Apalachicola
Apalachicola or “Apalach“, as it is known by locals, is far from a typical tourist town. Established in 1831, it was once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. Wide, tree-lined streets are proudly graced by picturesque homes that give visitors a glimpse of the wealth and craftsmanship that existed here in the 18th and 19th centuries. Apalachicola’s vibrant history and rich mar
itime culture can also be seen on its working waterfront. Buildings that once served as 19th century ship’s chandleries, net factories and a sponge warehouse now house a mix of eclectic and trendy shops, restaurants, galleries and meticulously restored hotels and B & B’s. These locally owned and operated businesses create a quaint and friendly atmosphere for visitors as well as local residents. A grand theater lies in the center of town. Restored in 1997, the Dixie Theatre hosts professional theater and musical events January through March. Eastpoint
Eastpoint is the seafood central hub of Franklin County. This narrow sliver of coastline just across the bay from Apalachicola and St. George Island is lined with rustic seafood houses where oystermen bring their heavy burlap bags of freshly harvested Apalachicola Bay oysters to be washed, shucked, packed and transported across the country. Eastpoint’s commercial seafood district stretches nearly a mile along Hwy 98 overlooking St. George Sound and hugging the narrow coastline behind a protective breakwater. That breakwater shields the coast and the fleet of weathered wooden oyster skiffs moored just offshore. Eastpoint is an authentic fishing town with a heart as big as the bay. Here you can buy fresh local seafood from family-owned markets and eat a fresh seafood meal from restaurants operated by families four generations deep. George Island is a 22- mile barrier island that hosts some of Florida’s most beautiful and serene beaches. No high rises anywhere, just an unspoiled island with a laid-back attitude. Twenty miles of beach on the gulfside and miles of marsh, inlets and oyster bars on the bayside. The uncrowded beaches are perfect for sunning and shelling, the clear gulf waters invite swimming and fishing, and the pristine bay marshes feature extraordinary wildlife and sunset viewing. Rent a kayak, boat, bicycle or scooter. Accommodations, which range from quaint beach cottages to luxurious beach homes, can be reserved with any of the island’s vacation rental companies or stay at the hotel or inn
