Sightseeing at Cape San Blas

Cape San Blas is known for its uncrowded beaches, natural beauty, and rich coastal history. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, there are plenty of scenic spots worth exploring. From historic landmarks and state parks to peaceful overlooks and wildlife viewing areas, sightseeing on the Forgotten Coast offers something for every visitor.

Bring your camera, take your time, and enjoy the slower pace that makes Cape San Blas so special.

Cape San Blas Lighthouse

Although the original lighthouse no longer stands on Cape San Blas, the Cape San Blas Lighthouse remains one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks. Originally built in 1885, the lighthouse was relocated to George Core Park in Port St. Joe to protect it from coastal erosion. Today, visitors can tour the lighthouse, learn about its fascinating history, and enjoy panoramic views from the top during operating hours.

Highlights include:

  • Historic lighthouse built in 1885
  • Museum and keeper’s quarters
  • Observation deck with panoramic views
  • Gift shop
  • Family-friendly attraction

Photo Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds or in the late afternoon for beautiful lighting.

T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

One of Florida’s most beautiful state parks, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park sits at the northern end of Cape San Blas. The park features miles of undeveloped beaches, scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and excellent shelling.

Popular activities include:

  • Swimming
  • Hiking
  • Birdwatching
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Beachcombing
  • Picnicking
  • Wildlife photography

The park’s untouched dunes and coastal forests make it one of the best places on the Forgotten Coast to experience Florida’s natural beauty.

Best time to visit: Early morning for wildlife sightings or sunset for incredible Gulf views.

Stump Hole

Stump Hole is one of Cape San Blas’s most photographed natural attractions. Located near the northern section of the Cape, this unique stretch of beach is known for weathered tree stumps, driftwood, shells, and the remains of old coastal vegetation that have been uncovered by years of erosion.

Visitors enjoy:

  • Beach walks
  • Shell collecting
  • Driftwood photography
  • Sunrise and sunset views
  • Nature exploration

You’ll also notice the old concrete foundation marking where the Cape San Blas Lighthouse once stood before it was relocated, adding another layer of history to your visit. Low tide is the best time to explore the area safely.

Photo Tip: Sunrise offers soft light and fewer visitors, while sunset creates dramatic silhouettes against the Gulf.

Loggerhead Run Bike Path

For visitors who enjoy sightseeing at a slower pace, the Loggerhead Run Bike Path stretches approximately eight miles along Cape San Blas Road. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or biking, the paved path offers beautiful views of St. Joseph Bay, coastal vegetation, and local wildlife.

Along the way you may spot:

  • Osprey
  • Bald eagles
  • Shorebirds
  • Butterflies
  • Native wildflowers

It’s a great way to experience the Cape while stopping for photos at beaches, parks, and scenic overlooks.

Salinas Park

Located at the southern entrance to Cape San Blas, Salinas Park offers one of the area’s most scenic bayfront settings. The park features an elevated boardwalk, kayak launch, picnic areas, playgrounds, and beautiful views of St. Joseph Bay.

Popular activities include:

The boardwalk provides excellent opportunities to photograph native plants and coastal wildlife while enjoying peaceful bay views.

Scenic Drives Along Cape San Blas

One of the simplest ways to enjoy the beauty of the Forgotten Coast is by taking a leisurely drive along Cape San Blas Road.

Along the drive you’ll pass:

  • Gulf-front beaches
  • St. Joseph Bay
  • Sand dunes
  • Native pine forests
  • Vacation homes
  • Beach access points
  • Scenic overlooks

Plan extra time to stop at public beach accesses for photos or simply enjoy the changing scenery as you travel from one end of the Cape to the other.

Wildlife & Nature Viewing

Cape San Blas is home to an incredible variety of wildlife throughout the year.

Keep an eye out for:

  • Dolphins swimming offshore
  • Sea turtles (nesting season)
  • Osprey
  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons
  • Pelicans
  • White ibis
  • Ghost crabs
  • Deer
  • Shorebirds

Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never disturb nesting sea turtles or shorebirds.

Self-Guided Sightseeing Tour

If you’re looking for a relaxing day exploring Cape San Blas, consider this itinerary:

  1. Start with sunrise at Stump Hole.
  2. Explore St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
  3. Bike or walk part of the Loggerhead Run Bike Path.
  4. Stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants.
  5. Visit Salinas Park in the afternoon.
  6. End the day watching sunset over the Gulf.

This route lets you experience many of the Cape’s most iconic sights in a single day.

Best Times for Photos

Cape San Blas is beautiful all day, but photographers especially love:

  • Sunrise: Stump Hole, St. Joseph Bay, and Salinas Park.
  • Golden Hour: Beaches along the Gulf side.
  • Sunset: Gulf beaches and St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
  • Night: The Cape’s low light pollution makes it an excellent place for stargazing and astrophotography.
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