Getaway to the Gateway: 5 Family-Friendly Adventures in Charming Carrabelle

Known as the Panhandle’s Gateway to the Gulf, Carrabelle is a hidden gem tucked away on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. While this picturesque coastal community is most celebrated for its unspoiled beaches and Old Florida vibe, Carrabelle has so much more to offer. This beach town is chock-full of outdoor adventures and exciting activities for visitors of all ages.

 If you want to escape to a quiet retreat with sugar sand beaches and tons of things to see and do, look no further than Carrabelle. While you’re here, don’t miss out on these five family-friendly activities:

#1. Have a REEL Adventure.

Carrabelle is famous for its prolific inshore and offshore fishing. Whether you cast a line from the beach, a pier, a kayak or boat, you’re pretty much guaranteed to get hooked here. In the mood for an epic fishing experience? It’s time to turn to the pros. When you book a charter with one of our experienced local fishing guides, you’re certain to have the angling adventure of a lifetime.

#2. Explore Crooked River Lighthouse.

Check out a piece of Carrabelle’s long-standing coastal history! Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Crooked River Lighthouse served as a guiding light for ships and fishermen for more than a century. Today, the 103-foot tall lighthouse stands on the mainland, where the light was originally built in 1895.

The Crooked River Lighthouse Tower is open for climbs (weather permitting) every Wednesday through Friday from 11 am to 5 pm, every Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm. The cost to climb is $5 per person, and all climbers must be 44 inches tall.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Keeper’s House Museum and Gift Shop, which offers free admission! The museum features a historical setting of the early 1900s and other cool lighthouse relics. The gift shop serves up unique nautical-themed gifts for both children and adults.

#3. Snap a Mugshot at the World’s Smallest Police Station.

This is a must-see landmark when you visit Carrabelle! In the early 1960s, Carrabelle’s police phone was located in a call box bolted to a building at the corner of Hwy. 98 and Tallahassee Street. The World’s Smallest Police Station has been featured on the television shows Real People, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and the Today Show. Swing by the station at 105 St. James Avenue for a fun family photo!

 #4. Cycle through Carrabelle.

One of the best ways to explore this charming community is by bicycle. Pedal down Carrabelle’s Marine Street for beautiful views of Crooked River. There’s also a paved path that winds from Carrabelle Beach to the Crooked River Lighthouse.

If you’re a road cyclist, head down State Road 30A (Gulf Ave) in east Carrabelle, where you can ride in the cool shade of towering oaks. This roadway, which is part of the Big Bend Scenic Byway, runs along the Bay and connects to Hwy 98 just outside of the Carrabelle city limit. If you don’t want to bring your own bike, you can easily rent one from one of our local shops!

#5. Hit the Beach for Fun in the Sun & Wildlife Viewing.

While there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Carrabelle, the beach is certainly the main event. Home to miles of pristine beaches, this quiet coastal community is paradise for sun worshipers, swimmers, paddlers, snorkelers and nature lovers. Even better? Carrabelle offers unmatched wildlife viewing. Whether you’re enjoying a beach stroll or paddling in the Gulf, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles, blue herons and other stunning sea birds. Back on land, you may come across deer, foxes or even black bears at play.

Ready to escape to an uncrowded beach town with tons of fun outdoor activities? Adventure awaits in Carrabelle! We’re open for business and ready for visitors. Plan your vacation today!