Just one hour south of Tallahassee in the Big Bend of Florida lies a forgotten coastal wonderland. Franklin County features five distinct communities, each adding a unique splash of colour to the shoreline. From crystal clear waters and outstanding fishing opportunities to charming small towns and unusual landmarks, you will find it hard to leave the simpler life Franklin County has to offer.

ENDLESS SUMMER

Feast your eyes on pristine white sand beaches as you soak up the perpetual year-round summer sun Florida is renowned for. With over 400 kilometres of turf stretching across Franklin County, the possibilities to explore sunny adventures are endless. Walk along the gentle surf of St. George Island as your footprints disappear into the tide. Early birds will be treated to the breathtaking colours as Mother Nature’s brushstrokes craft a stunning sky at sunrise.

A FISHERMAN’S PARADISE

If you are an avid angler, Franklin County is a bucket list destination for inshore and offshore fishing. Cast a line as your lure ripples the water and see what bites. With access to redfish, grouper, snapper, trout and cobia, you will be treated to some of the best salt and freshwater fishing grounds in the state. If fishing is not for you, visit the seafood markets of Eastpoint. Family-run four generations deep, these weather-worn docks are guaranteed to have the freshest seafood around.

SEA TURTLES APLENTY

Franklin County is fortunate to be a hotspot for sea turtle activity as they nest along the beaches of Alligator Point, Dog Island and St. George Island. Beginning in May, these areas become havens for turtle activity as the female loggerheads nest along these shores. See how you can contribute to the success of the species by learning about sea turtle nesting at the St. George Island Visitor Center.

UNCOVER THE UNIQUE

Storytelling abounds in Franklin County as you soak in the tales of these towns—all the while you’re crafting your own in your sustainable journey. If you dig a little deeper, you’ll learn about the fascinating history uncovered at the confluence of the three rivers in Carrabelle. Slow travel is king here too. If you move too fast, you will miss the little things like the charming Victorian homes of Apalachicola’s Historic District, or the World’s Smallest Police Station and the unique house made of bottles in Carrabelle.

VIEWS GALORE

Sweeping vistas abound as your sights are treated to vast expanses of pristine shoreline along the North Florida Gulf Coast. Admire waterfront views from the casual eateries and along Eastpoint’s shoreline. For the more adventuresome, you can climb both of the lighthouses on St. George Island and Carrabelle Beach and be rewarded with breathtaking views.

THE PERFECT FLORIDA ESCAPE

Leave behind the high living skyrises and city life and see what experiences await along the two-lane highway, U.S. Highway 98. Wake up to waves lapping against the shoreline of your beachfront villa, nibble on oysters caught from these waters and embrace the slower, intimate style of living the area is known for. It will not take long for your worries to be forgotten here in Franklin County.

ADVENTUROUS ENOUGH TO ROUGH IT?

For those willing to give up a roof over their head, you will be lulled to sleep cradled in your very own hammock at St. George Island State Park. Each campsite has prime hammock camping opportunities so you can fully enjoy the best stargazing in the Florida panhandle. Both Jupiter and Saturn are clearly visible in the night sky and if you are lucky, you can catch the International Space Station as it orbits the Earth. Either way, you will be mesmerized by the purple glow of the Milky Way!

Travel Planner

For more travel information about Florida’s Franklin County, please visit floridasforgottencoast.com/forgotten23