5 Reasons to Visit Florida’s Forgotten Coast this Fall

Happy fall, y’all! It’s that enchanting time of year when the weather finally starts to cool down, the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air and festive jack-o’-lanterns appear on every front porch. It also happens to be the best time of year to visit Florida’s Forgotten Coast!

Nestled in the Florida panhandle, our beautiful region has been dubbed the Forgotten Coast because it’s the last remaining stretch of unspoiled Gulf Coast beaches. There are no strip malls, high rises or noisy crowds here. Just pristine coastline, a laidback vibe and plenty of warm Southern hospitality.

The Forgotten Coast includes the charming Franklin County towns of Apalachicola, Carrabelle, St. George Island, Alligator Point  and Eastpoint. No matter which of our coastal communities you decide to visit, you’re certain to have an unforgettable autumn getaway here. Our area offers endless things to see and do for every visitor—whether you’re empty nesters, a family with young kids, a couple or an energetic group of friends.

Here are five reasons why the Forgotten Coast is a must-visit during the fall months:

#1: Perfectly Pleasant Weather

Fall brings delightfully wonderful weather to Florida’s Forgotten Coast. This time of year, it’s still plenty warm here, but not nearly as hot as the summer months. By late September, our humidity levels plummet, which makes the air feel crisp and pleasant.

In October, our local temperatures range from highs in the upper 70s to lows in the mid-60s. Once November rolls around, things cool off a little more, and we enjoy an average high around 69° with lows around 55°.

#2: Uncrowded Beaches

While there are countless things to see and do here on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, our area is probably most famous for its award-winning beaches. With more than 250 miles of immaculate coastline, our undisturbed, sugar sand beaches offer the perfect place to relax and unwind. And during the fall months, our calm beaches are even less crowded than usual!

Whether you’re looking for a prime fishing spot, a pet-friendly area or just a quiet, romantic stretch of shoreline, our local beaches offer something for everyone. From St. George Island and Carrabelle to Alligator Point and Dog Island, you’ll fall in love in with Franklin County’s breathtaking beaches.

#3: Butterfly Sightings

In the fall, there’s something a-flutter here in Franklin County: Butterflies! Throughout the months of September and October, our area is filled with brilliantly colored monarchs as they migrate south to winter in Mexico. It’s quite a sight to behold.

For thousands upon thousands of monarchs, our area is the last stop before they flutter over the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. We count ourselves lucky to be a part of this magnificent migration trail. If you visit the Forgotten Coast this time of year, you may spot spectacular swarms of these gorgeous creatures gliding overhead or taking a break to land and feed on nectar. 

#4: Fun Fall Events

If you enjoy festivals, art shows and other exciting events, Florida’s Forgotten Coast is the place to be this fall. There’s always something shaking here in Franklin County, but autumn is one of our most action-packed seasons.

Our communities will be hosting tons of fun-filled festivities this fall, from Apalach Oktoberfest to Pink Out and Lantern Fest to the Chestnut Street Cemetery Ghostwalk and more. It all leads up to our biggest celebration of the year: The world-famous Florida Seafood Festival on November 1^st and 2^nd in Apalachicola’s Battery Park. Featuring fresh local seafood, arts and crafts exhibits, live entertainment and tons of family-friendly activities, this year’s 56^th annual festival is certain to be a shucking good time. 

#5: Affordable Accommodations

When it comes to accommodations, Florida’s Forgotten Coast serves up something for every taste and budget—from charming bed & breakfasts to luxury waterfront rentals to cost-effective hotels and inns and everything in between. Franklin County is also home to an array of campgrounds, whether you prefer to rough it at a primitive beach campsite or enjoy full RV hookup, pool and concierge service. Best of all? During the quieter fall months, you can score special offers and packages and phenomenal discounts on local lodging!

As you can see, Florida’s Forgotten Coast is the perfect fall destination. Whether you’re a couple searching for a romantic retreat, a family looking for a fun getaway or empty nesters seeking a change of scenery, look no further than Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Plan your awesome autumn vacation today!