Looking for places to stay in Florida Panhandle? Discover the best destinations and vacation rentals in this dreamy part of the Sunshine State.
The Florida Panhandle, located in the northern part of the state, is renowned for its stunning Gulf Coast beaches, emerald waters, and laid-back charm. However, a truly hidden treasure lies within the region: the Forgotten Coast.
In this picturesque stretch of the Panhandle bordering the Gulf of Mexico, destinations like Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, Mexico Beach, and Indian Pass offer untouched natural beauty, uncrowded beaches, and the ultimate relaxed atmosphere, making them some of the best places to stay in Florida Panhandle. The best part? Although these spots are small and quiet, they offer a wide variety of incredible vacation rentals to enhance your beach vacation.
In this blog, we'll share insights about these charming destinations and guide you to some of the top vacation rentals along the Forgotten Coast.
Before we start...
At Pristine Properties, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. �
We offer a fantastic selection of vacation rentals in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, all close to some of America's most beautiful beaches. Beyond finding you a dreamy rental, we're here to help you discover the best activities these charming towns have to offer.
And since we're at it, if you ever need tips on Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, you can dive into our local destination blog. We've got the scoop on everything from the best nightlife spots to the best coffee in town. There's always more to come, so keep an eye out for our latest posts!
Ready to discover paradise? Let's dive in!
Cape San Blas ☀️
Cape San Blas is a serene and picturesque destination known for its uncrowded white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. This Florida gem is a haven for relaxation and outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and exploring the pristine shoreline. The area is also pet-friendly, featuring dog-friendly beaches and vacation rentals. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, located on the Cape, offers stunning hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and breathtaking sunsets. Cape San Blas is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, nature-focused escape away from Florida's more touristy and crowded destinations.
Best Places to Stay in Florida Panhandle: Cape San Blas
Just Beach Baby!
House
Just Beach Baby! is a luxurious and relaxing retreat in Cape San Blas' newest beachside neighborhood, Villa Del Sol. This elegant beach house is just steps from the pristine shoreline, with community amenities including a pool, cabana, and pickleball courts adding to its resort-like appeal. The neighborhood's private beach access ensures you can enjoy the emerald waters and soft white sand with ease, while the stylish furnishings and exquisite design of the property make every moment feel like a dream vacation.
This spacious home features five beautifully designed bedrooms and an open living area with a well-appointed kitchen, providing a comfortable space for gathering. Large windows throughout the property flood the interiors with serene natural light and offer breathtaking views of St. Joseph Bay and Cape San Blas, making it the perfect coastal getaway.
Club at Cape San Blas 2B
Condo
This stunning condo unit is the ultimate beachfront getaway, located just 200 steps from the pristine sands of Cape San Blas. Enjoy stunning ocean views from the covered beachfront deck and community amenities like a sparkling pool, a rejuvenating hot tub, and a boardwalk with an outdoor shower, offering a seamless transition from beach fun to relaxation.
With its mix of condos and townhouses, this peaceful community offers proximity to local attractions like Salinas Park and The Smokehouse on Cape San Blas. Paddleboard in St. Joseph Bay, explore nearby dining options, or simply unwind and embrace the coastal beauty.
Their Inheritance
Townhome
Their Inheritance offers an unbeatable, pet-friendly beachfront retreat nestled between St. Joseph Bay and the Gulf of Mexico in the charming Sunrise Sunset complex on Cape San Blas. This stylish and updated townhouse is incredibly close to the water, making it the perfect escape for families and their furry companions.
Relax on the screened deck, soak in the gentle ocean breezes, and watch the waves roll in while the kids build sandcastles on the pristine beach. Just across the street, St. Joseph Bay offers convenient access for kayaking and paddleboarding, providing an excellent opportunity to explore its vibrant marine life.
Port St. Joe
Once a thriving port city, Port St. Joe is now a charming small town known for its welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and historic downtown, featuring boutique shops, local eateries, and art galleries. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking on St. Joseph Bay, or simply relax on the nearby quiet beaches. The town is also home to beautiful parks, such as the serene Port City Trail and Constitution Convention Museum State Park, which highlights Florida's early statehood history. Port St. Joe is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of coastal charm, history, and natural beauty.
Best Places to Stay in Florida Panhandle: Port St. Joe
Barefoot Cottage D133 - Beachy Keen
House
Nestled in the charming Barefoot Cottages gated community, this 3-bedroom, two-story, pet-friendly home offers a cozy retreat between St. Joe Beach and Port St. Joe. With two community pools and a small fitness center just steps away, the property perfectly balances relaxation and activity. Stroll through the peaceful neighborhood with your furry friend or let the kids enjoy bike rides around this family-friendly setting.
Inside, the thoughtfully designed layout includes a spacious first-floor living area, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable master bedroom. A large screened porch provides a bug-free spot to savor coastal breezes. Upstairs, two en-suite bedrooms, one featuring its own screened balcony, offer the perfect setup for peaceful mornings with coffee in hand.
Blue Bay Getaway
Townhome
Discover coastal bliss in this beautiful four-bedroom, three-bathroom townhouse, located just 250 feet from the sparkling waters of St. Joseph Bay. Perfect for large families and groups of up to 11, this retreat boasts an open-plan living space with floor-to-ceiling windows, thoughtfully designed interiors, a peaceful workspace in the master suite, and two levels of furnished covered decks to soak in the serene surroundings.
Situated in The Overlook community, this pet-friendly haven offers access to a resort-style pool with a cabana, a fitness center, and proximity to attractions like Point South Marina, local shops, and historic Downtown Port St. Joe.
Mexico Beach
Known for its pristine white sand beaches and clear emerald waters, Mexico Beach is a tranquil escape from crowded tourist spots, making it ideal for relaxation and family vacations. In addition to swimming, fishing, shelling, and paddleboarding, the town boasts a charming selection of local shops, seafood restaurants, and cozy vacation rentals, offering visitors a chance to fully immerse themselves in coastal living.
Best Places to Stay in Florida Panhandle: Mexico Beach
Ocean Breeze
House
Step into the serene charm of Ocean Breeze, a stunning three-bedroom, two-bath single-family home just steps from the sandy shores of Mexico Beach. Begin your mornings with a steaming cup of coffee on one of the covered decks, thoughtfully furnished to create cozy spaces where you can enjoy the fresh ocean air and breathtaking beach views.
Ocean Breeze's prime location ensures relaxation and adventure go hand in hand. With the beach less than 100 feet away, your days can be filled with sun, sand, and surf. After a day by the water, indulge in local culinary delights at Killer Seafood, a beloved food truck just 30 feet from your doorstep, renowned for its irresistible fish tacos.
The Vue 2C
Condo
Escape to paradise with this stunning 3-bedroom gulf-front condo in The Vue, located in the heart of Mexico Beach. This corner unit on the second floor offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from nearly every room. Whether relaxing on the gulf-front deck or enjoying the serenity of the master suite, the crystal-clear waters provide a constant and captivating backdrop to your stay.
The amenities extend beyond the condo, with access to a rooftop community pool and hot tub, perfect for unwinding under the warm Florida sun. A private entrance to the community boardwalk ensures effortless beach days, while beachside grills create the ideal setting for memorable seaside cookouts.
Holiday House A
Townhome
Welcome to Holiday House A, a stunning beachfront duplex in the heart of Mexico Beach. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home features an open floor plan with sweeping Gulf views from the spacious living area. The layout includes an eat-in kitchen, a cozy living room with a TV, and a beachfront den with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. Step onto the expansive deck, which spans the width of the home, and enjoy outdoor dining while taking in unbeatable beach views.
Downstairs, a shaded deck area offers swings and a large outdoor shower, perfect for rinsing off after a day of beach fun or fishing. The property's prime location is just minutes from the Mexico Beach Canal boat ramp and within walking distance of local dining and attractions, ensuring a convenient and memorable coastal getaway.
Indian Pass
Indian Pass is an off-the-beaten-path destination boasting not only gorgeous natural beauty but also delightful old-Florida charm. This unspoiled community features pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and crabbing. It is also home to the famous Indian Pass Raw Bar, a must-visit spot for fresh oysters and local seafood. Dream-like beaches and fresh Gulf seafood—what more could you need for a memorable vacation in Florida?
Places to Stay in Florida Panhandle: Indian Pass
Fisherman's Cove
House
Fisherman's Cove is a newly built, four-bedroom vacation home nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Indian Pass Lagoon. This luxuriously decorated property offers breathtaking views of St. Vincent Island and easy access to outdoor adventures, including the nearby Indian Pass Public Boat Ramp and the St. Vincent Island Shuttle.
Inside, the impeccable décor rivals high-end vacation homes in 30A or Destin, but with the added tranquility of its secluded location. Three of the four bedrooms feature stunning water views, while the open-concept upstairs living area showcases panoramic vistas of the Gulf. With multiple furnished decks to enjoy the scenery and plenty of space to relax, this pet-friendly getaway invites you to unplug, reconnect, and savor the true essence of a coastal getaway.
Where to Stay in the Florida Panhandle?
Stay like a local by booking a vacation rental with Pristine Properties. �
We are proud to offer a selection of Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals, Port St. Joe Vacation Rentals, and Mexico Beach Florida Vacation Rentals.
Our properties are well-located, just steps away from beautiful beaches, great dining options, and an array of outdoor pursuits. That's how you ensure a perfect holiday on the Florida Gulf Coast!
