Beyond the beach, there is more to explore
GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA–FEBRUARY 2026–Gulf County, Florida, located two hours southwest of Tallahassee and just an hour east of Panama City Beach, is known for its beautiful beaches amid a low-rise atmosphere perfect for disconnecting from the rest of the world while engaging with the people–and this beautiful destination–around you. This fresh approach extends to the variety of water activities, too. While known for fishing, scalloping and paddling in the coastal waters of St. Joseph Bay and Gulf, there are inland water adventures here, that offer beyond-the-beach activities for anglers, paddlers and those who love to take the path less traveled.
For many, freshwater excursions begin at Indian Pass Lagoon. Known locally as “The Pass,” this is where Apalachicola Bay flows into the Gulf. It’s here, at the tip of Indian Pass Peninsula, that the confluence of fresh and saltwater create a fertile breeding ground for oysters, shrimp and fish. It also provides a beautiful setting for those who want to explore the bio-diverse waters and view a variety of wildlife by kayak or flat bottom boat. Indian Pass Boat Ramp (2850 Indian Pass Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456) offers access for those who choose to bring their own boat. For a trip guided by an experience captain, Williamson Outfitters (850-251-8650) and Gettin’ Reel Sportfishing (850-227-8056) are favorites.
A variety of fishing and freshwater adventures can be had on inland coves and creeks and on popular Lake Wimico. Charter services like Cat Daddy Adventures (Henry Mac Drive, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-227-6697) offer fishing trips as well as various hunting adventures throughout a variety of waterways. They offer freshwater fishing, hunting, frogging and other seasonal options.
Inland, the community of Wewahitchka offers a change of scenery and more opportunities for a variety of freshwater outings. One of the most unexpected, and now popular, activities here is to explore the mysterious Dead Lakes. The lake is actually part swamp and part river and is 6,700-acres of pristine wilderness. Cypress and White Tupelo trees tower above and bass and crappie teem below. Osprey and eagles nest and, annually, beekeepers harvest the coveted Tupelo honey here. Anglers, paddlers, birders and photographers each find their Zen in this amazing environment. Off The Map Expeditions (482 Gary Rowell Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-819-3053) offers eco tours via chartered pontoon trips and seasonal guided paddling excursions.
There are a number of public boat landings throughout the area, and a full listing of boat ramps can be found at VisitGulf.com. Gaskin Park (3980 Lakegrove Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465) and White City Park (290 Pridgeon Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465) each offer a boat ramp giving boaters and anglers access to both the Apalachicola and Chipola Rivers and have picnic tables, bathrooms, a playground, grills and lighting. This area of the Chipola marks the Southern terminus of the Chipola River Paddling Trail which is known as a stunning route through North Florida’s limestone bluffs, springs and caves.
In addition to getting out on the inland waters, there are many other ways to experience a “fresh take” on a Gulf County experience. Activities like these highlight just a few of the things that set this destination apart.
Coastal Ambiance Shelling Tours (County Road 30 East, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-338-2888) offers one-of-a-kind shelling tours and creative art experiences that go beyond a simple beach walk. Visitors comb quiet stretches of beach to discover and learn to identify shells while learning fascinating facts about local wildlife, habitats and the coastal ecosystem. Both walking and golf cart tours are available.
Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center (1001 10th Street, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 205-910-4717) is a special place where visitors can learn about the amazing threatened and endangered sea turtles that nest and hatch on Gulf County beaches each year and the programs in place to protect them.
A number one family favorite here is horseback riding on the beach. With Rockin’ M Ranch (240 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-6117), morning, evening and sunset rides are available and are perfect for even novice riders. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides and maintain a relaxing pace throughout.
There are miles of trails to explore at The St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve (3915 State Road #30-A, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-1787). Its multi-use trails are popular for hiking, biking, horseback riding and birding. Its visitor center and tram tours offer more insight into the area’s habitats, history and culture.
Where to stay
Gulf County has a wide array of lodging choices to fit any group’s needs. There are vacation rental homes of all sizes and inns and cottages, each with a character all its own. Camping, both primitive beach camping and full hook-up RV sites, is a popular way to enjoy this coastal area, as well.
Near Lagoon Pass: Turtle Beach Inn (140 Painted Pony Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-9366) This Green Certified Lodging property offers beachfront bed & breakfast and fully equipped cottages. Visitors enjoy shady porches and unspoiled beaches.
On Dead Lakes: Dead Lakes RV Campground (482 Gary Rowell Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-639-1008) This family and pet-friendly location has full-hook-up RV sites and a boat launch with access to Dead Lakes and the Apalachicola River, along with a boat dock, playground and access to two lakes perfect for youth fishing.