Carabelle Beach takes its name from the town of Carrabelle, founded in 1877 by Oliver Hudson Kelley from Massachusetts, who named it "Rio Carrabella" after his niece Caroline Hall, meaning "beautiful river." Early inhabitants included Native Americans and European settlers who hunted the heavily forested land abundant with wildlife. The first lumber mill was built in 1875, beginning the harvest of local forests, with lumber and turpentine exports helping the economy grow. The City of Carrabelle was incorporated in December 1881, becoming a boom town by the 1890s. In 1891, the Carrabelle, Tallahassee and Georgia Railroad was established, connecting Carrabelle northward through Tallahassee. Carrabelle's famous Crooked River Lighthouse was originally built in 1895. On August 1, 1899, a hurricane struck, almost destroying the town and leaving just nine homes standing. World War II brought significant historical importance when Camp Gordon Johnston opened in 1942, training amphibious soldiers on nearby beaches for the D-Day Invasion of Normandy, training a quarter of a million men before closing in 1946. Located in Franklin County approximately 50 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Carrabelle serves as the Florida Panhandle's Gateway to the Gulf, preserving its character as part of Florida's scenic Forgotten Coast known for pristine beaches and natural beauty.
The beach offers swimming and sunbathing along the Gulf of Mexico with natural white sand and calm waters. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the beach, creating a pet-friendly atmosphere. Fishing opportunities abound from the shore and nearby waters, with the area known for excellent catches. Boating and paddling explore the Gulf coast and nearby rivers, with kayaking through coastal waterways revealing diverse ecosystems. Hiking trails provide land-based recreation exploring the Forgotten Coast's natural beauty. Shopping in downtown Carrabelle features local boutiques and gift shops. The Carrabelle History Museum offers exhibits about the area's rich past including lumber industry, railroad era, and Camp Gordon Johnston's World War II significance. The Crooked River Lighthouse provides stunning coastal views and historical interpretation. The World's Smallest Police Station, located at 105 St. James Avenue, serves as a quirky local landmark and photo opportunity. The beach's location on the Forgotten Coast maintains an uncrowded, natural character distinct from more developed Florida beach destinations. The combination of Gulf beach access, historical sites, and Old Florida charm creates a unique Panhandle experience far from tourist crowds.
Dining in Carrabelle ranges from fine waterfront restaurants to laid-back barbecue and pizza joints showcasing fresh local seafood. Crooked River Grill offers fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, craft cocktails, and wine with waterfront views. Marina Street Grill serves as one of Carrabelle's most popular lunch spots with diverse menu offerings and casual atmosphere. The Fisherman's Wife provides local seafood with fresh catches, smoked fish dip, burgers, salads, and quesadillas in a casual setting. Carrabelle Junction features 1950s-style diner atmosphere serving hand-dipped ice cream, coffee, espresso, cappuccino, loaded bagels, and made-to-order salads, soups, and sandwiches. Harry's Bar-B-Q serves traditional barbecue with smoked meats and Southern sides. The Tap Room provides craft beers and pub fare in a local gathering spot. C-Quarters Marina serves waterfront dining with seafood specialties and boat access. The concentration of seafood restaurants reflects Carrabelle's fishing village heritage, while the Forgotten Coast location emphasizes fresh local catches over chain restaurants, preserving the area's authentic coastal character and Old Florida dining traditions.
