Summer Fun on the Forgotten Coast: Top 7 Kid-Approved Activities

SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER! Whether your kiddos have already kicked off summer break or are counting down the days, now’s the time to book your vacation to Florida’s Forgotten Coast! As the one of the most kid-friendly destinations in the Sunshine State, Franklin County is the perfect place to make unforgettable summer vacation memories.

Plus, there are countless things to do and see in Franklin County: from hiking, fishing and biking to wildlife-viewing, museum-hopping and splashing in the Gulf. With so many awesome activities across Apalachicola, Carrabelle, St. George Island, Alligator Point and Eastpoint, it can be tough to decide what to do during your visit.

Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top seven kid-approved activities to enjoy during your visit to Florida’s Forgotten Coast:

#1. Go Fishing

Home to some of the most prolific freshwater and saltwater fishing in the Sunshine State, Franklin County is paradise for anglers of all ages. Whether you prefer to throw in a line from the beach, a kayak, pier or boat, you’re certain to reel in something impressive on the Forgotten Coast. If your kiddos want to hook into something even bigger, turn to the pros! There are numerous experienced fishing guides in our area who can help you land the big one.

#2. Visit a Lighthouse

Franklin County is home to two beautifully restored lighthouses: Cape St. George Light on St. George Island and Crooked River Lighthouse at Carrabelle Beach. Even cooler? Both locations host special climbs on full moon evenings!

#3. Hit the Trails

Planning a kid-friendly vacation to Franklin County? Take a hike! Florida’s Forgotten Coast is home to hundreds of thousands of protected acres just waiting to be explored by curious kiddos. Plus, all of these trails are teeming with regional wildlife, including bald eagles, sea birds, alligators and even Florida black bears. Grab the binoculars and take the family to Tate’s Hell State Forest, St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, St. George Island State Park or Bald Point State Park.

#4. Travel Back in Time

Learn all about Franklin County’s fascinating past at one our area’s magnificent museums and historic sites. There of tons of interesting artifacts and relics for the entire family to explore at these awesome venues.

#5. Pedal Around Paradise

Want to explore the Forgotten Coast in an active and fun way? Grab your helmets and get to pedaling! All of the communities across Franklin County are extremely bicycle friendly.

#6. Hit the Beach

While there are countless things to see and do here on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, Franklin County is probably most famous for our award-winning beaches. With more than 250 miles of immaculate coastline, these undisturbed, sugar sand beaches are the perfect place make lasting memories with your kiddos. Spend your days splashing in the emerald surf, building sandcastles, hunting for seashells or simply soaking up the Florida sun. It’s a fun-filled kid favorite!

#7. Get in Touch with Nature

Looking for educational, free fun for the entire family? The Nature Center at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) in Eastpoint is a must-see! Often referred to as nature’s classroom, this one-of-a-kind center offers tons of educational exhibits, aquariums, recreational activities, hands-on discovery, boardwalk trails, wildlife viewing and more.

Looking for even more kid-friendly activities on the Forgotten Coast? Visit our Things to See & Do page.