In Cape San Blas, our little “peninsula of playtime pursuits”, it’s all about the water, be it the Gulf or the Bay. Almost anything you can think of having to do with a beach, there’s a good chance you can do it on one side of the Cape or the other.
What To See and Do on Your Cape San Blas Visit
On the Gulf side, there’s swimming, of course, and you can do so without fear or trepidation. Or if it’s a leisurely stroll you want, we have many-a-mile of white sandy beaches to offer. Of course, you can throw a line or cast a net into the water, and, who knows, perhaps a trophy awaits. “Go fly a kite!” You can do that here, too. Shelling is also a popular activity for folks of all ages, as is the construction of sand castles. And trust us when we say that kids absolutely love it here!
Paddleboarders, canoeists and kayakers are often seen plying the waters close to shore. And these crafts, along with a wide variety of other beach-related gear, are available to rent at a number of places in the area.
And do you realize that our beach is one of only a handful in Florida where driving is allowed. A permit to do so is required, though, but you can easily secure one at the Gulf County offices located in Port St. Joe. Beach.
As far as the St Joseph’s Bay side of the Cape is concerned, wildlife, both above and below the water, is the overriding theme. The Bay teems with dolphins, turtles, scallops, seahorses, rays and many other fish species. And above it all there are numerous species of shore birds and wading birds and we boast the most productive shorebird nesting beach on Florida’s panhandle. Migratory birds and birds of prey also live or spend time here during their migration north and south.
Some folks love to casually stroll in the shallow and clear waters of the bay, stopping every so often to pick up an interesting shell or two. Further from shore, where the waters of the protected bay are typically calm, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding are popular activities. You can also rent a power boat and explore the vast expanse of the bay, from the tip of the Cape to its base. You’re very apt to encounter a pod of dolphins or school of rays.
And talk about convenience, pontoon boats can be hired at Scallop Cove adjacent to our Cape offices as well as Presnell’s Marina at Simmons Bayou.
One final activity worthy of mention is that of beach horseback riding. Customized packages for singles, couples or entire families can be arranged at durations and lengths tailored to your requirements. Ask any of our agents for additional details.
Even though our Cape is nearly surrounded by water, there are also lots of activities for you to consider on dry land. The entire eight- mile length of the peninsula’s residential half features a relatively new and totally paved bicycle path for your use. And if you didn’t bring your bike(s) with you, you can rent them at Scallop Cove.
And if you’re into taking a leisurely stroll or a lengthy hike on ground firmer than beach sand, there are several places to consider. First and foremost, we would suggest the St Joseph’s Peninsula State Park. A fine hammock walk from the main road to the bay is quite interesting and not at all strenuous. Further south there is the Deal Tract Trail across Richardson Hammock. This one-mile return dirt trail ends at a pier which juts out into the pristine waters of St. Joe Bay. And we’re pleased to advise that the new boardwalk at Salinas Park near the junction of 30A and 30E is now open. This impressive elevated structure will extend for 1200 feet along the newly annexed 6.6 acres of land over beautiful coastal scrub of the Bay. This is certain to be a popular addition to the other excellent amenities that Salinas Park offers.