Discover Apalachicola, Florida
If you’re in Apalachicola, you’re among friends. In fact, this small coastal city at the mouth of the Apalachicola River is actually named after an Indian word meaning “land of friendly people.” Here you’ll catch a glimpse into old Florida’s maritime history in its bustling seafood houses, weather-worn shrimp boats and stately brick buildings that once served as 19th century chandleries, net factories and warehouses. The town has managed to retain its rusty crusty charm and embrace a new hip persona in the form of upscale restaurants, eclectic boutiques, galleries and a growing number of music venues that tuck themselves into the brick and tin-roofed warehouses that dominate the downtown district.
Seafood is served everywhere and in every way – slurp a dozen overlooking the river or tuck into the town’s only microbrewery which serves award-winning brews.
The town is small and very walkable – there are several parks, guided nature trails and downloadable self-guided walking tours. Stroll the canopy-shaded sidewalks of Apalachicola’s distinguished Historic District replete with the regal homes of past sea captains, river pilots and sponge divers. Apalachicola's diverse and colorful past remains visible today as you stroll along the wide tree-lined streets where picturesque Victorian homes display the charm of years gone by. Once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico, Apalachicola echoes with memories of an era once filled with steamboats and schooners, railroads and lumber mills. There are more than 900 historic homes, buildings and sites in the city’s Historic District. Apalachicola is considered a “distinctive destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation based on its unique character, charm and dedication to historic preservation.
The town features meticulously restored hotels and B&Bs as well as luxury waterfront accommodations. Looking for a treasure to take home? Spend time browsing through the eclectic boutiques, galleries and restaurants that are tucked into nooks and crannies throughout the historic downtown commercial district.
Apalachicola’s history and maritime culture are matched by the area’s bountiful natural resources. The Apalachicola River and Apalachicola Bay provide great fishing opportunities for both fresh and salt water fishing buffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the endless bays and waterways by kayak, canoe, riverboat or sailboat while in Apalachicola.
You can’t swing a cat in town without finding some neat festival or event – there’s lots to celebrate here. Enjoy the town’s annual Oyster Cook-off in January, Art events in March and May and the granddaddy of them all, the Florida Seafood Festival in November. For a complete list of events, visit the events page.
RELAX & STAY AWHILE
From a downtown historic district condo to a waterfront hotel, Apalachicola offers a variety of places to stay.
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Coombs Inn & Suites
The Coombs Inn & Suites is a luxurious Inn consisting of three elegant Historic Victorian Mansions located in the heart of Apalachicola’s Historical District. Come discover why Travel and Leisure Magazine ranked us “One of the 30 Outstanding Small Inns in the United States.” Stay in one of our 23 luxurious guest suites furnished with European antiques, original oil paintings…
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The Consulate
The Consulate features four luxury vacation suites in Apalachicola’s Grady Building, which is located in the heart of the Historic Riverfront District. Rooms are decorated with antique prints, original art and vintage maps giving each suite its own unique personality. All suites have fully equipped modern kitchens, cable TV, VCRs, laundry facilities, and balconies.
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Gibson Inn
The Gibson Inn is a Victorian Inn listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. The Inn was carefully restored in 1985. With a tin roof and wrap around porches, many of the 30 guest rooms are uniquely appointed with authentic antique furnishings, cable TV, telephone, and wireless internet. Each guest room has its own full private bath. Banquet…
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Discover the Forgotten Coast's authentic, Old Florida charm at more than 100 annual events and festivals, that highlight our natural resources, culture and history. Click here to see all events
Carrabelle... Carrabelle
The Carrabelle Riverfront Festival is a two day festival to be held Friday, April 27 from 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m along the picturesque Carrabelle Harbor. This fabulous street festival features unusual and colorful arts & craft vendors, a Pet Parade, educational folk life and maritime exhibits…
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Forgotten Coast... Carrabelle
The Forgotten Coast Cruisers and the Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce invites you to their 5th Annual Car Show on Saturday, April 28, 2018, from 10 am to 4 pm. Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy fun fellowship with other car enthusiasts and owners. Help the judges by casting…
Learn MoreForgotten Coast en...
Documenting the landscape and culture of the last vestige of authentic “Old Florida,” Forgotten Coast en Plein Air, America’s Great Paint-out, is among the world’s most prestigious plein air events. Artistic excellence and the production of investment quality art continues to be the trademark of this 10-day festival.
Learn MoreUNFORGETTABLE
That's the word most used to describe Florida's Forgotten Coast.
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A Fun Birdseye Adventure!
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