Memorial Day Weekend Getaway: Wakulla County Guide

Bow Stern on May 4, 2026

Looking for the perfect Memorial Day weekend in Florida without the crowds? Wakulla County offers a refreshing escape, featuring scenic rivers, fresh seafood, and outdoor adventures.

If you’re searching for things to do on Memorial Day weekend, this 3-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

Day 1 – Arrive & Explore the Coast

Start your Memorial Day weekend by settling into Wakulla’s laid-back coastal charm.

Check Into Your Stay

Choose from waterfront rentals, cozy cottages, or campgrounds near the Gulf.\

Browse places to stay.

Spend the Afternoon at Mashes Sands Beach

Ease into vacation mode at Mashes Sands Beach, one of Wakulla’s most peaceful coastal spots. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the breeze.

Sunset & Dinner in Panacea

Head to Panacea for fresh Gulf seafood and sunset views. Enjoy oysters, shrimp, and a classic coastal atmosphere to kick off your weekend. Check out one of the following Panacea spots:

  • Mineral Springs Seafood
  • Posey’s Up the Creek Steamroom and Oyster Bar
  • La Villa sabor latino

Day 2 – Adventure on the Water

Memorial Day weekend is all about getting outside—and Wakulla delivers.

Morning Kayak on the Wakulla River

Start your day paddling through clear, spring-fed waters surrounded by cypress trees and wildlife.

Look for:

  • Manatees (seasonal)
  • Turtles and birds
  • Crystal-clear views below

Plan your paddling trip.

Afternoon Fishing in Apalachee Bay

Spring fishing is in full swing. Head out to St. Marks, Shell Point, or Panacea for inshore action.

  • Target species include:
  • Redfish
  • Speckled trout
  • Flounder

Explore fishing and charters in Wakulla.

Dinner Along the Water

After a day on the water, wind down with a waterfront meal. Try:

  • Angelos
  • Trident
  • The Salty Donkey
  • Riverside Cafe

Day 3 – Nature & Scenic Exploration (Memorial Day!)

With a full bonus day on your Memorial Day Weekend, you can venture even farther into Wakulla County. Wrap up your weekend with some of Wakulla’s most iconic natural attractions.

Visit Wakulla Springs State Park

Child jumping into the Wakulla Springs from a dock on a sunny day at Wakulla Springs State Park in Florida

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BtaFArKjgj-860oo23g7THvO03bE-eXv/view?usp=sharing
Alt text: Child jumping into the Wakulla Springs from a dock on a sunny day at Wakulla Springs State Park in Florida


Take a riverboat cruise or walk the trails at one of the deepest freshwater springs in the world.

This is one of the top things to do Memorial Day weekend in Florida if you’re looking for nature and relaxation.

Explore St. Marks Lighthouse

Located within St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, this historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Gulf and surrounding marshes.

Bring your camera—this is one of the most scenic spots in the region.

Grab Lunch Before You Go

Before heading home, stop by a local café or seafood spot for one last taste of Wakulla. Try:

  • Hamaknocker’s BBQ
  • Hutton’s Seafood Truck
  • Rocky’s Hot Bar

Why Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Wakulla County

Wakulla stands out from other Florida Memorial Day destinations by offering:

  • Quiet, uncrowded beaches
  • Easy access to rivers and the Gulf
  • Fresh, local seafood
  • Outdoor adventures without long wait times
  • Authentic small-town charm

If you’re searching for things to do Memorial Day or a weekend getaway near Tallahassee. Wakulla County checks every box!

Plan Your Memorial Day Getaway

Skip the crowds and experience Florida’s natural side this Memorial Day weekend. From sunrise fishing trips to sunset beach views, Wakulla offers a weekend that feels both relaxing and memorable.

Start planning your trip today!

Romantic Getaways in Wakulla County

Bow Stern on February 26, 2026

Looking for a leisurely, unforgettable way to celebrate your spouse or significant other? Skip the crowded cities and discover the charm of a romantic getaway in Wakulla County, where sunsets stretch over the Gulf, moss-draped oaks frame scenic rivers, and quiet beaches create the perfect backdrop to reconnect.

Whether you’re planning a weekend or a spontaneous couples escape, Wakulla offers natural beauty, cozy accommodations, and intimate dining experiences just south of Tallahassee, Florida.

Stay Somewhere Cozy and Scenic

A romantic trip starts with the perfect place to stay. Wakulla County offers charming lodging options that blend comfort with natural beauty.

Wakulla Springs Lodge

Stay at the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge, located inside Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. This Spanish-style lodge offers timeless charm, nature views, and easy access to scenic boat tours.

Enjoy:

  • Vintage architecture
  • On-site dining
  • Morning wildlife sightings
  • Walking trails right outside your door

Panacea Motel

This vintage motel is perfect for couples exploring the Gulf Coast. Equipped with a kitchenette, an en suite, and cozy 50s-style decor. The Panacea Motel has a private walking trail down to the water, a great place to enjoy your morning coffee or a nightcap as the sun sets.

Sweet Magnolia Inn

A ‘sweet’ bed and breakfast with especially warm hosts, the Sweet Magnolia is a refurbished, stately home that features both king and queen options. Unique guest suites offer oversized Jacuzzi tubs and private en-suite bathrooms. With covered porches, massage chairs, and complimentary bicycles, couples in St. Marks are truly spoiled by the Sweet Magnolia.

Waterfront Cottages & Vacation Rentals

For couples who prefer privacy, explore locally owned vacation rentals and waterfront cottages throughout St. Marks, Panacea, and Shell Point.

Browse options here.

Wake up to water views, sip coffee on the porch, and enjoy uninterrupted time together.

Romantic Outdoor Adventures for Two

Riverboat Cruises at Wakulla Springs

Take a guided riverboat tour through one of the largest freshwater springs in the world. Spot manatees (seasonally), turtles, alligators, and birds while floating through cypress-lined waters.

This peaceful experience offers a quiet, shared moment surrounded by Florida’s natural beauty.

Kayaking the Wakulla or Sopchoppy River

Paddle side by side through calm, spring-fed waters. Local outfitters like TNT Hideaway offer rentals for couples looking for a scenic adventure. Try their moon-lit kayak tour for an especially unique experience.

Bike the Ochlockonee Bay Trail

If you prefer land-based exploring, the Ochlockonee Bay Trail offers a paved, scenic route ideal for couples who love cycling together. Bike rentals are available through TNT Hideaway as well.

Explore St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge’s Pools

These freshwater pools are hot spots for wildlife within the Refuge – and show off the very best of the marsh. Enjoy a stroll on packed coquina trails, accented by observation platforms where often the only company you have is the wildlife and the sound of seaside grasses blowing in gentle breezes.

Sunset Views at Mashes Sands Beach

Few things are more romantic than watching the sun dip below the horizon together. Mashes Sands Beach in Panacea offers one of the most breathtaking sunset views along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Customize your itinerary of things to do in Wakulla here.

Waterfront Dining for Date Night

A romantic getaway wouldn’t be complete without a memorable meal.

The Seineyard at Wildwood

Located along the coast, The Seineyard at Wildwood offers fresh Gulf seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.

Enjoy oysters, shrimp, and sunset views for a classic coastal date night.

Riverside Café in St. Marks

For casual charm with scenic views, dine along the river in historic St. Marks.

Explore more local dining.

Why Wakulla is Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Unlike crowded resort destinations, Wakulla offers:

  • Quiet beaches
  • Scenic rivers
  • Charming small towns
  • Natural beauty year-round
  • Mild temperatures in February

It’s an ideal choice for couples looking for meaningful experiences instead of busy tourist scenes.

Plan Your Romantic Escape

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply time together, Wakulla County provides the perfect setting for romance.

Start planning your trip today!

Eco-Tourism in Wakulla: Sustainable Travel Tips and Destinations

Bow Stern on January 27, 2026

Looking to travel with purpose? Eco-tourism in Wakulla County is more than a trend—it’s a way to immerse yourself in nature while helping to preserve it. From kayak tours and wildlife watching to conservation-focused springs and trails, Wakulla invites responsible travelers to explore Florida’s wild side the sustainable way.
Whether you’re a solo hiker, a birdwatcher, or a family looking for eco-friendly travel ideas, this guide will help you enjoy Wakulla while leaving a light footprint.

Why Eco-Tourism Matters in Wakulla

Wakulla County is home to some of the most unspoiled natural beauty in Florida, including protected springs, estuaries, and wildlife refuges. Choosing eco-tourism here helps support local conservation efforts, protects sensitive ecosystems, and boosts small businesses that prioritize sustainability.
Plus, with its mild winters, abundant wildlife, and easy access to state parks and nature preserves, Wakulla is one of the best places to visit for nature tourism in Florida – especially from fall through spring.

Top Eco-Tourism Destinations in Wakulla County

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

A crown jewel of Florida eco-tourism, Wakulla Springs is home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. Take a riverboat jungle cruise, spot manatees in winter, or explore hiking trails through protected forest.

Why it’s eco-friendly:

  • Operated by Florida State Parks
  • Environmentally managed tours and boardwalks
  • Supports education and aquifer conservation

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

One of the oldest wildlife refuges in the U.S., the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for migratory birds, butterflies, and saltmarsh wildlife. Hike or bike the trails, photograph native species, or visit the iconic St. Marks Lighthouse.

Eco Highlights:

  • Habitat restoration and endangered species protection
  • Prime birding site along the Great Florida Birding Trail
  • Ideal for low-impact recreation

Guided Kayak & Paddle Tours

Explore Wakulla’s spring-fed rivers with eco-focused kayak tours, including rentals from TNT Hideaway. Glide along the Wakulla or Sopchoppy River, where you may encounter manatees, turtles, alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat.

Why it’s sustainable:

  • No motors = zero emissions
  • Human-powered adventure
  • Supports nature-based tourism operators

Big Bend Scenic Byway

Drive, bike, or hike your way through the Big Bend Scenic Byway that winds through Apalachicola National Forest, St. Marks, and beyond. This designated corridor is perfect for spotting wildlife, stargazing, and learning about longleaf pine restoration.

Eco Travel Tip: Choose designated pullouts and trails to avoid disturbing natural habitats.

Explore Sopchoppy – Florida’s Official Trail Town

Just north of the Gulf Coast, the historic town of Sopchoppy has earned recognition as an official Florida Trail Town, a hub for hikers, paddlers, and cyclists exploring the region’s interconnected trail systems. Surrounded by protected wilderness and intersected by multiple designated trails, Sopchoppy is a natural launch point for eco-tourism tours in Wakulla.

Outdoor enthusiasts can:

  • Paddle the Sopchoppy River Paddling Trail, which links to the Ochlockonee River and Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail
  • Hike sections of the Florida National Scenic Trail, which loops around the town
  • Bike or walk the Ochlockonee Bay Trail, part of the Capital City to the Sea Trail network
  • Camp riverside at Myron Hodge City Park, which offers access to multiple eco-trails and natural springs

s Wakulla County grows its trail infrastructure, Sopchoppy’s Trail Town remains a centerpiece—offering both access and a welcoming small-town atmosphere to visitors seeking sustainable adventure.

Sustainable Travel Tips for Visiting Wakulla

Make your trip more meaningful (and lower-impact) with these simple tips:

  • Bring reusable water bottles and utensils
  • Respect wildlife—observe from a distance
  • Stay on marked trails to protect delicate ecosystems
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen when paddling or swimming
  • Support local businesses
  • Leave no trace: pack out everything you bring in

Looking for eco-friendly lodging? Many Wakulla County campgrounds and cabins near the water prioritize minimal impact and natural surroundings. Start with our guide to campgrounds and RV sites.

When to Visit for the Best Eco-Tourism Experience

The best time to visit Wakulla for eco-tourism is from October through April, when temperatures are cooler, mosquitoes are minimal, and wildlife—especially migratory birds and manatees—is most active.

Plan Your Eco-Friendly Adventure

Wakulla County offers a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and support the environment—all while experiencing some of the most beautiful, biodiverse landscapes in the Florida Panhandle.
Whether you’re booking a kayak tour, strolling through a refuge, or visiting Wakulla Springs, eco-tourism here is as enriching as it is relaxing.

🌿 Start planning your trip now at VisitWakulla.com

A Wonder of Wakulla: George Griffin Pottery

visitwakulldev on August 26, 2016

The George Griffin Pottery, of the gorgeous Wakulla County in Florida, is more than your stereotypical, quaint, pottery shop. Griffin’s shop is no average store located off a mediocre city street – it’s practically out of a storybook!

George’s unique pottery speaks for itself. So even if you’re not one for nature, come for his unique handiwork and be prepared to feel like you are at home.

A Must-See During Your Trip

After cycling down one of the beautiful tidal creek and marsh filled trails, or cooling off at Wakulla Springs, drive over to Sopchoppy and visit Griffin’s one-of-a-kind pottery shop. To get to Griffin’s shop you’ll go down a sandy dirt road that winds through beautiful woods, over a sparkling creek, and to the scenic farmhouse where his shop lies.

The handiwork of George Griffin is not just his pottery – he has built all you see in his shop. You’ll find Griffin’s farmhouse, kiln, chicken coop, and handcrafted bridge that he has put together himself to create a relaxing family friendly environment in the middle of nature’s finest in Sopchoppy, Florida.

Well Worth the Trip

The main reason to visit this magical nook is the captivating pottery pieces and the pottery creator, George Griffin, himself! Griffin’s pottery was established in 1975. His work reflects a traditional southern pottery style; the pieces are locally based, sturdy, and rustic.

His pottery is more than just professional or fine work, but gorgeous and whimsical. Each piece is individually created and signed from southern stoneware. He finds creating pottery as a way to meet modern needs through keeping alive a tradition in which he expresses his own soul.

Griffin is not just a potter and craftsman. He also pours himself into his farming, teaching, and writing as well. He is known for snapping photos and swapping stories with customers, making them feel like they’ve always known him. Similar to Wakulla County, coming to visit the George Griffin Pottery Shop is like coming home. When planning your next getaway, take into consideration the beautiful trails, one of the large freshwater springs, the cultural communities, and George Griffin Pottery of Wakulla County!