How Clear is the Water Along the Forgotten Coast of Florida?

By Carrie | Updated: May 14, 2025

This guide explains what affects water clarity along Florida's Forgotten Coast, from seasonal changes to river runoff. It highlights the best times and spots for finding the clearest water.

The area known as the Forgotten Coast is a relatively undeveloped stretch of coastline along the Florida panhandle, encompassing beachside communities such as Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach

I've never felt more off the grid than I did on the Forgotten Coast. With its empty stretches of beach and untouched dunes, it's easy to unplug and slip into full relaxation mode—no crowds, no chaos, just sun, sand, and serenity.

Truth be told: In general, the water isn't as crystal-clear as the beaches further west in Florida. This is because the geography of the area is so rich that several rivers empty into the nearby Gulf of Mexico, carrying sediment that makes the water more turbid.

Don't let this dampen your spirit! The beaches remain stunning, and some spots like Cape San Blas and the shoreline near Stump Hole are even famous for their clear, turquoise waters. 

In this blog, we will answer your questions about the seawater along the Forgotten Coast of Florida, including where to go and when to visit for optimal conditions.

Let's dive right in!

Contents

1. What is the water like along Florida's Forgotten Coast?

2. What factors influence the water's coloration?

• Weather conditions
• Sediment from Rivers
• Plankton Blooms
• Can water depth affect coloration?

3. How can I plan my holiday in the region to find the water clearer?

• Choose the right time of year
• Keep an eye on weather conditions
• Pick your location wisely
• Head offshore
• Be flexible

4. How does water clarity vary in the Forgotten Coast throughout the seasons?

• Spring, from March to May
• Summer, from June to August
• Fall, from September to November
• Winter, from December to February

5. Conclusion: What's the best season to visit the Forgotten Coast and find clear waters?

6. How Clear is the Water Along the Forgotten Coast of Florida

7. Where to stay when visiting Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach?

What is the water like along Florida's Forgotten Coast?

While the waters of the Forgotten Coast might not sparkle as brightly as those of the Emerald Coast, they're still a sight to behold. They usually boast a mesmerizing palette of blues and greens, ranging from deep emerald to dazzling turquoise. It's like stepping into a watercolor painting brought to life!

Most visitors often find the color of the water mesmerizing and captivating. The shifting shades of blue and green, especially on sunny days, create a picturesque backdrop against the white sandy beaches and lush coastal landscapes.

Sometimes, the water gets pretty clear and brilliant, adding to the allure of the region as a holiday destination.

What factors influence the water's coloration?

These tones result from a combination of factors, including the presence of minerals, sediment, and algae in the water. The Gulf of Mexico, which borders the Forgotten Coast, contributes to the region's distinct water coloration.

Let's understand these factors more in-depth:

Weather conditions

Weather conditions can significantly impact the coloration of seawater. During periods of calm weather with minimal rainfall, sediment and particles in the water settle, resulting in clearer water with vibrant blue or green hues. In contrast, heavy rainfall can lead to increased runoff from rivers and coastal areas, introducing sediment and organic matter into the water, causing it to appear murky or brownish in color.

Sediment from Rivers

Several rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico along the Forgotten Coast, including the Apalachicola River, the Ochlockonee River, and the Carrabelle River. These rivers carry sediment, like clay particles, sand, and organic matter, from upstream.

When this sediment reaches the ocean, it mixes with the saltwater and gets suspended in the water column, reducing water clarity.

Plankton Blooms

Plankton are microscopic organisms that drift in the water. Under certain conditions, like nutrient runoff from land or upwelling of colder, nutrient-rich water, plankton populations can explode in a process called a bloom. During a plankton bloom, the high concentration of these organisms can discolor the water and make it appear cloudy.

These two factors can vary and affect the water differently depending on location, season, and weather patterns. For instance, heavy rainfall can increase the amount of sediment carried by rivers, while calm weather can allow suspended particles to settle, improving clarity.

While the water may not always be perfectly clear due to those natural factors, you'll still appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the coastline.

Can water depth affect coloration?

Yes, shallower areas, especially near the coast, will have a greenish or brownish tint due to the influence of factors mentioned earlier (sediment, algae).

Generally, deeper water appears bluer because more sunlight can penetrate and be scattered by water molecules. This means that the further you go into the water, the clearer the water will be. What a fantastic excuse for a boat ride or a fishing escapade, right?

How can I plan my holiday in the region to find the water clearer?

As we mentioned, the clarity of the water depends heavily on weather conditions and thus also on seasonality, as well as geographical conditions. Here are some tips to plan your trip to the Forgotten Coast and find the water at its best conditions:

Choose the right time of year

Generally, water clarity is best in the Forgotten Coast during the spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November, the so-called shoulder seasons. During these times, there's less rain and calmer winds, leading to less sediment stirred up and better water clarity.

Keep an eye on weather conditions

Keep an eye on weather forecasts for the days leading up to your trip and during your stay. The ideal weather you'd be looking for is calm, with little to no rain. This maximizes water clarity. I once visited after a week of storms, and I was glad to see that the beach was still beautiful, but visibility was low, and snorkeling was off the table until the third day, when things finally calmed down.

Pick your location wisely

It's always a good idea to check out online reviews of different beaches mentioning water clarity around the time of your visit. In the regioin, Cape San Blas is known for having the clearest waters--generally calm, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. On one of our trips to Cape San Blas, the water was so clear I could see schools of tiny fish darting around my feet. Snorkeling near the rocks felt like being dropped into a postcard. It was calm, turquoise, and beautiful.

Here's some insight on the location:

• St. Joe Beach: The water at St. Joe Beach can be clear but not always as clear as the water at Cape San Blas.
  
  

• Mexico Beach: The water at Mexico Beach is mostly clear, but it can be occasionally stirred up by waves and currents.
  
  

• Indian Pass: The water at Indian Pass is known for being slightly on the more murky side than the water at other beaches in the area. This is because Indian Pass is located on a barrier island that separates the Gulf of Mexico from a bay.

At Pristine Properties, we have rentals in all these beaches, as well as in Port St. Joe, and you'll find a lovely stay just a few steps away from the shores. Take a look at our properties online and see what awaits you in this Florida Paradise.

Head offshore

If you're particularly interested in finding clear waters, consider booking a charter boat trip. The water tends to be deeper and clearer further offshore, away from the influence of rivers and coastal runoff. Besides, this is a great way to spend a day or afternoon on Florida's forgotten coast!

Be flexible

Remember, water clarity can change from day to day. If you find the water isn't as clear as you'd hoped at one beach, be willing to explore other locations or activities. The Forgotten Coast offers several outdoor adventures beyond just swimming at the beach. You can go kayaking in the bayous, hiking in the state parks, or exploring the charming coastal towns.

One day we skipped the beach and went kayaking through the St. Joseph Bay. We still got our water fix, just not the way we expected.

There's no end to the fun to be had — whether you're making a splash or just chilling on dry land!

How does water clarity vary in the Forgotten Coast throughout the seasons?

The Forgotten Coast offers a unique experience throughout the year, with each season bringing a different allure. Notably, one of the things that changes with the seasons is water clarity. Here's a breakdown:

Spring, from March to May

Spring (and fall) is generally considered the best time of the year for water clarity. Calm seas and less rain lead to minimal sediment stirred up, resulting in turquoise or emerald green-colored water. During this season, clarity levels are high and visibility can extend several feet underwater, making it perfect for snorkeling and spotting marine life. The combination of clear water and vibrant colors makes for an absolutely stunning coastline!

The good thing is that Spring is a popular time to visit, but this region is not overwhelmingly crowded compared to other Florida beaches.

Summer, from June to August

During summer, water clarity can be more variable. Heavy summer rains can increase river runoff, leading to cloudier water with a brownish tint. However, there can still be stretches of clear water, especially after calm periods.

In general, you can anticipate clarity levels to be moderate, with water clarity not ideal for all activities. However, the scenery remains beautiful, with lush greenery and vibrant sunsets. Despite this, summer is the peak season, with higher visitor numbers.

Fall, from September to November

Good news! You can expect turquoise or emerald hues to return during fall. Similar to spring, fall brings calmer seas and less rain, resulting in improved water clarity.

Clarity levels are high, approaching spring levels, making it great for underwater activities. Fall offers a picturesque backdrop, cooler temperatures, and vibrant foliage.

And you also get a more calm setting: visitor numbers start to decrease, making it a good option for those seeking a less crowded experience.

Winter, from December to February

During winter, like summer, water clarity can be variable. Colder temperatures can sometimes cause plankton blooms, leading to a greenish or brownish tint. However, calm weather can still bring periods of clear water.

It's safe to bet on clarity levels from low to moderate. Still, Florida's Forgotten Coast never disappoints. The winter landscape has its own charm, with fewer crowds and opportunities for spotting migrating birds.

Also, the region sees the fewest visitors during winter, so you'll have your place in the sand.

Conclusion: What's the best season to visit the Forgotten Coast and find clear waters?

Spring and fall are the winners and offer the best water clarity along the Forgotten Coast. Therefore, if crystal-clear water is your top concern, aim for spring or fall.

Still, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, winter might be a good option, and if you want the buzz and hot weather, summer it is. Regardless of the season, the Forgotten Coast offers a unique and unspoiled coastal experience.

How Clear is the Water Along the Forgotten Coast of Florida

The water along the Forgotten Coast of Florida can certainly be clear at times of the year, perhaps even rivaling the neighbors to the west.

But in reality, the beaches of this region are pretty all year round. Sometimes it's not just about water clarity but also about the wonderful beach vibes that a location exudes. In all aspects, the Forgotten Coast of Florida is a winning bet!

Even when the water wasn't perfectly clear, the slower pace and quiet mornings made it one of our favorite Florida trips. Watching the sun rise over the dunes with a cup of coffee made everything else feel secondary.

Looking for more tips on Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach? Check out our local destination blog. We've covered everything from the best places for a night out to where to take your furry friends and where to grab the best cup of coffee in town. There's always more on the way, so keep your eyes peeled for new blogs!

Where to stay when visiting Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach?

Stay like a local by booking a vacation rental with Pristine Properties. We are proud to offer a selection of Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals, Port St. Joe Vacation Rentals, and Mexico Beach Florida Vacation Rentals.

Our properties are well-located, just steps away from beautiful beaches, great dining options, and an array of outdoor pursuits. That's the secret to a perfect holiday on the Florida Gulf Coast!