Port St. Joe, Florida ~ The Small Town With A Big Heart

“Small Town, Big Aspirations” that’s the local’s mantra in Port St. Joe. A small town tucked away between Apalachicola and Panama City, Port St. Joe is bursting at the seams with history, natural beauty, southern hospitality, outdoor adventure and local flair. As most will tell you, it’s the people who make this place special! 

 Sure there is the bountiful St. Joseph Bay, the bustling Port St. Joe Marina and the thriving historic downtown that are all unique to this area, but the smiles on the faces of those, one may encounter through their travels make this a one-of-a-kind destination. 

 The town of Port St. Joe has had a rocky road throughout history. St. Joseph was founded in 1835 and then in 1838 the Constitution of the State of Florida was signed in Port St Joe Florida then became a state seven years later. All but abandoned in 1841 after a yellow fever epidemic, more troubles came again when the town was destroyed twice more by hurricanes. The roller coaster of highs in lows continued as Port St. Joe made a name for itself as a booming port and industrial town. Later in history, the success of the thriving community declined to transform this industrial town into what it is today, a tourist destination filled with visitors searching for a restful respite. 

 Today Port St Joe Florida has become a hot spot for vacationers seeking enjoyment in the great outdoors and taking part in small town living. St. Joseph Bay, home to an abundance of sea life, is a great place to start. You can take pleasure and enjoy this pristine body of water by boat, kayak, paddle board or simply by wading out in the shallow areas. Don’t miss scallop season, that’s a family favorite. The Port City Trail is also a great way to explore the town either by foot or bike. There are several open air parks sprinkled throughout the town that with playgrounds and picnic areas. 

 And don’t forget about Port St. Joe Marina, the hub of everything marine life. You can rent snorkels, boats, etc and be taken out on fishing charters, dolphin cruises or sunset cruises. Take a stroll down Reid Avenue through Historic Downtown Port St. Joe to find unique gifts in one of the locally owned shops or create your own sculpture at The Artery or excite your taste buds with the local cuisine. By land or by sea, there are great ways to explore Port St. Joe, Florida. 

 If you are planning your next trip to Port St. Joe and need some assistance, please contact us today for help finding the perfect Florida Gulf Coast vacation rental!