The 2018 Monarch Butterfly Festival

visitwakulldev on October 15, 2018

The Monarch Butterfly Festival at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is one of the signature fall events in Wakulla County, and this year’s celebration will be held at the refuge on Saturday, October 27 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free for all ages, so start planning today!

Monarch butterflies make their way south

Every autumn, millions of monarch butterflies leave their summer homes in the north and travel southward in search of warmer winters. Due to its location on the Florida panhandle, Wakulla County is a hotspot for migrating monarch butterflies in the fall. Many of the monarch butterflies that spend the summer in the northeastern U.S. and Canada make their way along the coast and down to Mexico.

Every year, the beautiful St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge hosts a festival to commemorate the migration and encourage attendees to learn more about this special natural phenomenon.

Play, learn, and volunteer

The Monarch Butterfly Festival is always a treat for both kids and adults, and there are numerous opportunities to participate in activities, learn more about the monarchs and the refuge through educational displays, and enjoy special wildlife exhibitions. You also have a chance to contribute by volunteering to help tag the butterflies on Saturdays during the peak periods of the migration.

Celebrate one of nature’s most unique events

The Monarch Butterfly Festival is always one of the most exciting times of the year in Wakulla County, and it’s a sure sign that autumn has arrived in full. This festival is just one of the many amazing ways you can see nature in an entirely different way. Check out our accommodations page so you can plan to join us for the Monarch Butterfly Festival, and stay longer to discover the unique natural beauty of Wakulla County.

Cycling in Wakulla County – Connecting Florida’s Capital City to the Gulf Coast

visitwakulldev on September 26, 2018

How many areas give you the opportunity to cycle past astonishingly diverse scenery, all within a few miles of each other? Where else can you travel from white, sandy coastlines to ecologically intricate marshlands to dense, wooded forests to small, historical coastal towns? When you embark on a cycling adventure in Wakulla County, you can immerse yourself in all of these experiences and take in even more of the unique natural beauty of this region.

Over the past several years, many local organizations and governmental agencies have been working together to improve cycling access, trail heads and amenities throughout Wakulla County. As a result, over 30 miles of paved, off-road cycling paths have been introduced since 2012. The goal is to connect all of the towns, parks, areas of interest and cycling amenities in the County with each other via off-road paths, and link Wakulla County cycling trails to those in Leon, Franklin, and Jefferson counties.

The Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail (OBBT) was the first trail to be completed in Wakulla County as part of this initiative, and it runs through 12-miles of marshes, gulf beaches, and forests beginning at Mashes Sands and ending in the City of Sopchoppy. It’s a great starting point for cycling in Wakulla County, and gives you a chance to see the beautiful vistas from the Gulf of Mexico, the wildlife of the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the historic Sopchoppy train depot. Round trip is 24 miles.

The St. Marks Trail is another popular option for cyclists. It entails 16 miles of paved, off-road trail that begins in Leon County and meanders down to the St. Marks River in Wakulla County, which is a perfect location for resting, refreshments, wildlife watching and nature photography. Round trip is 32 miles.

The Capital City to Sea Loop (CC2S) is poised to revolutionize cycling in Wakulla County. Once it is completed it will stretch from Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, all the way to the Wakulla County Gulf Coast, giving Tallahassee cyclists unprecedented access to cycling trails throughout our area. The first segment in Wakulla County is complete with 12 miles of paved off-road trail. It begins at the St. Marks Trail intersection of Coastal Highway (US 98) and Woodville Highway (US 61) and ends in front of Wakulla High School and provides a glimpse at native flowers and wildlife, including a bridge spanning the Wakulla River. Along this segment you will find hotels, restaurants, shelter and refreshments. Round trip is 24 miles.

Following this, work will commence on a section of the CC2S that will take travelers through parts of the lush Apalachicola National Forest and the quaint waterfront town of Panacea, eventually connecting with the OBBT. When all is complete, cycling enthusiasts will be able to enjoy a safe and relaxing ride between Tallahassee and diverse areas of interest in Wakulla County while enjoying rest areas and amenities throughout the journey.

Cycling is one of the best ways to experience many of the natural delights of Wakulla County, and these trails and initiatives are made possible by funding and partnerships with the Florida Department of Transportation, Capital Region Transportation Planning Agency, and Department of Environmental Protection. They, along with the citizens of Wakulla and surrounding counties and local organizations, are working to make cycling in our region more accessible, safe, and rewarding for everyone.

This article was featured in the Autumn 2018 edition of the Messenger from the Florida Bicycle Association.

4 Things to do this Fall in Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on September 21, 2018

You probably know about all of the ways you can have fun in Florida underneath the summer sun, but in Wakulla County the arrival of fall brings a host of new opportunities for going outdoors and enjoying the season. Learn how you can have an eventful and restorative visit to Wakulla County during one of the most beautiful times of the year.

Embrace the sporting life with hunting and fishing excursions

The Florida panhandle and Wakulla County in particular feature some of the most beautiful hunting lands in the south. With the unique mix of waterways, marshlands, and forest, this area is home to numerous game species such as gray squirrels, alligators, white-tailed deer, turkeys, and a variety of waterfowl, many of which are in season throughout the autumn months.

It’s also a great time of year for fishing as well, as the water cools down and many of the inhabitants of the streams, lakes, rivers, and gulf come closer to the surface during the day. Just make sure you have secured any necessary hunting or fishing licenses before you embark.

Take advantage of the weather and enjoy hiking and biking

Summer in Wakulla County is beautiful, but there are some days where the heat and humidity can force you to limit your time outdoors. In the fall, however, the temperatures cool down just enough to make the middle of the day perfect to enjoy some of our many diverse hiking and biking trails. Check out some of the great areas for outdoor fun such as the Apalachicola National Forest, the Florida National Scenic Trail, and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, but remember to bring water and sunscreen, because it can still get quite warm!

Observe how the wildlife changes with the seasons

If the cooler weather inspires us to get outside more you can be sure it’s the same for much of the wildlife in the area too. Of course, they are always outside, but many species spend the summer months hidden under thick tree canopies or in other shady areas to avoid the worst of the heat. Fall is a superb time for wildlife watching at places like Wakulla Springs State Park and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, and during this season the area becomes home to many migratory birds and butterflies who are en route to warmer climates for winter.

Attend a fantastic fall community event

Wakulla County does community festivals and events right during every season, and fall is no exception. Whether you’re ready to mark the opening of the annual stone crab season at the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival, wander through the paths of the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and view the spectacular fall wildflowers, or celebrate the arrival of the monarch butterfly migration there is no shortage of great events where you can connect with wildlife and our vibrant communities.

Fall is definitely a season full of possibilities in Wakulla County, and we want you to explore more about what makes this such a special time of year. Start planning your Wakulla autumn getaway today and make the most of exciting opportunities and temperate weather!

Treat Yourself To A Wondrous Wakulla Family Vacation

visitwakulldev on July 20, 2018

Summertime: when the sun is high in the sky, the nights are long and warm, and the whole world seems full of possibilities. This holds true when you decide to spend your summer vacation exploring the beautiful landscapes of Wakulla County. Here are a few ways you can make the most of your summer trip to the area.

Take a refreshing dip in the waters of Wakulla Springs

Few things are more enticing on a hot summer day than a dip into some cooling water, and Wakulla Springs is the perfect place for you and your family to beat the summer heat. Grab a bite to eat in the lodge, photograph some wildlife, or check out one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world.

Explore the wonders of the deep at the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory

School may be out for the summer, but that doesn’t mean your kids shouldn’t get a little extra education during their break. The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea lets you get up-close-and-personal with some of the most exotic and beautiful sea creatures in the world. The kids will love it as well because it’s not just educational; it’s a fun, interactive experience that allows them to indulge their natural curiosity and even touch some marine animals.

Check out the diverse scenery on two wheels

There is possibly no better way to see all of the incredible breadths of wildlife and scenery in Wakulla County than on a bicycle on a beautiful day. Our region is a haven for cyclists of all skill levels, and you can choose to relax on a short, casual trail or attempt a more challenging ride. See the coastal marshlands on the Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail, meander through the wilderness of the Apalachicola National Forest, or follow the path of the Tallahassee to St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail. See the many different types of beauty of Wakulla, all from the seat of your bike!

Immerse yourself in the history of the region and the nation

As a home to so many different groups of people over the centuries—including Native American tribes, Spanish immigrants, Confederate militias, and more—it should come as no surprise that Wakulla County is teeming with history. Some of the historical points of note include Fort San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park and the stunning St. Marks Lighthouse.

However your family likes to unwind during the summer, you’ll find an adventure waiting for you in Wakulla County. Learn more about how you can book your trip today and start preparing for the family vacation of a lifetime.

It’s Time To Harvest Scallops in Wakulla County | 2018

visitwakulldev on July 10, 2018

The 2018 scalloping season in Wakulla County runs from July 1 – September 24, so now is the time to get prepared with everything you need to have a fantastic season!

What you need to know before you go scalloping

Recreational scalloping is a great opportunity for Wakulla County locals and visitors to spend some summer days on our beautiful waters and harvest delicious scallops to eat. It’s one of the most anticipated times of the year for seafood lovers all around, but there are some important rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure that everyone has a safe and successful scalloping season, and that scallops will be available for many years into the future.

First and foremost, every person scalloping must have a valid Florida saltwater fishing license on their person while they are harvesting, even if you aren’t on a boat. Check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website for more details on fishing licenses.

Also, please use only your hands or a dip net to harvest scallops, and abide by the bag limits:

  • 2 gallons whole bay scallops in shell, or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per person
  • Maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in shell, or 1/2 gallon bay scallop meat per vessel

How you can have a safe and fun time in the water

Harvesting bay scallops is perfect summer fun for the whole family, as long as you follow some important safety guidelines. A mask, snorkel, and fins will help you swim confidently in the water, and you are required to put a dive flag up on your boat when swimmers are in the water to alert nearby boaters.

Try to stay close to your boat: if an area doesn’t seem to have much activity, head back to your boat and find a new spot. Bring plenty of water and reapply sunscreen liberally, because the summer sun in Florida is no joke!

Tips for scalloping success

Most scallops will be found near the bottom of seagrass beds, especially where they meet the sand. Once you bring them back to the boat, keep your scallops on ice in a cooler until you get home. The internet is full of great recipe ideas for succulent, delicious bay scallops to suit your cooking skill level. Of course, you can’t go wrong with simply sautéing them in some butter and adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley!

You can view our accommodations options to start planning your scalloping excursion today, and see many of the other incredible ways you can spend your summer outdoors in Wakulla County.

Download the Scalloping Guide

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Enjoy A Longer Red Snapper Recreational Fishing Season in 2018

visitwakulldev on June 29, 2018

Every year, recreational anglers flock to the Florida gulf coast to test their luck at catching one of the most sought-after species of fish in the country: the red snapper. This year, the red snapper season will last for 40 days, instead of the original 24 that was proposed. This means that fishing enthusiasts have even more time to get out on the water and land some of these remarkable fish.

This year you can enjoy even more time to cast your line for red snapper

The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most important places in the world for red snapper fishing, and the waters near Wakulla County are a great place to get in on the action and snag some of these beautiful fish. This year, Governor Rick Scott, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, announced that the recreational red snapper fishing season would be extended to a full 40 days from 24 days, which was the original plan going into the season. This year, anglers can hit the water to catch red snapper beginning on June 11, and the season will end on July 21.

Red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico

Red Snapper is one of the most prized species of fish throughout the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico for commercial and recreational anglers alike. Diners love the fish because of its slightly sweet, mild, tender flesh and versatility in cooking. The fresher the red snapper you can get your hands on the better it is likely to be, so this extended season is the perfect chance to cook a snapper that is straight out of the gulf waters.

While red snapper population numbers plummeted in the 1990s because of overfishing, stricter regulations on catches have allowed them to rebound steadily. Recreational anglers in Florida are limited to two daily red snapper per person, and they must be at least 16 inches long in order to be kept.

Fishing in the waters of Wakulla County

Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and our many freshwater sources is one of the great pleasures of a visit to Wakulla County. We want you to have a safe and enjoyable red snapper season, so make sure that you always practice safe boating procedures, and remember that all anglers fishing in Florida waters must have a valid Florida fishing license on their person at all times while on the water.

Red snapper season is one of the most anticipated times of the year, but there are so many more fishing opportunities and outdoor adventures to experience in Wakulla County! Start planning your trip today, and spend part of your summer in our outdoor paradise.

Don Your Stars and Stripes For The Sopchoppy 4th of July Celebration

visitwakulldev on June 15, 2018

The anniversary of the founding of the United States is coming up soon, and the citizens of Wakulla County are ready to get patriotic at the annual Sopchoppy 4th of July Celebration! This exciting event kicks off on July 4th at 10:00AM with an all-American parade, and lasts until the sun goes down and the festive fireworks light up the sky.

Patriotism at its finest in the town of Sopchoppy

There’s just something about some small towns that make them really come alive for the 4th of July. Citizens and visitors alike are excited to celebrate what connects us as a country and spend the day outside in the warm weather with friends, family, and acquaintances. It’s no different in Sopchoppy, FL, which plays host to a fun-filled and family-friendly Independence Day celebration which has been going strong for 45 years.

The festival kicks off with the Bill Stephens 4th of July Americana Parade, named after the founder of the festival and a man known as “Mr. Sopchoppy” for his numerous civic contributions. The parade always features some wildly creative floats decked out in their best patriotic colors and designs, and they progress down Rose Street through the heart of downtown Sopchoppy.

Live entertainment, a fireworks show to remember, and much more

Once the parade winds down the fun is just getting started, because you still have a full day and evening of exciting entertainment and activities that showcase the culture of this great country and Wakulla County. After the parade the action heads to Myron B. Hodge City Park, which will be decorated in red, white, and blue and offers beautiful views of the Sopchoppy River. There will be plenty of local vendors on hand with American-themed wares and local memorabilia, and several different live musical acts will be celebrating the USA through its music all day long.

The celebration winds down with a massive fireworks display sponsored by the City of Sopchoppy. Gather round with your loved ones and watch as these incredible fireworks light up the night sky over Florida and remind us how special the founding of this nation really was.

Celebrate what makes America special in Wakulla County

A great Independence Day festival is all about the people, places, and cultures that define America, and that’s what you’ll find in Sopchoppy for the annual 4th of July celebration. This is just one of the many great events happening in Wakulla County all year long, so when you come to celebrate the 4th, stay for a while longer and take in some of the beautiful and serene natural scenes of our area. Our county is home to accommodations that can suit any family’s needs, as well as a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing, and so much more just a stone’s throw from wherever you are staying.

Get Ready To Sip, Nosh, Learn, And Dance At Sharks And Chablis

visitwakulldev on May 15, 2018

Sharks and Chablis, the annual fundraiser for the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory, will be taking place on Saturday, May 19 from 4-8PM in Panacea. Tickets are only $40 and can be purchased online, and they include a catered seafood dinner, exquisite wines, and fantastic entertainment!

Wining and dining for a great cause

When you purchase a ticket to Sharks and Chablis, you know you’re going to be in for a night filled with delicious seafood, interesting wines, and sparkling conversation. But you’ll also be supporting one of Wakulla County’s most important educational centers, the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory

The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab is one of the premier destinations in Wakulla County, as it offers visitors a chance to experience marine life in a unique, interactive setting. And, it’s much more than just a great spot to visit; the team at the lab perform important aquatic research and educate the public about conservation issues. The funds they raise during Sharks and Chablis go to support their mission to further marine research and education, and subsidize conservation efforts, such as sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment and education

Sharks and Chablis promises to be a night full of fun and surprises. Live music will be provided by Wakulla Rising, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to show off your best moves on the dance floor. Also, special guest Joel Sartore of National Geographic will be on hand to give an exciting presentation filled with his stunning nature photography and interesting educational tidbits.

The night isn’t complete without the annual silent auction, which is consistently one of the event’s most popular attractions. You can bid on a variety of items donated by local businesses and organizations for the chance to win something memorable and unique.

Discover why Wakulla County is an aquatic enthusiast’s paradise

Once you’ve enjoyed Sharks and Chablis and explored the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab, you’ll find that it’s only the tip of the iceberg for natural and aquatic-themed activities in Wakulla County. Whether you prefer to fish the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico or observe the aquatic life that thrives in Wakulla Springs, you’ll experience how connected this area is to the various waterways throughout it during your visit. We encourage you to check out our many options for friendly accommodations, and stay with us for a while to explore the connections between Wakulla County and its beautiful waters.

Celebrate the Best in Fishing at the Big Bend Saltwater Classic

visitwakulldev on May 9, 2018

The 30th annual Big Bend Saltwater Classic will be held on June 15-16 at Shields Marina in St. Marks. You won’t want to miss this incredible celebration of skillful angling and the beauty and diversity of gulf marine life.

The 30th iteration of this event plans to be the best tournament yet

For 30 years now, locals and guests have been gathering on the shores of Wakulla County for one of the premier fishing tournaments in the region. The Big Bend Saltwater Classic is a treasured Father’s Day tradition, and this year you can expect the same exciting fishing action and lively entertainment that always makes for an incredible weekend.

The Big Bend Saltwater Classic draws a large crowd of angling enthusiasts of all skill levels, and the tournament is broken down into several different divisions so that everyone can get in on the action. Some of the popular species that will be included in the tournament include flounder, gag grouper, wahoo, red grouper, redfish, and cobia. There will be cash prizes awarded to the top performers in each category.

Junior anglers have their own division with prizes and trophies as well. Also, this is the first year that the tournament will feature a separate kayak division, with redfish, trout, and flounder as the target species.

Fish, dance, eat, drink, and play all weekend long

The fishing may be the main attraction at the Big Bend Saltwater Classic—and for good reason—but there are still plenty of other fun activities taking place over the tournament weekend. Everything gets started with the tournament kick-off party on Wednesday, June 13 at the Buffalo Wild Wings in Tallahassee. You can register there, or online at www.saltwaterclassic.com. “Lines in” starts at 5:30 a.m. on Friday morning. Weigh-in starts at 3 p.m. and continues until 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, weigh-in begins at 3:00 p.m. and continues until 5:00 p.m. There will be two weigh-in stations– one at Shields Marina in St. Marks and the other at The Moorings in Carrabelle. The awards presentation will take place at 7:00 p.m. where the skilled anglers will be announced.

Savor the great outdoors at this landmark Wakulla County event

In Wakulla County we’re proud to host the annual Big Bend Saltwater Classic. While you’re in town for the tournament, we want you to see more of the stunning beauty of our area, and take in some of the many natural activities that we have to offer, including horseback riding on the beach, hiking, and wildlife watching. Whether you choose to stay in one of the hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, or campgrounds here, you’ll be right in the heart of beautiful fishing spots and so much more.

Gag Grouper Season in Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on May 1, 2018

As of April 1, 2018, recreational gag grouper season is officially open in the coastal waters of Wakulla County! Find out how you can enjoy the season safely and responsibly while soaking up the pleasures of this wonderful time of year.

Everything you need to know for a successful fishing season

The grouper is an iconic species of fish throughout the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; prized by both anglers for its abundance, as well as by diners for its tender flesh and mild, clean flavor. Every year, visitors and residents of Wakulla County have an opportunity to test their mettle in the gulf waters off the coast and fish for this remarkable species.

Wakulla County is a haven for anglers, and there are numerous tackle shops and outfitters here that can supply you with everything you need for your gag grouper excursion. On the way to your preferred launch area, be sure to stop by one of the local suppliers such as Shell Island Fish Camp and Marina, Rock Landing Marina, or AMS Marine Supply to ensure you are properly stocked for your journey.

There are several convenient places throughout the area where you can begin your fishing adventure. Some of the ramps, like the St. Marks City River Park ramp and the Newport ramp launch into the St. Marks River, which you can then follow into the Gulf of Mexico. If you prefer to launch directly into the gulf you have several options available to you as well, including the Rock Landing ramp and the ramp at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center.

Always remember to fish safely and legally

Gag grouper season is one of the best times of the year for angling enthusiasts, but it’s important to remember the proper protocols before you hit the water. Most importantly, you must have a valid Florida fishing license on you anytime you are fishing. Also, remember to follow size and catch limits to ensure that these beautiful fish remain in our waters for generations to come. Gag grouper must be at least 24 inches in order to be kept, and each person can only harvest four fish per day (two of which may be kept). Finally, remember to bring sunscreen and drinking water, and always practice safe boating no matter where you are.

Plan an exciting natural adventure in Wakulla County

Fishing for gag grouper is just one of many opportunities in Wakulla County to connect with nature and embrace the spirit of the outdoors. We encourage you to book a few nights in one of our accommodations that suits you best, and take the time to dig deep into the natural wonders of Wakulla County. Whether that means hiking, wildlife watching, or simply more fishing, we’ve got you covered!