Day Trips and Stay-cations
We hope that you explore all the areas of our picturesque community from the bays, rivers, beaches and areas in between. While there are many activities and fun things to do in the Carrabelle area, we thought you might like to know some of the interesting areas close by that would make great day trips. Who knows, maybe you will decide to stay with us a few days longer.
Planning a paddling trip? Learn more about the Apalachicola River Blueway guide, trails by download paddling trail maps.
FYI: Some of these locations have guided tours but usually require two weeks advance reservations. Please contact them directly.
(Note: The information, maps, and directions were used from a variety of sources and their respective logos are included in the information presented.)
Bald Point State Park on Alligator Point
Bald Point State Park boasts more than 4,800 acres of coastal wilderness dotted with freshwater ponds and tidal marshes. Located in Franklin County where the Ochlockonee Bay meets the Apalachee…
Cape St. George State Reserve
If you are looking for remote along Florida’s coast, Little St. George Island lies just to the west of St. George Island in Apalachicola Bay and has over 9 miles…
City of Apalachicola, FL
Spend the day exploring over 900 historic sites in the City and enjoying an eclectic group of locally owned shops and galleries and fresh local seafood that ranges from a…
Diving the Area and Shipwrecks: the Vamar
There are a number of good diving locations off our coast including artificial reefs, shipwrecks, and Air Force signal Towers are just a few of the dive sites you will…
Dog Island & The Nature Conservancy
Dog Island is a privately owned small and remote barrier island accessible by water-taxi or boat. There are no public land or amenities on the island, however, you may wish…
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
Welcome to St. George Island State Park, one of Florida’s Gulf Coast barrier islands. Just four miles off shore between Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, St. George Island…
Dwarf Cypress Stand in Tate’s Hell State Forest
This one-of-a-kind oddity is a bowl-shaped depression in the forest covering dozens of acres. For no known reason, the cypresses here have never grown more than about 20’ tall. (Normal…
FSU Coastal & Marine Laboratory
The FSU Coastal & Marine Laboratory engages in innovative, interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach focused on the management and conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems of the northeastern Gulf of…
Hickory Landing in the Apalachicola Natl’ Forest
Open year roundQuiet hours: 10 p.m.-6 a.m.Fees: Overnight camping $3 Hickory Landing (and Wright Lake Recreation Area) are located approximately 25 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico by car…
High Bluff Coastal Hiking Trail in Tate’s Hell
The High Bluff Coastal Hiking Trail is the first recreational hiking trail in Tate’s Hell State Forest. The trail features the coastal scrub habitat that is unique to the Gulf…
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Cape San Blas Horseback Riding on the Beach is a relaxing, safe way to enjoy the coast and families have rated it as one of the top things to do…
John David Patton Wildlife Park
Amenities include nature trails, educational signage, picnic facilities and restrooms. This park offers birders and nature enthusiasts a perfect place to relax and watch for the native gopher tortoises and…
Leon Sinks in the Apalachicola National Forest
Area Open 8 am – 8 pmGate locked at 8 pm For an enjoyable visit, allow time for a leisurely stroll in this unique natural showcase that offers so many…
National Wildlife Refuge-St. Marks & Otter Lake
Open year round, daylight hours(Gate on Lighthouse Road opens at 6 am).Visitor Center is open Mondays – Fridays, 8 am – 4 pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5…
Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park
Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park is the site of one of Florida’s most significant Civil War conflicts. Each year during the first full weekend of March, thousands of visitors…
Ochlockonee River State Park
Ochlockonee River State Park is a scenic river park with more than 543 acres that offer vivid views of natural Florida along the Gulf Coast. Opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities…
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park
The many different flags flying over San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park welcome visitors to the park and demonstrate the colorful history of this site, from the Spanish explorers…
St. George Island
St. George Island, a 22-mile long and one mile wide barrier island with bridge access, is just twenty minutes west of Carrabelle. Here you will find uncrowded, natural sugar white…
St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge
St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge offers visitors many activities, such as kayaking, fishing, hiking and biking. Pack a picnic and enjoy St. Vincent’s pristine view of the Gulf of Mexico. Combine…
Tate’s Hell State Forest
Visitors to Tate’s Hell State Forest can paddle down a black water river until they reach the white sandy beaches of the Gulf or take a hike on an ancient…
Wright Lake Recreation Area North of Eastpoint
Open year roundSummer hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Winter hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.Fees: Day use $ 3; Overnight camping $ 10 Wright Lake Recreation Area (and Hickory…