A Fun-Filled Adventure on Cape San Blas Beaches & T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
A Fun-Filled Adventure on Cape San Blas Beaches & T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Nestled along Florida’s Forgotten Coast, Cape San Blas is a hidden gem where sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and laid-back vibes create the perfect beach getaway. At the heart of this coastal paradise lies T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone craving a slice of unspoiled Florida beauty. Named one of America’s top beaches by Dr. Beach in 2002, this park offers endless ways to soak up the sun and connect with nature. Ready for a fun-filled escape? Here’s your guide to exploring Cape San Blas and its crown jewel state park!
Why Visit Cape San Blas and T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park?
Stretching 20 miles into the Gulf of Mexico, the St. Joseph Peninsula is a slender strip of paradise flanked by the Gulf on one side and St. Joseph Bay on the other. The state park, spanning over 2,700 acres, is famous for its pristine beaches, towering sand dunes (some over 35 feet high!), and diverse ecosystems, from maritime hammocks to pine flatwoods. Whether you’re into swimming, hiking, kayaking, or wildlife spotting, this park has it all. Plus, its remote location keeps crowds at bay, offering a peaceful retreat from bustling tourist hubs.
Cape San Blas itself is a charming coastal community with pet-friendly beaches, fresh seafood shacks, and a relaxed vibe that feels like Old Florida. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your flip-flops, watch dolphins play, and let your worries drift away with the tide.
Top Activities at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Lounge on Award-Winning Beaches
The park’s 10 miles of powdery white sand beaches are perfect for sunbathing, shelling, or building sandcastles. The Gulf side offers gentle waves for swimming, while the bay side is ideal for wading or snorkeling in calm, clear waters. Pro tip: Visit during low tide or after a storm for the best shelling—starfish and sand dollars are common finds! Just remember, no flashlights on the beach from May to October to protect nesting sea turtles.
- Hike Scenic Trails
The park boasts three unique trails for all skill levels:
Bayview Nature Trail (1.6 miles): A leisurely loop through pine flatwoods and salt marshes with stunning views of St. Joseph Bay. Bring binoculars for birdwatching!
Maritime Hammock Trail (under 1 mile): A short stroll through coastal hammocks, ending at a bayside shell midden.
Wilderness Preserve Trail (up to 12 miles round-trip): A challenging hike through 1,750 acres of untouched coastal ecosystems, leading to remote campsites under starry skies. A Wilderness Permit is required, available at the ranger station.
- Kayak or Paddleboard in St. Joseph Bay
Launch a kayak or canoe from Eagle Harbor’s boat ramp to explore the bay’s crystal-clear waters. Paddle among seagrass beds, spot scallops during season (July 1–September 24), or look for manatees and stingrays. Rentals are available at Scallop Cove Too near the marina. - Fish Like a Local
Anglers, rejoice! The park offers prime fishing spots on both the Gulf and bay sides. Cast from the shore or your boat for flounder, red drum, speckled trout, or even shark. A Florida fishing license is required, so plan ahead. Eagle Harbor’s deep-water access makes it easy to launch your vessel. - Spot Wildlife Galore
The park is a hotspot for wildlife, hosting over 240 bird species, including snowy plovers and great blue herons. It’s the most productive shorebird nesting beach in the Florida Panhandle! Look for loggerhead sea turtles nesting in summer, the endangered St. Andrews beach mouse scurrying across dunes, or even bobcats and alligators in the backcountry. Keep your camera ready - Camp Under the Stars
Choose from 119 campsites with water and electric hookups at Gulf Breeze or Shady Pines campgrounds, or go rustic with 14 primitive sites in the Wilderness Preserve. For a cozy stay, book one of eight bayside cabins with gorgeous views. Book early, as sites fill up fast
Fun Things to Do in Cape San Blas
Beyond the state park, Cape San Blas offers plenty of charm:
Horseback Riding on the Beach: Book a sunset ride with local outfitters for a magical experience.
Visit Salinas Park: Just outside the state park, this county park has a boardwalk, picnic areas, and a fishing dock on the bay side.
Grab Fresh Seafood: Stop at Cape Tradin’ Post or Scallop Cove for deli sandwiches, pizza, or fresh donuts. For a sit-down meal, try Provisions in Port St. Joe for local flavors.
Explore Port St. Joe: A 20-minute drive away, this quaint town has a lighthouse, antique shops, and a marina perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
Entry Fees: $6 per vehicle (2–8 people) or $4 for a single occupant. Pedestrians and cyclists pay $2. Cash is recommended for the entry booth.
Pet-Friendly Vibes: Leashed pets are welcome in select park areas, but not on the beach or in the Wilderness Preserve. Cape San Blas has dog-friendly public beaches nearby.
Hurricane Recovery: The park was split by Hurricane Michael in 2018, but the southern end is fully open, and the northern section reopened in 2023 with a new road. Check for updates before visiting.
Accessibility: The park offers beach wheelchairs and an electric mobility device for visitors with mobility needs.
Pack Smart: Bring water shoes for snorkeling, bug spray for trails, and sunscreen—the Florida sun is no joke!
Plan Your Cape San Blas Adventure
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is open from 8 AM to sunset, with a ranger station at 8899 Cape San Blas Rd, Port St. Joe, FL. Call (850) 227-1327 for more info or to reserve campsites and cabins. Pair your park visit with a stay at a nearby Cape San Blas vacation rental—many are steps from the beach or bay, offering easy access to the park’s wonders.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, paddling with dolphins, or hiking through pristine wilderness, Cape San Blas and its star state park deliver unforgettable moments. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and dive into the natural beauty of Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Your beach adventure awaits!
