Florida's Forgotten Coast Overview & History

“Florida's Forgotten Coast" is actually a registered trademark, coined in the early 1990s by the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce.  The name is most commonly used to refer to a relatively quiet, undeveloped section of coastline stretching from Mexico Beach on the Gulf of Mexico to St. Marks on Apalachee Bay.  About 90 miles southwest of Tallahassee, this coastal zone joins the Emerald Coast to the West and the Nature Coast to the southeast.

The beach shorelines maintain the incredible white sand character which the Emerald Coast is known for, but the developed stretches of commercial business is not present.  Major hotels are generally not to be found, so planning in advance to stay in the area is advised.

Towns in the area still maintain much of the "Old Florida" character of days gone by.  A relaxed pace of small town charm is common throughout the area.  Apalachicola is one of the more well known towns in the area and provides a gateway to the pristine barrier island beaches.  Visitors to Apalachicola or other Forgotten Coast areas will find this recent article from Authentic Florida helpful to make the most of their visit: Apalachicola Getaway.

Although this area is overshadowed by the better known coasts such as Emerald Coast, Sun Coast, etc., it is home to some less known, but equally beautiful beaches without the crowds or traffic congestion.  Coastal nature experience opportunities abound throughout the section .  Many individuals familiar with Florida quietly “sneak” into the state in order to enjoy their vacation in this “forgotten” area of coastal beauty.