Adventure Awaits: 5 Family-Friendly Activities You Must Try on Florida’s Forgotten Coast

If you’re planning to visit Florida’s Forgotten Coast this spring (or any time of year, for that matter), you’re in for a real treat. Not only is Franklin County home to the most uncrowded and breathtaking beaches on the Gulf coast—but our area is also bursting with awesome adventures for the whole family to enjoy!

Feeling adventurous? Dive into one of these five family-friendly escapades during your next visit:

Adventure #1: Get Hooked

Want to land the big one? You’ve come to the right place because Florida’s Forgotten Coast is fishing paradise! The unique topography of the Apalachicola River and Bay systems combined with our ideal Gulf Coast location make for fabulous fresh and saltwater fishing opportunities. Franklin County offers a diversity of fishing hotspots, including the Apalachicola River basin, the estuary system, wetlands, four barrier islands, oyster bars, sand flats and seagrass flats.

Whether you fish from shore, pier or kayak, you’re certain to hook into something in our prolific waters. Want to catch a whole boatload of fish during your visit? Book an inshore or offshore fishing charter with one of our experienced local captains! Whether you’re an angling pro or a reel rookie, you and your entire family are guaranteed to have an unforgettable fishing experience.

Adventure #2: Take in the Scenery

If you’d like a closer look at our local wildlife and beautiful scenery, you’re in luck. Many of our local guides offer spectacular scenic tours for curious and adventurous families. Offered by land, water or air, these tours will give you a glimpse of the most stunning sights across Franklin County.

During these expeditions, you’ll have a chance to check out our wonderful wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, bald eagles, rare sea birds, Florida black bears and alligators. Afterwards, head out on a shelling expedition or a sunset cruise. These stunning scenic tours provide amazing photo ops and memories to last a lifetime.

Adventure #3: Take a Hike

Looking for an exciting outdoor adventure? Lace up your boots and hit the trails! Home to hundreds of thousands of beautiful, protected acres filled with regional wildlife, Florida’s Forgotten Coast offers heaps of hiking opportunities for active families.

Head out on an exploration of Tate’s Hell State Forest, St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, St. George Island State Park or Bald Point State Park. No matter which park you visit, be sure to bring your binoculars and a camera. Our local trails are teeming with wildlife, including bald eagles, Florida black bears, woodpeckers, gopher tortoises, alligators and more. Happy trails!

Adventure #4: Paddle Across Paradise

Calling all paddlers: If you want to try your hand at kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding, Florida’s Forgotten Coast is the perfect paddling destination. Our area is home to hundreds of miles of unspoiled rivers, creeks and coastal shallows just waiting to be explored by nature-loving families.

Relax on a gentle float down one of our calm, pristine rivers or head out on a thrilling sea kayak journey along the Gulf coastline. No matter what “floats your boat,” the Forgotten Coast serves up paddling fun for everyone. Even better? There’s no need to bring your own gear! Franklin County is home to a number of shops that offer kayak, canoe and paddle board rentals.

Adventure #5: Climb High for a Bird’s Eye View

Want to check out a picturesque piece of our local maritime history? Pay a visit to one of Franklin County’s lovely lighthouses: The Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island and the Crooked River Lighthouse at Carrabelle Beach. Climb the winding stairs to the top of these magnificent lighthouses and take in a dazzling bird’s eye view of the Apalachicola Bay and St. George Sound below. Both lighthouses host special climbs on full moon evenings, be sure to check out their upcoming events.

Ready to plan an unforgettable family-friendly adventure to Florida’s Forgotten Coast? Book your trip today!