Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals Give You Access
St. Joseph Bay is an outstanding place for new or experienced boaters alike since the waters are so calm! You may see a stingray, horseshoe crab, blue crab, starfish, redfish, mullet, live shells, or schools of baitfish.
In the deeper channels around Black’s Island, you frequently see the bottle-nosed dolphin or sea turtles. If you are bringing your own boat – St. Joseph Peninsula State Park has a boat ramp and it’s right outside the gates to Barrier Dunes! There is overflow boat parking in Barrier Dunes.
BOAT, CANOE & KAYAK LAUNCH POINTS
Whether you’re launching a kayak for a peaceful paddle through St. Joseph Bay or heading offshore for a day of fishing, there are several convenient access points throughout the Cape San Blas area.
Popular Launch Locations
- Kayak and paddleboard access
- Calm bay waters ideal for beginners
- Convenient parking and restrooms
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
- Access to both St. Joseph Bay and Gulf beaches
- Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
- Ideal for paddling, fishing, and exploring
Frank Pate Park (Port St. Joe)
- Public boat ramp
- Easy access to St. Joseph Bay
- Popular launch point for fishing and boating excursions
- Convenient access to nearby islands and fishing areas
- Great starting point for exploring the Forgotten Coast
Be sure to check local conditions, tides, and weather before launching.
NEED A BOAT RENTAL?
Pontoon Boats:
Scallop Cove TOO on Cape San Blas in the State Park, right outside the gates to Barrier Dunes.
Happy Ours Kayak & Canoe Outpost 775 Cape San Blas Road (678-442-8810) is located directly on St. Joseph Bay (AKA Cape San Blas) & offers guided & unguided trips, & kayak sales.
Scallop Cove On Cape San Blas. They have many items available to rent and they will deliver. Scallop Cove II location IN St. Joseph Peninsula State Park if you want to take a boat or SUP out in the bay!
Easy Bay Pontoon Rentals with Captain Clint: 850-247-3828
Bayou Boat Rentals (pontoon boats): 850-441-9343
About Fun Charters Snorkeling, sunset cruises, ecotours, photography & fishing trips with Captain Charlene
Daly’s Watersports 317 Monument Ave. Port St. Joe Rent kayaks, bodyboards or stand-up paddleboards.
SUGGESTED WATER ADVENTURES
Explore St. Joseph Bay
St. Joseph Bay is known for its calm waters, seagrass beds, and incredible wildlife. A half-day paddle is perfect for families and beginners looking to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Highlights include:
- Crystal-clear water
- Seagrass meadows
- Excellent birdwatching
- Frequent dolphin sightings
Paddle the Cape at Sunrise
Early mornings offer some of the calmest conditions on the water. Launch from the bay side and enjoy a peaceful paddle while watching the sun rise over St. Joseph Bay.
Spend the Day Fishing
Anglers can explore productive fishing areas throughout the bay and nearby Gulf waters. Redfish, trout, flounder, and other species are commonly found throughout the region.
WILDLIFE YOU MAY SEE ON THE WATER
One of the best parts of boating, canoeing, or kayaking near Cape San Blas is the opportunity to experience Florida’s natural beauty up close.
Keep an eye out for:
- Dolphins
- Manatees (seasonally)
- Sea turtles
- Stingrays
- Ospreys
- Bald eagles
- Herons and egrets
- Pelicans
Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never attempt to feed or approach animals.
WATER SAFETY TIPS
A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Before heading out:
- Always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
- Check weather and wind forecasts.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Carry a waterproof phone case or communication device.
- Be mindful of tides and changing conditions.
- Let someone know your planned route and return time.
For boaters, be sure to review Florida boating regulations and observe all posted speed zones and wildlife protection areas.
