Pedaling in Paradise: We’re Open for the Business of Bicycling!
By Forgotten Coast Web Team | May 17, 2019
Hold onto your helmets, bicycle fans! Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking to break a serious sweat or just want to explore our area in a fun, active way, you’re in luck. All of the communities across Florida’s Forgotten Coast are extremely bicycle friendly.
Ready to pedal your way across the Forgotten Coast? Keep reading to find out where to rent and ride a bike in each of our towns across Franklin County:
Coast on St. George Island
St. George Island isn’t just a breathtaking beach destination—it’s also an incredibly bike-friendly area. In fact, the island is home to 17 miles of paved bike paths. To top it off, there are heaps of back roads and sandy paths that take you right along the Gulf and bay side of this beautiful barrier island. St. George Island offers a very safe biking environment, even for your little ones.
There are countless ways to explore St. George Island via bicycle. If you prefer a low-key, family-friendly journey, rent a cruiser bike and take a peaceful pedal around the island. Want a more adventurous ride? Take your mountain bike for spin on the island’s sandy backroads or through the forest. If you’re a road cyclist looking for a strenuous workout, you can always stick to the hard surfaces and ride clear across the county.
No bicycle? No problem! There are plenty of places to rent a bicycle on St. George Island. Swing by Island Outfitters, Journeys of St. George Island, Island Adventures or Jolly Roger Beach Shop to rent a bike for a few hours, the whole day or your entire vacation.
Bike Back in Time in Apalachicola
Explore the hip and historical Apalachicola via bicycle! What better way to get to know this charming waterfront city? Hop on your two-wheeler and coast down to Riverfront Park to watch the shrimp boats come in with their catch of the day. Bike beneath the shade of the town’s majestic oaks to check out historical homes, shops, museums and art galleries. Ready for a bite to eat? Cruise over to one of our delicious restaurants before you pedal back to your hotel or vacation rental.
If you want to rent a bike or are in need of parts for your own bicycle, stop by Apalachicola Community Bicycle downtown at 41 Avenue F. They offer rentals and repairs!
Cycle Through Carrabelle
Known as the Florida Panhandle’s Gateway to the Gulf, Carrabelle is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Of course, one of the best ways to explore this picturesque coastal community is—you guessed it—by bicycle!
Cruise down Carrabelle’s Marine Street to enjoy beautiful views and gentle breezes off Crooked River. Pedal down the family-friendly paved path from Carrabelle Beach to the Crooked River Lighthouse to get a closer look at this beautiful structure and explore the lighthouse museum.
Want to explore Carrabelle by road bike? Cycle down State Road 30A (Gulf Ave) in east Carrabelle to ride in shade of magnificent oak canopies. This roadway, which is part of the Big Bend Scenic Byway, runs along the Bay and connects to Hwy 98 just outside of the Carrabelle city limit. The city of Carrabelle has plans to add more marked bicycle sharrows to eventually create a designated bike route through the city. Stay tuned for more info!
Pedal Across the Point
Known as simply “The Point” by locals, Alligator Point is a coastal community nestled on easternmost corner of Florida’s Forgotten Coast. This untouched paradise encompasses eight miles of pristine coastline along a narrow beach peninsula—and it’s the perfect place for bicycle adventures.
Visitors can ride their bikes anywhere on Alligator Point. Be sure to pedal down the designated bicycle trails in Bald Point State Park. Spanning more than 4,000 upland acres, this park is home to a bounty of lush plant life and wildlife residents, including black bear, white-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats and regional birds. If you ride quietly, you may just spot one of these beautiful creatures.
Ready to explore the Forgotten Coast via bicycle? Whether you bring your own or rent one while you’re here, you’re certain to enjoy an unforgettable ride. Book your bike-friendly trip today at Places to Stay!