If you’re here, then you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Cape San Blas, Florida. Lucky for you, you’re in the right place!
This majestic small beach town is located in the heart of the Panhandle on Florida’s Forgotten Coast.
From fishing adventures to biking and kayaking, Cape San Blas has something for everyone.
You’ll even enjoy some of the most wonderful restaurants and bars allowing you to relax on your beautiful escape on the Gulf of Mexico.
So if you’re looking for a laid-back getaway with plenty of outdoor activities and fun things to do, then Cape San Blas is the perfect Florida hidden gem just for you!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO. Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas at a Glance:
- Saddle up and take a ride along the coast on one of only three beaches in Florida where you can horseback ride on the beach
- Visit the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center and learn about these gentle giants or come out for a dawn patrol in search of turtle tracks and nests
- Rent a kayak and unwind through the pristine waters of the St. Joseph Bay
- Enjoy some of the best fishing in the state of Florida from the many lakes, the St. Joseph Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico!
Keep reading to get the full guide on the best things to do in Cape San Blas for the most memorable vacation in Florida.
1. Take a Ride on The Loggerhead Run Bike Trail
This eight-mile long bike trail is paved for easy access running adjacent to Highway 30E with incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico.
The Loggerhead Run Trail will take you from Salinas Park all the way to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
It’s a great way to spend the day with your family and friends as the smooth paths make it easy to glide along and leisurely take in the serenity that surrounds Cape San Blass.
It´s perfect for all ages and you can have fun trying to spot native wildlife and stop along the way to enjoy the peace of the magnificent coastal scenery.
Get up to 87% off of the attractions near Cape San Blas with Groupon TODAY!
2. Rent A Kayak Or Stand Up Paddle Board In Cape San Blas
Ready to explore the waters around Cape San Blas?
Pick up your paddle board or kayak and unwind as you venture through the pristine waters of the St. Joseph Bay.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
It is an amazing way to get a different perspective and take in the panoramic views out on the water seeing the gorgeous natural beauty of the area.
Best thing of all is you don’t need to be an expert to maneuver the tranquil waters as they provide you with free orientation to help you feel more at ease.
There are many other things to do in the Bay and in the Gulf such as:
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Renting a pontoon boat
These are just a few of the best ways to explore the area of Cape San Blas while also enjoying the natural wonders around you such as dolphins and other marine life!
3. Get a View of the Joseph Point Lighthouse
The Joseph Point Lighthouse is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Florida with a deep history.
It is located between Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
It’s one of the only privately owned lighthouses in Florida and was restored one final time after a recent major storm by the current owners.
They do not offer any tours so you can’t officially visit it, but you can see it from the road (Highway 30A) if you’re driving to Cape San Blas.
Find Cheap Last Minute Flight Deals with CheapOAir TODAY!
4. Go Fishing
If you’re a Florida native like me, then you know that fishing is in our blood.
It is sort of a right of passage growing up as we transition from our childhood years to our teenage years.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
You’ll be happy to know that Cape San Blas has some of the best fishing in the state of Florida.
You can fish from the many lakes, the St. Joseph Bay, and from the Gulf of Mexico!
Cape San Blas allows you to do this from piers, from the shorelines of the various bodies of water, and from chartered boats just to name a few.
There are also plenty of bait and tackle shops where you can buy all of your fishing supplies for your Florida beach vacation. Making it one of the best things to do in Cape San Blas, Florida.
Because you can get a little bit of fresh and saltwater species from Cape San Blas, you can expect to find aquatic creatures such as:
- Red Drum
- Black Drum
- Mahi-Mahi
- Blackfin Tuna
- Vermillion Snapper
- Atlantic blue marlin and white marlin
- Bass
- Catfish
- Perch
These are just a few of the most popular fish in the waters surrounding Cape San Blas, Florida.
5. Visit Scallop Cove
If you’re a fan of roadside attractions, then you’ll fall in love with Scallop Cove.
It’s everything you’d want in a local beach town business selling everything from gas to kayak rentals.
They’re a favorite of the locals with their four locations that are:
- General Store: here you can get gas, beer, wine, lunch, Florida souvenirs, and firewood
- Rentals Location: here you can rent your kayak, paddle boards, canoes, bikes, and more
- Bait and Tackle Store: here you can get everything you need for your fishing expedition
- State Park Location: here you can pontoon rentals, grab-and-go snacks, frozen bait, and camping and RV supplies
6. Explore T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Rated as one of the best beaches in America, T.H. Stone Memorial Park St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is a gorgeous destination that overlooks the stunning white sands and the glorious Gulf of Mexico.
It’s the ultimate place for nature and sunset lovers to escape to the great outdoors and enjoy its unspoiled beauty.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
You can watch for sea turtles and nesting birds along the beach, it is a haven for wildlife.
It’s your very own playground with plenty of opportunities to go swimming, fishing, searching for seashells, or just having a fun and relaxing beach day.
It is open all year round from 8 am until sunset at a cost of $6 per vehicle and that includes up to 8 people per vehicle.
This is definitely one of the best things to do in Cape San Blas, Florida whether you are in search of sun-soaked serenity or want to get out into nature.
Want DAILY Florida Travel Photos? Follow Florida Hipster on Instagram TODAY!
7. Take A Horseback Ride
Who wouldn’t want to ride along the coast of the Gulf on top of one of the most incredible creatures in the world?
If you love horses, then you will love going horseback riding from Salinas Park to the ocean shore.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
I recommend doing this with the company Broke-a-Toe as they offer the safest way to go horseback riding that’s done right for both you and the horses.
Cape San Blas is one of only three beaches in Florida where you can make your dreams come true of horseback riding on the beach.
So be sure to take advantage of one of the absolute best things to do in Cape San Blas since it’s not an experience that comes around every day.
8. Visit The Indian Pass Raw Bar
The Indian Pass Raw Bar has stood the test of time and has survived one of the most catastrophic events to hit the Florida Panhandle and that event was Hurricane Michael.
This local favorite is now back open and ready to do what it does best and that’s serving some of the most amazing seafood in this part of Florida!
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
Here you can enjoy live music, great fun, and an overall incredible family atmosphere.
If you want to try something new, try their raw bar menu where everything is made fresh daily. Making it one of the best things to do in Cape San Blas, Florida.
Florida Flexible Cancellation Vacation Rentals! Check it out here.
9. Go Hiking and Explore the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve
The St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve is one of the best natural habitats to explore in the state of Florida.
According to The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, it is an essential buffer to St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve that helps protect the bay’s water quality, natural productivity and critical habitats.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
There are several hiking trails that are perfect for families with young children or beginners who are just learning how to hike.
You can also discover some of the highest concentrations of rare plants in the southeastern United States.
The St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve also offers trails for horseback riding, biking, photography, bird watching, and so much more!
10. Visit The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center
The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center is located a little ways outside of Cape San Blas in the next town over called Port St. Joe.
Here you can learn about the nesting activities of this sea turtle.
Sea turtle nesting season runs from May 1st until October 31st in Florida. Volunteers can come out and help with dawn patrol in search of turtle tracks along the six miles of beach in search of nesting and hatching activity.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
During hatching season, more excitement continues as volunteers keep an eye out for signs of little hatchlings making their appearance along with nest excavation.
You can also volunteer to help contribute to the education of the public through cleanup and restoration projects.
The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
They also host the Forgotten Sea Turtle Festival in July with live music, food trucks, kid’s activities, and lots of fun information so you can learn how to help and preserve these gentle giants.
11. Visit The Apalachicola Historic District
About a 30-minute drive from Cape San Blas is the Apalachicola Historic District which takes you to a time of simple life in Florida.
There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and even river and boat tours that are ready for you to explore in this small town near the Gulf of Mexico.
So be sure to visit Apalachicola and support the local business of Florida.
Get more Orlando travel planning tips right here!
12. Enjoy a Fun Game at the St. Joseph Bay Golf Course
At St. Joseph Bay Golf Course you’ll be able to play comfortably on the lush greens with towering trees lining the 18-hole destination.
It’s the perfect place to practice for individuals at all levels.
13. Create Your Own Foodie Tour
There are plenty of restaurants in Cape San Blas, and most of them have outdoor seating for you to enjoy the fantastic water views.
You can find everything from seafood to donuts!
So why not create your own foodie tour and visit multiple spots to not only enjoy the local cuisine but to also meet the wonderful people of this town.
Some of the best restaurants in Cape San Blas are:
- Skully’s Low Country Boil
- Weber’s Little Donut Shop
- Scallop Cove
- The Cape Smokehouse
- St. Joe Shrimp
- Peachy’s Beach Eats
- The Indian Pass Raw Bar
As you can see, you’ll find some of the classic Florida food here along with some nice treats as well!
14. Take A Dip In The Gulf Of Mexico
Of course, no trip to Cape San Blas would be complete without taking a nice dip into the amazing Gulf of Mexico!
The water temperature is usually perfect (except for in the peak of summer where it’s much warmer). Making it one of the best things to do in Cape San Blas, Florida.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Things to Do in Cape San Blas
The pristine beaches of Cape San Blas are incomparable to others and are a peaceful retreat away from it all. It is an incredible way to recharge swimming within the beautiful turquoise waters.
Cape San Blas, Florida offers many beach locations for you to find your perfect spot on the fluffy white sands of the Sunshine State.
15. Just Have Fun!
As you can see, you don’t have to spend all of your time indoors when you visit Cape San Blas.
You can enjoy the outdoors by hiking, kayaking, fishing, or even going for a walk on the beach.
Just have fun and explore this wonderful hidden town of Florida!
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
UP NEXT: 50 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Gainesville TODAY
(Original Article Date: October 12, 2022/Updated by Editor on March 7, 2024)
Some Photos Courtesy of Canva.com