By Carrie | Updated: April 18, 2025
From natural attractions and local delicacies to top vacation rentals Port St Joe Florida is a true paradise — one away from big crowds and boasting a genuine Florida atmosphere for memorable vacations. In this article, we'll show you the top Port St Joe's natural attractions, restaurants, and fun activities that will make you want to come back for more.
Ever stumbled upon a place that just feels right? A spot where the sand is sugar-white, the water crystal clear, and the vibe completely laid-back? That's Port St. Joe, plain and simple.
Tucked away in Florida's Panhandle and close to other amazing beach towns, this isn't your typical overcrowded spot like Ocracoke Island in summer. It's a breath of fresh air — a cozy corner where you can actually unwind and enjoy everything a true coastal getaway should be.
In this blog, I've curated a list of some of the best natural attractions, along with top-rated local eateries for a dose of culinary delight and incredible Port St Joe vacation rentals for a five-star experience while exploring this Florida treasure.
Contents
1. About Us
2. Natural Attractions & Outdoor Activities
- Cape San Blas
- St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
- George Core Park
- Salinas Park
- Bay Walk Trail
- Fishing & Other Water Activities
- Hit the Greens at St. Joseph Bay Golf Club
3. Where to Eat & Drink: Port St. Joe's Top-Rated Local Gems
4. Where to Stay: Top Vacation Rentals Port St Joe Florida
6. Experience The Best in Port St Joe Vacation Rentals
About Us
At Pristine Properties, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. We offer a fantastic selection of vacation rentals in Indian Pass, 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? Your Florida escape starts now!
Natural Attractions & Outdoor Activities
Cape San Blas
Let's be real: you're going to Port St. Joe for the beaches, right? And let me tell you, they don't disappoint! Forget the crowded shores of some Florida hotspots; here, you'll find stretches of sand where you can actually spread out and relax, like Cape San Blas.
This 17-mile-long barrier peninsula is renowned for its unspoiled white sand beaches and clear waters which I really enjoyed during my last vacation here. Me and my family did a lot of sunbathing, swimming, and shelling, and we enjoyed the breathtaking sunsets too. I recommend visiting on weekdays to experience the serene beauty at its best.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Spanning approximately 2,516 acres, this natural treasure extends along more than 10 miles of the St. Joseph Peninsula, offering visitors a full immersion into the Gulf Coast's unspoiled beauty. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is one of the top beaches in the US according to Florida State Parks, and that alone means it has a lot to offer to visitors.
The park's landscape is defined by its towering dunes — some of the tallest in Florida — and broad stretches of beach that have earned national acclaim. These natural features support vital habitats for a range of wildlife, including beach-nesting birds like the snowy plover, three species of sea turtles, and the endangered St. Andrews beach mouse. Keep an eye out for these captivating creatures as you explore.
Beyond wildlife watching and hours of relaxation on the pristine, uncrowded sands, the park invites visitors to enjoy a range of water-based activities, from swimming and snorkeling to fishing. And don't miss the incredible shelling opportunities — some of the best along the coast.
George Core Park
Also known as Lighthouse Park, George Core Park is a scenic bayfront destination located in the heart of Port St. Joe. It stretches from the sandy shores of St. Joseph Bay to Miss Zola's Drive.
Shaded by stately pines, this beautifully maintained park is home to the historic Cape San Blas Lighthouse and its surrounding structures, as well as a small, picturesque lake. When I visited, I had direct access to the shallow, clear waters of St. Joseph Bay and was able to engage in some wading, swimming, and kayaking as the waters are ideal for these activities.
Be sure to check the local events calendar, as the park regularly hosts community gatherings like the Salt Air Farmer's Market and a variety of seasonal festivals you won't want to miss out on.
Salinas Park
If you're looking for unique experiences, head to Salinas Park. With access to both the Gulf and the bay, the park offers the opportunity to catch a dreamy sunrise and a spectacular sunset from the same location.
On the Gulf side, you'll find a serene stretch of white sandy beach—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and soaking up the Florida sunshine without the noise of crowded shores. There are also amenities like picnic tables and grills, ideal for relaxed outdoor meals with family or friends.
For a different experience, the Bayside area features a scenic boardwalk that stretches into St. Joseph Bay, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and quiet reflection. You'll also find a fire pit, screened-in tables, grills, and newly added pickleball courts for those who want to stay active.
Extra tip: If you're visiting with your furry companion, Salinas Park welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the beach alongside their best friends.
Bay Walk Trail
Bordering the stunning St. Joseph Bay, the Bay Walk Trail connects several bayfront parks in the area providing the chance to seamlessly visit different locations boasting lovely sceneries and gentle Gulf breezes along the way.
This scenic 0.7-mile gravel pathway begins near the Frank Pate Park boat ramp, and the trail meanders through Maddox Park and George Core Park, passing under the arch at Port St. Joe Marina, follows the boardwalk around the marina's yacht basin, and ends at the pavilion in Jetty Park.
Fishing & Other Water Activities
If you're a water person, you'll love Port St. Joe as it's considered a gateway to exciting water activities.
Fishing is huge here! From inshore fishing in St. Joseph Bay — teeming with species like redfish, trout, and flounder — to offshore fishing, where you can venture into the deep waters of the Gulf for opportunities to catch snapper, grouper, and mahi-mahi, and even kayak fishing, there are plenty of chances to enjoy this delightful activity. Numerous local charters offer guided trips, catering to people of all levels.
Speaking of kayaks, the calm waters of St. Joseph Bay and nearby channels are also ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rentals and guided tours are readily available, giving you a chance to explore the area's natural beauty and spot marine life up close.
During scallop season, typically from July to September, make sure to try snorkeling in the bay to collect bay scallops. This is a must-try, family-friendly activity in the region. The clear water offers great visibility for both scalloping and observing the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Hit the Greens at St. Joseph Bay Golf Club
If you want to take a break from the beach, hit the green at the excellent St. Joseph Bay Golf Club. Honoring Florida's tradition of spectacular golf courses, this semi-private, 18-hole course welcomes the public for a fun and relaxing day.
From the top-notch course designed by Bill Amick and established in 1969 to the on-site swimming pool for a refreshing dip and a fantastic Italian restaurant where you and your family can recharge, this is a refreshing change of pace from the surf and sand.
Where to Eat & Drink: Port St. Joe's Top-Rated Local Gems
Keeper's Bistro & Bar
Keeper's offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy well-crafted, mouthwatering meals, all made in-house with high-quality ingredients.
Take in the beautiful setting with both indoor and outdoor seating (try eating outdoors and see how refreshing it is), and explore a diverse menu featuring standout options like the Indian Lagoon Oysters, Oven-Roasted Whole Gulf Fish, and Fish Fillet. For meat lovers, the Bone-In Pork Chop and Steak Frites — served with truffle-black pepper fries — are absolute must-tries.
On Sundays, Keeper's serves a delicious brunch menu that's even better when paired with a refreshing mimosa to complement their coastal-inspired delicacies.
Provisions Restaurant
Since 2005, Provisions has been a go-to spot in Port St. Joe for fresh, high-quality, and culturally diverse cuisine. Their impressive menu features a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta (some with an Asian twist) ensuring guests of all tastes find something indulgent to enjoy.
Standout dishes and crowd favorites include the Shrimp Carbonara, Manhattan Mac & Cheese, Chimichurri Steak, Filet Mignon, Snapper Piccata, and Thai Angel—a mouthwatering pasta dish made with thinly sliced chicken breast, carrots, cabbage, scallions, all wok-seared and tossed with angel hair pasta in a Thai peanut sauce.
Provisions' cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for both casual lunches and intimate dinners — especially when paired with one of their well-crafted cocktails like the Key Lime Pie Martini, Hibiscus Margarita, Kentucky Whiskey Sour, or a classic Cosmopolitan.
Uptown Raw Bar & Grill
No trip to Florida is complete without savoring fresh Gulf seafood—and in Port St. Joe, Uptown Raw Bar & Grill is a beloved local favorite serving some of the best seafood dishes in town.
Options like Lobster Tail, Crab Legs, Raw and Grilled Oysters, Grilled Grouper, and Low Country Boil are sure to satisfy your craving for fresh, perfectly cooked seafood. For something more inventive, try their specialty oysters such as the Cajun Queen, Uptown Special, or King's Oyster — the latter prepared with butter, garlic, lemon, bacon, and cheddar. It's simply to die for!
Sand Dollar Cafe
For authentic Southern cuisine, there's no better option in town than Sand Dollar Cafe. Their "from scratch" kitchen emphasizes fresh ingredients, sourcing locally whenever possible—including vegetables from nearby gardens—to ensure top-notch quality.
Must-tries include the Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tomato Chutney, Charleston-style shrimp & Grits, Crab Cake, Slow-Cooked Pot Roast, and the indulgent Four-Cheese Mac & Cheese with Applewood-Smoked Bacon.
Upon entering, you'll notice the old-school cafeteria-style setup that adds a nostalgic charm to the dining experience. The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly if you're visiting with your furry friend, and the service is consistently praised by both locals and visitors who return to this gem every time they're in Port St. Joe.
Where to Stay: Top Vacation Rentals Port St Joe Florida
In Port St. Joe, vacation rentals are the way to go — offering that true "home away from home" vibe.
What makes them so great? Variety, for starters! Craving a beachfront house where you can step straight onto the sand? They've got it. Prefer something cozy and tucked away in the trees? Easy. Bringing your four-legged pal along? No worries! There are plenty of pet-friendly options waiting for you too.
Here are three of the best Port St Joe vacation rentals that will turn your time in this Florida paradise into something extraordinary:
Blue Bay Getaway
Just 250 feet from St. Joseph Bay, this stylish 4-bedroom townhome in The Overlook community offers resort-style amenities and easy access to the water. Enjoy the bay breeze from two covered decks, relax by the community pool, or stay active at the on-site fitness center. Inside, you'll find spacious, coastal-inspired interiors, an open-plan layout, and room for up to 11 guests for an unforgettable family vacation.
Blue Bay is also pet-friendly and is just a short drive from downtown Port St. Joe, Point South Marina, and nearby beaches for the best of convenience.
Slice of Heaven
Located in the private WindMark Beach Resort community, Slice of Heaven is a beautifully designed ground-level home with a separate guest house—perfect for families or couples traveling together. The large resort-style pool, beach boardwalks, playground, and fitness center made our experience an amazing one when we stayed here. The on-site restaurant The View on Old 98 was also a big plus and had beautiful Gulf views, live music, and vibrant coastal cuisine.
Inside, the home is stylish and comfortable, but it's the outdoor spaces that truly elevate your stay. Relax on the screened porch, fire up the grill under the pergola, or soak in your private hot tub while catching the game on a 60" outdoor TV. Just a short walk away is a quiet beach ideal for those seeking calm waters and uncrowded shores.
Most recent guest review: "We really enjoyed our stay. The property was very well taken care of. The location was ideal for our activities and entertainment. We would definitely like to stay there again."
Pixie's Paradise
Pixie's Paradise is a true coastal retreat also tucked inside WindMark Beach Resort. This three-bedroom home offers a spacious, light-filled interior with a well-equipped kitchen and inviting living spaces perfect for families and relaxed gatherings. Upstairs, the tranquil master suite features its own screened deck for quiet mornings or breezy evenings.
Outside, enjoy serene lake views from two charming front decks or unwind on the screened back porch. The home is steps from walking trails, a zero-entry resort-style pool, and a lively town center with dining, a spa, and a full-service bar. With parking for four and no shortage of comfort or charm, Pixie's Paradise is your perfect launchpad for a laid-back Gulf Coast escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Port St. Joe pet-friendly?
Yes, Port St. Joe is known for being a pet-friendly destination! Many beaches in the area—including parts of Cape San Blas—allow dogs on a leash, and you'll find several vacation rentals that welcome pets with open arms (the vast majority of our Port St. Joe properties at Pristine Properties are pet-friendly). Salinas Park is also a great spot for long walks with your pup, and some local restaurants offer outdoor seating where pets are welcome.
When's the best time to visit Cape San Blas?
Cape San Blas is beautiful year-round, but most visitors prefer late spring through early fall for warm beach days and water activities. If you're looking for fewer crowds, the shoulder months (April, May, September, and October) offer a perfect mix of sunshine and serenity. It's also a great time to spot dolphins along the coast or enjoy a peaceful sunset over the Gulf.
Are there kayak rentals near Salinas Park?
Yes, kayak rentals are available near Salinas Park, and it's a popular launch spot for exploring St. Joseph Bay. Several local outfitters provide single and tandem kayaks, paddleboards, and even guided eco tours. The calm waters of the bay are ideal for beginners, and the seagrass beds are full of marine life—keep an eye out for starfish and stingrays!
Experience The Best in Port St Joe Vacation Rentals
Stay like a local by booking a vacation rental with Pristine Properties. We're proud to offer a curated selection of top pet-friendly vacation homes, all conveniently located near the best Florida Gulf Coast beaches.
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!
