UNPLUG AND RECONNECT ALONG FLORIDA'S FORGOTTEN COAST

If you’re looking to unplug and reconnect simply, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the quiet coastal communities of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Carrabelle, Eastpoint and Alligator Point. This area in rural Franklin County is known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast and it is a protected oasis with quiet beaches, wooded trails and scenic paddling sloughs. The environment is the economy here and folks enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, discovering heritage sites and, of course, eating fresh Apalachicola Bay seafood.

In recent months, the area has also become known for some unique dining experiences.

Most notably, the historic Gibson Inn in Apalachicola has been renovated and refreshed by thirty-something siblings Steven Etchen and Katharine Couillard who purchased the historic hotel in 2018. The house restaurant, the Franklin, now features updated culinary fare that emphasizes local fresh-caught seafood and casual elegance.

Elsewhere in Apalachicola, the Owl Café and Tap Room are located in the heart of the town’s historic downtown district. Both eateries are at the epicenter of a culinary rebirth that has occurred in in recent years. The upstairs Café features relaxed yet upscale dining with an excellent selection of fine wines. Downstairs, the Tap Room features a similar menu but the atmosphere is more relaxed. Apalachicola newest eatery – the Up To No Good Tavern features Pizza, subs, salads overlooking the historic downtown from its pet-friendly balcony.

Eat Where You Play

St. George Island restaurants feature casual fare with local seafood and friendly locals. You can relax beachside at the Blue Parrot Bar and Grill and enjoy a basket of steamed shrimp as you watch the dolphins play or experience the region’s largest open-air tiki bar at Doc Myers’ Island Pub. Paddy’s Raw bar on the bayside of the island is the site of an annual Pink-Out event which has become an annual island event.