Christmas on the Coast: 4 Fun Things to Do During Your Holiday Visit

Are you planning to spend your holidays on Florida’s Forgotten Coast? Lucky you! From Apalachicola and St. George Island to Eastpoint, Carrabelle and Alligator Point, Franklin County is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s.

If you’re looking to escape the December snow and frigid cold, this is the place to be for Christmas vacation. In December, we typically enjoy clear, sunny days with temps ranging from an average high of 64° and lows around 52°. Our delightful December weather is enough to fill anyone with Christmas cheer.

Not only is it much warmer here as compared than most of the country, but also there are countless fun things to see and do across the Forgotten Coast throughout the season. Here are four fun activities to keep visitors of every age jolly during your holiday vacation:

#1: Build a Sandman

We may not have snow here on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, but we have plenty of beautiful, sugar white sand. Why not head to the beach and build a sandman to get into the holiday spirit?

With more than 250 miles of immaculate coastline, Franklin County is home to some of the most breathtaking, unspoiled beaches in the Sunshine State. Our uncrowded beaches are perfect for all kinds of joyful activities—from fishing and paddling to taking long walks, shell-hunting or just relaxing on the sand. And of course, building sandcastles and sandmen!

Want to take a dip in the inviting, emerald surf of the Gulf of Mexico? With water temps in the mid-60s this time of year, it’s a little chilly in our opinion. But we’ve seen a few brave visitors take the “arctic plunge” to celebrate the season.

#2: Give Fido the Gift of Fun

Is your four-legged friend tagging along for your holiday getaway? You’re in luck! As one of the most pet friendly destinations in Florida, Franklin County offers tons of pawesome activities for you and your pooch to enjoy.

If your dog digs the beach, she’s in for a real treat. Almost all the beaches on St. George Island are dog friendly, and so is Carrabelle Beach. These areas welcome leashed, well-behaved pets. So, come on down and let Fido romp and play in the sand.

During your holiday visit, be sure to take your furry friend to Apalachicola Dog Park. Located on the corner of Avenue L and 12th Street, this 2-acre fenced site is a doggone great place for dogs to run, play and fetch off-leash. Plus, admission is free! You and your pup are certain to have a howling good time.

#3: Take a Holiday Hike

Ready to work off those Christmas cookies? Hit one of our local trails for a fun-filled calorie-burning sesh. Florida’s Forgotten Coast is home to hundreds of thousands of protected acres with a bounty of hiking opportunities. Our trails are teeming with cool sights, from interesting trees and plants to an array of local wildlife, including Florida black bears, raccoons and unique birds. Whether you choose to explore Tate’s Hell State Forest, St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, St. George Island State Park or Bald Point State Park, you’re certain to have an incredible journey.

#4: Explore Our Area’s History

If you’re looking to spice up your holidays with a history lesson, you’ve come to the right place. With heaps of historical sites and museums, Florida’s Forgotten Coast is history buff paradise.

In Apalachicola, be sure to stop by the John Gorrie Museum State Park, The Raney House, The Orman House and the Apalachicola Maritime Museum.

If you’re visiting Carrabelle, swing by the Carrabelle History Museum and the Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, established in 1942 to train amphibious soldiers.

Looking for an illuminating holiday experience? Pay a visit to our two historic lighthouses: Cape St. George Light on St. George Island and Crooked River Lighthouse at Carrabelle Beach. (Note: Most sites are closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Be sure to check with each museum for holiday hours!)

Ready to plan your holiday getaway to Florida’s Forgotten Coast? Book your Christmas or New Year’s vacation today!