Locals know to hit the farmers market early for the freshest oysters. Grab a dozen from vendors like Lynn’s Quality Oysters before they sell out. It’s a Saturday ritual that sets the tone for a laid-back day.
The market, held twice monthly, draws folks to the Mill Pond Pavilion. You’ll find shrimp, blue crab, and tupelo honey alongside crafts and live music. This small town thrives on its seafood heritage and friendly faces.
Welcome to Apalachicola, Florida, a Gulf Coast gem with 2,300 residents. Known as the oyster capital, it’s a historic port town with a walkable downtown and a knack for making visitors feel at home. Think fresh seafood, old brick buildings, and a vibe that’s equal parts gritty and charming.
Explore the Historic District
Apalachicola’s downtown spans Market and Commerce Streets, with over 900 historic buildings from the 1830s. Browse boutiques like Grady Market or chat with Kirk Lynch at Apalachicola Chocolate Company about his handmade truffles. It’s all on foot, with free parking nearby.
Visit John Gorrie Museum
This small museum honors Dr. John Gorrie, who invented an ice machine in the 1830s. For $2, you get a 20-minute tour with artifacts and a replica of his device. It’s a quick stop on Avenue E, perfect for curious kids or history nerds.
Dine on Fresh Seafood
Seafood is king here. Try Up the Creek Raw Bar for $15 oyster platters or a grouper sandwich at Apalachicola Seafood Grill. Local servers like those at Owl Café share tips on the day’s freshest catch.
Paddle or Fish the Bay
Apalachicola Bay is a hotspot for kayaking and fishing. Rent a kayak for $30 a day or book a charter with Captain Jared at Apalach Anglers for redfish or trout. The bay’s calm waters suit all ages, but bring sunscreen.
Catch a Festival
The Independence Eve Celebration on July 3rd features free fireworks and music at Lafayette Park. The Apalachicola Farmers Market, every second and fourth Saturday, is a family-friendly staple. Check the town’s tourism site for event updates.
Apalachicola is budget-friendly, with cheap eats and free downtown parking. The closest airport is 80 miles away in Tallahassee, so a car is best. The town feels safe, but some shops close Mondays, so plan accordingly.
For more adventure, drive 20 minutes to St. George Island’s pristine beaches and lighthouse. Cape San Blas, 30 minutes away, offers stunning sunsets and hiking. Or visit Eastpoint’s Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, 10 minutes out, for nature trails and aquariums.
Apalachicola isn’t polished—it’s a working fishing town with weathered docks and a few empty storefronts. But folks like market vendors and charter captains give it soul. Ready for a taste of the Forgotten Coast? Check the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce site for details, and start at the farmers market: Mill Pond Pavilion, Market Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320.