Port St. Joe & Cape San Blas

Question

I am headed down in a few weeks to stay in Port St. Joe for a week. Pre-pandemic, things were very slow there and non-touristy. Now I am reading more about Cape San Blas being very crowded in summer and it made me wonder is PSJ is headed towards the same.

Are the beaches in Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas crowded in summer? Have things built up in a way that is touristy? That is not what I want so I need to see what my options are if that is the case. I was coming specifically for the lack of cell phone signals and people running around crazy.

Answer

Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas are both part of Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, but they have experienced different levels of tourism growth in recent years. While Cape San Blas has gained popularity and can feel crowded during peak summer weeks, Port St. Joe has largely retained its quiet, small-town charm.

Regarding summer crowds:

Cape San Blas tends to see more vacationers in June through August, especially near the main public beach access points. Expect more families, short-term rentals, and increased traffic, particularly on weekends.
Port St. Joe remains relatively low-key, even in peak summer. The beaches are less developed, fewer rental homes and hotels mean fewer people, and the vibe is much quieter compared to more commercialized beach towns.
Overall, if you’re seeking minimal crowds, Port St. Joe is still a good choice. Weekdays are particularly peaceful, while weekends may see a moderate increase in local visitors.

Development and tourist infrastructure:

Port St. Joe has seen some growth, including boutique hotels, local restaurants, and small shops, but it hasn’t become a heavily commercialized tourist hub. You can still enjoy the feeling of a slow-paced, off-the-grid destination.
Cape San Blas has had more investment in vacation rentals, condos, and beach access improvements, which can give it a busier, more “touristy” feel during summer months.
If you truly want to minimize interaction with large crowds, consider exploring less central beaches around Port St. Joe or venturing to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, which offers expansive beaches and limited access points.

Tips to keep the experience tranquil:

Visit the beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon for solitude.
Pack essentials as local stores are limited, especially in more remote areas.
Plan day trips to less popular beaches or nature preserves nearby, such as Cape San Blas’ quieter stretches north of the main public beach.

In summary, Port St. Joe still offers the relaxed, low-crowd environment you’re looking for, while Cape San Blas can feel busier during peak summer. Careful planning and timing can help you enjoy the peaceful beach experience you came for.

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