Opening an island paradise to development, a causeway was built to St. George Island in 1965, giving up a land covered in slash pine forests, oak hammocks, vast dunes, salt marshes and secluded coves. Seeing limited exploration during the early 1900s, gum tappers and lighthouse contractors came and went. The beaches saw more action during World War II when troops trained among the island's sweeping dunes. Today the island is lined with beach-front homes and vacation get-aways. Shops, marinas and docks line the bay side, and the main island road remains busy with tourists and beach-goers. For those who want to quietly enjoy the surf and sunshine, nine miles of undeveloped beach and dunes remain in pristine condition at St. George Island State Park.
   Making the list of top beaches and scoring high in ranks among Florida state parks, the park beaches may be a be a great cure for beach-starved northerners. In 1980 the park facilities were opened, providing boat ramps, camping and picnicking sites. This barrier island, encircled by waters of the Gulf and Apalachicola Bay, is the perfect place for fishing, clamming, birding or kayaking. Another soothing option may include sitting back and enjoying the longest beachfront of any Florida state park. The park has managed to maintain its Old Florida look, as a large portion of its beaches and dunes remain undeveloped.
   Newcomers to the island can't miss the sight of a freshly rebuilt St. George Island Lighthouse as they descend the causeway bridge. Surrounded by a beachside park, the lighthouse is one of the popular stops on the island. Located on Florida's Forgotten Coast, many guests on the lighthouse tour discover an interesting part of Florida's history.

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