Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the 2026 St. Joseph Bay Scallop Season?

The 2026 St. Joseph Bay scallop season dates are officially set for August 16 through September 24. This is the peak time for Florida Gulf Coast scalloping trips, as the bay's high salinity creates the perfect habitat for bay scallops. If you are planning an underwater Easter egg hunt in Gulf County, remember that harvesting is prohibited in the restoration zone south of Black’s Island to ensure a sustainable Florida scallop harvest for years to come.

2. Do I need a license to go scalloping in Florida?

Yes, a Florida saltwater fishing license is required for all residents and visitors participating in the St. Joseph Bay scallop harvest, unless you are under 16 or over 65. If you book a guided scalloping charter in Port St. Joe, your captain’s commercial license typically covers all passengers. For DIY snorkelers, you can easily purchase a license at local outdoor outfitters like Scallop Cove or through the FWC website before heading out to the seagrass flats.

3. Which beaches in Cape San Blas are dog-friendly?

Cape San Blas is famous for having some of the best pet-friendly beaches in Florida. Most of the shoreline in Gulf County allows leashed dogs, making it a top destination for pet-friendly vacation rentals. However, please note that St. Joseph Peninsula State Park does not allow pets on the beach to protect local shorebirds and wildlife. If you're staying in a Gulf-front beach house, your furry friend is welcome to enjoy the "Forgotten Coast" right alongside you.

4. How do I book a cabin at St. Joseph Peninsula State Park?

Securing a St. Joseph Peninsula State Park cabin rental requires advanced planning, as these waterfront Florida state park cabins are among the most popular in the state. Reservations open exactly 11 months in advance through the Florida State Parks booking system. These cabins offer unparalleled access to snorkeling in St. Joseph Bay and hiking the massive dunes, making them the ultimate choice for an eco-friendly Florida vacation.

5. Is there a grocery store on Cape San Blas?

While there are no major supermarkets on the peninsula, you’ll find everything you need at The Trading Post or Scallop Cove. For a full "stock up" of your Cape San Blas vacation rental, most visitors stop at the Piggly Wiggly in Port St. Joe or the Gulf Thriftway. These local markets are perfect for grabbing fresh Florida seafood, beach snacks, and supplies for your beachfront bonfire.

6. What is the closest airport to Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas?

The most convenient airport for travelers is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City, located about an hour's drive from the bay. Another popular option is Tallahassee International Airport (TLH), roughly two hours away. Many visitors choose a rental car from Panama City to enjoy the scenic drive along the Coastal Highway 98 corridor on their way to the Forgotten Coast.

7. Do I need a permit to drive on the beach in Gulf County?

Yes, beach driving in Gulf County is a regulated activity that requires a beach driving permit issued by the Tax Collector’s Office. These permits are popular for anglers looking for Florida surf fishing access and those with 4WD vehicles. Be sure to check the updated 2026 beach driving regulations, as certain areas are restricted to protect sea turtle nesting sites and fragile dune ecosystems.

8. Are golf carts allowed on the roads at Cape San Blas?

Golf cart rentals on Cape San Blas are a favorite way to get around, but they must be "street legal" Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs). These carts can operate on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, allowing easy travel between bay-side homes and Gulf beach access points. Always ensure your vacation rental golf cart is properly equipped with headlights and seatbelts to comply with Gulf County road safety laws.

9. Is the water in St. Joseph Bay clear for snorkeling?

St. Joseph Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear emerald water, often compared to a "giant saltwater aquarium." Because it is a high-salinity lagoon with very little freshwater runoff, it offers some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Panhandle. Visitors frequently spot sea turtles, seahorses, and dolphins while kayaking the grass flats or paddleboarding near the Cape San Blas lighthouse.

10. When is Sea Turtle Nesting Season on the Forgotten Coast?

Florida sea turtle nesting season runs from May 1 to October 31. During this time, the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center reminds visitors to keep the beaches "Dark, Flat, and Clean." If you are staying in a beachfront condo, you must use turtle-friendly lighting or keep blinds closed at night to avoid disorienting hatchlings as they head toward the Gulf of Mexico.

11. Can we have bonfires on the beach at Cape San Blas?

Absolutely! Beach bonfires in Gulf County are a signature "Old Florida" experience. Unlike many other Florida destinations, you can legally enjoy a fire on the sand, provided you follow beach bonfire safety rules: stay 100 feet away from structures, use clean wood, and extinguish the fire completely. It's the perfect way to cap off a day of shelling and sunset watching.

12. What are the best restaurants in Port St. Joe and Indian Pass?

For authentic Forgotten Coast dining, the Indian Pass Raw Bar is a legendary "bucket list" spot for oysters. In downtown Port St. Joe, The White Marlin & Oysterette offers upscale bay views, while Krazyfish Grille provides a family-friendly atmosphere. These Port St. Joe seafood restaurants specialize in "fresh from the Gulf" shrimp, grouper, and seasonal bay scallops.

13. How do I avoid "No-See-Ums" or biting flies during my stay?

Biting insects like No-See-Ums and stable flies can occasionally be an issue when a North wind blows off the mainland. To ensure a comfortable Cape San Blas beach day, check the local wind forecast; a South wind from the Gulf usually keeps the flies away. Locals recommend using Cutter Advanced or "Skin So Soft" as effective repellents for these Florida coastal pests.

14. What are the "Leave No Trace" rules for Gulf County beaches?

Gulf County enforces a strict Leave No Trace ordinance to keep our shores pristine. All personal items—including beach chairs, tents, and umbrellas—must be removed from the sand daily by one hour after sunset. Items left overnight are considered abandoned and may be removed by the Beach Patrol to protect nesting sea turtles and maintain the beauty of the uncrowded Florida beaches.

15. Is it better to stay on the Bay side or the Gulf side?

The choice between a St. Joseph Bay vacation rental and a Gulf-front beach house depends on your priorities. The Gulf side is perfect for those who want the sound of crashing waves and direct access to white sand beaches. The Bay side is a haven for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scalloping, offering calm, shallow waters that are ideal for families with young children and nature enthusiasts.