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Aerial view of Cape San Blas peninsula and beach
Construction begins March 23, 2026

Follow the Cape San Blas
Restoration Project

Weekly updates on the $34.5M breakwater build and beach nourishment. Photos, construction progress, and what it means for property owners.

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Eli Duarte Local Realtor · 24 Years on the Cape
Weekly Updates

Latest Project News

Construction progress from the beach and work zone

March 9, 2026 on-the-ground construction walkthrough Latest

On-the-Ground Construction Walkthrough – March 9

Five new March 9 videos from the work zone:

This week’s update is a full on-the-ground walkthrough from the Cape, with five short clips showing where equipment is staged, how the shoreline looks today, and what to expect as sand pumping begins later this month.

If you own, rent, or are under contract on property along the project corridor, these videos give you a clear feel for how close the work is to existing homes and how beach access may temporarily change while construction is active.

Past updates
3/2/2026
The contractor will now start pumping sand at R-101.5 (3967 Cape San Blas Road) and pump north first. Several boardwalks have been identified within the fill footprint.
1/12/2026
Staging progressed with additional materials and equipment positioned near the jetty area.
11/17/2025
This week we're highlighting how the Cape San Blas breakwater is designed to fight erosion. The plan calls for eight near-shore barriers placed by the existing rock jetty.
11/10/2025
Staging progressed with additional materials and equipment positioned near the jetty.
11/3/2025
Survey and prep activities continued along the shoreline; access periodically limited.

About the Restoration Project

The Cape San Blas Restoration Project is a major initiative designed to combat erosion and address environmental challenges along the peninsula. The project involves constructing a breakwater system to absorb wave energy, helping to reduce beach erosion and protect vital wildlife habitats.

With an estimated cost of $34.5 million, the project is being funded through a combination of county, state, and local contributions. Although work was officially scheduled to begin in December 2025, a few crews have already been spotted on-site this week, preparing for the main phase of construction.

Once completed, the project will help stabilize the shoreline, preserve local ecosystems, and protect the Cape’s real estate market, all while maintaining its appeal as a top destination for residents and visitors alike.

Cape San Blas beach restoration
Cape San Blas beach restoration
Real Estate Impact

What This Means for Property Owners

Stabilized beaches protect property values and long-term rental demand. Here's how the restoration project could affect your investment.

Protected Property Values

Wider beaches and stabilized dunes increase aesthetic appeal and long-term lot stability.

Stronger Rental Income

Restored beaches attract more visitors, supporting short-term rental demand.

Long-Term Resilience

The breakwater system reduces erosion by 60-80%, far outperforming traditional nourishment.

Discuss Your Property

"This project is a big step toward protecting our shoreline and keeping Cape San Blas the place we all love."

Eli Duarte Realtor · Coastal Realty Group
Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Cape San Blas beach restoration start?

Sand pumping is scheduled to begin on or around March 23, 2026. The contractor will start at R-101.5 (3967 Cape San Blas Road) and pump north first, then proceed south once the northern end is completed.

How much does the project cost and who is paying?

The total project cost is $34.5 million, funded through county, state, and local contributions including $15.5M from DEP, $3.6M in Restore Act funds, $3M from the Tourist Development Council, and $1.5M from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

What is the submerged breakwater and how does it work?

The breakwater is a system of underwater rock structures placed offshore that absorb wave energy before it reaches the beach. This is projected to reduce wave-driven erosion by 60-80%, helping sand stay on the shoreline much longer than traditional beach nourishment alone.

Will my boardwalk need to be removed?

Properties with boardwalks within the fill footprint should remove them to receive maximum sand. Currently identified addresses are: 4091, 4011, and 3975 Cape San Blas Road. If your boardwalk is not removed, sand will be placed around it but not underneath. Contact us to confirm if your property is affected.

How will this affect Cape San Blas property values?

Stabilized beaches protect property values and long-term rental demand. Wider beaches increase aesthetic appeal, privacy between homes, and expand usable outdoor space. The project's engineering ensures long-term resilience—a major selling point for buyers seeking sustainable coastal investments.

How many homes are at risk from erosion?

Over 1,000 homes are on Cape San Blas. Two homes have already been condemned due to erosion, and approximately 30 more are at imminent risk. This project aims to protect these properties and prevent future losses.

Get in Touch

Talk with Eli

Have questions about the restoration project or thinking about buying or selling on the Cape? I'm happy to share what I know from 24 years of living and working here.

Phone (850) 227-5152
Email eli@csbrealestate.com
Office 1252 Cape San Blas Rd
Port St. Joe, FL 32456
Eli Duarte · Coastal Realty Group

Typical response time is 24-48 hours during business hours.