Top Things to Do in Carrabelle, Florida

Top Things to Do in Carrabelle, Florida

Planning a trip to Florida’s Forgotten Coast? You’ll quickly discover there are plenty of things to do in Carrabelle, Florida beyond the water. This quiet Gulf town is known for natural beauty, welcoming locals, and easygoing coastal charm. Many guests who book with Captain Harvey Fishing Charters make a full vacation out of their visit, exploring beaches, parks, history, and local seafood before or after their day on the water.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or looking for Carrabelle family activities, the area offers a relaxed pace that feels far from crowded tourist cities. Here are some of the best Carrabelle attractions you shouldn’t miss.

Carrabelle Beach & Dog Island Views

Carrabelle Beach is often the first stop for visitors because it’s clean, quiet, and incredibly easy to access. The shoreline slopes gently, making it one of the most family-friendly beaches along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Parents appreciate the shallow water, and kids love collecting shells along the sandbars during low tide.

Across the water you’ll see Dog Island, a protected barrier island known for wildlife and untouched dunes. Even if you don’t take a ferry, the view alone is worth it—sunrise and sunset here are local favorites. It’s a perfect place to relax the day before your trip with Captain Harvey Fishing Charters, helping you settle into the slower pace of Carrabelle, Florida.

Crooked River Lighthouse

One of the most recognizable Carrabelle attractions is the Crooked River Lighthouse. You can climb the tower for panoramic views of St. George Sound, the river, and surrounding marshlands. The stairs are manageable, and the reward at the top is one of the best photo opportunities in town.

After your climb, step inside the Keeper’s House Museum to learn about maritime history and how the lighthouse guided vessels along this stretch of the Forgotten Coast. Families enjoy the educational displays and scavenger hunts for kids, making it one of the top things to do in Carrabelle for visitors of all ages.

Tate’s Hell State Forest Adventures

For outdoor lovers, Tate’s Hell State Forest is a must-see. The forest covers over 200,000 acres and offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and paddling routes through cypress swamps and pine flatwoods. It’s one of the most unique ecosystems in Florida and surprisingly uncrowded.

Bring binoculars—you might spot deer, wild turkeys, or even bald eagles. The peaceful environment makes it a great balance to your time on the coast. Visitors often explore the forest the day after their charter, combining nature and Gulf experiences into a complete Carrabelle vacation.

Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum

History buffs will appreciate the Camp Gordon Johnston Museum. During World War II, thousands of soldiers trained here for amphibious landings before heading overseas. The museum preserves that story through photographs, uniforms, and military equipment.

It’s free to visit and run by passionate volunteers who enjoy sharing local stories. For families, it offers both education and a break from the sun. Among Carrabelle family activities, this is one of the most meaningful and memorable stops in town.

St. George Island Day Trip

Just a short drive away, St. George Island State Park offers miles of protected shoreline, bike paths, and picnic areas. The water is clear, the beaches are wide, and crowds are minimal compared to larger Florida destinations.

Visitors often plan a beach day here before or after their trip with Captain Harvey Fishing Charters. It’s a perfect way to experience another side of the Forgotten Coast while still staying close to Carrabelle, Florida.

Carrabelle may be small, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Between beaches, parks, and historic sites, visitors quickly fall in love with the town’s simplicity. While you’re planning your itinerary, don’t forget to reserve time on the water—Captain Harvey Fishing Charters in Carrabelle, Florida helps turn a nice coastal getaway into a vacation you’ll be talking about long after you leave the Forgotten Coast.