A Perfect Day in Apalachicola With Marilyn Brogan
If you’ve ever wandered the quiet streets of Apalachicola or stepped inside Marilyn Brogan’s showroom, you’ve probably felt it - that easy, welcoming energy that makes this small Gulf Coast town so special. Marilyn herself has built a creative life and business here, deeply inspired by the charm, quirk, and natural beauty of Apalachicola.
We asked her to share what a “perfect day” looks like in her hometown: the must-see spots, the secret gems, and the places where she finds peace, inspiration, and the best cold brew. Whether you’re planning your first visit or dreaming of your next one, this is your guide to experiencing Apalach (its shortened nickname) like a local.
Q: What first drew you to Apalachicola, and what made you want to open your showroom here?
I first visited Apalachicola in 2007, thanks to my now-husband, who grew up in nearby Spring Creek. We were in town for his brother’s wedding on St. George Island and decided to pop into Apalach for lunch. At the time, there wasn’t much here—no brewery, just a few shops—but the historic downtown had a gritty charm that spoke to me.
As an artist, I was drawn to the remoteness of the place, the way nature felt so alive and uninterrupted. I’d been living in the mountains of North Carolina at Penland School of Craft, so I was used to being surrounded by nature, but Apalach was something else: palm trees next to pine trees, alligators, manatees, dolphins, sting rays. I’d never seen anything like it.
Fast forward to 2015, after our wedding in Virginia, we were headed back to San Diego and decided to take an impromptu “mini-moon” detour to St. George Island. We crashed at a funky beach house and had the best time. That trip planted the seed - and a few months later, we made the move.
Q: If someone only had one day in Apalachicola, what would you tell them they absolutely can’t miss?
Start by checking in at the The Gibson Inn. If you’re up for a little ghostly charm, ask for the Captain’s Room - it has a clawfoot tub with a view of the bay. Plus, as a guest, you can borrow a bike or rent a golf cart, which is the best way to explore.
Head over to the South Side for a self-guided tour of the Victorian homes. Stop at Lafayette Park and take a stroll down the boardwalk to the pavilion - sunrise and sunset are magical there.
For lunch, hit up The Owl Café. I love their Tripletail Reuben, but honestly, everything is good—especially the salads with their housemade dressings. Afterward, it’s time to shop.
Start at Downtown Books & Purl for your next beach read, then swing by Apalach Outfitters for cute sunhats and beachwear. Grab a cold brew with sea salt sweet cream at Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company, then wander through Coast, Dolce Vita, and all the Market Street boutiques.
Don’t skip BECASA - they have the best linen kaftans - and grab a handmade bar of soap at the Wild Herb Soap Company for a little piece of Apalach to take home.
Also worth a stop is 13 Mile Seafood Market, a beloved local institution and one of the most hospitable places in Florida. Known for its fresh, high-quality seafood, it’s been operated by the Ward family since 1957. For four generations, the Wards have harvested oysters, shrimp, and fish from Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can sometimes spot shrimp boats unloading their fresh catch, and the market’s dedication to freshness and food safety is unmatched. It’s the perfect place to pick up something delicious—and to get a feel for the town’s rich maritime heritage.
Finally, make time to explore Betsy’s Sunflower, a charming kitchen, garden, and gourmet shop now located at 238 Water Street in the High Cotton Building. Established in 1994, Betsy’s is filled with treasures: kitchenware, linens, barware, picnic accessories, gourmet treats, gardening gifts, and fun homegoods. It’s the kind of place you’ll walk into for one thing and leave with a bag full of joyful finds.
Q: What are your go-to spots for food, coffee, or a relaxing drink after work?
Besides The Owl, I love The Tap Room - same kitchen, more casual vibe. Tamara’s On the Go food truck is also amazing - definitely get the Cuban (and maybe split it with a friend!).
For drinks, you can’t beat The Parlor Bar at the Gibson or their rocking chair porch for a nightcap. If you’re looking for live music, head to Apalachicola Yacht Club (AYC). They’ve always got something great going on, and the cocktails are top notch.
Q: Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known places in town that visitors might not stumble upon—but should?
Yes, especially if you’re visiting when it’s cool out, take a walk through the old Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) boardwalk. It winds through the woods and ends at a marsh overlooking the river.
The new ANERR facility in Eastpoint is also worth a stop, especially on a rainy day. It’s a working research station, but also family-friendly and surprisingly fun.
Q: How does the spirit of Apalachicola inspire your jewelry or your creative process?
Apalachicola has a laid-back rhythm that constantly nudges you toward living more and stressing less. You really have to choose this place - it’s not convenient, but it’s rich with character.
It’s a place where different people find ways to coexist and collaborate. There’s a quiet resilience here, a sense of self-direction, and a deep connection to nature. That kind of environment fosters creativity, and it absolutely shapes the way I think about design and community.
Q: Do you have any favorite events or seasonal traditions in Apalachicola that you'd recommend planning a trip around?
Fall is the best time to visit: October and November are ideal. The weather’s perfect and the crowds are thinner. Apalach Porch Fest is in October, and we have the Oyster Cook-off in January, which benefits the volunteer fire department.
One of my favorite events is the Barkus Parade, a Mardi Gras-themed dog parade that raises money for the Humane Society. It’s adorable and hilarious.
Halloween is a true local gem. The whole neighborhood around Lafayette Park turns into something out of Stars Hollow. Businesses and residents decorate and hand out candy, kids run wild in costume, and it’s just the most heartwarming thing.
Q: Anything else you think people who haven’t been here should know?
There just isn’t anywhere left like this. It’s the last surviving stretch of Old Florida coast, and the community is truly one of a kind.
And don’t worry - you won’t be a stranger here for more than half an hour.
We hope this glimpse into Marilyn’s version of Apalachicola inspires your next adventure—or at least sparks a little daydreaming. If you’ve ever visited Apalach - or if Marilyn’s perfect day sounds like your kind of getaway - we’d love to hear about it! Drop us a note or swing by the shop next time you’re in town.