Florida is one of the most popular tourist destinations for millions worldwide. Many flock to the heat of Miami, the theme parks of Orlando, or the gulf beaches of Tampa. There's one area of the state not to miss.
Franklin County, Florida is nicknamed the "Forgotten Coast". The Forgotten Coast is situated south-southwest of Tallahassee and southeast of Panama City, along the northern shore of the Gulf of Mexico. Compared to many of the other shores of Florida, this area doesn't have the hustle and bustle that comes with the more tourist-laden parts of the state. Drive along its main highway, US Route 98, and between the small cities of Carrabelle, Eastpoint, and Apalachicola, you'll see miles of undeveloped beaches, with fishing piers here and there built by the residents along the road.
While at the Forgotten Coast, head over to St. George Island. When you get to Eastpoint, take the long causeway over the Apalachicola Bay to get there. Along the trip, you'll see a fishing pier on either side, which were converted from an older iteration of the bridge connecting the island and the mainland via several man-made islands still in existence. To the east lies St. George Island State Park, which offers RV camping and day use to visitors. To the west and central parts of the island are a multitude of houses and condominiums, along with a free public access to a pristine beach along the gulf. Although the houses are built on stilts to guard against hurricanes and flooding, no high-rises exist, giving that small-city feel.
The Forgotten Coast is also partial home to two protected forest areas: Tate's Hell State Forest, and the Apalachicola National Forest. Both are protected wetland and woodland areas along the panhandle with plenty of wildlife and vegetation. Tate's Hell has an interesting legend to its name, when an 1800's local named Cebe Tate ventured into the forest, and became lost for several days. When he returned to a part of Carrabelle, his last words were believed to be: "My name is Cebe Tate, and I just came from Hell."
So the next time your internal compass leads you to the beaches of Florida, don't feel like you have to brave the tourist destinations. Head to the Forgotten Coast, and you may find a much more pleasant experience.
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