Port St. Joe is your gateway to some of Florida’s most pristine Gulf-front beaches—and unforgettable nearby escapes. From undeveloped state-park shores to community beaches and historic bayside towns, here’s everything you need to know.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (Cape San Blas)
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Why Go: Over seven miles of undeveloped Gulf shoreline and bayside shelling spots.
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Hours & Fees: 8 AM–sunset daily; $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
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Amenities: Picnic pavilions, restrooms, primitive campsites & cabins, boat ramp ($1.87 launch fee)
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More Info & Reservations:
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/t-h-stone-memorial-st-joseph-peninsula-state-park
St. Joe Beach
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Why Go: A laid-back town beach with sugar-white sand, west-facing shoreline perfect for sunsets and minimal crowds.
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Access: Multiple public walkovers off US-98, ample roadside parking.
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Amenities: Outdoor showers, picnic tables, lifeguard not provided—swim at your own risk.
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More Info:
visitgulf.com
Mexico Beach
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Why Go: Nearly five miles of pure white-quartz sand that stays cool underfoot.
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Access & Rules: Public beach accesses off Hwy 98, dune walkovers, outdoor showers; turtle season May 1–Oct 31 (report nests: 850-647-8238).
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Visitor Info & Map:
https://mexicobeachfl.gov
Private Beaches at WindMark Beach
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Why Go: Four miles of private shoreline on St. Joseph Bay—ideal for a quieter beach day.
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Community Amenities: Beach walkovers, swimming pool, Village Green, amphitheater.
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Access: WindMark Beach residents & guests only; day-passes available through the Village Club.
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More Info:
joe.com
Day Trip: Historic Apalachicola
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Why Go: Charming waterfront town—antique shops, art galleries, fresh-catch seafood and live oystering demos.
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Visitor Center: 17 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320 | (850) 653-9419 | Mon–Fri 9 AM–5 PM
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More Info:
https://www.apalachicolabay.org/
Insider Packing List:
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Reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brim hat & polarized sunglasses
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Beach chairs/umbrella (rent on-site at state parks; or just use ours – they’re hanging in the garage)
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Refillable water bottles & snacks (many parks lack concessions)
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Tide charts for shelling at low tide
Day Trip: St. George Island State Park
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Why Go: Nine miles of uncrowded white-sand beach ranked among the nation’s best.
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Hours & Fees: 8 AM–sundown daily; $6 per vehicle.
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Amenities: Restrooms, picnic shelters, kayak rentals, primitive & RV campsites.
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Details & Reservations:
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/dr-julian-g-bruce-st-george-island-state-park
Whether you’re chasing sunrises at Cape San Blas, savoring St. Joe Beach sunsets, exploring Mexico Beach’s pure sand, enjoying WindMark Beach’s private shores, or wandering Apalachicola’s historic streets, Port St. Joe delivers beach bliss—and then some. Enjoy the Gulf’s best, all within easy reach of The Blue Goose!
