While tourists flock to Miami and the Keys, Florida’s Forgotten Coast harbors a string of pristine barrier islands where sea turtles still nest undisturbed, and fishing villages maintain their Old Florida charm. From Dog Island to St. Vincent, these natural treasures offer glimpses of Florida before the theme parks.
St. George Island
Twenty-eight miles of undeveloped shoreline where sea oats dance in Gulf breezes. The eastern end houses one of Florida’s most pristine state parks, while the western tip remains a vital nesting ground for threatened shore birds.
Local tip: Visit during the first full moon of summer to witness masses of ghost crabs performing their ancient mating dance across moonlit beaches.
Dog Island
Accessible only by boat, this 7-mile-long sanctuary feels like stepping back in time. No paved roads traverse its dunes. Instead, wooden boardwalks protect delicate vegetation.
The Jeff Lewis Nature Preserve occupies the eastern third, protecting maritime forests where migratory songbirds rest during spring and fall migrations.
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Little St. George Island
A researcher’s paradise, uninhabited since its lighthouse keeper departed in 1949. Hurricane Michael reshaped its shoreline but couldn’t diminish its wild beauty.
Sea turtle researchers maintain primitive camps during nesting season (May-October). Access requires special permission or guided tours.
St. Vincent Island
This 12,358-acre national wildlife refuge harbors endangered red wolves and sambar deer – massive Asian elk introduced in 1908. Prehistoric shell mounds reveal centuries of Native American habitation.
There is boat access only; visitor numbers are limited to protect sensitive habitats.
Cape San Blas
Where loggerhead turtles still dig nests along nine miles of pristine shore. The Cape’s distinctive hook shape creates both Gulf and bay beaches within walking distance.
Local folklore claims pirates buried treasure beneath its shifting sands.
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Indian Pass Peninsula
With more sand spit than a proper island, this hidden gem connects to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. World-class oystering waters surround its shores.
The historic Indian Pass Raw Bar has served fresh catches in a building virtually unchanged since 1903.
Buck Island
A critical stopover for monarch butterflies during fall migration. The island’s maritime oak hammocks provide essential shelter during storms.
Kayakers can circumnavigate its shores in about three hours, watching for dolphin pods in surrounding waters.
Black’s Island
Private ownership hasn’t diminished this island’s ecological importance. Surrounding grass flats harbor some of the Gulf’s healthiest scallop populations.
Local fishing guides know the deep holes where record-sized redfish lurk.
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Turkey Key
More commonly called Bird Island by locals, this tiny sanctuary hosts impressive nesting colonies. Magnificent frigatebirds occasionally rest here – a rare sight this far north.
Early morning low tides expose sand bars connecting to nearby islands.
North Key
Archaeological evidence suggests this was once a seasonal fishing camp for indigenous peoples. Today, oystermen still harvest from surrounding waters using traditional tonging methods.
The eastern shore offers excellent wade fishing during incoming tides.
Alligator Point
Though technically a peninsula, storm surges frequently isolate this barrier beach. Local shrimpers still cast nets in surrounding waters as their grandparents did.
The point harbors one of Florida’s least-known surfing spots.
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Bald Point
Where bald eagles nest in ancient pines, and bears sometimes swim between the mainland and the shore. Native Americans harvested oysters here for centuries, leaving behind massive shell middens.
Morning fog creates ethereal landscapes that photographers treasure.
Porter’s Island
Named for an early lighthouse keeper who planted citrus groves that still produce fruit. Bottle collectors occasionally find centuries-old Spanish glass along its shores.
Local fishermen know deep holes near the north end hold giant sheepshead.
Little Mud Island
Despite its unflattering name, this island’s mud flats support incredible bird life. Roseate spoonbills feed in their shallows during spring migration.
Kayakers can explore tidal creeks that cut through its heart.
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Green Point
A vital nursery for juvenile fish, its shallow grass flats shimmer green at low tide. Local guides pole skiffs through these waters seeking tailing redfish.
The point offers spectacular sunset views across Apalachicola Bay.
Paradise Point
Where wild orchids still bloom in spring and pitcher plants trap insects in summer. The surrounding waters produce some of Florida’s finest oysters.
Ancient cedar stumps emerge from the surf during extremely low tides.
McKissack Point
Native Americans used this high ground for ceremonies, evidenced by remaining shell rings. Modern fishermen treasure the deep holes off its northern shore.
Dawn paddle trips often encounter playful river otters.
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Shell Point
Named for massive prehistoric shell middens, some reaching 20 feet high. Local families have harvested scallops in surrounding grass flats for generations.
The western shore offers prime sunset watching without crowds.
Venture into Florida’s Forgotten Coast
These barrier islands represent Florida’s last truly wild places – where nature still writes the rules and development remains minimal. Before visiting, remember that many require boat access, weather changes quickly, and services are limited or non-existent.
Consider hiring local guides for first visits; their knowledge ensures both safety and richer experiences. Most importantly, practice ‘leave no trace’ principles to preserve these pristine environments.
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