Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Paradise by the Sea?
Paradise by the Sea is a private oceanfront home at 2664 Hwy 98 W on St. George Sound near Carrabelle, Florida, on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. There are few houses nearby, but Carrabelle, Eastpoint, Apalachicola and St. George Island are each about 10 minutes away. A large state park with hiking trails is across the street.
How many people does it sleep?
The house sleeps up to 15. It has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Beds: three king beds, two sets of bunk beds, a twin bed in the master bedroom, a daybed with trundle in the loft, and a second daybed with trundle in an upstairs king bedroom. The king bedrooms have private balconies.
Is there a charge for larger groups?
Yes. The base rate covers up to 8 guests. Above 8 there is a charge of $35 per person per night for guests registered at booking, or $90 per person per night for guests added after check-in, up to a maximum of 15. Day guests count toward the total, because our insurance and business license are based on party size.
Is the beach good for small children?
Yes. Barrier islands offshore and a large sandbar break the waves before they reach the beach, so waves are small. The water is shallow for the first 100 yards; at high tide it is like a 1-4 foot deep wading pool, and at low tide the sandy tidal pools keep kids busy for hours. If you want big surf, St. George Island is minutes away.
Is there good fishing?
Yes. At low tide you can catch fish in the tidal pools without a hook, and fishing and shrimping off the sandbar is excellent. The house has some fishing poles, a cast net and traps, but bring your own if you want serious equipment. There are several bait shops nearby.
What is included?
Internet (60 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload) and TV, sheets, pillows and blankets, a fully equipped kitchen with pots, pans, dishes and a coffee maker, a kayak, beach chairs and beach towels, fishing poles, outdoor tables and chairs, and toys such as a kite and magnetic darts.
Is there parking for a boat or RV?
Yes. The house is raised 22 feet above high tide, and the covered carport underneath is tall enough for an RV and a large boat, or up to 4 vehicles.
What are the views like?
The first floor is 22 feet and the second floor 32 feet above high tide, with large windows, many decks and balconies, and views of the Gulf, St. George Island and Dog Island. Dolphins swim by regularly, and bald eagles and many other birds are common.
What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is at 4pm. Check-out is at 10am.
Are pets allowed?
No. Pets are not allowed.
Is there a minimum stay?
The minimum stay is 3 nights, or 6 nights during high season.
What do guests need to do before arrival?
Each adult guest must sign the guest agreement and liability waiver, and we verify identity before arrival. This is required by our insurance, and Florida requires that we know the name of each guest. The adult who books must be at least 25 years old.
Are parties or events allowed?
No. Maximum occupancy is 15 people including day guests, and unregistered guests are not permitted.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made at least 60 days before arrival receive a full refund. Cancellations within 60 days of arrival are not refunded. We strongly recommend trip insurance, especially during hurricane season; you will be offered a policy after booking, and some credit cards include trip insurance benefits.
What happens if a hurricane is forecast?
A forecast storm doesn’t always ruin a trip. Storms that make landfall to the east usually bring low tides and milder weather here; a major hurricane making landfall within about 100 miles to the west is the case to evacuate for. Follow the directions of the Franklin County Sheriff, and buy cancel-for-any-reason trip insurance when you book.
Why book directly instead of through Airbnb or Vrbo?
Booking directly at paradisebythesea.us is cheaper because you avoid booking-site fees, and direct guests can book up to 400 days ahead, compared with 300 days on Vrbo and 120 days on Airbnb. Check availability and book direct.
How do I contact the owner?
Email info@paradisebythesea.us or call or text (816) 744-0048.