Cape St. George Lighthouse
Florida Lighthouse Trail // Pensacola & The Forgotten Coast
The next Forgotten Coast lighthouse is one that collapsed into the Gulf of Mexico in 2005. The citizens of Cape St. George are not ones to rest on their laurels, and by December 1, 2008, the reconstructed lighthouse was open again to the public. They took great care throughout each reconstruction to salvage and use the original materials. Even the lantern room was recast, using the original pieces as patterns.
Visitors capture St. George Island’s scenic views from just beneath Cape St. George Lighthouse. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Originally constructed in 1833, they rebuilt it in 1848 and 1852 on Little St. George Island. This picturesque lighthouse has been hard at work alerting ships to Little St. George Island for over 180 years.
The Cape St. George Lighthouse is an ideal location for an intimate destination wedding, featuring the stunning views only available on the top of a historic lighthouse.
Keep in mind that children must be at least 40 inches tall to climb the lighthouse, which has 92 wooden stairs and an eight-rung ladder into the lantern room. Next to the lighthouse there is a Lighthouse Keeper’s House which includes a museum and a gift shop. The lighthouse park includes beach access with an outdoor shower, picnic pavilions, outdoor grills, a basketball court, and children’s playground.
From March through October, the lighthouse is open to the public on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The lighthouse is closed on Thursday. From November through February, the lighthouse is open daily from noon to 5 p.m. but closed on Thursday.
Photos by Roberto Gonzalez
STAY OVER
When so close to the Gulf of Mexico, do yourself a favor and travel those extra few miles and stay beachfront at Island Suites. All rooms have oceanfront views with private, large balconies and sizable rooms. It’s an easy walk to most restaurants and if you play your cards right, you can even spot a dolphin or two from your balcony | island-suites.com
DINE OUT
Considered by many to be one of the best outdoor cafes, the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café on St. George Island will not disappoint. Featuring lovely views, warm breezes, sunshine, it’s a laid-back eatery with fresh seafood and tropical drinks with a tiki atmosphere | blueparrotsgi.com
INSIDER TIP
If you simply can’t get enough, visit the Crooked River Lighthouse. Just 24 minutes east, it’s a hidden gem for fisherman and oysterman | crookedriverlighthouse.com
