? Loggerhead Overstreet Boat Ramp • • • • • • Run Bike Path is an 8 7-mile. paved Overstreet Park • • • • pathway that runs the length of Cape Veterans Memorial Park at Beacon Hill Volleyball, Batting Cage, Dog Park • • • • • • • • San Blas from St . Joseph Peninsula State WindMark Beaches- North & South • • Park to Salinas Park along Hwy 30E/Cape Constitution Convention State Museum • • • • San Blas Road, and is great for walking, Frank Pate Park Tennis Court, Pickleball Court • • • • • • • • • jogging or biking . George Core Park Staging Area • • • • • The Port City Trail is a 4-mile pathway Forrest Park (10th Street Park) • • • • • • located in Port St . Joe and offers a 10-foot Forrest Park (16th Street Park) 9 Hole Golf Course • • • • • • • wide paved surface excellent for walking, Jetty Park Fishing Pier, Fish Station, Pavilion • • • • • LOCAL OUTFITTERS running, hiking and biking . Public restrooms, Maddox Park/Shipyard Cove Lighthouse Gift Shop & Museum • • • • informational kiosks and water fountains Nathan Peters Jr. Park • • • • • • • Scallop Cove...... 850-227-1573 are available at various points on the trail . Buck Griffin Lake Park Public Freshwater Fishing Happy Ours Kayak • • • • • • • BayWalk Trail Lamar Faison Park & Bike Outpost ...... 850-229-1991 is an easy, crushed gravel • • • • • • • • pathway running along the bay from the Dalkeith Park No Worries Beach Service . . . . 850-227-5296 • • • Port St . Joe Marina to Frank Pate Park . Dead Lakes Park Fishing Pier, Bike Trail, Multiple Ponds, Pavillion • • • • • • • • • The short route passes by the lighthouse, FEATURED PARTNER Donnie Brake Park • • • • • • • a playground, public tennis court, and Dunes Drive Public Beach Access • picnic pavilions . BayWalk connects with Gaskin Park Staging Area, Fish Station • • • • • • • • Port City Trail and a great access point Highland View Boat Ramp • • • • • for both is to park at the Gulf County Honeyville Park Fish ponds, Deer • • • • • • • • Welcome Center . Howard Creek Community Park • • • • • BeachWalk is a 3 5. mile paved trail that Indian Pass Boat Ramp Beach Driving Access Point • • • • runs along the water at WindMark Beach . Lake Alice Park Performance Pavillion • • • • • • • • Bikers and walkers (many with their pets) Land’s Landing Fish Station • • • • • • enjoy this wide pathway offering views of T. L. James Park • • • • • • • the Bay and the Cape . The trail is open Troy Deal Public Beach Access • to the public with restrooms and public White City Park/Boat Ramp Fish Station • • • • • • • parking at either end . Find more information at visitgulf.com/parks

33 Parks & Paths facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 34 Osprey Loop 0.85 mi Garrison Avenue At nearly one mile in length this 0.83 mi loop runs along Garrison Avenue Heron Run and 22nd Street then moves Historic The longest single section of Cemetery through a scenic, wooded area the Port City Trail measuring crossing two timber bridges . Tennis Madison Avenue 0 .83 miles from its starting Soccer Courts Fields point at Madison Avenue and running along Garrison

22nd Street 22nd Avenue out to Gulf Coast State College . Port City Trail South Forrest Park High

20th Street 20th School Port St. Joe Track High School Buck Griffin Lake Shark Port St. Joe Stadium Garrison Avenue Elementary School Cape Sans Blas Lighthouse St. 10th Eagle Loop 1.5 mi

Marvin Avenue 0.3 mi This section totals 1 .5 miles . Historic Cemetery 10th St. Cormorant Loop Forrest Park Twice around Eagle Loop Post Office The STAC This scenic 0 .3 mile loop crosses is roughly the distance of Museum House the lake with timber bridges . a 5K road race . The park 8th St. 8th near the soccer fields Bathrooms 0.75 mi includes tennis courts Sandpiper Run Historic and picnic pavilions . Train Picnic Tables Sandpiper Run is a 0 .75 mile straightaway between 16th Street Park and Hwy 71 . From this point Constitutional Playground Museum State 0.3 mi down to Hwy 71, making a left on Park Egret Lane the Hwy 71 sidewalk, to the end of Public Fishing A 0 .3 mile run starting at the Pelican Way 0.25 mi BayWalk at Port St . Joe Marina, Lamar Faison Soccer Fields and back, is 2 .5 miles . and ending at the Constitution A short, 0 .25 mile sidewalk connector Pet Stations Memorial Museum . running down Hwy 71 . It connects Sandpiper Run over to BayWalk . Patton Bayou

Historic Downtown Port St. Joe 71

Tennis Court

Baltzell Frank Pate Park George Pond Core Park St.JosephBay Maddox Cove

Marina Cove The Port City Trail totals nearly four (4) miles of paved and lighted pedestrian surface, Sand Hills Pond GULF COUNTY WELCOME CENTER BayWalk 0.7 mi approximately 10 feet wide in most places . Restrooms, informational signage and water BayWalk is a 0 .7 mile gravel trail fountains are available at various points along the trail . The Port City Trail connects over running beside the bay and is Port St. Joe to BayWalk Trail via a 0 .25-mile section of sidewalk running along Hwy 71 . Marina marked by signage at its entrance near the Pate Park boat ramp . BayWalk ends Jetty Park

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Sea Turtle See our St . Joseph Peninsula has the highest density of nesting loggerhead sea wild side. turtles in the panhandle and provides Endless possibilities critical nesting habitat for the endangered to experience nature green sea turtle which nests here on open waters or every other year . secret shores.

BALD EAGLE ALLIGATOR The St . Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve has set The Dead Lakes, near Wewahitchka, are alive aside over 5,000 acres of protected coastal with wildlife . Alligators are often spotted here landscape where Southern Bald Eagles along shorelines as well as lakes and bayous often perch atop tall pines . across Gulf County .

St. Vincent Island Blue Heron With a wingspan up to six feet, the Great Blue Heron is the St. Vincent Island St . Vincent Island is home to numerous largest heron in North America, shore birds, nesting ospreys, and bald and often spotted in our rivers eagles, as well as, an abundance of and marshes stalking fish . alligators, Sambar deer (native to Southeast Asia, pictured left) and the native white-tailed deer . The island is also a haven for endangered species Brown Pelican such as loggerhead sea turtles, St . Joseph Bay is regionally indigo snakes, gopher tortoises and important for breeding a pair of red wolves that are part of Brown Pelicans . On Black’s the Red Wolf Recovery Program . Island, a private island in St . Vincent Island is open for daylight the bay, Brown Pelicans use and accessible by a short boat ride . nest in the tops of palms .

37 Wildlife facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 38 ...... SHOP,...... DINE,. . . NIGHTLIFE

About Beach ...... 850-229-2500 Anchored South ...... 850-229-6600 The Artery Studio ...... 850-227-5741 Bay Breeze Antiques . . . . . 850-229-7774 Bayou Storage & RV Supplies ...... 850-229-8397. Bayside Florist & Boutique . . 850-229-1111 Retail Beach Planet ...... 850-229-1515 Bluewater Outriggers . . . . 877-216-9600 Boutique By the Bay . . . . . 850-229-4141 Bow Wow Meow Therapy Beach Shop ...... 850-229-6161 Consider it walking Buy-Rite Drugs ...... 850-227-7099 with benefits, a great way Cape Trading Post ...... 850-229-8775 to bag a wonderful day! Caroline’s ...... 850-227-7194 Celia’s Second Hand Furniture ...... 850-653-6382 Take a break from the beach and enjoy a Coastal Cabin ...... 850-229-2999 shop-hop . Historic downtown Port St . Joe CVS Pharmacy ...... 850-229-8771 is a great place to browse a day away Daly’s Watersports . . . . . 850-229-6330 with a half-mile stroll back in time through Debbie Hooper Photography ...... 850-229-1251 an area rich in history and brimming with Dollar General new energy . The Reid Avenue shopping Market Place ...... 850-229-5210 district continues to evolve into a more Duren’s Piggly Wiggly . . . . 850-229-8398 vibrant destination each year with locally- Estate Jewelry & Loan . . . . 850-705-1434 owned boutiques, sidewalk bistros and Forgotten Coast Concierge . 850-227-5298 day spas . Downtown Port St . Joe also Half Hitch ...... 850-227-7100 hosts The SaltAir Farmers’ Market (every Howard Creek Country Mart . 850-827-8055 1st & 3rd Saturday except January) Indian Pass General Store . . 850-229-8600 with farm fresh produce, clothing, gifts, Joseph’s Cottage ...... 850-227-7877 antiques and special treasures . Lighthouse Gift Shop . . . . 850-229-1151 No Name Café, Great place to Within easy walking distance, you’ll also Books & More ...... 850-229-9277 find local outfitters that can get you out Port St . Joe Marina . . . . . 850-227-9393 find locallymade on the water with a new kayak or hook Ramsey’s Printing ...... 850-227-7468 Sacred Heart Hospital you up with fishing gear . With additional art, jewelry, furniture on the Gulf Gift Shop . . . . 850-229-5727 shops located throughout the county SaltAir Farmer’s Market . . . 404-906-2637 along the beaches, on the Cape and in and much more. Scallop Cove ...... 850-227-1573 Wewahitchka, visitors are pleasantly St . Joe Rent All ...... 850-227-2112 “A fun shopping experience, eclectic collection of surprised with all Gulf County has to offer . t S . Joe Shrimp Company . . 850-229-6774 seaside and forest home decor, jewelry, antiques t S . Patrick’s Seafood . . . . . 850-229-8070 and vintage. Super nice folks.” The Fuss Boutique ...... 850-227-7555 The Port Fine Wine Find unique coatal creations at local Caretakers2, September 2016, tripadvisor.com & Spirits ...... 850-229-2977 boutiques like Joseph’s Cottage . Walter Green Boutique . . . 850-227-7946 Wendy Patrick Designs . . . 850-229-1900 Shopping FEATURED PARTNER

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Bring your appetite. From the freshest local seafood to wood-fired pizza, sizzling steaks and roadside barbeque, there’s always something cooking!

With fresh-caught seafood every morning and creative menus on the minds of our local chefs every day, it’s no wonder a visitor’s first question is, “where are we going to eat?” .

Gulf County has dozens of restaurants just waiting for you, from fine dining and world-famous oyster bars to sidewalk cafes in our shopping district and seafood shacks tucked away . For those in search of the perfect view with your meal, you’ll find waterfront eateries serving fresh

Shrimp, Grilled Grouper, Fried Flounder ST. JOE BEACH PORT ST. JOE Smiley’s Chicken ...... 850-227-9353 and more . Shipwreck Raw Bar . . . . .850-647-5050 Dagwood’s Delicatessen Sweet Bunz Donuts ...... 850-340-1128 & Catering ...... 850-899-9060 The Brick Wall ...... 850-899-9454 Discovering new restaurants is at the Gracie’s Lounge ...... 850-227-2055 top of many vacationer’s lists so take the CAPE SAN BLAS & Great Wall time to explore off the beaten path and Chinese Restaurant ...... 850-227-9999 WEWAHITCHKA discover tasty options . Visit our website INDIAN PASS Indian Pass Raw Bar Uptown . . . 850-899-9001 Corner Café ...... 850-639-2636 at visitgulf.com/dining for the most Cape Trading Post ...... 850-229-8775 Joe Mama’s Wood Fired Pizza . . . 850-229-6262 Salt Shaker Package up-to-date listings . Coneheads 8020 ...... 850-229-5252 Krazyfish Grille ...... 850-229-7878 & Lounge, Inc ...... 850-639-9985 Indian Pass Raw Bar . . . . . 850-227-1670 No Name Café, Books & More . . . 850-229-9277 Howard Creek Café ...... 850-827-2885 Scallop Cove ...... 850-227-1573 Paul Gants Bar-B-Que ...... 850-227-9311 Smiley Honey ...... 850-639-5672 Shoobie’s Frozen Treats . . . 850-705-1555 Pepper’s Mexican Grill ...... 850-229-8540 The Creek Stop & Deli . . . . . 850-639-2400 Skully’s Low Country Boil . . . 850-227-7011 Looking for a meal Provision’s ...... 850-229-9200 The Golden Dragon ...... 850-639-3999 within walking distance? The Sand Bucket The Tiki Grill ...... 850-639-6888 Smokehouse & Grill . . . . . 850-229-4227 Ronnie B’s ...... 850-227-1386 Check out restaurants listed Triple Tails Seafood Sand Dollar Cafe ...... 850-227-4865 by neighborhood . & Spirits ...... 850-227-7337 Sisters’ Restaurant ...... 850-229-7121 FEATURED PARTNER Weber’s Little Donut Shop . . 850-340-3552

41 Dining facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 42 ...... SHOP,...... DINE,. . . NIGHTLIFE In the making of Port St. Joe... “...we weren’t trying to be anything or anyone that wasn’t truly us. Imperfections and all.” TJ Osborne Small town. Big sound. We’re pretty proud of the people that come to play here. Pull up a stool and join in, or kick back with a locally-brewed craft beer and just enjoy the scene.

Music happens in unexpected places . In fact, Brothers Osborne camped out in our little Florida hamlet to record their 2018 album titled Port St. Joe where the LIVE MUSIC band could be inspired and take breaks Haughty Heron. . . . 850-229-3463 by the water’s edge . We think they just discovered a way of life locals have known Lookout Lounge. . . 850-647-8310 for a long time . Salt Shaker Package & Lounge, Inc. . . . . 850-639-9985 Gulf County also has plenty of homegrown Scallop RePUBlic . . . 850-227-9009 talent so it’s not uncommon to find yourself tapping your toes to local live music in many St. Joe Bar places as you enjoy signature cocktails & Package...... 850-229-9229 and craft brews . The Blast on the Bay The Thirsty Goat Songwriter’s Festival, now in its 10th Bar & Grill...... 850-229-7678 year, is held annually in October and Tukedawayz plays host host to a group of talented Tavern...... 850-568-1025 musicians and songwriters direct from the streets of Nashville . FEATURED PARTNER

Scenery that inspires. April 2018, Brother’s Osborne held their “Port St . Joe” album release concert at WindMark Beach .

Night Life

facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 44 ...... SHOP,...... DINE,. . . NIGHTLIFE Be Inspired. “We do alot of fishing and scalloping in the summer. We really enjoy cooking our catch on the beach.” Melissa F., April 2018, visitgulf.com/be-inspired Our ingredients. Your masterpiece. From the dock to your GROUPER TREASURE dinner table, it doesn’t serves 4 get any fresher than INGREDIENTS: 4 8oz . grouper fillets locally-caught seafood. 4 Tablespoons real bacon bits Show us your chops, 4 Tablespoons sharp cheddar cheese 4 cups of diced red potatoes or sample our recipes. 2 teaspoons fresh cracked pepper 1 small can of cream of celery soup Our low-rise lifestyle features mostly 1 8oz . can of fresh blue crab meat beach homes, and many have large, 1 stick of salted butter fully-stocked kitchens that allow you to 3 cups of heavy cream 2 Teaspoons of Old Bay take advantage of cooking up dinner 1 sprig fresh rosemary at home . Whether you purchase fresh Minced garlic seafood from one of the local markets Salt & pepper or you had a great day of fishing and Heat oven to 350 . On a baking sheet catch your own, nothing’s fresher than drizzle olive oil, add your seasoned diced the dock to your dinner table! potatoes (garlic, rosemary, salt & pepper) and lay rosemary sprig over top of Shipwreck Raw Bar has been famous potatoes . Bake for 30-40 minutes . for many menu items with customers In a boiling pot (medium size) add 1/2 driving miles to enjoy their fresh stick of butter, 1 tsp minced garlic, pinch seafood . Their Grouper Treasure of salt & pepper, 1 tsp Old Bay, crab meat originates from a fisherman’s family and cream of celery . Slowly add heavy cream (small amounts at a time) until from Wakulla County . “One of the best smooth . Turn on low heat let simmer perks of being a commercial fisherman,” 10–15 minutes, stirring constantly . said Captain Daniel Barwick, “is fresh In a non stick pan or flat grill, add 1/2 stick seafood! You can taste the difference ”. of butter . Season each grouper fillet with salt & pepper, pinch of Old Bay . Then sear grouper until done on both sides . Plate each serving by layering one cup Find more recipes online: of potatoes in the center of the plate, one pinterest.com/gulfcountyfl tablespoon of bacon bits, 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar, with grouper filet on top . Drizzle fish with crab bisque & enjoy! Cook your catch

facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 46 ...... LOCAL...... &. . . SOCIAL Rare, Precious Honey “Tupelo is a premier honey crop in this country, and the epicenter of tupelo honey is Gulf County, Florida.”

Brian Bertonneau, December 2017, visitgulf.com Gulf County Gold Tupelo honey from Wewahitchka area apiaries is almost too good to “bee” true.

Tupelo honey is a true local wonder . In Wewahitchka, located about 20 minutes fact, it was brought into the spotlight in north of Port St . Joe, is home to many the 1997 Peter Fonda movie “Ulee’s Gold,” apiaries where you are allowed to taste a story about a Wewahitchka beekeeper samples and purchase from over a dozen and his family . varieties of raw honey . Stop in and take a tour of one of the apiaries, Smiley Honey . It is here that beekeepers gather the In Gulf County, local honey is also available only pure tupelo honey harvested from in area stores and it can be sampled at the the White Tupelo Gum tree reaching 50 Gulf County Welcome Center . to 75 feet in height and often standing in several feet of water in Apalachicola River basin . The Tupelo tree blossom starts out as a round bud, about the size of a small WEWAHITCHKA TUPELO pea . It then swells into what looks like a HONEY FESTIVAL miniature cauliflower . Finally, it explodes with dozens of little spikes . The nectar is This annual festival takes at the base of each spike . place on the 3rd Saturday in May and celebrates the honey What makes Tupelo Honey unique is the harvesting season with plenty for floral scent – a hint of rose, some herby, everyone, including jars as small earthy taste, pure sweetness and not a as 2 ounces to gallon jugs and hint of bitterness . Doesn’t that sound good everything in between — even with a morning cup of coffee overlooking ice-cold honey lemonade! the beach?

Get while the gettin’s good. Tupelo Honey harvest season lasts only 2-3 weeks each year!

Tupelo Honey

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Wedded bliss starts here. The perfect union of people and place.

If you dream of saying “I do” on the beach, our 43 miles of shoreline offers plenty of gorgeous wedding venue options to inspire marital bliss . Exchange vows with your toes in the sand, or around a lush pool lawn with a beautiful beachfront backdrop . Our sunsets are spectacular since most of beaches here face west .

Our laid-back pace and low-rise lifestyle allow newlyweds the opportunity of truly relaxing and enjoying their special day with family and friends . And, four-legged WEDDING SERVICES family members can be a part of the Easy - breezy side trips. event since our beaches are pet friendly . Same-day excursions offer nearby options. A Design by Dorann ...... 850-227-5869 Bayside Florist ...... 850-229-1111 Full-service local businesses can take care Once you get to Gulf County you may never Catering Connections . . . . . 850-705-1218 of everything from planning services to want to leave, but a variety of interesting catering, flowers, photography, music and Events by Chellsey ...... 850-340-1030 day trips are within easy reach . set up on the beach . Hair, makeup and spa Forgotten Coast Concierge . . . 850-227-5298 services are available in Port St . Joe, or Due East, you will find the historic, quaint Gourmet Chef Now ...... 850-227-8030 many services will come right to your town of Apalachicola . An interesting way Gulf Coast DJ ...... 850-227-5928 beach home . to make the trip to Apalachicola is by High Cotton Affairs ...... 850-227-8282 water . Head up the Gulf County Canal and through the Intracoastal Waterway Panache Tent & Event . . . . . 800-461-6955 passing through Lake Wimico and past Provisions Catering ...... 850-229-9200 old bridges and vintage houseboats Sand Dollar Cafe ...... 850-227-4865 along your 20-mile route . Silver Quest Studios ...... 850-229-9353 If you choose the 20-minute drive to Sisters’ Restaurant ...... 850-229-7121 Apalachicola, continue over the bridge Surf Slingen Bartenders . . . . 850-340-1053 to explore St . George Island . Your Table, Your Chef . . . . . 850-329-0544

FEATURED PARTNER 49 Day Trips facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 50 ...... LOCAL...... &. . . SOCIAL

Our past tells a story. Once a bustling seaport, it was here that delegates from all counties in Territorial Florida assembled, in 1838, to draft Florida’s first State Constitution.

Coastal American Indians occupied our By 1837, St . Joseph was flourishing as the area when Spanish explorers dropped largest city in the Territory of Florida, with anchor inside Cape San Blas in the early a population estimated near 11,000 . And, 1500’s . In 1822, settlers, realizing the it was here that 56 delegates gathered potential of the Apalachicola River as to draw up the constitution for Florida to a commercial outlet for the rich cotton become a state . Port St . Joe is still called producing states, founded the town of the “Constitution City ”. Apalachicola . St . Joseph’s (the original name of Port St . Joe) was established shortly thereafter, in 1835, because its harbor was deeper at 17 feet . A railway from Depot Creek to St . Joseph’s Bay was opened in 1836the first utilizing steam locomotion in Florida and one of the first three steam railroads in the United States . Best views on Constitution Memorial Unveiling, 1923 Soon after, yellow fever followed by a St. Joseph Bay hurricane reduced the town to only a “A piece of history that sits near the bay few hunters, trappers and fishermen, and Port St . Joe sat largely unoccupied which gives you a panaramic view of the until a paper mill was built in the 1930’s . St. Joseph Bay, the park and downtown The mill closed in 1996 and the area, Port St. Joe. The structure is fun to climb once again, transformed itselfthis time into a tourist-friendly destination . and the views are breathtaking.” Hurricane Michael in 2018 had a large 831dwight1, November 2017 • tripadvisor.com impact on the area but the community spirit remained strong and contributed to a successful recovery . History Apalachicola Northern Depot, Port St. Joe, 1910

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FestivalsWe have a lot to celebrate & in GulfEvents County, all in a laidback atmosphere without the crowds.

WINTER Christmas on the Coast St Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve Bay Day Chili Cook-off New Year’s Eve Celebrate Twice

SPRING Tupelo Honey Festival Plein Air Paint-Out Breeze by the Bay 5k & 10k First Friday’s (April – September)

SUMMER July 4th Celebration Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival MBARA Fishing Tournament Bayou Bash Fishing Tournament

FALL Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival Celebrate Ghosts on the Coast St Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve Bay Day year-round Bow Wow Bash “There is just something special about St. Joseph Peninsula State Park the hometown events in Gulf County. Appreciation Day No matter what time of year, there Find more information at visitgulf.com/events is always something going on.” Events Linda B., October 2017, facebook.com 53 Festivals & Events facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 54 LOCAL & SOCIAL ...... LOCAL ...... & SOCIAL

CHECK THIS OFF Explore like YOUR BUCKET LIST “Definitely go horseback riding a local. on the beach. I took my 7-year Discover beaches, bayous old and he still talks about it. Early and wildlife with Gulf evening is a good time to go and County locals. see the sunset over the Cape.”

“ By David Ashbrook, SEE LIFE” IN A Director of Operations, WHOLE NEW WAY! Tapper & Co. Properties “In one activity you can be standing on a paddle board, sitting on a kayak, or diving under SILVIA WILLIAMS the water and what you see is so FINDS HER different with every perspective.” ADVENTURE “My son loves being able to walk By Ann Marie and Ed Daly, out to the tide ‘islands.’ He thinks Owners of Daly’s Watersports it’s so cool that he can walk out where there is usually water and get shells along the way.” IS IT FISHING OR By Silvia Williams, AN ECO-TOUR? Owner of Serenity Beach Rentals “In the fall we do a ‘combo trip’ out in the bay where we do a little fishing, then we might go into the marshes to look for birds or check out the dolphin.” ARE READY TO FIND YOUR ADVENTURE?

By Captain Trey Landry, Read these stories and more that are Premier Sportfishing Adventures full of insider tips and hidden secrets at visitgulf .com/adventure-guides .

55 Adventure Guides facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 56 LOCAL & SOCIAL ...... LOCAL ...... & SOCIAL

Local Resources Winter Guests Here are important Enjoy our warm climate numbers to make your and year-round activities area vacation a great one. including kayaking, birding, But, of course, you can golf & fun festivals. always ask a local and WE’LL KEEP YOU BUSY they’ll be happy to help. Our Gulf County Concierge Team really ALL WINTER LONG Animal Hospital of Port St. Joe. . . . .850-229-6010 rolls out the red carpet for winter guests and welcomes them back each year with a Visit gcflwinterfun.com to learn more Beach Driving Permits ...... 850-229-6116 party and a full season of activities . While and view our calendar of winter events . Buy-Rite Pharmacy (Port St. Joe) . . . 850-227-7099 you won’t find crowds and congestion Buy-Rite Pharmacy (Wewahitchka). . 850-639-2252 here, there is no shortage of winter fun! CVS Pharmacy...... 850-229-8771 But our winter guests feel more like family Florida Game & Freshwater joining locals in area activities and live Fish Commission...... 888-404-3922 entertainment . Florida Highway Patrol...... 800-459-6861 Florida Poison Information Center . . .800-222-1222 Whether you want to enjoy a round of Gulf County Chamber of Commerce . .850-227-1223 golf at St . Joseph Bay Golf Club, a game Gulf County Courthouse...... 850-229-6112 of pickleball or take in the views on one Gulf County Emergency Management. 850-229-9110 of the paved walking and biking trails Gulf County Health Department. . . . 850-227-1276 around the county, Gulf County caters to AIRPORT INFORMATION Gulf County Marriage License. . . . . 850-229-6112 those who enjoy an active lifestyle . Commercial Service Gulf County Public Library Northwest Florida Beaches Beachfront rentals are especially attractive (Port St. Joe)...... 850-229-8879 International Airport (ECP) . . . . .60 miles during the off-season, with many offering Gulf County Public Library Air Service: Delta and Southwest Airlines (Wewahitchka)...... 850-639-2419 monthly rates . With quality healthcare at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf, local Tallahasse Regional Airport . . . . .99 miles Gulf County Sheriff’s Dept (Non-Emergency) ...... 850-227-1115 membership organizations and even a Air Service: American Airlines, Delta, Gulf County Welcome Center. . . . . 800-482-4853 vet for your furry friend, you can stay with Silver Airways and U.S. Airways Express us a while . Sacred Heart on the Gulf Hospital. . . 850-229-5600 General Aviation Service Sea Tow (boat tow Costin Airport (A51)...... 5 miles & on-water service)...... 850-227-4049 Air Service: Private aircrafts St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve. .850-229-1787 Apalachicola Regional St. Joseph’s Peninsula State Park . . . 850-227-1327 Airport (AAF)...... 21 miles St. Vincent’s Island Shuttle Service . . 850-229-1065 Air Service: Private aircrafts U.S. Coast Guard...... 850-234-2475

57 Winter Guests facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 58 LOCAL & SOCIAL ...... SECTION . . . . . TITLE

Be an instant insider. Explore like a local and get the inside scoop even if it’s your first visit.

If you’ve made it to town, the Gulf County Welcome Center is the perfect place to design your adventure . You can start here with freebies including brochures, wi-fi access and a cup of coffee . Pick up a Turtle Gulf County Trail map or park here to hike the Port IT HAS BEEN SUCH Welcome Center City Trail . We’re located just off Hwy 98, 150 Captain Fred’s Place in downtown Port St . Joe, with a stunning A PLEASURE. Port St . Joe, Florida 32456 view overlooking St . Joseph Bay . Business We’re quite sociable. I have never had a concierge for 850-229-7800 hours are Monday thru Friday, 8am-5pm Let’s keep in touch. an area before....only for resorts info@visitgulf .com Eastern time . and hotels. It has been such a We want you to be a part of Gulf County even VISITGULF .COM While you are planning your visit, our pleasure to be able to ask someone when you’re away, so follow us for the latest news Concierge Team can help you discover about things in the area instead of and event updates . While you’re here check out our your interests and connect you with just looking at a booklet. I would Turtle Trail where you can find our turtle statues and take a picture to receive a special gift . Just post people, places and activities that best highly recommend you try this your photos using the hashtag #InGulf and #TurtleTrail suit you . From easy-going to full-throttle awesome service that is provided then stop by the Welcome Center . /visitgulfcounty adventure, they can steer you in the right to anyone traveling to this area. direction, so you get the most out of your Download the Turtle Trail Map and find out more time in Gulf County . Sallie Marquardt • visitgulf.com/concierge-program information at vistigulf.com/turtletrail @GulfCountyFL

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DROP US A LINE SCHEDULE ONE-ON-ONE DO IT! GulfCountyFL Call, email or fill out We’ll discover your Learn from the Here’s the fun part . a short form on our interests, match you expert, you have their Put your inside website . to a guide and set ear . Your 20-minute knowledge into action up a chat . session is free . and come see us . 59 Section Title facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 60 ...... HOME ...... AWAY . . FROM HOME

Find your Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/024 . . . 850-229-1200

VACATION RENTAL Harmon Realty Vacation Rentals happy place. MANAGEMENT visitgulf .com/019 . . .850-648-5768 Knot Forgotten Vacation Rentals COMPANIES visitgulf .com/010 . . . 850-229-2512 From beachfront vacation homes to hotels, inns and No Worries Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/025 . . .850-229-6344 quaint B&B’s, visitors are drawn to our low-rise lifestyle. 30EZ Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/031 850-227-9888 . . . Parker Realty Families have returned for generations to our uncrowded beaches and unhurried pace where of Mexico Beach, Inc. Aqua Shores Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/020 . . .800-874-5073 there is a variety of accommodations . Vacation rental options range from pet-friendly visitgulf .com/046 . . .850-387-0658 beach homes which can easily sleep 10-12 to historic inns nestled near the bay . Choose Pristine Properties B & D Beach Rentals Vacation Rentals your perfect place to stay from our rental providers that have been sharing sunsets for visitgulf .com/001 . . . 850-705-1677 visitgulf .com/012 ...... 877-829-0217 over 70 years! Baytowne Vacation Rentals Sandy Shoes Vacation visitgulf .com/021 . . . 850-227-3300 Rentals, LLC visitgulf .com/013 ...... 850-527-4049 BeOurGuest Vacation Homes visitgulf .com/002 . . . 850-677-1332 SeaStay Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/028 . . .850-777-3096 BMW Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/022 . . .404-697-5653 Secluded Florida Rentals visitgulf .com/014 . . . 706-302-4617 Cape & Coast Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/003 . . 1-877-238-4745 Serenity Beach Rentals, LLC visitgulf .com/015 . . . 877-265-4252 Cape Escape Vacation Rentals, LLC visitgulf .com/004 . . . 678-523-1161 Sunset Reflections Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/015 877-265-4252 Cape San Blas Get Away . . . visitgulf .com/005 . . 404-668-0122 Teresa’s Beach Homes visitgulf .com/016 850-229-1522 Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals . . . visitgulf .com/006 . . . 850-229-6916 Vacasa visitgulf .com/029 . . .503-345-9399 Coastal Joe Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/007 . . . 850-227-7775 Vacation Rentals Port St. Joe visitgulf .com/027 . . . 850-685-1146 Coastline Vacation Rentals, LLC visitgulf .com/023 . . .855-817-7368 Cottage Rents visitgulf .com/008 . . .205-253-5336 Forgotten Coast Property Management & Rentals FEATURED PARTNER visitgulf .com/018 . . 850-648-1012 PET FRIENDLY Gulf Breeze Vacation Rentals visitgulf .com/009 . . 850-899-4009 accommodations

facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 62 HOME AWAY FROM HOME ...... HOME...... AWAY . . . . . FROM HOME

Bay D r eam Paradise by the Sea visitgulf .com/049 . . . . . 850-832-9477 visitgulf .com/072 . . . . . 678-938-0616 HOTELS, MOTELS, Bay Time Rental Peace Out on the Cape VACATION HOMES: INNS AND B&B’S visitgulf .com/050 . . . . . 205-835-4278 visitgulf .com/073 . . . . . 562-537-4983 PORT ST. JOE Beach Haven Pelican’s Nest visitgulf .com/051 ...... 478-719-7883 visitgulf .com/074 . . . . . 850-877-0051

Cape San Blas Inn Beautiful Townhouse Sabal Circle Ava’s Beach House visitgulf .com/032 . . . . .850-229-7070 at Barrier Dunes visitgulf .com/075 . . . . . 850-510-8237 visitgulf .com/111 . . . . . 850-718-8790 visitgulf .com/052 . . . . . 847-223-1930 Dixie Belle Motel Sail Away Cottage Bay Town Cottage visitgulf .com/033 . . . . .850-227-1443 Blessing visitgulf .com/076 . . . . . 239-348-5234 visitgulf .com/112 . . . . . 918-848-6524 visitgulf .com/053 . . . . . 850-290-3160 Gulf Sands Motel Salty Kisses Beacon Hill Tree House visitgulf .com/034 . . . . .850-647-5711 Blue Haven visitgulf .com/077 . . . . . 850-394-9390 visitgulf .com/113 . . . . . 303-210-1222 visitgulf .com/054 . . . . . 614-769-2814 The MainStay Suites Salty Paws Cape Villas Beach Bungalow visitgulf .com/035 . . 850-229-MAIN (6246) Cape Ann visitgulf .com/078 . . . . . 850-524-0796 visitgulf .com/114 . . . . . 850-294-1811 visitgulf .com/055 . . . . . 303-690-0792 The Port Cottages Sandlot Corner of Palm & Paradise visitgulf .com/037 . . 850-229-PORT (7678) Cape Sunset visitgulf .com/079 . . . . . 229-221-6373 visitgulf .com/129 . . . . .404-218-1202 visitgulf .com/056 . . . . . 770-241-2948 The Port Inn Sandy Daze Dune Our Thing visitgulf .com/036 . . 850-229-PORT (7678) Cape Villas 3D visitgulf .com/080 . . . . . 912-441-3603 visitgulf .com/115 . . . . . 864-430-0251 visitgulf .com/057 . . . . . 314-609-2049 Turtle Beach Inn Sandy Paws Going Barefoot Cottage visitgulf .com/038 . . . . .850-229-9366 Chunky Monkey visitgulf .com/081 ...... 850-524-0796 visitgulf .com/116 . . . . . 770-852-7068 visitgulf .com/058 . . . . . 678-878-9929 Serendipty Sunsets K Kaye’s Kottage Close Enough visitgulf .com/082 . . . . . 540-327-0222 visitgulf .com/117 . . . . . 815-312-6737 visitgulf .com/059 . . . . . 229-977-2657 Southern Shore Kennedy’s Cottage VACATION HOMES: Coastal Cabin visitgulf .com/083 . . . . . 615-516-9678 visitgulf .com/124 . . . . . 850-227-4782 visitgulf .com/060 . . . . . 770-856-6231 CAPE SAN BLAS SunsCape Marty Mian Rentals Cool Change visitgulf .com/084 . . . . . 440-891-9161 visitgulf .com/118 . . . . . 469-688-9741 visitgulf .com/095 . . . . . 850-227-3600 Synapse with the Sea Nautical Blue 2B BYTHESEA Cresent Pearl visitgulf .com/085 . . . . . 850-566-1079 visitgulf .com/119 . . . . . 850-305-2562 visitgulf .com/039 . . . . . 678-358-4655 visitgulf .com/061 ...... 504-812-6400 The Beach House Palm Beach House @ Windmark Beach 4 Sunsets Deja View, LLC visitgulf .com/144 ...... 850-814-7116 visitgulf .com/120 . . . . .202-731-9478 visitgulf .com/040 . . . . . 703-861-7844 visitgulf .com/062 . . . . . 414-617-4002 The Santuary at SeaCliffs Port St. Joe Cottage A Beach Break Dock of the Bay visitgulf .com/086 . . . . . 651-385-9552 visitgulf .com/121 . . . . . 850-545-6784 visitgulf .com/041 ...... 404-277-2632 visitgulf .com/063 . . . . . 334-689-0778 The Tortuga Real Paradise LLC A Tropical Breeze DreamsCape visitgulf .com/087 . . . . . 850-348-7798 visitgulf .com/122 . . . . . 770-312-9675 visitgulf .com/042 . . . . . 770-595-9665 visitgulf .com/064 . . . . . 678-887-2836 Tide Together Sandy Toes Afterdune Delight Dune Dancer on the Boardwalk visitgulf .com/088 . . . . . 205-799-2003 visitgulf .com/123 . . . . . 850-340-0024 visitgulf .com/043 . . . . . 770-419-1745 visitgulf .com/065 . . . . . 802-318-5269 Tradewinds The Flamingo Club Almost Heaven Home By The Sea visitgulf .com/089 . . . . . 850-322-3343 visitgulf .com/125 . . . . . 850-340-0024 visitgulf .com/094 . . . . . 850-348-7798 visitgulf .com/066 . . . . . 678-677-5449 Trudy May’s Bay House The Kiwi Cottage Amelia by the Bay Just Beachy visitgulf .com/090 . . . . . 561-339-3938 visitgulf .com/126 ...... 615-489-9804 visitgulf .com/044 . . . . . 225-385-0277 visitgulf .com/067 . . . . . 229-244-6269 Two Palms The Laughing Dolphin Amelia by the Sea Kokomo visitgulf .com/091 ...... 847-256-2553 visitgulf .com/127 . . . . . 229-560-2370 visitgulf .com/045 . . . . . 561-575-4413 visitgulf .com/068 . . . . . 850-509-0007 Vitamin Sea The Perfect Beach Retreat At Waters Edge Lime Pie visitgulf .com/092 . . . . . 678-938-0616 visitgulf .com/128 . . . . . 309-230-1358 visitgulf .com/047 . . . . . 334-655-7463 visitgulf .com/069 . . . . . 850-227-1353 Whispering Pines Cabins Barrier Dunes 127 Moondance of Cape San Blas visitgulf .com/048 . . . . . 314-609-2049 visitgulf .com/070 . . . . . 850-510-3409 visitgulf .com/093 . . . . . 850-227-7252 FEATURED PARTNER Morning’s Glory PET FRIENDLY visitgulf .com/071 ...... 817-602-7129

63 Accommodations facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 64 HOME AWAY FROM HOME ......

Gibson Duplex visitgulf .com/131 ...... 850-229-8183 VACATION HOMES: Gold en Days INDIAN PASS visitgulf .com/132 ...... 865-862-0284 Gulf Street visitgulf .com/133 ...... 614-620-6315 Alfie’s Place iSeaViews visitgulf .com/096 . . . . . 850-653-5838 visitgulf .com/134 ...... 404-610-2718 Aweigh At Last visitgulf .com/067 850-556-5976 Leda’s Sassy Mermaid . . . . . visitgulf .com/135 ...... 850-348-7798 Indian Pass Campground visitgulf .com/098 . . . . . 850-227-7203 Love Shack & Sugar Shack visitgulf .com/136 ...... 850-227-5646 Indian Passtime visitgulf .com/099 . . . . . 810-858-3607 Pickels Paradise in the Sand visitgulf .com/137 ...... 850-544-2218 Marge & Doc’s Place visitgulf .com/100 . . . . . 404-918-5676 Sandstone visitgulf .com/138 ...... 229-944-3163 Osceola House visitgulf .com/101 ...... 813-598-9608 Sandy Toes visitgulf .com/146 ...... 651-247-6005 Palm Cottage of Indian Pass visitgulf .com/102 859-338-1425 ...... Sandy’s Sandal visitgulf .com/139 850-585-1176 Piper’s Plunge ...... visitgulf .com/109 ...... 229-457-7800 Seagull Landing, Inc. Sand Dollar Chalet II visitgulf .com/143 ...... 954-699-3287 visitgulf .com/103 ...... 404-351-0756 Seas The Day Seahorse Summer visitgulf .com/140 ...... 940-300-0794 visitgulf .com/104 ...... 229-886-1577 Starfish Crossing Sweetwater Cottage visitgulf .com/141 ...... 850-832-5699 visitgulf .com/110 ...... 850-510-3409 The Aquagon Sweetwater Villa visitgulf .com/142 ...... 850-982-2843 visitgulf .com/105 ...... 229-424-8193 The Barnacle visitgulf .com/106 ...... 850-229-9353 Three Palms CAMPGROUNDS visitgulf .com/107 ...... 847-256-2553 & CABINS What-A-View visitgulf .com/108 ...... 816-651-2555

Dead Lakes Park - RV & Campground visitgulf .com/147 ...... 850-227-8693 VACATION HOMES: Indian Pass Campground ST. JOE BEACH visitgulf .com/148 ...... 850-227-7203 Old Salt RV Park visitgulf .com/151 ...... 850-227-4246 Bayview Cottage visitgulf .com/130 850-597-1957 Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort ...... visitgulf .com/149 ...... 850-229-9229 Captain Mike’s visitgulf .com/145 850-585-1176 St Joseph Penninsula State Park ...... visitgulf .com/148 ...... 850-227-1327 Water’s Edge RV Park visitgulf .com/150 ...... 850-229-8600 65 Accommodations SECTION TITLE ......

This is the place to spend your next vacation and we We know the Cape! Large, small, gulf front or private are here to help make that happen. We have that — We will be your partner to find your perfect spot! special vacation home you have been looking for. From We are a boutique rental company with a wide range beachfront to canal front, we can help you find your ideal of properties available. Many of our properties allow vacation home where you will make special memories. The less than 7 day stays - even during peak season! Let us team at Forgotten Coast Property Management can find exceed your expectations! the perfect location for your stay. We offer outstanding service, premier properties and customer satisfaction.

1-888-648-1012 850-229-2512 forgottencoastrental.com knotforgottencoast.com

A vacation at the beach should be filled with wonderful When on vacation you want the best experience for Serving the area for over 10 years, we offer the largest Offering vacation rentals from Cape San Blas to Mexico memories for the entire family. Memories made from you and your family. When staying with Coastline selection of beach vacation homes and condos Beach. Whether it’s hours of quiet solitude or activities in laughing, sharing and simply enjoying time together. We Vacation Rentals, that is exactly what you will receive. from Cape San Blas to Mexico Beach. Our friendly, the great outdoors that you crave, we have something have been helping families plan their escape for generations You may come as guests, but you will leave as family. professional staff is available 7 days a week to find for everyone. Let us help you make memories that last. to the calm, clear waters of our white sand beaches and to So whether it is to spend lazy days on the water, or your dream rental whether gulf front or pet friendly; When you think vacation, think Serenity. Some amenities an unhurried, secluded place where we want our guests to watching the amazing sunsets, come and see for or on the bay or for a wedding. One bedroom to 7; include: Gulf Front ~ Bay View ~ Private Beach Access spend their time catching-up with friends and family, rather yourself why our guests return year after year. we’ve got it all. Free DVD rentals, horseback riding, Private Pool ~ Hot Tub ~ Elevator ~ High-end Finishes than keeping up with everything else. deep-sea fishing and golf offered with each rental. Fully Stocked Kitchen ~ WiFi and more.

800-720-0473 or 850-229-6916 855-817-7368 877-790-5179 850-229-4200 CapeSanBlasVacationRentals.com coastlinevacationrentals.net visitfloridabeaches.com serenitybeachrentals.com

67 Partners facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 68 Relaxation awaits you on the pristine, white-sand beaches Learn To Smile Again Like You Did When You Were A Baytowne Vacation Rentals is a boutique property High Cotton Affairs is a lifestyle event planning company of Cape San Blas. Sunset Reflections by Natural Retreats Kid... White Sand Beaches and Sunsets that will take management company on Florida’s Forgotten Coast that brings their southern charm and introduces it to is pleased to offer an impressive selection of over 30 your breath away. We are a small family business that offering some of the area’s most beautiful properties the coastal waters of Florida. Fabulous beach wedding luxury vacation rentals, which can accommodate up to personally cares and maintains all our homes for vacation rental from Cape San Blas to Indian Pass! venues can be found within our service area, including 16 guests. Several of our homes are Gulf-front and pet- because we care about your vacation. Stay with us Our property collection consists of beach front homes, the beaches of St. George Island, Mexico Beach and condos, properties with private pools, pet friendly Cape San Blas, Florida. The charming, historic coastal friendly, and many offer direct beach access, pools and once, experience the difference yourself. properties, and more! Visit our website today to find more towns of Apalachicola and Port St. Joe, Florida offer hot tubs. Book your stay with us and receive free tickets to information about our company. We’re conveniently additional venues for weddings in the park, and for local activities, as well as beach gear for your stay. located at 200 – A Reid Avenue in Port St. Joe! traditional church weddings. 877-805-7794 850-229-1522 850-227-3300 850-227-8282 SunsetReflections.com TeresasBeachHomes.com BaytowneVacationRentals.com highcottonaffairs.com

Ava’s Beach House

Choosing a home for your vacation can be overwhelming. Your vacation of a lifetime begins with Gulf Coast Vacation All minor hurricane damage is repaired. This new Presnell’s Vacation RV Rstor offers 70 new full-service We love to match your dates, location, size, amenities, Rentals. From gulf front homes with breathtaking views 4 BR, 3 bath home is secluded yet only 5 miles from sites with 30- and 50- amp service, full sewer hookups, and price with our wide range of homes. We thoughtfully to intimate townhomes for two let Gulf Coast Vacation either Mexico Beach or PSJ. Our property faces west Cable TV and WIFi. Swimming pool and Clubhouse. prepare every fully equipped and tastefully decorated Rentals make your dream beach vacation come true. with beautiful sunsets and runs to the beach, being Ships Store and Marina located on the calm waters property and our staff is passionate about serving Sharing the Gulf Coast from Cape San Blas to Mexico located directly on the St. Joe Bay Bicycle Trail. of St. Joseph Bay. Presnell’s is the destination RV our valued guests. So…BeOurGuest and experience “A Beach since 2005, Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals offers Guests enjoy views of the bay and beach from both park and marina of northwest Florida with access to Different Way” an unparalleled selection of the area’s finest vacation open and screened porches. This pet friendly home is fishing, snoekeling, fishing guides, beaches and boat, homes, pet friendly properties, town homes, and condo complimented by stained glass, antique nautical décor pontoon, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. rentals. Visit our website today! with all living areas located on one floor! 850-677-1332 800-450-5116 850-718-8790 850-229-9229 BeOurGuestvh.com gulfcoastvacationrentals.com vrbo.com/1262135 presnells.com

69 Partners facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 70 Available for guests to book soon. Please check our website Previously located inside the Port Inn, this iconic watering Enjoy a view of Indian Pass Lagoon on one of our 16 Port St. Joe’s Haughty Heron is much more than just and facebook page to check our progress. Port Inn is Port St. hole is a great place to unwind with all your friends, old and spacious RV sites. With onsite amenities including a a package liquor store! Enjoy a full service bar with Joe’s premier historic, yet completely renovated coastal Inn. new. Over the last decade, The Thirsty Goat has become General Store that carries local flavour and flair with The Port Inn prides itself on providing beautiful, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, live entertainment in the cultural arts hub providing a venue for local, regional items of convience plus the Indian Pass Raw Bar within and relaxing accommodations in the tradition of a southern the Beer Garden, three flat screen TVs, a cigar shop resort. It offers historic charm with all the modern amenities and national performers, writers and artists. Please check walking distance, Water’s Edge exemplifies Old Florida. discriminating guests expect. Breakfast is available daily. out our website for exciting news about the rebuild of The with walk-in humidor, gifts and a great selection of Conveniently located in the center of downtown, shopping and Thirsty Goat. We will be back! liquor, fine wine and cold beer. See you at the Heron! dining are just a short stroll away. Come experience the charm Mon-Thurs 10 AM-10 PM / Fri-Sat 10 AM-Midnight / of the Port Inn. Also check for updates on the Thirsty Goat. Sun 10 AM -8 PM. 850-229-PORT (7678) 850-229-PORT (7678) 850-229-8600 850-229-3463 portinnfl.com thethirstygoat.com watersedgervpark.net haughtyheron.com

Situated just one block from St. Joseph Bay, these 2 Looking for a great value in Port St. Joe? Look no THE BEST SEAFOOD STEAMED, BAKED OR RAW The Indian Pass Raw Bar is a tradition that traces bedroom (1K, 2T or 1K, 1Q), 1-1⁄2 bath cottages are further. The MainStay Suites, by Choice Hotels is You’ve got to want to visit the Indian Pass Raw Bar – its roots from the old Indian Pass Trading Post that conveniently located in the heart of historic downtown the only AAA-rated three-diamond hotel in Gulf you’re not likely to stumble over us by accident. Luckily, began operating in 1929. Your food is prepared fresh, Port St. Joe. Within walking distance to the lighthouse, County. Our Multiple Gold Award winning property the world’s best oysters, shrimp, gumbo, ice-cold beer when ordered, and is served as it is prepared in the shopping, restaurants, marina, and more. Port Cottages is pet friendly and offers all suites with full kitchens. and authentic Old Florida atmosphere make the trip Indian Pass Tradition, to insure the best quality. Drinks offers the perfect accommodation for your next getaway. Daily, weekly and monthly rates are available. Our worthwhile. The McNeill family has served the region are on the HONOR SYSTEM. Help yourself, and keep Pet-friendly cottages feature full kitchen, WiFi, flat screen from this location – between Apalachicola and Port your score card. Turn it in at Checkout. TVs, full washer/dryer and boat parking. Pool and grilling professional and knowledgeable staff is available to area located on-site for your enjoyment. guests 24/7. Mainstay Suites, we’ll see you there! St. Joe along County Road 30A – since 1929. 850-229-PORT (7678) 850-229-MAIN (6246) 850-227-1670 850-899-9001 portcottages.com mainstaysuitespsj.com IndianPassRawBar.com IndianPassRawBarUptown.com

71 Partners facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 72 St Joe Beach is home to two locally owned venues that Looking for music and fun on St. Joe Beach? Come to the THE KRAZYFISH GRILLE IS A ONE-OF-A-KIND “LEISURE Founded in 2005, Provisions has earned the reputation will wet your whistle and satisfy your craving for good Lookout Lounge and enjoy Live Music, Karaoke and Dancing JOINT” WHERE YOU CAN QUIETLY LEAVE THE DAY-TO-DAY of serving fresh, high quality, culturally diverse and food. Start the night at Shipwreck Raw Bar and feast on Wednesday through Saturday or enjoy our game room with HUSTLE BEHIND. Enjoy lively music with a coastal inspired beautfiully prepared food for your enjoyment. From some of the best oysters, seafood or a steak. Looking to Billiards, Darts and more. We feature 24 Craft Beers on Tap menu and a fresh concept. We use locally sourced ingredients southern comfort foods to inspired international dance the night away then hit Lookout Lounge for live and Full Bar Service. Your favorite beer, wine and liquor and make our signature items fresh daily. We feel we have flavors, food is our passion. Come see us on Reid entertainment and karoke while enjoying your favorite available in the Package Store, open 11 AM ET daily. Ladies the best drink menu on the coast, so leave your worries at Avenue in downtwon Port St. Joe. beer, wine or liquor. St. Joe Beach has everything from Night Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Don’t miss our 1st Sunday the door and soak in the carefree atmosphere. Eat some beautiful beaches to dining and nightlife...why would you Celebrations with 2 for 1 all day and special entertainment. food, have a cool drink, and free your inner beach bum. need to go anywhere else? Visit our website for upcoming events. 850-647-8310 850-647-8310 850- 229-7878 850-229-9200 850- 647-5050 lookoutlounge.com krazyfishgrille.com provisionsfl.com

What better place than St. Joe Beach to be Located in historic downtown Port St. Joe, Dagwood’s Voted Best Ice Cream and Dessert on the Forgotten Established in 1938, St. Joe Bar & Package is one of Shipwrecked? Luckily, the Galley is intact and the Delicatessen & Catering is serving up some very serious Coast, Shoobies sells creamy soft serve ice cream, Gulf County’s longest operating businesses. Located in Ship’s Cooks are preparing Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner flavor. Enjoy our chef inspired artisan sandwiches, wraps, decadent sundaes, mouthwatering water ice in a downtown Port St. Joe on Reid Avenue, it offers a full featuring The Best Oysters, Seafood and Steaks tacos, salads, and more under an open air covered patio variety of flavors and our famous Jersey Gelato. liquor bar and package store. Enjoy the shuffleboard, on the Planet with a variety of Wine, Ice Cold Beer and enjoy the bay breeze or call ahead and take your Shoobies is the perfect outdoor eatery for everyone pool tables , dar ts & jukebox everyday ! Live enter tainment and Full Bar Service to quench your Castaway thirst. order to the beach! Dedicated to fresh flavor and unique in the family and we are also pet friendly! We have and sports on the big screen on the weekends! BE sure Rescue efforts start at 6am, 7 days a week. options Dagwood’s is perfect for that quick lunch, office locations in Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe and Cape San to come cheer on your team with the NFL Sunday ticket catering, or beach party. Blas. We are open March–September with our hours/ during season! Bulk orders welcome for special events. days posted on our website. 850-647-5050 850-899-9060 850-229-9912 ShipwreckRawBar.com dagwoodspsj.com shoobies.us facebook.com/stjoebar

73 Partners facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 74 If we don’t have it, you probably don’t need it! We are your one Prepare for adventure! Scallop Cove has it all...a Bait & Come see us at Duren’s Piggly Wiggly! We recently Walter Green Boutique is locally owned, and caters to stop shop on Cape San Blas. We offer a full line of groceries, fresh Tackle Shop and a General Store. Scallop Cove Bait & produce and hand-cut meats. Looking for a hot meal? Check out expanded to better serve you, offering locally caught the stylish lady. Featuring an enormous selection of our deli where we offer Hunt Brothers pizzas & wings. We also Tackle offers fishing/snorkeling/scalloping gear, live/ shrimp (steamed free), Certified Angus Beef, hand apparel, swimwear, gifts, and more. We have all the latest have great breakfast and deli sandwiches- all made to order. We frozen/artificial baits, pontoon/kayak/paddleboard/bike cut steaks, specialty foods including gluten-free and swimwear styles, all sizes and price ranges, including bra have the largest selection of cold beer, wine and the only liquor rentals, beach umbrella/chair rentals, fishing licenses organics, fresh garden produce (including organic), store on the Cape. Along with our selection of groceries and cold sized and plus sized. We are the largest swimwear retailer and more! The General Store features a full line grocery, fresh baked breads. Our deli serves hot pizza, Boar’s beverages, we have a wide variety of souvenirs; the best t-shirts in Gulf County. Our apparel selection covers all your on the Cape, beach supplies, hardware, and fishing bait and t-shirts, hats, jewelry, gifts, fuel, ice, craft beer & wine, and Head meats and cheeses, fresh made sandwiches, and needs from sun dresses to original pieces you can wear tackle as well as local fishing advice. While here, check out our is the official GROWLER FILLER STATION of Cape San Blas. the BEST FRIED CHICKEN. Stop in and let us stock your front deck where you can find Weber’s Donut Shop and the Cape for a night out. We also carry FRESH PRODUCE apparel. San Blas Ice Cream and Coffee Shop. Hope to see you soon!! Come see us! kitchen. Don’t forget Beach Supplies! 850-229-8775 850-227-1573 850-229-8398 850-227-SWIM capetradingpost.com scallopcove.com durenspigglywiggly.com WalterGreenBoutique.com

Just up the road in Wewahitchka, Smiley Honey offers Joseph’s Cottage is a coastal lifestyle store located in Bluewater Outriggers is a store you just gotta’ see! We DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING! — ONE-DAY SCUBA COURSE! several varieties of raw, all-natural honey. By far the downtown Port St. Joe. Home goods, including slipcovered carry everything for your outdoor adventure including AGES 10 & UP • $165 outside the Bay • $110 inside the Bay most amazing variety is Tupelo Honey. In the words of furniture from LEE Industries and beach stripe cotton a huge selection of fishing tackle, marine, camping, Dive Charters ~ Snorkel Trips ~ Rentals ~ Snorkel Gear one of our customers: “There may be better honey than rugs from Dash & Albert. Local and regional handmade outdoor apparel, games and beach essentials. Our Inflatable Kayaks ~ SUPs ~ Skimboards ~ Surfboards your Tupelo somewhere on this earth, but we’ve never goods: beach pine & citrus candles, tiny ceramic oyster brands include Penn, Shimano, Columbia Sportswear, Volcom ~ Reef ~ Patagonia ~ SunBum ~ Lucy Love ~ Prana found it.” We love visitors, so stop by to see us and stock dishes and our “beaches” t-shirt. Classic linen apparel, Sanuk, Sperry, Costa, Maui Jim, plus much much more! Rashguards ~ Swimwear ~ Boardshorts ~ Sandals up on plenty of honey for your friends and family. straw beach totes, and simple jewelry. This is a spot the whole family will fall in love with. Sunnies ~ Souvenirs ~ Spearguns ~ Beach Gear and of Come see us, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed! course, the BEST selection of Masks, Snorkels & Fins!

850-639-5672 850-227-7877 850-229-1100 850-229-6330 smileyhoney.com josephscottage.com bwofish.com dalysdock.com

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Bali Hai Charters, located in the historic coastal Sand N Spur offers horseback riding, PRIVATE snorkeling community of Port St. Joe, Florida, offers family friendly, charters, scallop fishing and sunset cruises. We have affordable inshore fishing trips, sightseeing tours, quality gear for snorkeling and Captain Dan always finds scalloping trips, aquatic adventures and casual cruises the best locations! He’ll snorkel with you and help you on beautiful St. Joe Bay and the historic Apalachicola discover the amazing sealife. The horseback riding on the River system. Our specifically tailored charters are beach is amazing! Our horses are perfect for all types of provided on new, spacious and comfortable pontoon riders, from beginners to professional! We’d love to help boats for maximum comfort, ease of use, and enjoyment. make this your favorite vacation on “Land or Sea”!

850-227-5802 850-227-5009 BaliHaiCharters.com sandnspur.com

Florida the way it was meant to We invite you to book direct with Secluded and quite beach front with be: unspoiled beaches and shady us. Our beautiful newly constructed pool.The area is quite, uncrowded, porches for pure relaxation. Stay in the luxury beach homes are architecturally peaceful and lots of nature to enjoy. beachfront B&B Inn or fully equipped designed, professionally decorated & Always new things to discover!. cottages. Green Certified Lodging. owner operated. 850-229-9366 205-253-5336 850-294-1811 turtlebeachinn.com cottagerents.com c30beachbungalow.com

Dr. Ivers has been Awarded Patient Choice and America’s Mini Storage specializes in covered boat and Compassionate Doctor of the past decade. Dr. Ivers and RV parking, climate control, non-climate control, and his staff of highly trained professionals offer personalized office/warehouse space. Our 6-acre facility is gated attention to each of his patient’s specific needs. All of his with 24-hour keypad access. You can pick up your boat patients receive individualize care from Dr. Ivers. Also, Dr. from our facility & be on the water in minutes. Short Be our guest at Seas The Day! *Sleeps Aqua Shores Vacation Rentals specializes Shop local farmers and artisans. Let your Ivers is also an expert in cosmetic procedure like: Botox, term solutions available. 24* Over 8500 SQ FT of beachfront in small, affordable, two bedroom rental family enjoy art pieces and the amazing Fillers, Smart-Lipo, Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Mini living & deck space all make Seas The properties on Cape San Blas. Most of our flavors of fresh veggies, sweet Tupelo Face Lift, Peels, HydraFacial MD, skin care, and much more! Day your perfect vacation retreat! properties are waterfront and pet friendly. Honey and vine-ripened fruit. Open 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9AM–1PM, Feb.–Dec! 850-227-7070 850-229-8014 850-340-0432 850-387-0658 404-906-2637 iversmd.com bestamericanstorage.com visitgulf.com/140 aquashoresrentals.com www.saltairmarket.com

77 Partners facebook .com/visitgulfcounty | visitgulf .com 78 Sand Dollar Café located at HWY 98 Enjoy craft beer on tap, premium wines, Estate Jewelry & Loan is Port St. Joe’s and 3rd St. was voted best country and live music inside or on the deck at premiere jewelery store. You can find cooking and best breakfast on The the Scallop RePUBlic. Overlooking St. gold, silver, diamonds, one of a kind Forgotten Coast. Joseph Bay on Cape San Blas. collectibles, fine jewerly & watches.

850-227-4865 850-227-9009 850-705-1434 sanddollarcafepsj.com www.scalloprepublic.com estatejewelrypsj.com

Golf Cart rentals, sales & repairs! St. Joe A working pottery studio, also selling Terrific selection of USA-made, high Rent-All: the areas only rental center that local art and art supplies. Located 2 quality foods, treats, toys, and more for has everything from backhoes to baby blocks off of Hwy. 98 in downtown Port your furry family. Call ahead of your beds and more! St. Joe. See our website for current art vacation so your order is already here! classes and hours. 850-227-2112 850-227-5741 850-229-6161 See you sjrans.com www.arterystudio.com soon!

Caroline’s is truly a “gift experience.” We Explore natural, wild Florida on a guided wrap up all your favorite holidays and kayak or pontoon boat excursion into milestones into one store. Find your next the hauntingly beautiful Dead Lakes. perfect gift here! We tailor the adventure to you!

850-227-7194 850-819-3053 offthemapexpeditions.com

79 Partners St. Joseph Bay Gulf of Mexico Dead Lakes Intracoastal Waterway Lake Wimico Indian Pass Lagoon

visitgulf.com • 850-229-7800 • 800-482-GULF • 150 Captain Fred’s Place, Port St. Joe, FL 32456