A recent study by HomeToGo, based on factors like warm weather, local charm, visitor satisfaction, hidden gem status, and accommodation costs, named St. Joe Beach the No. 1 among a ranking of 100 beaches for a seaside break.
If you’re looking for what the vacation rental company referred to as the “ultimate beach destination for 2026,” you can’t go wrong with St. Joe. Located on the Forgotten Coast, it has a tranquil “Old Florida” feel with an uncrowded atmosphere ideal for relaxation. You’ll enjoy plenty of space on the unspoiled, soft, white sand lapped by calm, brilliant blue waters.
What to Do
There are plenty of rentals for your beach day, whether you’re looking to relax, get active, or enjoy a bit of both, including cabanas, beach chairs, and kayaks. Beachcombing is a popular activity with seashells like fighting conchs, calico scallops, scotch bonnets, turkey wings, and a variety of urchins. Of course, many come to enjoy fun on and in the water, including swimming, snorkeling, paddling, boating, and fishing. Don’t miss the epic view that can be had by climbing the spiraling stairs of the Cape San Blas Lighthouse.
Unlike most of the beaches on the Florida Panhandle, which generally face south, St. Joe Beach faces west, set along an inward curve of St. Joseph Bay. That means you can look forward to a grand finale at the conclusion of your day: a stunning, unobstructed sunset over the water.
In between time at the beach, you can learn about sea turtles at The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center and simply wander the charming walkable downtown area. Check out work by local artists at The Joe Center for the Arts, browse the enticing shops, and enjoy a bite in cozy eateries. There’s a good mix of locally-owned restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood and artisan pizza to Southern-style BBQ.
Insider tip: Oysters have long been part of the Gulf Coast culture, including right here in Port St. Joe. They can be found raw, grilled, or baked at multiple dining venues—a must-try for any oyster fan.
How to Find It
Roughly an hour’s drive from Panama City, St. Joe Beach is east of Mexico Beach and just minutes west of downtown Port St. Joe. With clearly marked public access points, it’s easy to reach.
When to Go
Summer is peak visitor time, bringing beautiful beach days, but it can get quite hot with temperatures soaring and humidity high. Many feel spring and fall are best with pleasantly warm weather, fewer crowds, more affordable accommodation, and some fun festivals.
Worth planning a visit around is the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival hosted on May 24 in 2026, featuring live music, food, and education on sea turtle conservation. Or, enjoy The Blast on the Bay Songwriters’ Festival, an annual event bringing 40 songwriters and musicians from Nashville, held over four days from October 15th through the 18th this year.
