Where
Port St. Joe is home to just one beach, and it’s a beauty. George Core Park (aka Lighthouse Park) is located at 162 Miss Zola's Drive, Port St. Joe, FL 32456. Here’s a map of and information about beach accesses and parks in Gulf County.
Vibe
Beloved family favorite with a shallow, tranquil beach and a magnificent lighthouse.
Laid-back, welcoming, and soothing to the toes as well as the soul, this generous city park encompasses the Cape San Blas Lighthouse as well as shaded picnic areas and a kid-friendly beach.
See, feel
Free parking welcomes you to George Core Park, a lush, generous greenspace anchoring the friendly village of Port St. Joe. Rows of palms frame the brick-paver pathway leading to the lighthouse, a handsome black and white structure that lifts the eye and dominates the horizon. Beyond it, pines part around a sand path, revealing the park’s beach, a narrow, curving ribbon of white sand. Popular but only crowded during events, you won’t have to fight for a spot to plant your beach umbrella.
Extremely shallow far out into the bay, this beach is ideal for little ones. Here, you’ll see toddlers wading in the clear, placid water; kids splashing on floaties; and kayakers and fishermen.
On or near the beach
Bask in the sun; cool off with a dip; or try your luck fishing—it’s all good at Core Park.
For more action, rent a kayak (or bring your own), and launch from the beach for a gorgeous saltwater paddle. Or discover the Bay Walk Trail, promising a pine-scented stroll by the water, connecting to Jetty Park and Maddox Park.
Open Wednesday through Saturday, the Cape San Blas Lighthouse invites visitors to climb its spiraling stairs, a thigh-burning endeavor up 131 steps rewarded by epic views of St. Joseph Bay.
Fuel the adventures with a picnic in the shade. Or head next door to raise a glass and a fork at the Lighthouse Keeper’s Bistro and Bar, serving up craft cocktails and fare that includes Indian Lagoon Oysters and local Gulf Shrimp stir fry.
Accessibility
George Core Park offers ADA parking, and the lighthouse’s gift shop and keeper’s quarters are wheelchair accessible.
Facilities
You’ll find shaded picnic tables at the park; the Cape San Blas Lighthouse and its three related buildings—which include a gift shop that sells souvenirs and drinks; a petite but pretty lake; and an event stage. Fighting Conch Rentals offers everything you need for your beach day, including kayaks; beach chairs; tents; and cabanas.
Lifeguards
There are no lifeguards; swim at your own risk.
Parking
Parking is free and rarely fills, unless there’s an event at the park.
