This Charming Florida City Has Quaint Inns, Pristine Beaches, and Year-round Appeal

St. Augustine, nestled in the heart of Florida, isn’t just a city—it’s a journey through time. This picturesque destination, known as the “Nation’s Oldest City,” is a tapestry of history, natural beauty, and year-round appeal.

From the quaint inns that offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere to the pristine beaches that beckon with their tranquil allure, St. Augustine is a treasure trove of experiences.

As you wander its ancient streets, you’ll find yourself immersed in a rich historical tapestry that dates back to 1565, making it the first European settlement in North America. This historic charm is perfectly juxtaposed with modern comforts and adventures.

Whether it’s exploring the Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish stone fortress from the 1600s, or indulging in the culinary delights along George Street, St. Augustine is a city that delights at every turn.

For beach lovers, the appeal is just as strong. The city’s beaches have their unique charm, from the family-friendly nature of St. Augustine Beach to the quieter, more natural setting of Butler Beach. It is no surprise the city is one of the best places to explore in Florida.

Best Things to Do in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, Florida, is a treasure trove of activities and attractions, perfect for travelers seeking both historical insights and fun-filled adventures. 

Explore the Colonial Quarter

 Step back in time in this living museum that recreates life in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Witness historical reenactments, musket loading drills, and explore period buildings​​.

Set Sail on the Black Raven Pirate Ship

Enjoy a unique experience on a pirate-themed ship complete with entertainment, food, and interactive sea battles. It’s a thrilling way to explore the city’s pirate history​​.

Visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park:

Home to every recognized species of crocodilian, this park offers an array of wildlife and thrilling zip-line adventures over the animal exhibits​​.

Relax at St. Augustine Beach:

With two miles of pristine white sand, this beach is ideal for families, offering a splash pad for children and a quieter fishing pier at the northern end​​.

Discover the Pirate and Treasure Museum

Housing one of the largest collections of authentic pirate artifacts in the world, this museum provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of pirates​​

Tour the St. Augustine Distillery

Learn about the art of spirit making in one of America’s most visited distilleries, housed in a historic building. The tour is free and offers a glimpse into local agriculture and distillation processes​​​​.

Visit Castillo San Marco

Explore the oldest masonry fort in the United States, a monument to St. Augustine’s Spanish colonial past, with ranger-led tours and cannon firings​​.

Enjoy the Lightner Museum

Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum showcases fine and decorative arts from the Gilded Age, offering a glimpse into 19th and 20th-century opulence​​.

Photograph Castle Otttis

This unique structure, inspired by Irish castles, is a stunning piece of landscape design and offers a spiritual and historical experience​​.

Hike in Anastasia State Park

A nature lover’s paradise, this park features beautiful beaches, wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and fishing​​.

 

St. Augustine Hotels

St. Augustine, Florida, offers a variety of hotels that cater to every taste, from historic charm to modern luxury. 

St. George Inn 

Located steps away from Old Town, this century-old, locally-owned Inn offers fantastic views of the Castillo and the City Gate. It features accommodations with a charming courtyard and a wine bar on the premises. It’s also pet-friendly, perfect for those traveling with small furry family members​​.

Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection

This hotel boasts Moorish and Baroque Revival-style architecture with original artwork and Spanish tapestries. It features two-story suites, ornate king and queen rooms, and complimentary access to Serenata Beach Club. Guests can enjoy drinks at the Cobalt Lounge and dine at Costa Brava​​.

Marker 8 Hotel & Marina

This hotel offers some of the best waterfront views, modern furnishings, and a nautical feel. Amenities include breakfast in the Captain’s lounge, hors-d’oeuvres with cocktails, a dip pool, and a private marina​​.

Old City House Inn & Restaurant

This 18th-century-built bed and breakfast offers elegantly-styled rooms with features like cathedral ceilings, stain glass, and exquisite hand-carved mahogany furnishings. It’s located steps away from the historic downtown district​​.

The Saint Augustine Beach House

Ideal for beach lovers, this hotel offers beachfront views and coastal vibes with a selection of seaside rooms. It’s pet-friendly and only 10 minutes by car from St. Augustine’s historic sites and downtown district​​.

Best Time to Visit St. Augustine

The timing of your trip can make all the difference! Spring, specifically March to May, is a fantastic time to visit. You get to enjoy the outdoors without the intense summer heat and humidity.

Imagine reading a book on the beach, exploring the city’s charming streets, and checking out cool spots like the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse or Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth. Just be aware that it can get pretty busy during this season.

For those on a budget, winter (December to February) is your best bet. It’s the cheapest time to visit, with fewer tourists and lower prices. While it’s cooler (think 40s and 50s), you won’t have to pack an umbrella as it’s also the driest season. Plus, the Nights of Lights event around Christmas is absolutely magical.

If you want to avoid the crowds, autumn is great, especially in October or November. The weather is pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and beach walks, and the city is less crowded. Just a heads-up, this period is still part of the hurricane season, so keep an eye on the weather updates.

Summer, on the other hand, might be the least ideal time to visit. It’s the peak season with lots of tourists, high humidity, and frequent rain showers. But hey, if beach time and vibrant nightlife are what you’re after, summer in St. Augustine can still be a blast​.

Where to Eat and Drink

St. Augustine isn’t just about the sights; it’s a paradise for foodies too. When you’re in this historic city, you’re in for a culinary treat with an array of fantastic dining options.

Michael’s offers an exquisite seafood and contemporary dining experience, ideal for those special evenings out. For a romantic setting with a fusion of local and international flavors, Collage Restaurant in the historic district is a go-to, renowned for its lobster ravioli. Overlooking the San Sebastian River, St. Augustine Fish Camp serves up fresh southern seafood with stunning sunset views.

If you’re in the mood for vibrant Latin American flavors, Casa Reina Taqueria is your spot. Enjoy delicious tacos and an impressive tequila selection on their rooftop dining area, offering panoramic views.

For a unique experience, head to the Ice Plant Bar located at the St. Augustine Distillery. This vintage bar serves farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails in a setting that harks back to its history as an ice plant.

Looking for a hidden gem? Forgotten Tonic serves American comfort food with a modern twist and has an extensive and creative cocktail list that’s popular during happy hour. For authentic Mexican cuisine and a lively atmosphere, Casa Maya’s late-night happy hour is a hit, especially for their Casa Mayarita.

Seafood enthusiasts should not miss Schooners Seafood House, a staple for over 28 years, known for its Minorcan Clam Chowder and the sumptuous Captain’s Platter.

Raintree Restaurant, set in a restored 1879 Colonial Victorian Home, offers a diverse international menu that includes Mediterranean, Asian, and American fusion dishes, with their Beef Wellington being a particular highlight.

For a more laid-back vibe, the No Name Bar offers American bar food and live music in a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy the local scene.

Getting To St. Augustine

Most folks tend to drive to St. Augustine. It is easily accessible from major Florida cities like Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, and Orlando. Plus, it’s under four hours from places like Savannah, Georgia, and Florida’s capital, Tallahassee.

If you’re coming from further away, you might prefer to fly. You can land at Jacksonville International Airport, which is just about 50 minutes north, or Daytona Beach International Airport, around the same distance to the south of St. Augustine.

For a bit of a different journey, there’s the Amtrak Auto Train from the Washington, D.C. area to near Orlando, and then it’s a short drive to St. Augustine. Though currently, there isn’t a direct bus service to St. Augustine, you can get dropped off nearby and make your way from there.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not sail in? St. Augustine welcomes visitors arriving by their own boat, offering a historic route to the city along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Once you’re in St. Augustine, getting around is a breeze. You can explore the city on foot, especially if you’re staying downtown. Biking is another great option, with plenty of bike racks scattered around. And if you need it, there are plenty of taxi services available too.

Final Thoughts

St. Augustine isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s a captivating blend of history, beauty, and charm. From its picturesque streets and rich historical sites to its delightful dining options and serene beaches, this city offers a unique experience.

Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks, indulging in local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the sea, St. Augustine promises a memorable getaway. It’s a place where every visit feels like a step back in time, yet brimming with all the comforts of modern-day leisure.