Places to Stay
The quiet towns that make up Florida’s Franklin County--Alligator Point, Apalachicola, Carrabelle, Dog Island, Eastpoint and St. George Island--offer a treasure cove of lodging options set amidst an authentic, “Old Florida” landscape. A rejuvenating experience awaits every visitor, whether opting for a buzz of activity or for tranquil seclusion, luxurious lodging or a rustic retreat. With rest and relaxation in mind, nothing beats the casual comfort of a quaint beach cottage. History and architecture aficionados relish in the historical context and elegant décor of the area’s exquisite bed & breakfasts and inns. Sportsmen and outdoor enthusiast appreciate the unadorned charm of a fishing lodge and numerous state park and wildlife preserve campsites. And when special occasions call for nights to remember…visitors savor the modern luxurious appointments of centrally located, all-suite hotels or custom-designed, elegant estates by the sea.
Alligator Point, a secluded peninsula at the eastern end of Franklin County, encompasses the 14,366-acre Alligator Harbor Aquatic Reserve--a refuge for wildlife, a top migratory area for birds and a haven for the ecotourist. Here, days fill effortlessly with kayak excursions along the reserve, salt marsh and mud flats explorations, and tarpon fishing, sighting wildlife from manatees to white pelicans, strolling down the white-sand beaches or simply taking it easy. The variety of more than 30 coastal cottages, modern marina townhouses or beach and bay-front homes offered by Harbor Point Realty make the ideal base point, and several even accommodate the family pet(s)! Renters enjoy access to the full-service marina on the protected harbor as well as Bald Point State Park’s 5,000 acres of protected land and park facilities. Rates range from $75.00 per night off-season to $7,200.00 per month during high season. For more information, contact Harbor Point Realty at 850/349-9599 or online at www.harborpointvacationrentals.com.
Apalachicola, rich with history and maritime culture, is an Old Florida gem. More than 200 historic homes and outposts line the charming downtown streets and serve the community today as elegant inns, cheerful boutiques, gourmet restaurants and local oyster joints, entertainment venues and funky watering holes.
Apalachicola has cultivated its colorful history and heritage to persevere as an authentic, working fishing town. This venue for the arts also is a culinary destination, and a place where nature still resounds largely untouched and ever prominent. Here, might take their morning coffee from the deck of a fishing schooner, and feel the rush of reeling in the big catch after a morning of offshore trolling. Those are enjoy the lure of shopping over fishing lures can pop down town, to pick up unique items to take a piece of the beach back home, run into the perfect attire for dinner and a show at the Dixie Theater. Perennial favorites include catching the sunset on a charter cruise before heading back to town to partake in the world-famous Apalachicola Bay oysters, served many different ways and with plenty of local color. It’s easy to enjoy all that this enchanting town has to offer and slip into the gracious hospitality of Apalachicola’s wonderful lodging offerings.
The 100-year-old and beautifully restored Victorian-era Gibson Inn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, celebrates Apalachicola with 30 uniquely designed guest bedrooms, each with private bath and an individual suite of refined antique décor and modern conveniences. The historic inn boasts the exquisite Avenue Sea gourmet restaurant, a progressive interpretation of local flavors and fresh product in a smart, casual environment. Lodging rates range from $90.00 to $200.00 per night, with pet-friendly accommodations available on request. Murder Mystery Weekends attract guests worldwide four times a year and provide an exciting, interactive inn experience, with rates ranging from $512.76 to $733.08 (tax included) including the weekend’s accommodations for two guests with gourmet breakfasts, a cocktail evening and entertainment in abundance. For more information, please contact the Gibson Inn at 850/653-2191 or online at www.gibsoninn.com.
The Water Street Hotel & Marina is one of Apalachicola’s newest offerings. Tucked into the scenic junction of the Apalachicola River and the Apalachicola Bay, this luxury waterfront condominium hotel features 30 richly appointed suites with king master, bunk room, sofa bed, two baths, fully-equipped kitchen and living room, private screened veranda overlooking the river, elegant Hemmingway-inspired furniture and original paintings by Plein Air artist Mary Erickson. In-room amenities include high-speed wireless Internet access, in-room movies, full laundry facilities, mini bar, Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, guest robes and slippers and valet service. Guests also have access to the private swimming pool, room service, business services, an onsite gift and supply store, bike rentals and two conference rooms with theater-style seating for 30 to 40 attendees. Visitors who prefer to travel by boat are accommodated via a full-service, deepwater marina with 20 boat slips equipped for vessels up to 55-feet, with short and long- term mooring options, onsite Dock Master, fish and boat cleaning services, full restroom and shower facilities, marine supplies, groceries and ice.
It’s easy to lose track of time and immerse oneself into the property’s beautiful setting. Guest’s relish in the sights and sounds of the natural wetlands location, including sunrise and sunset colors on the lazy Apalachicola River, with views of the shrimp boats headed back to harbor. The hotel also offers the perfect base for exploring the many attractions and activities offered within Apalachicola’s historic district. Whichever approach you take, The Water Street Hotel offers a first-class vacation experience at seasonally defined rates from $149.00 to $219.00 per night, with special offers available. For more information, please contact The Water Street Hotel toll-free at 888/211-9239 or online at www.waterstreethotel.com.
Located in the historic Grady Building in the location that once housed its namesake, the French Consulate, The Consulate’s four luxury suites feature balconies overlooking the Apalachicola River or courtyard gardens and charming streetscapes. Spacious living areas, distinctive décor with original artwork (including murals by New Orleans artist Polly Holmes), designer kitchens, luxury amenities and complimentary welcome baskets ensure guests’ every comfort is met in style. Set in Apalachicola’s historic district amongst the area’s outstanding restaurants and boutiques, The Consulate offers the perfect accommodations for a romantic getaway, a family gathering, a wedding party or honeymoon, or as a business trip retreat. Rates range from $195.00 to $315.00 per night or from $155.00 to $290.00 for bookings of two nights or more. For more information, please contact The Consulate at 877/239-1159 or online at www.consulatesuites.com.
The Coombs Inn is an elegant Select Registry Bed and Breakfast set in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. This breathtaking inn includes The Mansion and Veranda Suites (1905) and The Villa (1911) and offers 23 rooms at rates ranging from $109.00 to $229.00 per night. With an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere – high ceilings, exquisite period décor, exotic furnishings from around the world, luxurious baths, gourmet breakfasts and weekend wine tasting – Coombs’ guests are sure to feel pampered. As an added bonus, guests are provided with bicycles to encourage the exploration of all that Apalachicola has to offer. Amongst the property’s gardens, Camellia Hall is an ideal setting for weddings, receptions, private parties, family gatherings, and club or corporate meetings. For more information, please contact The Coombs House Inn at 888/653-9199 or online at www.coombshouseinn.com.
Experience the historic charm of downtown Apalachicola via the picturesque quarters of The Historic Raney Guest Cottage. Built in 1835, this renovated, two-bedroom and two-bath cottage provides guests with all of the modern conveniences in a warm and welcoming setting. Guests of Raney Cottage experience Southern hospitality at its finest while enjoying the downtown district’s antique shops, boutiques, restaurants and scenic waterfront, all within a short stroll. Cottage rates are $140.00 per night. For more information, please contact Raney Guest Cottage at 850/653-9749 or online at www.apalachicola-vacation.com/.
Vacation Rentals at The Residences at High Cotton Marketplace offer yet another option for visitors. Each of the three luxury accommodations offer 1,500 square feet of elegantly furnished living space including two queen bedrooms, two baths, whirlpool tub, fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Access to a residential elevator, covered verandas, and downstairs shops and galleries provide convenience and add to the unique environment within this mixed-use development in downtown Apalachicola. Rates range from $300.00 per night and $250.00 per night with bookings of two nights or more, to $1,500.00 per week. For more information, please contact Apalachicola Realty, Inc. toll-free at 800/239-8900 or online at www.apalachicolarealtyinc.com.
Other Apalachicola accommodations include the House of Tartts, a restored guesthouse in historic downtown Apalachicola (contact details: 850/653-4687 or www.houseoftartts.com) and the contemporary Witherspoon Inn – an updated historic property that served as the residence of Captain Witherspoon in the 19th century (contact details: 850/653-9186 or www.witherspooninn.com).
Full-service marinas; turn-of-the-century, modern picnic pavilions; deepwater port access to the Intercoastal Waterway; tidal marshes and long-leaf pine forests; a working waterfront and recreational fishing and boating – these assets combine to make Carrabelle a unique part of this unspoiled region. Whether you come to land “the big catch” on a fishing excursion, to set sail into glorious sunset, to snorkel, scuba dive, scallop, bird watch or just to get away from it all, Carrabelle welcomes you with a wide variety of lodging options.
The deluxe and intimate Clubhouse Villas at St. James Bay, with options for packages providing golf opportunities on its Robert Walker-designed Audubon course, feature beautiful interiors with all the amenities of home as well as proximity to the clubhouse and Crooked River Grill. Rates for each of these four villas range from $110.00 per night to $1,220.00 for a seven-day, double occupancy package including unlimited golf. Additionally, St. James Bay offers two- and three-bedroom condos overlooking the beautiful golf course in the Residences, a luxury community with a private pool and access to the Recreational Facility, which includes the fishing pier, playground, picnic pavilions and bay access. Rates for the Residences range from $300.00 per night in the winter (November – February) to $400.00 per night in the summer (May – August); and $350.00 per night in the spring and fall (March – April, September – October) to $1,100.00/ $1,450.00/ $1,275.00 for seven nights and include a special golf rate of $50.00 per day per person. For more information, please contact St. James Bay Vacation Rentals at 850/697-9606 or online at www.stjamesbay.com.
The Old Carrabelle Hotel, a charming and historic Key West-style
inn, offers a choice of five themed rooms with private baths, proximity to the Carrabelle
harbor and beach, a private courtyard, wrap-around porches and an onsite restaurant
and gathering spot, the Monkey Bar. Rates range from $77.00 per night to $107.00
per night. New offerings include the Beach House, an Old Florida-style estate
with a choice of two beautifully appointed, and modern rooms. Rates for the
Beach House are $127.00 per night including breakfast for two and beach supplies.
The newly remodeled Oyster Cabin sleeps four comfortably in a full-service space
including kitchen, bedroom, full bath and a screen porch for kicking back and relaxing.
Rates for the Oyster Cabin are $107.00 per night for four guests and $10.00 for
each additional guest.
Lanark Village condos offer boat launch and marina access in a casual lodging environment.
A two-bedroom condo with a full kitchen, sitting area and bath is offered at $117.00
per night or $450.00 per week. An efficiency condo offers a small kitchen
and sitting area, bedroom and bath and is offered at $97.00 per night or $350.00
per week. For more information, please contact The Old Carrabelle Hotel at
850/697-9010 or online at www.oldcarrabellehotel.com.
The widely varied offerings of Sandy Beach Properties include luxury
accommodations on the beach or riverfront, cozy cottages and charming fishing lodges.
Mariner’s Landing offers new riverfront accommodations, each four-bedroom,
four-bath home boasting lavish provisions such as beautifully designed interiors,
private elevator, dedicated top-level master suite with office and grand bathroom,
guest suite with efficiency kitchen and fully-outfitted living quarters. Guests
enjoy access
to a 10’ X 27’ boat slip with water and electric, a dock on the Carrabelle
River, fish cleaning station, outside grill and gated pools for the ultimate fisherman’s
getaway! Rates begin at $500.00 for two nights to $1,600.00 per week.
Pirates’ Landing is a deep-water resort on secluded Timber Island that is made for fishing. Pirates’ Landing features a selection of eight luxurious dockside cottages, a private pool, hot tub, reserved boat slips, private marina, ship’s store and a new onsite restaurant, Papa Pirate’s, at rates of $150.00 per night to $1,400.00 per month. Pickett’s Landing offerings include luxurious three-bedroom, three-bath town homes with private elevator and deep-water boat slip, access to the community pool, boat house, 6,000-pound ice machine for the “catch-of-the-day” and workout facility. Rates for Pickett’s Landing begin at $400.00 for two nights to $1,500.00 per week.
The Sands of Carrabelle offers 11 privately owned, three-bedroom, two-bath accommodations with access to a community pool and options for pet-friendly lodging. Rates begin at $150.00 per night and range to $1,400.00 - $1,700.00 per month.
“Floundering’ around” and “Fish Tales” in Lanark Village, once a fashionable resort town in the late 1800s and later a WWII military training camp from 1942-1946, are two-bedroom two-bath homes perfect for the dedicated fisherman. Rates are $125.00 per night and $75.00 per night, respectively and $1,400.00 to $1,000.00 per month. For more information about these and the above rentals available through Sandy Beach Properties, call 850/697-5300 or view properties online at www.sandybeachlistings.com.
One of Carrabelle’s newest offerings, The Franklin Inn, features basic accommodations at a rate of $66.00 per night – a great place for some shut-eye between fishing expeditions. For more information, please contact The Franklin Inn at 850/697-4000.
The newly renovated Georgian Motel, located on the Gulf of Mexico at the mouth of the Carrabelle River, is another ideal outpost for groups, sportsmen/women, couples and families looking for a peaceful getaway or a fully-equipped outpost. Guests may bring small pets for an extra fee and have access to the pool, boat slips, full-service marina, docking facilities, conference and meeting facilities and proximity to the beaches and area restaurants. Standard rooms, kitchenettes and family units are available starting at $70.00 per night or $125.00 weekly. For more information, please contact the Georgian Motel at 850/697-3410 or online at www.a1awest.com/georgian/.
Carrabelle Palms RV Park, located directly across from Carrabelle Beach, offers a coveted stretch of shoreline with prime opportunities for fishing, picnicking, sunning and swimming. Guests staying within the 97-site park also have access to the newly renovated features including the reception hall with fitness equipment, pool, playground, wireless internet, full hookups with cable television and the onsite convenience store offering RV supplies, groceries and bait and tackle. Rates are $39.50 per night, $237.00 weekly or $550.00 monthly. For more information, please contact Carrabelle Palms RV Park at 850/697-2638 or online at www.carrabellepalmsrvpark.com.
St. George Island, a 28-mile barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, stakes claim to some of the most beautifully pristine beaches in all of Florida on the Gulf side, and the life-abundant waters of the Apalachee Bay on the other. This low-density, family-friendly beach haven prohibits high rises and promotes miles of uncrowded seashore for fishing, wildlife viewing, swimming, sunbathing and shelling.
St. George Island State Park comprises nine miles of undeveloped shoreline, and features some of the state’s best shelling opportunities. Magnificent dunes, protected coves, salt marshes and long-leaf pine forests create an environment that encourages wildlife exploration, whether kayaking the marsh coves, exploring the forest and beach trails or surf-casting along the shore. The park also is a birder’s paradise, with spring and fall migrations from the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways.
Living on “island time” encourages visitors to ease into their days—enjoying coffee with the sunrise and taking an early-morning stroll along the beach with the shorebirds for company and surf song for quiet contemplation. Days are spent in commune with the natural wonders—boating and fishing the bounteous bay and gulf; learning more about the area’s unique bio-diversity while enjoying an educational kayak or boating excursion; and swimming, sunning and engaging in some quality leisure activity on the beach. Afternoons are down-time…naps are in order for some; others prefer the restorative power of shopping the island’s signature boutiques and galleries. With renewed energy levels, visitors are ready to kick back at a local eatery to enjoy fine coastal cuisine, sunset celebrations and seasonal entertainment.
Finding the perfect island accommodations to suit your needs is easy. Local rental agencies offer hundreds of private beach homes, ranging from quaint beach cottages to luxurious, well-appointed beach estates. And don’t forget Fido – St. George Island is one of the few beaches in Florida that allows pets!
Collins Vacation Rentals has been welcoming visitors to the island
for 35 years, and manages more than 275 privately owned, diverse rental homes, from
luxuriously designed and outfitted six-bedroom beach houses to charming, Old Florida-style
cottages. Whether your needs call for a budget-friendly vacation or the splurge
of a lifetime, Collins Vacation Rentals has the perfect lodging option! Their “Guest
Services” staff delights in welcoming both new and returning guests, matching
each guest to the perfect vacation experience. Wide ranges of amenities are
available to guests, including accommodations with private pools or pool access,
tennis and boat docking privileges, private elevators and pet-friendly properties.
All accommodations offer free
linens and free long distance. Many homes offer DSL/wireless connectivity.
Additionally, guests are encouraged to visit the rental office for friendly and
helpful staff recommendations regarding area attractions and restaurants, or to
make use of the “guest area,” complete with complimentary wireless Internet
service. For more information, contact Collins Vacation Rentals toll-free
at 1-866-731-7558 or online at www.collinsvacationrentals.com.
Resort Vacation Properties, owned by five ladies with a combined
total of more than 50 years of property rental experience, focuses only on vacation
property management. Excellent customer service is their number one
priority and with almost 400 properties, they offer the largest selection of rental
homes on St. George Island.
Choices range from a cozy one-bedroom condo to a luxurious eight-bedroom beachfront
home, and may be found on the beach, bay or in between. More than half of
these properties are pet friendly and have Internet access and private or community
pools. Many also have elevators, docks, boardwalks to the beach and hot tubs.
All properties come with free long distance and complimentary trip insurance.
Linens are free and beds are made, awaiting guests’ arrival. Friendly
reservation specialists are available 24/7 to help guests choose the perfect place
for family vacations, romantic getaways, small retreats, reunions and conferences.
A check-in center offers a guest area with computers, wireless Internet connection
and printers to keep visitors connected with the outside world. Their friendly,
knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist guests with local information, directions
and recommendations to make sure everyone has a memorable vacation on St George
Island. Snowbirds feel right at home and all island winter guests are honored
each year with an appreciation party hosted by Resort Vacation Properties.
For more information, please contact Resort Vacation Properties of St. George Island at 1-800-756-5470 or online at www.RVPsgi.com.
For those who wish to fully experience the natural environment of Franklin County, pristine camping opportunities abound. The 1,962 acre Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park features full-facility 60 campsites including “pet camping” options (contact: 850/927-2111 or www.reserveamerica.com). The U.S. National Forest Service offers two camping opportunities in Franklin County: Hickory Landing Boat Ramp & Hunt Camp has 12 full-facility campsites and Wright Lake Recreation Area & Campground has 20 full-facility campsites (contact: 850/523-8500 or www.recreation.gov).
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Raney Guest Cottage |
653-9749 |
46 Avenue F. |
Caroline Weiler, Manager |
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Water Street Hotel & Marina |
653-3700 |
329 Water Street |
Sheryl Mitchell, GM |
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Bryant House Bed & Breakfast |
653-3270 |
101 6th Street |
Brigette, Manager |
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Apalachicola Historical Inn |
653-1012 |
145 Avenue E |
Jeanne Rodgers, Manager |
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House of Tartts |
653-4687 |
50 Avenue F |
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Coombs House Inn |
653-9199 |
80 6th Street |
Estella Banta, Manager |
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Best Western |
653-9131 |
249 US HWY 98 West |
Patel, Manager |
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Witherspoon Inn |
653-9186 |
94 5th Street |
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Bay City Lodge |
653-9294 |
1000 Bay City Rd. |
Buddy Renfroe, Manager |
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Apalachicola River Inn |
653-8139 |
123 Water Street |
Rick Bloodworth, Manger |
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Sportsmans Lodge |
670-8423 |
99 N. Bayshore Dr. |
Bob Allen, Manager |
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Buccaneer Inn |
927-2585 |
160 W. Gorrie Dr. |
Joanne, Manager |
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Gibson Inn |
653-2191 |
51 Avenue C |
Pamela & Tony Erario |
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The Consolate |
653-1515 |
76 Water Street |
Virginia Dugger |
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Moorings Marina Seachange |
697-2800 |
1000 US HWY 98 |
Lawton (BUD) Chiles |
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Resort Vacation Properties |
927-2322 |
140 W. 1st St. |
Beth Dearinger |
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The Entertainer |
678-446-6789 |
The Plantation |
Stephanie Kane |
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Harbor Pt. Realty |
349-9599 |
1320 Alligator Dr. Mariner Circle |
Paul Parker |
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Rancho Inn |
653-9435 |
240 HWY 98 West |
Mary Lynn Rogers |
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Franklin Inn |
697-4000 |
1589 HWY 98 West |
Bill Laine |
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Collins Vacation Rentals |
927-2900 |
60 E. Gulf Bch Dr. |
Susan Fickland |
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St. George Island Vacation Properties |
927-4750 |
235 W. Gulf Bch Dr. |
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Anchor Vacation Properties |
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101 E. Gulf Bch Dr. |
Suzy, Manager |
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St. George Inn |
927-2625 |
135 Franklin Blvd. |
Suzy,Manager |
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Pelican Inn |
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Located on Dog Island |
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Georgian Motel |
697-3410 |
109 Southeast Ave. B |
Debra Scanlan |
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C Quarters |
697-8400 |
501 St. James Ave. |
Millard Collins |
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Old Carrabelle Hotel |
697-9010 |
2001 Tallahassee St. |
Skip, Manager |
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Sandy Beach Properties |
850-778-7156 |
1001 HWY 98 East |
Leila, Manager |
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Apalachicola Riverfront Vacation Home |
205-926-4816 |
125 Melanie Ln |
Dr. David Allgood |
