Cape San Blas, a narrow peninsula on Florida's Gulf Coast, offers more than meets the eye. This stretch of land, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, holds secrets that only locals typically enjoy. Away from crowded tourist spots, Cape San Blas boasts hidden beaches, wildlife-rich areas, and culinary delights that fly under the radar.
The peninsula's rich history, outdoor adventures, and spectacular sunsets add depth to any visit. Even during off-peak seasons, this coastal gem keeps visitors engaged in interesting activities and events. This guide uncovers local knowledge to help you experience Cape San Blas like a long-time resident, revealing the lesser-known aspects that make this destination special.
Hidden Beaches
Cape San Blas boasts several secret spots where you can escape the crowds. Money Bayou Beach, located on the bay side, offers calm waters and excellent shelling opportunities. It's accessible via a small parking area off Cape San Blas Road. Another local favorite is Rish Park Beach, which features beautiful dunes and has less foot traffic than the more popular T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park beaches.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for visiting these secluded areas, as you'll have a better chance of having the beach to yourself. Remember to bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as amenities are limited at these out-of-the-way locations. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve these pristine areas for future visitors.
Keep an eye out for nesting sea turtles during the summer months, and maintain a respectful distance if you encounter any wildlife. These hidden beaches provide excellent opportunities for photography, beachcombing, and peaceful relaxation away from the more frequented areas of Cape San Blas.
Wildlife Watching
Cape San Blas teems with wildlife, offering numerous opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The St. Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve is a prime spot for observing diverse ecosystems and their inhabitants. Here, you might glimpse white-tailed deer, bobcats, or numerous bird species. The preserve's trails meander through pine flatwoods and salt marshes, providing varied habitats to explore. For marine life, kayaking in St. Joseph Bay allows close encounters with bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles.
The best times for wildlife viewing are early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. During spring and fall migrations, the cape becomes a stopover for numerous bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers. The St. Joseph Peninsula State Park hosts nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles between May and October.
Culinary Gems
Cape San Blas may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to dining. Skully's Low Country Boil, a food truck located near the entrance to the cape, serves up fresh seafood boils that locals rave about. Their shrimp and blue crab are caught daily in the Gulf waters. For a sit-down meal, Cone Heads 8020 offers casual beachside dining, fantastic fish tacos and homemade ice cream.
If you're in the mood for pizza, Joe Mama's Wood Fired Pizza in nearby Port St. Joe is worth the short drive. They use locally sourced ingredients and have a great selection of craft beers. For the freshest seafood, head to Indian Pass Raw Bar, an institution since 1929. Here, you'll find oysters harvested from nearby Apalachicola Bay.
The best time to enjoy local seafood is during scallop season, which typically runs July through September. Many restaurants offer special scallop dishes during this time. Remember to make reservations during peak tourist seasons, as these local favorites can get busy. Don't forget to ask about the catch of the day - it's often the best choice on the menu.
Outdoor Activities
Cape San Blas offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Fishing is a popular pastime, eagle-eyed anglers can spot redfish, trout, and flounder in the bay waters. The T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park provides excellent fishing spots along its shores. For kayaking adventures, head to the calmer waters of St. Joseph Bay. Local outfitters like Happy Ours Kayak & Bike Outpost offer rentals and guided tours, including moonlight paddles during full moons.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Maritime Hammock Trail in the state park, which winds through a coastal forest and offers glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. Mountain biking is another exciting option, the Loggerhead Run Bike Path stretches 8.7 miles along Cape San Blas Road, providing scenic views of both the bay and gulf sides.
For a unique experience, try horseback riding on the beach - several local stables offer guided rides at sunset. Snorkeling is best near the rock jetties at the tip of the cape – you can spot various colorful fish and maybe even an octopus. Remember to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before engaging in activities like fishing or scalloping.
Historical Sites
Cape San Blas harbors a rich history waiting to be explored. The Cape San Blas Lighthouse, originally built in 1847, stands as a testament to the area's maritime past. Although it's been relocated to Port St. Joe due to coastal erosion, it's still open for tours and climbs, offering panoramic views of the Gulf.
Near the lighthouse, you'll find the Cape San Blas Keeper's Quarters Museums, which house artifacts and exhibits detailing the life of lighthouse keepers and the area's naval history. For Civil War buffs, the Confederate Salt Works site in St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is worth a visit. Here, you can see the remnants of salt-making operations that were crucial to the Confederacy during the war.
The Constitution Convention Museum State Park in Port St. Joe showcases the history of Florida's first constitution, which was drafted in the city in 1838. Native American history is preserved at the Temple Mound site in Port St. Joe, believed to have been built by the Weeden Island culture around 150 AD. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the diverse past of Cape San Blas and its surrounding areas, adding depth to your beach vacation.
Best Sunset Viewing Spots
Cape San Blas is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, and locals know the prime spots to catch these daily spectacles. The western-facing beaches along the cape provide unobstructed views of the sun dipping into the Gulf of Mexico.
One favorite location is the beach near Dunes Drive, where you can climb the boardwalk over the dunes for an elevated vantage point. Another excellent spot is Salinas Park, which offers a fishing pier extending into the Gulf - perfect for capturing the sun's reflection on the water. For a more secluded experience, head to the northern tip of the cape in T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. Here, you can watch the sun set over the Gulf on one side and the bay on the other.
Locals recommend arriving about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the changing colors of the sky. Bring a beach chair or blanket, and don't forget insect repellent as mosquitoes can be active during this time. After sunset, stick around for stargazing - the low light pollution in the area makes for excellent night sky viewing. Remember to check the local sunset time, which varies throughout the year.
Off-Season Attractions
While summer draws crowds to Cape San Blas, locals know the off-season holds its own charms. Fall brings milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The Annual Florida Scallop & Music Festival in nearby Port St. Joe, typically held in late August or early September, celebrates the end of scallop season with fantastic seafood and live music.
Winter months offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities, as migratory birds flock to the area. The Christmas Bazaar in Port St. Joe, usually held in early December, showcases local artisans and holiday treats. Spring ushers in wildflower blooms along the cape's trails and dunes, creating picturesque landscapes for nature photographers. The St. Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve hosts periodic open houses throughout the year, allowing visitors to explore areas usually closed to the public.
Fishing enthusiasts appreciate the off-season for the chance to catch species like sheepshead and black drum. Many rental properties offer discounted rates during these quieter months. Local restaurants often run specials to attract business during the slower season, providing an opportunity to enjoy gourmet meals at reduced prices. Remember to check event calendars and local businesses for specific dates and offerings, as they may vary year to year.
What to do When it Rains in Cape San Blas?
Rainy days at Cape San Blas offer unique opportunities. Visit the Cape San Blas Lighthouse Museum in Port St. Joe to learn about local maritime history. Explore the Constitution Convention Museum State Park, showcasing Florida's first constitution. Enjoy indoor activities at Scallop Republic, a popular spot for live music and games.
Take a short drive to Apalachicola and tour the Orman House Historic State Park or the John Gorrie Museum State Park. Try your luck at fishing off the covered pier at Frank Pate Park in Port St. Joe. Browse local art galleries and shops in Port St. Joe's downtown area. Visit the Gulf County Welcome Center for information on current indoor events and activities.
What are Some Fun Facts About Cape San Blas?
Cape San Blas boasts the highest concentration of sea turtle nests on the Gulf Coast. The area's beaches see over 200 loggerhead nests annually. It's home to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, ranked America's Best Beach in 2002 by Dr. Beach. The cape's unique shape creates both Gulf and Bay waters, offering diverse fishing opportunities.
Cape San Blas Lighthouse, built in 1847, moved four times due to coastal erosion before settling in Port St. Joe. The cape played a role in World War II, serving as a test site for amphibious vehicles. Scalloping is a popular activity here – St. Joseph Bay is one of the few places in Florida where recreational scalloping is permitted.
Exploring Cape San Blas Like a Local
Cape San Blas rewards those who venture beyond the obvious attractions. By following these local tips, you'll uncover a side of the peninsula many visitors miss. From tranquil hidden beaches to wildlife-rich preserves, from mouth-watering local eateries to historically significant sites, Cape San Blas offers diverse experiences throughout the year. The stunning sunsets and starry nights cap off days filled with adventure and relaxation.
Even rainy days present opportunities to delve into the area's rich culture and history. As you explore, remember to respect the natural environment and local community that make Cape San Blas special. By treading lightly and embracing the local pace of life, you'll not only have a more authentic experience but also help preserve this coastal paradise for future generations to enjoy.
To fully immerse yourself in the Cape San Blas experience, consider staying at a vacation rental property. Pristine Properties Vacation Rentals offers a range of accommodations that allow you to live like a local during your stay. Our properties provide convenient access to beaches, nature preserves, and local attractions mentioned in this guide.
