Apalach Adventures: 4 Favorite Fresh-Air Activities

If you’re looking for a hip and historical vacation destination with tons of things to see and do, head down to awesome Apalachicola. This picturesque port town is known for its friendly folks, historical charm and stunning water views. Nestled on the mouth of the Apalachicola River, Apalach is home to bustling seafood houses, weather-worn shrimp boats and stately brick homes.

Known as “Apalach” for short, this small coastal community not only boasts an array of unique boutiques, restaurants, music venues and art galleries—it also offers a bounty of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Here are four of our favorite fresh-air adventures in Apalachicola:

#1: Walk the Walk

An extremely walkable town, Apalach features several parks and nature trails. Take a peaceful stroll through Chapman Botanical Gardens, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for butterflies fluttering around the colorful plants. Cruise over Riverfront Park on Water Street to watch the fishing boats and enjoy the gentle breeze off the Apalachicola River.

Ready for a hands-on history lesson? Take a self-guided walking tour along the tree-shaded sidewalks of the town’s distinguished Historic District, where you can check out the regal homes of past sea captains and river pilots.

#2: Get Hooked

Ready to get hooked on Florida’s Forgotten Coast? Cast a line right here in beautiful Apalach! The Apalachicola River and Apalachicola Bay serve up some of the most productive fishing opportunities. In fact, more than 100 species of fish make their home in the Apalachicola Bay alone. These fish gather among the grassy flats, channels, oyster bars, sand bars and small islands across the bay. Rather do some river fishing? We’ve got you covered! You can fish the Apalachicola River from the public docks on the Apalachicola waterfront and at the City Dock (Ten-foot Hole) under the Hwy. 98 Bridge.

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable fishing adventure, turn to the pros! When you book a fishing charter with a local guide, you’re certain to catch a boatload of fish. Whether you prefer an inshore fishing trip or an offshore angling adventure in the Gulf of Mexico, many local fishing charters take off from the marinas here in Apalachicola.

#3: Paddle the River

Whether your preferred mode of arm-powered transportation is a kayak, paddleboard or canoe, Apalachicola offers incredible paddling opportunities. Across Franklin County, there are hundreds of miles of rivers, creeks and coastal shallows just waiting to be explored by adventurous paddlers.

The Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System is broken into 11 separate smaller trail sections. Paddlers of all skill levels will enjoy these winding paddling trails that stretch nearly 100 miles through the swamps of the Apalachicola River. Paddling excursions range from short, easy trips to multi-day river trips flowing into open bays of the Gulf of Mexico.

 #4. Bike Across Town

What better way to explore this charming waterfront city than via bicycle? Coast down to Riverfront Park to watch the shrimp boats come in with their catch of the day. Bike in the shade of the town’s majestic oaks and check out historical homes, shops, museums and art galleries along your journey.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, roll up to one of our fabulous restaurants for fresh local seafood, a burger or a sweet treat. No wheels? No problem! You can rent a bike from one of our local shops.

 If you’re looking for fun, fresh-air adventures, Apalach is the perfect getaway. This quaint coastal city offers something for everyone. We’re open and ready for visitors, so y’all come down for a visit soon. Plan your vacation today!