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 Saint George Island
Florida is a twenty-nine
mile stretch of paradise. It provides access to the seafood rich waters of Apalachicola
Bay, and the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Strict building codes and low
density zoning regulations have preserved the beauty of St. George. Wildlife abounds on
the island. In fact, the large variety of shorebirds will delight even the most jaded
birdwatcher. Shell collectors enjoy miles of near primitive white sand beaches, scattered
with treasures deposited by the gentle ocean surf. Discover the Florida that you have
dreamed about. Escape to the scenic beauty of Saint George Island. Island History
During most of its 5,000 years of existence, St. George Island was uninhabited by man.
During the early and middle 1900s, the island's pine forests were turpentined. Many scars
are still visible on the island's larger slash pines. During World War II, the island was
used by troops for numerous training exercises that were carried out over the area's vast
dunes. Acquisition of land for the park in 1963 and completion of the causeway in 1965 led
to increased use of the beaches for recreational activity. In 1980, construction of the
park facilities was complete, and the park was opened for public use.
Island Geography
The natural features of the island include extensive beaches and dunes, forests of slash
pines and live oak hammocks. The ocean and bay support an abundance of marine life, while
small freshwater ponds and sloughs provide a limited aquatic habitat in an otherwise arid
climate. The waters of this area are some of the most productive commercial and sport
fisheries in Florida, with a thriving oyster industry at the mouth of the Apalachicola
River.
Island Wildlife
Osprey may frequently be seen fishing in the waters, and their nests are found in the tops
of living or dead pine trees in the park. Raccoons and ghost crabs may be observed, along
with the salt-marsh snakes and diamondback terrapin that reside in the marsh and bay
waters. Birds such as the snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, willet and many other
species of shorebirds frequently nest along the park's sandy shores and grass flats. The
barrier islands of the Gulf Coast are important "rest stops" for a wide variety
of migrating birds during the fall and spring. The best time to observe migrating birds is
after the passage of cold fronts.
It's all waiting for you on beautiful
Saint George Island!
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