ContentBox RSS Feed https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/ Bluewater Business Solutions http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification FeedGenerator Sat, 04 Apr 2026 02:49:27 GMT Sat, 04 Apr 2026 02:49:27 GMT https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/rental-policies-and-information Mon, 12 May 2025 16:38:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Uncategorized https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/rental-policies-and-information Yesterday was National Best Friend Day, and what better way to celebrate this unofficial holiday with your Bestie than taking a vacation trip to our local area. We’ve compiled a list of things you & your best friends will enjoy while visiting Gulf County and Mexico Beach. But don’t worry, your family will enjoy doing these activities too. If the Music is Good, You Dance “If you’re out for the coolest club scene, hippest place to “see and be seen”, booming bass or stuffy service, you won’t find that here. But if connecting with family and friends, or making new ones, in a comfortable setting is more your style, we’ve got just that!” We’ve got a nice selection of restaurants and pubs that bring together local musicians to entertain their patrons while dining. From cool coastal tunes to rockin’ hits that’ll make you want to dance, you’ll absolutely love our night life. Enjoy the beauty of a Sunset Sunsets are boring… said no one ever! Spending some quality time talking with your bestie while watching the sun set is amazing. Pull up a chair, have a nice cold beverage in hand, and let the conversation roll. It’s the perfect time to talk about your dreams, or something so silly your belly will hurt from laughing so hard. Good Food is all the Sweeter when shared with Good Friends Food and conversation go hand in hand, and we’ve got plenty of nice dining options for you to choose from. From a quiet more relaxed atmosphere to a fun n happenin place, you’ll be sure to enjoy your dining experience at one of our local restaurants. If you’re having a hard time deciding where to go, our friendly staff can help give their recommendations. Keep Calm and Go Snorkeling What better way to have a fun and memorable vacation than to go explore the coastal waters of St. Joseph Bay. Bring your snorkeling gear, you can purchase or rent a set if you want, and enjoy seeing a whole new world. Colorful fish and beautiful seashells are only a few of the magnificent sea life you’ll be able to see. You can also rent a kayak or boat, or just take a walk on the beach to witness dolphins, sea turtles, and other remarkable sea life in action. Beach House: Life Is Better Here Finding the perfect place to stay on your vacation can be difficult and exhausting. Staying at a cramped hotel with nothing but a bed and a window unit can make your stay an unpleasant experience. That’s why renting a beach home is the perfect solution. All the comforts of home, with the added bonus of a beautiful beach nearby, is what renting a vacation home is all about. Whether it’s beach front, gulf view, or no view, you’ll treasure all the wonderful memories and once in a life time experiences you had staying at a beach house with your Best Friend. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/your-guide-to-having-the-best-national-best-friend-day-here-at-gulf-county-mexico-beach Thu, 20 Sep 2018 14:19:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/your-guide-to-having-the-best-national-best-friend-day-here-at-gulf-county-mexico-beach Imagine taking a sunset cruise and seeing a pod of dolphins. Or discovering turtle hatchlings during an early morning walk on the beach. Or swimming with manta and sting rays in crystal clear water. Doesn’t that sound like the most epic vacation ever? We couldn’t agree more andAdventure Guides Gary Hites ofSeahorse Water Safarisand Jessica Swindall from the Gulf CountyVolunteer Turtle Patrolknow all the secrets of these “GCFL Firsts” and the traditions they’ve created for visitors. Hites takes people out on guided snorkel and scallop trips andsunset cruises, which he says are a great introduction to St. Joseph Bay. There’s something about being on the water when the sun goes down. Being right in the middle of a 360-degree, panoramic view of your natural surroundings is a gentle, breathtaking experience. Another cool thing about those sunset cruises?Dolphins. These playful creatures feed at dusk and, combined with a unique tidal current that flows out of the Intracoastal, they’re usually splashing about. Recently, Hites has seen pods of 12 and 24 dolphins! Bonus experience: Hites also rents boats to visitors. For the past four years, he’s had two boys and two fathers rent a boat for a whole day out on the Bay. “Given the choice between Disney World or St. Joseph Bay, the boys choose the Bay,” recalls Hites. “It knocked us over!” Another truly remarkable GCFL First? Being a part of the Gulf CountyVolunteer Turtle Patrol. Jessica Swindall’s background is in conservation behavior and she’s been the program’s volunteer coordinator for the past five years. “Gulf County is a huge hot spot for turtles and is the highest density beach in North Florida,” says Swindall. “What I find fascinating is the interaction between people and turtles. My favorite part is when someone sees a nest or crawl for the first time. It’s like a first time for me, too — every time!” Imagine this: It’s just after sunrise and you’re with your family on the beach. It’s deafeningly quiet — all you hear are the waves crashing on the shore. You notice some marks on the sand and realize you’re close to a nest. As you carefully approach it, you witness baby hatchlings crawling toward the shore. Your kids squeal in delight with eyes wide as you step out of the way and watch this magnificent occurrence unfold. Fun Fact: St. Joseph Bay is full of saltwater and has very little runoff, making it an exceptional place tosnorkel. Manta and sting rays. Seahorses and bay scallops. The list goes on and on. And, it’s crystal clear — you can see as far as 15-feet down and it’s relatively shallow — perfect for watching fish chase one another for food. Check out even more GCFL Firsts, and stay tuned for an update on this season’s turtle hatchlings. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/gcfl-firsts-sunsets-dolphins-turtle-watch-and-snorkeling-a-press-release-from-gulf-county-tdc Thu, 20 Sep 2018 14:16:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/gcfl-firsts-sunsets-dolphins-turtle-watch-and-snorkeling-a-press-release-from-gulf-county-tdc There’s a saying we have in the South: “Slow down, you’re here.”Mexico Beach, Florida, is the perfect off-the-beaten-path place to slow down, relax by the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, experience local culture, and make memories that will last you a lifetime. Located on sugary white sands just twenty miles east of Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach is that Old Florida fishing town you always imagined—full of charm and Southern hospitality and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There’s a reason it’s called The Unforgettable Coast! (We might be biased, but come see for yourself!) Fall at the beach is a magical time. The intense heat and busy summer season vanish and make way for relaxing strolls on the sand or bike rides along the coastal highway. The earth’s tilt allows sunsets to fall just right over the Gulf and cast dazzling hues of orange, pink, and purple across the sky. If you’re staying in one of our many affordablevacation rental homes,the best views are just steps away. Our locals cherish the fall months and hope you will too. Stop by tovisit shopsfull of personality and fun finds—Frost Pottery Garden and Gift Shop, the Grove, About Beach, the Shell Shack, and many others—where you can browse while chatting with friendly local owners and operators who might just give you the inside scoop on the best spots to plant your beach chair or reel in the “big one” on a day of fishing. Seasoned charter captains at the Mexico Beach Marina are here to help with deep-sea expeditions, dolphin tours, sightseeing, and fishing licenses. Craving the sounds of a steel drum band or a country music twang? With weekly sunset concerts, music festivals, and more, Mexico Beach loves sharing the sounds of its local musicians just as much as sharing the sound of waves against the sand. Have you started planning your fall break at the beach yet? Check your schedule because Mexico Beach is holding some great events this season to make it even better! Plan your visit to The Unforgettable Coast or request a free Visitor’s Guide today atMexicoBeach.com. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/fall-into-great-events-in-mexico-beach-florida Thu, 20 Sep 2018 14:14:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/fall-into-great-events-in-mexico-beach-florida As the holidays approach, our thoughts turn toward reuniting with family and friends. It’s a time of year we treasure, and good food – comfort food – is often the centerpiece of these gatherings. As much as we enjoy the “gourmet” aspect of dining, it can seem a bit out of place during the holiday season. In Old Florida, menus gravitate toward the familiar, flavors mellow and food lovers can experience an entirely different dining experience. The concept of “comfort food” seems simple enough. Designating specific dishes as comfort food is quite a challenge, however. Everyone has their own definition. For some, it’s as simple as classic ingredients prepared using traditional methods. For others, comfort food recalls fond memories and evokes nostalgia. More esoteric descriptions can be nearly as confusing as they are instructive, and that may, to some extent, explain the broad spectrum of dishes highlighted in this feature. To this writer, though, one definition in particular really stands out. Comfort food is love on a plate. SOUTHERN STUFFED CHICKEN AT GORMLEY’S AT THE GIBSON Chef Bret Gormley has structured his menu around Florida-sourced traditional ingredients. Comfort foods are a house specialty, and his modern take on classic southern dishes is unique without being intimidating. Southern Stuffed Chicken begins with an organic chicken breast wrapped in seared bacon and stuffed with collard greens and asiago cheese. Served over ricotta and herb-filled sweet potato ravioli, a chardonnay cream sauce, fresh collard greens and carrots round out the dish. “I like to shine new light on local staples,” claims Bret. “I grew up eating this stuff.” At his Apalachicola restaurant, located inside the historic Gibson Inn, Southern Stuffed Chicken is a signature dish. Bret’s creativity and effort lend a progressive elegance to fresh, wholesome ingredients rooted deeply in the region – a theme prevalent accross the entire menu at Gormley’s at the Gibson. (Apalachicola) LOBSTER RAVIOLI AT SUNSET COASTAL GRILL Patti Blaylock, the owner ofPort St. Joe’s Sunset Coastal Grill, didn’t have to think long about her establishment’s top comfort food. “We have to do the Lobster Ravioli,” she said. “It makes people happy!” And so it should! Saffron ravioli is filled with Maine lobster meat, tossed with Sunset Coastal Grill’s house made herbed sherry cream sauce, and topped with lobster claw meat and shredded parmesan. Served with a house salad, split-top french rolls and real butter, Lobster Ravioli has been on Sunset’s menu since 2002, the year of the eatery’s inception. (Port St. Joe) PASTA LIMONE AT UP THE STAIRS Keri Elliot, of Up the Stairs in Apalachicola, discovered a variant of this dish while visiting Nova Scotia. Upon her return, she resolved to recreate the recipe with a few southern-style modifications. Her version of Pasta Limone begins with linguini coated in Mascarpone cheese, flavored with Myer lemon, sun-dried tomatoes and basil, and mellowed with garlic bread crumbs and sliced almonds. The version experienced in Nova Scotia was, in Keri’s words, “a little dry, a little harsh, but with so much potential.” The Up the Stairs version of Pasta Limon, served over a bed of fresh spinach, is a little sweeter, a little saucier, and a lot more southern! (Apalachicola) PAELLA AT PROVISIONS Tied closely to it’s Spanish roots, Paella at Provisions celebrates a tradition dating back hundreds of years. The list of ingredients alone explains why paella has played such a prominent role in Spanish cuisine. Fresh shrimp, bay scallops, mussels, grilled chicken and kielbasa! Cilantro, salt, pepper, white onion, green bell pepper and peas! Saffron rice! Who could possibly resist? Antonio Perez, owner of Provisions, makes consistency and excellence top priorities. Paella at Provisions provides powerful evidence that his strategy is working. (Port St. Joe) FRIED GROUPER BASKET AT DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD & RAW BAR At Dockside Seafood & Raw Bar, located at thePort St. JoeMarina, one dish – the Fried Grouper Basket – is king. It outsells every other menu item, and I believe I know the reason why. Not because it’s tasty, though it is crispy and delicious. Not because it’s cheap, fresh grouper never is. No, the reason is comfort! Throughout the South, fresh-caught grouper is a staple on seafood menus. Along the Forgotten Coast, the Fried Grouper Basket – served with french fries, hush puppies and cole slaw – is as familiar and comfortable as an old shoe. Sure, you can get one almost anywhere, but the Fried Grouper Basket at Dockside is one of the region’s best. They begin with a half pound filet of black grouper deep-fried to a crispy golden brown and serve it with clear cut Idaho fries, sweet southern-style cole slaw and corn bread & sweet onion hush puppies. Thousands of happy Dockside customers can’t be wrong! (Port St. Joe) SHRIMP & GRITS AT SHIPWRECK RAW BAR Open for just over a year, Shipwreck Raw Bar inSt. Joe Beachis rapidly building a reputation for good food and attentive service. The rule here is “nothing fried” – a departure from one of Old Florida’s seafood traditions. Don’t worry though, Tony Whitfield and his crew know what they’re doing. They can grill, bake, steam or sauté at your request, and the results are outstanding. The Shrimp & Grits is a perfect example. Six jumbo Gulf of Mexico shrimp are cleaned and sautéed in butter and Old Bay seasoning. They’re served with smoked andouille sausage over a bed of cheddar & sour cream cheese grits, then splashed with house made roux and topped with a yellow corn, green pepper, red onion and jalapeno relish. To my recollection, Shrimp & Grits was the first dish I thought of when this story was conceived. To me, creamy cheese grits seem the very definition of comfort food, and shrimp are a familiar favorite. Shipwreck Raw Bar’s combination of the two makes for a memorable meal. (St. Joe Beach) DUCK FRIES AT THE OWL CAFE TAP ROOM This decadent dish, from the ingenious culinary minds in the Owl Cafe’s kitchen, earns special consideration. Rather than describe it, I will simply recommend it. Stop by the Tap Room, belly up to the bar, and order up some southern comfort Owl Cafe-style. Duck Fries with a frosty glass of Oyster City Brewing Co. Hooter Brown Tupelo Honey Ale – now that is love on a plate…and on tap! (Apalachicola) TABASCO FRIED FLOUNDER WITH CHORIZO MAC & CHEESE AT TAMARA’S CAFE What can I say? Chef Danny Itzkovitz has done it again. Fried fish. Macaroni and cheese. Green vegetable. Sound familiar? Yes…almost like something from a school lunch program. School lunches were never quite like this, though! A fresh Gulf of Mexico flounder filet is panko-encrusted and deep fried, then served over penne pasta with seared chorizo sausage and a cheddar & jack cheese heavy cream reduction. Topped with wilted spinach, sautéed onion and pepper, and drizzled with sweetened Tabasco, this standout dish frequents Tamara’s daily special board. Occasional variations feature grouper cheeks, collard greens, or green beans. In any iteration, this is southern comfort with a kick, and you’ll find it in downtown Apalachicola at the corner of Avenue D and Market Street. (Apalachicola) I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. Old Florida is one of the best dining destinations, per capita, in the world. Top culinary talent seems to gravitate here, drawn by access to top tier seafood and the incredible quality of life. Each has their own definition of comfort food, however, and no two are exactly alike. Your ideas may differ, too. Don’t let that stop you from ordering up some southern comfort! -by Daniel Anderson Daniel Anderson is the Editor of Must See Magazine,a full-color, full-size, publication filled with page after pageof things to see and do on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Striking photography and compelling, carefully-researched content spotlight the unique businesses, fascinating history and exciting recreational opportunities of St. George Island,Cape San Blas,Mexico Beach, Apalachicola,Port St. Joeand Carrabelle. For more information about Must See, visitwww.MustSeeMagazine.com. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/order-up-some-southern-comfort Thu, 20 Sep 2018 13:56:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/order-up-some-southern-comfort Happy Father’s Day! We know how hard Dad works to take care of the family, which is why think Father’s Day is so important. A day to spoil Dad in return for all he does throughout the year. Here are some ideas of things to do with Dad while visiting Cape San Blas & Mexico Beach: Tee Time! Great Golf Away From the Crowds St. Joseph Bay Golf Club is a pristine 18-hole championship golf course located along beautiful St. Joseph Bay off County Road C-30. Mature trees, lush fairways, sloping greens, and strategically placed hazards highlight this traditional layout. Enjoy everything St. Joseph’s Bay Golf Club has to offer – a quality golf facility and a whole lot more. Find out what’s on the menu at the Grab & Go Snack Bar and start planning your strategy with the Course Map and info on each hole. Cruise Aboard the Island Queen Cruise Cape San Blas on St. Joseph’s Bay aboard the “Island Queen” with Seahorse Water Safaris. Visitors have seen varieties of fish, horseshoe crabs, rays, seahorses, turtles, dolphin, conch, octopus, starfish and more. Learn about the marine life as you capture the creatures and places them in viewing buckets for everyone to see before release them back to St. Joseph Bay. End the day with a relaxing sunset cruise – leaving from the Port St. Joe Marina. Enjoy the beautiful bay, view the local commercial fishing fleet in the Intracoastal Waterway and watch the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico behind the St. Joseph Peninsula. A Place for the Serious Sportsman Whether you fish from the shore for pompano, from the City Pier at Mexico Beach for Spanish mackerel or from the boat for grouper, the fishing is as good as it gets. A fleet of charter boats is available for the angler who needs a ride out into the Gulf. Many of the charter boats offer the option of inshore or offshore trips and most include your gear and license. With boat ramps available for launching and plenty of available parking, the Gulf of Mexico is less than three minutes away. Inshore, offshore, inland, the biggest catches are here. To the north freshwater anglers can hunt Largemouth Bass in the Dead Lakes, Apalachicola River or Lake Wimico. To the south saltwatr fish teem in the Gulf of Mexico, St. Joseph Bay, St. Joseph Canal and Indian Pass Lagoon. INFORMATION AND PICTURES PROVIDED IN THIS POST CAME FROM ST. JOSEPH GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, GULF COUNTY TDC, AND MEXICO BEACH CDC. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/fathers-day-at-the-gulf-coast Thu, 20 Sep 2018 13:52:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/fathers-day-at-the-gulf-coast What’s the big deal about St. Joseph Bay, and why should I be so interested in seeing it? Well, if you’ve ever had the opportunity to visit Port St Joe, or what we call Florida’s little slice of paradise, you’d understand why locals and guests absolutely love St. Joseph Bay. It has been greeting adventures, explores, sportsman & sightseers for years, and continues to mesmerize and captivate those to enjoy all it has to offer. You have 15 miles of pristine bay that stretch from Cape San Blas to Mexico Beach, and clean gulf saltwater that allows you to see a clear view of the thriving habitat of numerous sea creatures, grasses, and sandbars. Not only is the bay a haven for aquatic life, it’s also one of the most peaceful and tranquil places you’ll ever visit. Known for being the champion of sunsets, there is nothing more beautiful than when the sun sets over the horizon and melts into St Joseph Bay. Can you tell we love St. Joseph Bay yet? If you’re still skeptical or wondering if you’ll come to love the bay as much as we do, here are a few reasons to help ease your mind. IT’S ADVENTUROUS If you’re more of the “doer” personality type, then you’ll love exploring the vast watery domain of St. Joseph Bay. Kayaking, paddle boarding, diving, and snorkeling are just a few of the many aquatic activities you can do in this beautiful estuary. If you don’t have any of these items or just don’t have the room, places like Scallop Cove rent these items for you to enjoy. And if you’re feeling even more adventurous, you can rent a boat from Seahorse Safari to explore even more of the bay. IT’S EXCITING What’s so exciting about St. Joseph Bay? You never know what you’ll find… or see. The bay is teeming with aquatic life, so get ready to spot all kinds of fish, seashells, seahorses, and even dolphins – there’s nothing more exciting than seeing a dolphin right?! Schedule a guided eco-tour with Happy Hours Kayak & Bike Outpost an experienced a kayak lead tour pointing out the treasures of St. Joe Bay and its history. But don’t worry, this isn’t a boring lecture tour. It’s a hands-on, touch-and-feel learning experience. IT’S UNFORGETTABLE With so much to offer the whole family, St. Joseph Bay is the perfect place to create life-long memories and year round family traditions. Take a quick weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation, and come explore this tucked away destination.Gulf Coast Vacation Rentalsoffers a fantastic selection of vacation homes right on the bay, or within short driving distance to this pristine body of water. Perfect for adults and children alike, the undersea world of St. Joseph Bay will fascinate any nature lover. DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE SCALLOPS! Who could forget the # 1 reason for visiting St. Joseph Bay…scallops! Grab your snorkel, mask, fins and a mesh bag and go scalloping! Take the family and have fun snorkeling around and looking for the blue “eyes” around the outer edge of the scallop’s shell. When you spot one, it’s really exciting! Just reach down and scoop it up. You can scallop for fun and return your catch to repopulate the area or keep your catch for a delicious dinner. The 2016 Scallop Season for St. Joseph Bay will be delayed and shortened to open August 22nd through September 5th, and regulations only allow 40 scallops per person and 200 total per vessel. But never fear, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission continues to explore additional measures to collecting and capturing supplementary scallops in cages prior to August 22 to better ensure a successful restoration. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/why-we-love-st-joseph-bay-and-you-should-too Thu, 20 Sep 2018 13:48:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/why-we-love-st-joseph-bay-and-you-should-too Summer may be almost over, but the time for your fall beach vacation is right around the corner! Check out our 10 ways the beach is better in fall to plan your next upcoming getaway to Mexico Beach, Florida! LABOR DAY WEEKEND The long Labor Day weekend is approaching quickly and we have a great chance for you and your family to get away to Mexico Beach for your fall beach vacation. Check out ourPlaces to Stay pageto view upcoming hotel deals during the Labor Day weekend. FOOTBALL DOWN SOUTH There’s nothing like grilling out by the beach while watching college and professional football with your friends and family, cheering on your favorite team! Be sure to grab your favorite game day snacks and beverages from Mango Marley’s, Toucan’s, The Fish House, Castaways, 40th Street Pizza, Crazy Beach Pizza, and other awesomeMexico Beach restaurants. FALL BREEZES Fall is a perfect time to get out and explore nature and all that Mexico Beach has to offer. We have tons of outdoor activities from hiking, paddling, birding, and wildlife viewing. Visit ourEcotourism pagefor more information on all the activities to do during your fall beach vacation. MEXICO BEACH MUSIC IN THE PARK Every Thursday during the month of September you’re invited to join us at Parker Park to unwind, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunsets along Mexico Beach with great music. Don’t forget to grab a chair, bring a blanket and cooler to set up your seat with live music from local musicians. And even better, concerts are free to the public! Concerts begin at 5pm and finish at 7pm, and be sure to come early to get a good seat! CHECK OUT THIS YEAR’S LINEUP: September 7 – Baby Gray September 14 – Flabbergasted September 21 – Heat & the Zydeco Gents September 28 – The Currys EVENING SUNSETS The fall season is our favorite time of the year to catch the most breathtaking sunsets along the Gulf Coast. Be sure to check out the Mexico Beach Pier or Sunset Park to get the best view during your fall beach vacation! FARMER’S & CRAFT MARKET Join us at Parker Park to shop through our September Farmer’s & Craft Market. We have everything from produce, crafts, photography, jewelry, and much more so please be sure to stop by and visit our incredible vendors. MORE SUNSHINE, FEWER CROWDS The perfect spot for a stroll, fishing, or watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. We may be biased but our favorite time of the year is fall! The weather is perfect, it’s not too hot and not too cool, and there are fewer people roaming the beaches. Now, who doesn’t love having the beach all to themselves? FLORIDA SCALLOP & MUSIC FESTIVAL It’s the season of festivals here in Mexico Beach and we’ve got you covered. Come out to the shores of the St. Joseph Bay in Port St. Joe Friday, October 6 and Saturday October 7 for the 21st Annual Florida Scallop & Music Festival. Enjoy live music, a scallop cook-off, kids zone, a 5k race, and much more. General admission into the festival on Friday and Saturday is $5 up until 5 pm. ART & WINE FESTIVAL It’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a nice glass of wine while browsing an incredible selection of artwork with live music at our 18th Annual Art & Wine Festival on October 14 at the Driftwood Inn. Doors open at 2pm and events wrap up at 7 pm. BLAST ON THE BAY SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL Blast on the Bay Music City takes over the Unforgettable Coast at our 9th Annual Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival held on October 19–22. The weekend kicks off Thursday night, October 19, with a welcome reception on the beach for all our VIP sponsors and artist to Sunday night, October 22, wrapping the weekend up at the world famous Indian Pass Raw Bar. 10 Reasons A Fall Beach Vacation Is The Best was written and published by Mexico Beach Community Development Council. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/10-reasons-a-fall-beach-vacation-is-the-best-by-mexico-beach-cdc Thu, 20 Sep 2018 13:43:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/10-reasons-a-fall-beach-vacation-is-the-best-by-mexico-beach-cdc The winter guests come here to recall simpler times. They come because Gulf County offers a more relaxes approach to life, a treasured retreat from the mad pace of the holidays, and the winter temperatures. Here, you are no longer a stranger. Your face quickly becomes familiar and the cashiers at the local store remembers you and your favorite items. In Gulf County, the pace is slower so you can take in the timeless images of life along the water from the front porch swing of your winter home. Views such as dolphins dancing to the shrimp and deep-sea fishing boats traveling St. Joseph Bay, you won’t find high-rise condos here to block the views of our waterways – just the tranquil appeal of a small town. Just because the pace is slower it doesn’t mean that there is not an abundance to activities for the winter guests. There is a special website designated just for the events in the winter months. It is packed full of activities such as golf tournaments, a welcome party to include food, music and dancing – plus local information. Guest can also find details about the Farmer’s Market, the Winter Speaker Series at the Library, or Bay Day at the Buffer Preserve by visiting the website athttp://www.gcflwinterfun.com https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/gulf-county-escape-to-warm-weather Thu, 20 Sep 2018 13:42:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/gulf-county-escape-to-warm-weather When I was a little girl before I ever laid eyes on the ocean, I read about it. I read about the waves and the sand, the shells and the sand dollars, the sea turtles and the dolphins. I read about sea horses and starfish, about crabs and sea urchins, about sting rays and sharks. I could not believe that there was a world under the sea filled with the wildest, most beautiful creatures you could ever imagine. My first trip to the beach I was 5 or 6 (unlike today when children go to the beach 3, 4, or even more times a year starting as babies). The beach was a treat and boy was I excited, I couldn’t wait to see all those creatures that I had been reading about. And then we got to the beach, and I did not find all those creatures I was anticipating on seeing, in fact I was lucky to find a half broken shell. It was still magical and still beautiful just to feel the sand in my toes and hear the waves rolling to shore, but not the world I had dreamed up in my imagination. It would not be until my adult years when I began traveling outside the United States that I would begin to discover those creatures I had so fallen in love in National Geographic Magazines. Then just a few years ago my family went on a fishing trip to a place called Cape San Blas. In one day we saw dolphins right next to the boat, manatees, sand dollars, horseshoe crabs, and caught a variety of fish. On our next trip we would find shell after shell, see sting rays glide along the ocean bottom, and discover that this same area is known for its Tupelo Honey. On the next trip we would go scalloping, kayak out to sandbar after sandbar in St. Joseph Bay to discover new shells and new creatures, catch beautiful Spanish and King Mackerel, and watch a leatherback turtle nest evaluation after its hatching. Then we shared this place with friends and the memories made since are even more magical than the first trips – finding a honey hole of red fish and catching one after the other; discovering starfish, sea slugs, big live welk shells, and even a baby sea star inside a shell on kayak excursions; seeing a sea turtle swimming through the bay; surf fishing and catching flounder on the Gulf side of the cape; filling net bags with bay scallops we would then eat for dinner; kayak fishing with twilight cascading the horizon and the full moon rising. And that isn’t even half the memories I have of this real life blue lagoon. To watch our children, my daughter and our friend’s sons, play with such wonder in their eyes, with such freedom in their movement, with such curiosity in their minds – it is beautiful. Even I feel my thoughts melt away in this magical place. My mind is clear but my senses are acute – sight, sound, touch, smell. As we kayak through the bay the salty air hits my nose, I feel how the paddle glides along the water, I see a blue crab side stepping his way through the sea grass in the crystal clear water, I hear what seems like a hundred mullet jumping out of the water and splash nearby. In this beautiful place I am in the moment and it is a beautiful feeling. There are a lot of beautiful beaches in this world, and then there’s Cape San Blas. 45 minutes east of Panama City you will find a coastal area not filled with black Range Rovers, trendy restaurants, and Alvin’s Islands, but instead a port boasting some of the Gulf’s best fishing, large shrimp boats lining the Intracoastal, a state park where marine life including manatees is a normal occurrence, a beach and bay lined with shells of all shapes and sizes, and signs pointing you to apiaries where the world’s most bountiful harvest of Tupelo honey can be found. This connection to the land and water can be felt in each place you venture and every person you meet. Captain Danny Raffield of Raffield Fisheries says, “Nature has a way of balancing itself out. If man does something nature will react it may not be immediate but there will be balance.” This wisdom of walking hand in hand with nature is evident in the low key yet enchanting ‘salt’ lifestyle of the area. On the cape you find yourself surrounded by water on both sides juxtaposed between sunrise and sunset which makes for one of the most breathtaking views imaginable. In fact in the morning the sun rises like a big bright orange ball of fire right out of the water on the bay side and in the evening the sun sinks into the water brilliant and bold changing the sky from vibrant oranges and pinks to dark. It is ideal to rent a home on the cape and you can do this through Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals. We prefer the bayside, it is great if you have a boat and if you plan to do any kayaking, paddle boarding, scalloping, or snorkeling. Here is the bay front home we have rented, the location is great. Each morning the sun rises majestically right in front of the home and there was endless exploring be done right there in the bay. The house was beautifully updated with a fully equipped kitchen, stunning views, and great outdoor dining areas. There were more than enough kayaks for everyone in our families and paddle boards also. With just 3 bedrooms it was plenty of room for our 2 families, with a large bed and pull out couch in one room where all the children could sleep. Kayaking is an absolute must and many places come equipped with kayak rentals, but also on the cape is Happy Ours Kayak Rental. Owned by the friendly and incredibly knowledgeable couple Debbie and Dan VanFleet, you arrive at their home/business and find an array of animals. Their kayaks nestle right up to the bay and the tour we went on with Dan was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had. Even our daughter had her own kayak seat with daddy and her own paddle. Before you even launch your kayak you will see Fiddler crabs scurrying along the beach. During your tour you will see horseshoe crabs, crown conch shells, welks, starfish, and of course the occasional large redfish swimming about. During scallop season which typically runs July-September people will take their kayaks out and go scalloping. Rates are extremely affordable ranging from $30 for a single half day to $60 for a tandem full day – it will be a memory you nor your family will soon forget. The scallops from St. Joseph’s Bay are so fresh and tender they will melt in your mouth. If the season is open, scalloping in the area is a must whether by boat, with a tour, or by kayak. The scallops sometimes hide but once you find a patch among the seaside you will likely be able to harvest a lot. You look for their glowing purple eyes and once out of the water you will see and hear them snapping and chattering about. Many people will eat them raw but of course you can sauté them in a little butter and salt just for a few minutes and you have an out of this world dinner. Bay scallops are smalls notch cooking time is needed at all. The key to cooking scallops is to dry them off first, this will create that nice sear. The area also boasts some of the best fishing. Bring your boat or charter a boat from the Port. St. Joe Marina for a half day or full day. You are bound to catch redfish, speckled trout, triple tail, pompano, or flounder in the bay. If you venture offshore you may snag Spanish or King Mackerel, grouper, red snapper or triggerfish. You can take your catch back to your place and cook it in a little olive oil with salt and pepper and you will never want to eat anything but freshly caught fish again. The wonderful thing about the area is with such great fishing, scalloping, and seafood markets receiving shrimp, crawfish, and fresh catches right off the boat, you really do not have to worry about going out to eat. You can grab groceries, enjoy the sunset, not worry about changing clothes, and then sauté fish or put on a shrimp boil in no time at all. If you do want to eat out, there is the famous Indian Pass Raw Bar where you can shuck oysters, drink bottled beer, and even bring your own chicken to throw on the smoker, Triple Tails with its fresh seafood cooked up just right, and even delicious Paul Gant’s BBQ. You can also enjoy live music and a craft cocktail The Thirsty Goat in Port St. Joe. Another allure of Gulf County where Cape San Blas is located, the world’s largest harvest of Tupelo Honey comes from the area. Tupelo Honey comes from the blossom of the tupelo tree, which belongs to the sour gum family. There are several species of gum trees, but only the white tupelo tree (Nyssa Ogeche) produces an excellent table grade honey. Although white tupelo trees grow throughout the Southeastern United States, some of the largest concentrations of these special trees are found in the Florida Panhandle, in and around the Apalachicola and Chipola river basins. These areas are world-renowned for producing high quality Tupelo Honey. Smiley Apiaries is one of the many apiaries found in the Wewahitchka area that supplies Tupelo Honey all over the world boasting that their honey is 70-95% pure tupelo. Also located in ‘Wewa’ as the locals say – the Dead Lakes. The landscape of the Dead Lakes is a photographer’s dream with the mossy branches and unique dimensions of the Cypress dotting the Lakes. This area is also home to a variety of bird species such as the Osprey, Ibis and Heron. A bass fisherman’s dream and an eco-adventurer’s paradise, a tour of the Dead Lakes is a magical experience. Tours are provided by Matt Godwin of Off the Map Expeditions. Godwin knows the area remarkably well from every Osprey nest to every bug skimming the water. Alligator trapping has become increasingly popular and for select permitted sportsmen the Dead Lakes are their hunting waters with season typically lasting from August-November. Wewa is also where you may want to have your first drive thru liquor store experience. If you’re muscles are sore from all that fishing and kayaking, SpaPur is a quaint but fantastic spa located in Port St. Joe. Schedule a massage or facial and you will not be disappointed. From the Tupelo Honey Festival to Plein Air Invitational where artists from all over are invited to come set up station along the scenic coast for one week and paint to the annual Scallop and Music Festival, there is always a celebratory time to visit Gulf County. Even during New Years the area does something unique called Celebrate Twice. Party goers start in the Eastern Time Zone in Port St. Joe and St. Joe Beach, then travel west just five minutes to Mexico Beach and they celebrate all over again an hour later in the Central Time Zone. Two firework shows as well, one in each time zone. I marvel at this place – there are no waterslides, no high rises, no fancy restaurants, yet there is everything you ever dreamed the beach itself could be. https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/cape-san-blas-everything-you-dreamed-the-beach-would-be Thu, 20 Sep 2018 01:10:00 GMT andrew@bluewatersolutions.com (Andrew Davis) Travel Guide https://www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/blog,blog/cape-san-blas-everything-you-dreamed-the-beach-would-be