Relax and Unwind This Winter in Gulf County, FL

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Gulf County, Florida for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

After the excitement of the holiday season wears off and the snow loses its novelty, many begin planning winter vacations to warmer climates. You know what you should do? Come visit GCFL! When the temperatures drop this winter, Gulf County in Northwest Florida is the perfect "no worry, no hurry" spot to relax, unwind and ready yourself for the coming year. 

Now, you know that I am a Florida native, so I may be a little biased, but I think that the scenery in Gulf County speaks for itself...

Unlike the bustling area of South Florida, where I call home, Gulf County is a place that focuses on nature, beauty and slowing down and enjoying life. After the stress of wrapping up the year's business, getting through the holiday season and preparing for tax time in April, I can't think of a better way to unwind than to vacation in a spot known for relaxation. 

There are no high rises, no insane interstate highways crisscrossing through the cities, and while there is WiFi available, it's know for being "spotty." It's almost as if Gulf County gives its visitors a gentle nudge to put their devices down and pay attention - to the beauty around them and the people beside them. Life is slower in Gulf County, with an emphasis placed upon living in the moment, connecting with others and enriching the soul. 

Fun Fact: Gulf County only has two stoplights! 

January through March tend to be the coldest months around the country, but while the rest of the country is scraping snow off their sidewalks and wearing long johns, it's still nice and comfortable in Florida. It's the perfect time to visit Gulf County! 

Can you imagine taking a romantic walk along the beach in Gulf County in the middle of January? With 43 miles of natural shoreline, the white sandy beaches of Gulf County face westward into the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. The Cape San Blas peninsular is so well known for the spectacular sunsets seen there that it's called the #ChampionofSunsets!

Gather your friends or your partner and head down to Gulf County, Florida and take advantage of the outdoor activities you can't enjoy during the winter back home.

Spend a day biking along the many seaside trails with your loved ones. Pack a picnic and enjoy a quiet lunch on the beach. 

You can plan a saltwater or freshwater fishing trip - you can even go scalloping! Or just enjoy a nice long walk along the beach and look for seashells - one of my favorite things to do on the beach. 

There are also many opportunities to go diving and snorkeling, kayaking, or enjoy one of the many hiking or biking trails. 

There are also plenty of things to do off the beach in Gulf County. The period of January through March is a time of fun, with events planned every week!

If you're looking for something fun to do with your friends, you can take painting, pottery and silk painting classes at the The Artery Studio, or jewelry and knitting classes at the No Name Cafe, or even take cooking classes by Gourmet Chef Now! 

Want to go out and have fun with your significant other? Go to the Lookout Lounge on Thursday for karaoke, enjoy live entertainment at the Haughty Heron on Friday and Saturday nights, or even head over to the Dixie Theater on Saturdays for live theatre performances. Of course, the fun isn't confined to the weekends, the Thirsty Goat offers $5 Martinis and music on Mondays!

Gulf County is an outdoor playground. Everywhere you turn, there are opportunities to explore the natural surroundings and wildlife, participate in outdoorsy activities, get close to nature and just have fun. 

You can visit the Come visit GCFL website for ideas on things to do, but I've gathered a few highlights for you! These are things that I'd love to do in Gulf County!

Winter Fun Events In January

Scavenger Hunts in Port St. Joe - A fun and educational scavenger hunt!

St. Vincent Island Tours in Indian Pass - The tours are open wagon and last approximately 4.5 hours. 

Indian Pass Shelling Trip in Cape San Blas - Learn about local shells in a variety of different locations while also sightseeing the many beautiful vacation homes in Gulf County.

5th Annual Oyster Cook-Off in Apalachicola - A fundraiser for the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department.

Winter Fun Events In February

Bay Day at St. Joseph Bay Buffer Preserve in Port St. Joe - Join for this wonderful Bi-annual Shrimp Boil and Open House!

SaltAir Farmers' Market in Port St. Joe - Take a morning stroll Downtown Port St. Joe the 1st and 3rd Saturdays and you’ll be treated with fresh seasonal produce!

19th Annual Forgotten Coast Chefs Sampler in Apalachicola - Chefs from all over the Forgotten Coast will prepare their most creative dishes for this event, sample an array of flavors from area restaurants.

Winter Fun Events In March 

Winter Breakfast in Port St. Joe - a breakfast at the Gulf County Tourist Development Office.

33rd Annual SGI Regional Chili Cook-Off & Auction in St. George Island - A fundraiser for the St. George Island Volunteer Fire Department and First Responders begins Friday evening and continues Saturday.

Beacon Hill Shelling Trip in The Beaches - Learn about local shells in a variety of different locations while also sightseeing the many beautiful vacation homes we have in Gulf County.

You can find all of the Winter Fun Events, as well as ideas for things to do and see while in Gulf County at Come visit GCFL. While you're there, sign up for the newsletter because GCFL sends out lots of promotions, specials and insider tips each month!

Don't forget to follow along on social media to stay up to date on fun happenings!

Like the Visit Gulf County Facebook page

Follow @GulfCountyFL on Twitter and GulfCountyFL on Pinterest

What kind of adventure would like to experience in Gulf County?