Cape San Blas is a quiet barrier peninsula on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, curving around St. Joseph Bay with long stretches of undeveloped white-sand beach. It is a vacation-rental destination rather than a resort town, popular with families, anglers and anyone who wants space and starry nights.
Where to stay
Along Cape San Blas Road you’ll find most of the beach houses and cottages, many with Gulf views and boardwalks to the sand.
Near St. Joseph Peninsula State Park at the north end is the most secluded stretch, close to the park’s beaches, trails and dunes.
Port St. Joe on the mainland has restaurants, groceries and a few more places to stay, about 20 minutes from the cape.
Best times to visit
Best overall: May and late September through October: warm water, sunny days and fewer visitors.
Best value: November through February has the lowest rates. Winter days are mild but usually too cool for swimming.
Busiest: June through early August and scalloping season in late summer.
Weather to know: Expect afternoon thunderstorms in summer. Hurricane season runs June through November, peaking from mid-August through early October.
Getting there
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) near Panama City Beach is about an hour away, and Tallahassee International (TLH) is about two hours. You’ll want a car, since shops and restaurants are spread out.
Things to do
Explore T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park for its tall dunes, quiet beaches and bayside kayaking.
Go scalloping in the shallow, clear water of St. Joseph Bay in late summer. Season dates are set each year by the state.
Visit the Cape San Blas Lighthouse, now relocated to George Core Park in Port St. Joe.
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