Tag Archive for: Travel Resources

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Benefits of Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels: The Full Guide

When it’s time to plan for a vacation, it can be difficult to choose between all the options we have at our disposal. Beaches vs. Mountains, Summer vs. Winter, with the Family vs. Friends, and the inevitable Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels. There are lots of facets to consider when making that decision, so read below to get the full guide comparing vacation rentals vs. hotels! 

When you do get ready for your next trip, learn about the benefits of booking direct! Save money from hidden fees on third-party booking platforms, get access to the full inventory of rental properties, and get access to specials, packages, and vacation guides. Check availability and book today!

Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels: What’s the Difference?

Cost

The main thought on most people’s minds when planning out a vacation is, “What is it going to cost me?” Though the cost day-to-day looks cheaper for hotels, one of the perks of staying in a vacation rental vs. hotel is that multi-day vacations become much more cost-effective, especially if you are staying with a group of friends or family! 

Privacy

It doesn’t get much more private than having the house to yourself! You can avoid the packed elevators and parking lots, loud neighbors only separated by a wall, and kids running through the hallways when you stay at a vacation rental. 

Pet-Friendly

When you have a furry family member, sometimes it can be a nightmare trying to figure out where you can stay that will allow you to take them with you on vacation. Even worse, it can be troublesome finding a hotel with a fenced backyard that you have easy access to. On the other hand, we can easily filter our rental properties by the pet-friendly feature, giving a quick and painless way to find out where Fido can spend the night. 

Choice

Hotels can’t offer much in the sense of options, which makes this one of the biggest points when comparing vacation rentals vs. hotels. Unless you’re willing to pay an upcharge for some deluxe suite, any room you get will have the same old layout that you find at any other hotel. Vacation rental companies, like Resort Vacation Properties, can offer you a wide variety of rental homes that let you pick and choose whether you want to be beachside, bayside, poolside, private pool, close to your favorite restaurant, etc. 

Choose a Vacation Rental with Resort Vacation Properties!st. george island vacation rentals vs. hotels

Check out some of the amazing properties that we host on St. George Island! No matter where you stay, you’ll get to enjoy all the benefits that come with a vacation rental home. Most of the homes on our rental list come with a common list of amenities that you can’t find at a typical hotel, like a full kitchen with dishes and utensils, several full bathrooms, a private pool or hot tub, or free access to personal beach gear! Head over to our website to browse our amazing properties, and book now for a low-cost, private, pet-friendly vacation!

This Is the Perfect Weekend Getaway to St. George Island, FL

The sun is shining, the weather is warm, and the water is salty. Pack your bags and hit the road. It’s time to plan the ultimate weekend getaway to St. George Island, FL! You’ll be amazed by how much you can pack into a three-day visit to The Forgotten Coast. 25 miles of sandy shorelines set the scene for lazy beach days, searching for seashells, and splashing around in the ocean.  

Below, we outlined a thoughtful three-day itinerary for your mini-vacation to the Florida Panhandle. For even more suggestions for things to do during your visit, request a free copy of our Vacation Guide!  

Get the Guide  

Plan Your Dream Weekend Getaway to St. George Island, FL, in Three Days  

Day 1: Friday  

In the Morning 

It’s time to embark on a gorgeous road trip down to the Florida Panhandle. The views on the way out to St. George Island are truly remarkable. Before you drive off for your beach getaway, be sure to check your packing list and make sure you have everything you need for your weekend getaway!  

Get Driving Directions 

In the Afternoon  

Bring all your luggage inside and get settled into your home away from home! Before you do anything else, run down to the beach and stick your toes in the sand. Breathe in the salty air and appreciate this moment with your loved ones. Wind-swept hair is the greatest accessory while you’re on vacation in Florida!  

In the Evening  

By now, you’re probably going to be starving! You’ve had such a busy day traveling. It’s time to grab a bite to eat. Seafood, anyone? Here are a few of our favorite dinner spots on the island:  

After dinner, return home to your comfortable lodgings to rest up before an eventful day tomorrow!  

Day 2: Saturday  

In the Morning 

Wake up to the sound of the ocean roaring up the shore. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the beach views from your balcony overlooking the shoreline. Once you’ve had some time to wake up and eat breakfast, it’s time to herd the family out the door for some fun!  

In the Afternoon  

You will have endless opportunities for family fun and adventure when you stay on St. George Island. Regardless of your interests, you’ll find no shortage of things to do. Here are a few suggestions to consider:  

In the Evening 

After a busy day, it’s time to unwind. Leave the kids at home with a designated babysitter and check out some of the local watering holes!  

Day 3: Sunday  

In the Morning 

If you wake up to a cloudy sky, don’t fret. We have just the solution! There are so many fun things to do on St. George, even when it’s raining! Here are a few ideas to keep in your back pocket for a rainy day:  

  • Have a spa day  
  • Stay in and watch a movie  
  • Play some games (many rentals have board games and puzzles) 
  • Cook up something delicious  
  • Get crafty  

In the Afternoon  

Spend your last day exploring more of the island. If the sun is shining, get outdoors! There are so many wonderful ways to stretch your legs, witness the beauty of the island, and spend quality time with your family and friends. Rent a bike and cycle around the island. Try out a new-to-you water activity. Or, simply go for a hike!  

In the Evening 

It’s your last night on The Forgotten Coast! End your weekend getaway with an unforgettable meal at one of the best restaurants on the island. End the evening with a tasty treat from Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream Shop! This crowd favorite has been serving huge scoops and friendly service since 1993.  

Resort Vacation Properties Set the Scene for Your Florida Beach Vacation  

st george island rentalMake the most of your weekend getaway to St. George Island, FL, when you stay in a beautiful Resort Vacation Properties rental. Our homes are the perfect home base for you and your family during your visit to The Forgotten Coast. Enjoy top-notch amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, comfortable furnishings, and breathtaking views of the ocean. Upon your arrival, you will find a welcoming package of starter supplies with coffee filters, hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap, and garbage bags.  

We can’t wait to host you!  

Browse Vacation Rentals 

5 of the Best Reasons You Should Visit St. George Island in September

The end of summer is fast approaching, but there’s still time to squeeze in a last-minute beach vacation! There are so many perks to visiting St. George Island in September. While it is considered the off-season, it is also the perfect time of year to enjoy lovely weather, tasty oysters, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a trip for Labor Day weekend or traveling just because, you’re in for a treat!  

Don’t let summer slip through your fingertips. Request a free copy of our Vacation Guide and start planning your getaway to the Forgotten Coast today!  

Get the Guide 

4 Reasons to Visit St. George Island in September 

The Weather Is Gorgeous  

While temperatures begin to plummet across the North, the weather remains warm and sunny on St. George Island, FL. With highs in the upper 80s and lows in the low 70s, you can count on beautiful weather during your September visit! One of the best parts of visiting this time of year is that you’ll feel as though you have the whole beach to yourself. While the forgotten coast isn’t crazy busy even in our peak summer season, it’s still nice to enjoy even fewer crowds in the off-season.  

The Oysters Are Delicious  

Oysters are everywhere in autumn, whether fried, charbroiled, grilled, or slurped right from their half-shells. Since the water is reaching cooler temps this time of year, oysters are guaranteed to be fatter and even more full of flavor right now. These mollusks are much more than just delicious—they improve the Gulf Coast ecosystem by acting as natural filters for the water! To get some of the tastiest Apalachicola Bay oysters on St. George Island, check out these restaurants:  

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend  

Reward yourself for all your hard work by using your much-deserved PTO towards a vacation to St. George Island on Labor Day Weekend! You’ll find that our beaches are much less crowded than others along Florida’s coastline. It’s the perfect destination to spend quality time with your loved ones making memories that will last you a lifetime.  

Outdoor Adventures Await  

The fine folks at Journeys offer the Forgotten Coast’s regional secrets from the locals who know them the very best. Whether it’s bayside or offshore fishing charters, guided tours aboard boats and kayaks, each excursion comes with experienced captains ready to show you what makes St. George so gorgeous. The Journeys team is full of knowledge—even exposing those who join them to the prime sloughs and sweet spots that can all but guarantee a big catch. 

Kids, teens, and adults will all love the Sunset Dolphin Cruise! This two-hour tour is for all ages and hosts up to six people.  

Make the Most of Your St. George Island Getaway  

beautiful beach property on st george island 1Are you ready to start planning your dream beach vacation to St. George Island in September? Then it’s time to start thinking about where you’d like to stay. Make the most of your getaway when you stay in a Resort Vacation Properties vacation rental! Whether you’re searching for a home that accommodates pets or a rental with its own private pool, rest assured that you’ll be in great hands when you book a stay with us! Our dedicated team will go above and beyond to ensure your stay is one you’ll remember for years to come.  

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Here’s Why You Need to Plan a Staycation on St. George Island

Need a relaxing getaway but don’t want to go through the hassle of driving or flying? There’s a stress-free solution to that, and that’s a staycation on St. George Island, Florida! St. George Island is home to so many fun activities, scenic hangout spots, and great beaches, so why not take advantage of the beautiful area we call home? Read on to find out why you need to explore your hometown on the Forgotten Coast. 

For a more extensive list of things to do and places to see, make sure to request access to our free Vacation Guide. This handy tool includes local insight on the best restaurants, shops, museums, and outdoor activities on the Forgotten Coast. Unlock your guide and start planning a memorable staycation now! 

Unlock the Guide 

Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Staycation on St. George Island 

It Makes Remote Work More Pleasurable 

Work is much more pleasurable when you can close your laptop and shift your eyes to a sparkling pool or panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico! Choose from our vacation rentals with perfect lounging areas by a private pool or serene balconies overlooking the pristine beaches. It’s the best way to unwind after a day of remote work or virtual learning!  

You Can Vacation While Social Distancing 

You can vacation stress-free when you don’t have to worry about being close to crowds. Reserving a vacation rental means you can relax in a safe and sanitary environment without running into other groups of people as you would in a hotel. Plus, you can enjoy a private pool or a spacious white sand beach with your closest friends and family. 

The Best Things to Do During Your Staycation on St. George Island 

Fishing at St. George Island State Park 

St. George Island State Park is the perfect place to cast a line for a day of fishing. The park offers surf and bay fishing for those with a license. You can expect to catch various species of fish, including flounder, redfish, sea trout, and Spanish mackerel. 

Some other outdoor adventures you might enjoy at the park are geocaching, searching for shells, bicycling, birding, hiking, and boating. You’re sure to make a whole day out of it! 

Dining on St. George Island and Apalachicola Bay 

The Forgotten Coast offers various dining establishments, including everything from family-friendly restaurants to upscale dining near the ocean. Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café is one of our favorite options for a laid-back lunch on the beach. It offers great food and an even better view. What more could you ask for? 

Enjoy Your Staycation With Resort Vacation Properties 

Blues Dock of the BayThe best part about your staycation on St. George Island is that you can enjoy it while relaxing in a beautiful Resort Vacation Properties vacation rental. Find your dream vacation home when you browse through our extensive list of pet-friendly vacation rentals on the Gulf Coast. We offer great options for the whole family, so choose your favorite rental and start planning the most memorable staycation yet! 

Atlanta to St. George Island: Your Ultimate Guide to the Forgotten Coast

Looking to get away from city life for a bit? Go from skyscrapers to sandy beaches and take a road trip from Atlanta to St. George Island, FL! The Florida coast is the best place to take a break from the daily hustle and bustle of the city in exchange for relaxation, beaches, outdoor activities, and wildlife. 

For all of the best things to do on the Forgotten Coast, make sure to request access to our free Vacation Guide. We’ve listed the top places on St. George Island and Apalachicola for dining, outdoor recreation, museums, and entertainment. Unlock your guide and start putting together your itinerary so you can spend your vacation relaxing! 

Get the Guide 

Atlanta to St. George Island: What to Do During Your Stay 

Go Kayaking 

Explore the Forgotten Coast by paddling your way along through the serene creeks, rivers, and marshes. There’s a wide selection of paddling trails to discover, including the Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System. This system has 11 trails to choose from, offering expansive views for any level of experience. Here, you’ll be able to explore the swamps and rivers that eventually lead to the Gulf of Mexico! 

If you love birdwatching, you’ll love spending time with Florida’s wildlife. Some of the birds you’ll see while traveling down the paddling trails include bald eagles, brown pelicans, woodpeckers, and ospreys! And, you’ll also find that it’s very likely you’ll see an alligator! 

Cast a Line 

The Gulf of Mexico is known for having some of the best fishing in the country. Cast a line off of an inshore or offshore fishing charter and bring home the perfect catch. Some of the fish you might catch include redfish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, sharks, and so much more. 

If you’re not into fishing but would love a day out on the water, you can book a dolphin, shelling, or sunset and river trip with St. George Island Fishing Charters. Book a two-, three-, or four-hour trip for an incredible day exploring uninhabited islands or scoping the waves for curious dolphins! 

Dine With a View 

Sure, Atlanta, GA, has plenty of incredible restaurants, but one thing you can’t get in the city is your meal with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. St. George Island is home to some amazing oceanfront restaurants. Didn’t catch the dinner you expected during your fishing trip earlier? No worries. You can indulge in the best locally caught seafood at 5-star restaurants right on the beach. It doesn’t get any fresher than that! 

We recommend that you try Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café for an enjoyable lunch or dinner. Indulge in delicious oysters or snack on some hushpuppies as you hang out on their beach deck! 

Unwind in a Resort Vacation Properties Vacation Rental 

ocean mile e1After all of the sun, sand, and food, surely you’ll want to rest and recharge for a new day ahead. Make yourself comfortable in a luxury St. George Island vacation rental. Resort Vacation Properties offers the best vacation homes to accommodate you and your family. When you stay with us, you’re choosing the best amenities on the island, including beach access, private pools, hot tubs, and more. Now is the time to quit daydreaming and make your dream getaway a reality. Choose your favorite rental and start planning!