Alligator Point, Florida, The Best Hidden Beach Town to Visit in 2023

Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by Dr. Shannon Barrett

Welcome to Alligator Point, Florida – a hidden gem nestled along the Gulf of Mexico that boasts eight miles of pristine coastline, world-class fishing, and abundant wildlife.

You’ve come to the perfect place as a traveler seeking unspoiled beaches and unforgettable experiences.

In this article, we’ll uncover the unique charm and allure that makes Alligator Point an ideal destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Key Takeaways

• Alligator Point, Florida, is a hidden gem nestled along the Gulf of Mexico with eight miles of pristine coastline, world-class fishing, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Visitors can access this secluded destination by taking US Highway 98, followed by County Road 370, or flying into Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
• Alligator Point offers pet-friendly beaches, endless outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing at Bald Point State Park; nature trails at St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, and the possibility to view rare species like fulvous whistling ducks for bird watchers.

Discovering Alligator Point, Florida

Located in Franklin County, Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico, Alligator Point is an unincorporated community known for its pristine beaches and world-class fishing opportunities.

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Where is Alligator Point Located?

Alligator Point is located between the Gulf of Mexico and Alligator Harbor. It is a hidden gem in Franklin County, Florida.

This coastal paradise stretches along an eight-mile-long narrow beach peninsula, offering stunning white sand beaches and calm waters to enjoy during your getaway.

The lush green landscape is dotted with beautiful flora that blends seamlessly with the picturesque views of the gulf on one side and the calm harbor on the other.

As you stroll along the coastline or participate in water activities, you’ll immerse yourself in nature’s splendor at every turn.

How do you get to Alligator Point?

To get to Alligator Point, follow these directions:

• To access Alligator Point, take US Highway 98 and County Road 370 to delve into this picturesque coastal community.
• If traveling by air, the closest airports are Tallahassee International Airport (TLH), which is approximately 45 miles north, or Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), about 104 miles west of Alligator Point.
• A rental car will likely be necessary for your visit as public transportation options are limited in the area.
• Be prepared for a leisurely drive through scenic landscapes as you approach this unspoiled and sparsely populated region of Florida.
• Watch your speed as you drive along these quiet roads, as the speed limit changes quickly in certain areas.

Remember that patience is essential when navigating rural roads, but the reward awaiting at Alligator Point is more than worth it – pristine beaches, fabulous fishing opportunities, and an unforgettable vacation experience.

Coastal Charm

As you stroll along the pristine beaches of Alligator Point, you’ll quickly discover what makes this coastal community so charming and unique.

The perfect blend of old Florida charm and natural beauty seems everywhere, from the quaint marina at Alligator Harbor to the sea oat-covered dunes surrounding its peaceful shoreline.

We have been lucky enough to live here for a month, and it has been peaceful and beautiful.

We can walk to the beach every day. It’s a quick ride to the marina, which serves drinks on the weekends.

The neighbors are so very friendly.

You won’t find hotels or restaurants here.

This is a quiet island meant for beach and wildlife lovers. Paradise found.

In addition to stunning white sand beaches and freshwater rivers, Alligator Point also boasts an array of wildlife, including numerous regional birds such as egrets and ospreys soaring above in search of their next meal.

History And Development

Alligator Point, Florida, is a small beach community with an interesting history.

Formerly known as Shearman’s or Alligator Harbor, the town was renamed in 1966 to attract potential real estate investors.

However, due to the limited development and isolation of the area, growth remained minimal.

The lack of commercial development has helped preserve the natural coastal charm that draws visitors to Alligator Point.

The residents have worked hard over the years to maintain their unique culture and way of life while attracting tourists through ecotourism efforts such as wildlife spotting tours and guided fishing trips.

What is the best time to visit Alligator Point?

The best time to visit Alligator Point depends upon individual preferences- some may prefer warmer weather while others might enjoy cooler temperatures.

Generally speaking, the Fall season (September-November) is considered ideal due to comfortable weather conditions without peak crowds summers bring.

Winter months from December through February also provide visitors with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Remember that hurricane season in Florida is from June 1st through November 30th.

In my opinion, June is an ideal time to visit. We have had lovely warm weather, and the ocean temperature is great for swimming.

What is there to do in Alligator Point?

There are a few things to do in Alligator Point but the best part is the beach. It is pristine and pet-friendly.

Pristine Beaches

The beach has snow-white sand and no crowds. It is unlike any other in Florida.

As soon as you step onto the beach, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to paradise.

You can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more.

In addition to lounging on the sand or playing in the water, visitors can explore Chaires Creek in Bald Point State Park and enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or windsurfing.

Wildlife viewing opportunities are also abundant in this coastal community, with bird watchers often flocking to the area to spot regional and migrating birds.

Is the Beach Pet Friendly?

As a veterinarian, I was thrilled to discover that Alligator Point’s Beach is pet-friendly.

Since we are digital nomads that travel with our dog, we loved being able to take him to the beach every day.

Strolling along the soft sand and listening to the murmur of the waves with Griffin by my side is an unforgettable experience.

Pets are welcome on several beaches along the Forgotten Coast.

Not only can your pets enjoy swimming and playing fetch on the beach, but you can also explore nature trails together or go kayaking.

Related Content: If you like quiet beaches, consider visiting Charleston, SC where there are several dog-friendly beaches.

What is the beach like at Alligator Point?

The beaches in Alligator Point are beautiful, perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, or just basking in the sun.

The sand is white and powdery.

The water is not clear like on other beaches along the forgotten coast.

Since there is runoff from the Intracoastal, the water can take on the color of the intracoastal, especially after heavy rainfall.

There is a good amount of seaweed on the shoreline; otherwise, the beach is clean and free of man-made trash.

The ocean floor is sandy and soft. The beaches are not crowded, and dogs are allowed on them at all times as long as they are on a leash.

Is there good fishing and Wildlife viewing at Alligator Point?

Yes, one of Alligator Point, Florida’s other main attractions is the incredible wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities.

Here are some of the best ways to experience the natural wonders of this coastal paradise:

• Fishing is a popular pastime for locals and visitors, with ample opportunities for freshwater and saltwater fishing. Try your luck from one of the two boat ramps at Bald Point State Park, or rent a kayak and explore the pristine waterways independently.
• The region’s estuaries are teeming with life, from crabs and shrimp to schools of fish. Cast a line at Alligator Point Beach or hire a charter boat to take you out into deeper waters.
• If you’re lucky, you may spot some fascinating creatures in their natural habitats while exploring Alligator Point. Watch for black bears, white-tailed deer, and even alligators in certain areas!
• For those interested in clam harvesting, Franklin County is renowned for its delicious clams – make sure you have a valid license before heading out.

With so many different ecosystems to explore, nature lovers will find no shortage of things to see and do in Alligator Point.

Bald Point State Park

Bald Point State Park, located on Alligator Point, where Ochlockonee Bay meets Apalachee Bay, is a natural wonderland with endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

This pristine park covers 4,065 acres and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

With 1 canoe/kayak launch and 2 beach’s along the Apalachee Bay, Bald Point State Park is an ideal location for fishing and swimming.

Please note that pets are not allowed on the beaches in Bald Point State Park.

Visitors can also participate in kayaking or oyster harvesting in its community’s protected bay and picnic pavilions while enjoying stunning views along the water’s edge.

Ecotourism And Local Attractions

If you’re an eco-tourist, Alligator Point, Florida, is your perfect destination.

Here are some of the local attractions that will make your stay unforgettable:

• St. Marks Wildlife Refuge: This nationally renowned refuge is a bi-annual stopover for many migrating birds heading south to the Gulf of Mexico. It is a short drive from Alligator Point and is located in Wakulla County, Florida. You can also find hiking trails to explore the area’s diverse habitats here.
• Paddle-boarding: The water around Alligator Point is perfect for paddleboarding. The waters are calm in the bay and often calm enough in the ocean for a daily paddle.
• If you are looking for local events in the area, you can check out the local tourism board to stay up to date on upcoming events.
• Ochlockonee Bay: This public bay is a great choice if you’re interested in wildlife and relaxing at the beach. Located in Wakulla County, there is a fishing pier, public boat ramps, and a beach along the bay. There are sandbars to explore and local wildlife, including dolphins.

With so much to see and do in this area, Alligator Point should be at the top of your list if you’re a nature lover looking for an unforgettable vacation.

If you want to read about more of favorite destinations such as San Francisco, check out travel guides.

Where to stay in Alligator Point

For those planning to visit Alligator Point, there are plenty of options for accommodations as long as you like vacation rentals.

There are no hotels or inns on Alligator Point. Your only option is to rent a house through a local vacation rental company or use VRBO or Airbnb.

VRBO (Vacation Rental by Owner)

We prefer to rent vacation homes and often use VRBO.

Here are a few that we are considering for our next stay on Alligator point. They are all pet friendly and have great ratings.

Local Vacation Rental Companies

Consider checking out some of Alligator Point’s local vacation rental companies for your stay. Here are a few to consider:

1. Harbor Point Vacation Rentals – One great option is Harbor Point Vacation Rentals, which offers a wide selection of beachfront properties with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. They also have pet-friendly rentals so that even your furry friend can join in on all the fun!
2. Ochlockonee Bay Realty – This company offers a variety of gulf-front beach homes and bayfront vacation rentals for you to choose from.
3. Alligator Point Homes– Specializing in beachfront properties, this company has several options for those looking for an unforgettable vacation on the water’s edge.

Where to Eat on Alligator Point

There is only 1 place to eat on Alligator Point, the Tiki Hut at the Marina.

Alligator Point Tiki Hut

This small but adorable Tiki Hut is attached to the marina. The staff is friendly, and the view is great.

It is only open on weekends, so be prepared to cook while you are there.

You can also visit nearby towns along The Forgotten Coast for dining options.

If you search for restaurants in Alligator Point, you will notice that many of them are listed in Panacea, Florida, next to but not in Alligator Point.

Marina At Alligator Point

The Marina at Alligator Point is a great place to access the water and enjoy this beautiful area.

It is the best place to catch a sunset on the pennisula.

You can catch charter boats for fishing excursions from the Marina.

There is also a small marina store to purchase ice and snacks.

Where to Buy Groceries

The best place to buy groceries is in Crawfordville, Florida.

While we were living in Alligator Point, we cooked almost every day.

There are a few small stores locally where you can get essentials such as bread and milk, but the closest grocery stores are in Crawfordville, Florida.

You’ll want to visit these for weekly grocery shopping.

There are 2 main grocery stores in Crawfordville:

1. Publix Super Market is approximately 25 miles away
2. Walmart Supercenter is approximately 26 miles away

There are also several Dollar Generals located between Alligator Point and Crawfordville.

They are good for quick grabs like snacks and drinks. The Dollar General in Florida carries food and drinks.

There are also a few fresh seafood markets where you can purchase fresh seafood.

Our favorite was Mineral Springs Seafood by the Bay, located on the border between Panacea and Crawfordville, Florida.

They are known for their seafood dips and smoke their own fish several times a week.

We purchased some of the freshest tuna we have eaten since leaving California. It has been delicious!

We have loved our time here and will definitely come back. Finding a place where you can walk to the beach, and bird watch from your own porch is rare.

If this sounds like a great way to unwind, I invite you to visit Alligator Point.

It takes some work to get here, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Dr. Shannon Barrett

Veterinarian/Travel Writer/Digital Nomad

Dr. Shannon Barrett is a veterinarian and digital nomad. She owned a housecall practice, Island Veterinary Care, for over a decade and now travels full time. She lives in different beach towns and then writes travel guides based on her time there. If you’re looking for resources on travel destinations or how to become a digital nomad, then you’ve come to the right place! Love to bring your pets with you? Even better!

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