Vilano Beach/Saint Augustine Guidebook

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Vilano Beach/Saint Augustine Guidebook

Neighborhoods

For more than two centuries, Vilano Beach has been the beach that locals go to. It’s a choice spot located just north of downtown St. Augustine's historic district, on the north side of the Matanzas Inlet. Popular for its casual atmosphere, quiet ambiance, and natural surroundings, the town of Vilano Beach is a charming surprise, with its tiled fountains and retro Art Deco look. The main access area to the beach is located right on the Atlantic, at 2725 Anahma Drive. The beach area continues around the southern end of Vilano Beach to Porpoise Point, a favorite place for fishing and launching jet skis. Visitors can enjoy both sunrises and sunsets from this area. The beach has a steep drop-off, heavier surf, and a strong current due to its location near the inlet, which makes it ideal for surfing (when the tide is coming in) and skimboarding. Facilities available at Vilano Beach: Off-beach parking Limited on-beach driving (for a fee from March to September) Restrooms Showers Pavilion (rentals available by calling 904-209-0331) Picnic tables Lifeguards staffed seasonally Minimal vehicle beach access is offered at Porpoise Point access ramp. Vehicle access in Vilano Beach is restricted to four-wheel-drive vehicles, and may be unavailable on occasion depending on the condition of the sand. A nominal access fee is charged from March 1 through Labor Day to drive on the beach. Visit here for more information. Rules for driving on the beach are clearly posted and are strictly enforced for the safety of beach goers. Are dogs allowed on Vilano Beach? Yes, you may bring your dog to Vilano Beach. Keep your pet leashed at all times and be sure to pick up after your furry friend. Please observe all posted rules and regulations regarding beach use as well. The Vilano Beach Pier is located nearby on the river side of the Matanzas inlet, and it is one of the best vantage points to watch the sunset over downtown St. Augustine. Enjoy dinner and a drink or just a drink at Beaches Restaurant and bar while enjoying that sunset. There are also floating tikis available at Cruisin Tikis upon request (book 24-48 hours ahead of time) Outdoor Dining Options in Vilano Beach Some of the best local restaurants on the Northeast Coast are located in Vilano Beach. Cap’s on the Water, The Reef, Aunt Kate’s, Kingfish Grill, Puccinni’s Pizza and Beaches all have something in common. They offer outdoor seating and waterfront views, the freshest seafood and Old Florida favorites such as shrimp and grits, Minorcan Clam Chowder, succulent shrimp, and flavorful farm-to-table fare. All served up by friendly locals. Live music is available at all of these venues on select nights. Call for details. Fishing in Vilano Beach Choose from surf fishing, fishing from the pier, or launch your boat from the ramp. Boaters can tie up at the marina, the pier, or at one of many local restaurants with docks for guests to disembark and take a break from the waves. Boat Tours Red Boat Water Tours delivers stunning views of St. Augustine and Matanzas Bay from the water. Choose from a Sunset Tours or a Dolphin Odyssey. Florida Water Tours will take you on an eco-tour, where a knowledgeable guide will point out dolphins, fish, birds, and share information about different species. Jump on a floating tiki at Cruisin tikis from the Vilano Beach marian located at beaches restaurant. Groceries: Publix groceries and liquor store can cover all of your food and drink needs if you want to cook at home or make your own beverages. Exercise: Run the Vilano Beach bridge (1 mile each way). There is a concrete safety barrier to protect pedestrians. Once you cross to the west side of the bridge there are sidewalks to safely job into the historic district. Vilano Beach Special Events Check out the Air Stream park Saturdays and discover art and foods from local vendors. In August, the Florida Skimboarding Pro/Am Tournament is held in Vilano Beach. These athletes defy gravity as they skip from the shoreline to the skyline propelled from the waves. Guana State Park: Beautiful trails with pine and oak trees. Well-traveled so it's safe. over 9 miles of trails for hiking or biking.
115 locals recommend
VILANO BEACH
115 locals recommend
For more than two centuries, Vilano Beach has been the beach that locals go to. It’s a choice spot located just north of downtown St. Augustine's historic district, on the north side of the Matanzas Inlet. Popular for its casual atmosphere, quiet ambiance, and natural surroundings, the town of Vilano Beach is a charming surprise, with its tiled fountains and retro Art Deco look. The main access area to the beach is located right on the Atlantic, at 2725 Anahma Drive. The beach area continues around the southern end of Vilano Beach to Porpoise Point, a favorite place for fishing and launching jet skis. Visitors can enjoy both sunrises and sunsets from this area. The beach has a steep drop-off, heavier surf, and a strong current due to its location near the inlet, which makes it ideal for surfing (when the tide is coming in) and skimboarding. Facilities available at Vilano Beach: Off-beach parking Limited on-beach driving (for a fee from March to September) Restrooms Showers Pavilion (rentals available by calling 904-209-0331) Picnic tables Lifeguards staffed seasonally Minimal vehicle beach access is offered at Porpoise Point access ramp. Vehicle access in Vilano Beach is restricted to four-wheel-drive vehicles, and may be unavailable on occasion depending on the condition of the sand. A nominal access fee is charged from March 1 through Labor Day to drive on the beach. Visit here for more information. Rules for driving on the beach are clearly posted and are strictly enforced for the safety of beach goers. Are dogs allowed on Vilano Beach? Yes, you may bring your dog to Vilano Beach. Keep your pet leashed at all times and be sure to pick up after your furry friend. Please observe all posted rules and regulations regarding beach use as well. The Vilano Beach Pier is located nearby on the river side of the Matanzas inlet, and it is one of the best vantage points to watch the sunset over downtown St. Augustine. Enjoy dinner and a drink or just a drink at Beaches Restaurant and bar while enjoying that sunset. There are also floating tikis available at Cruisin Tikis upon request (book 24-48 hours ahead of time) Outdoor Dining Options in Vilano Beach Some of the best local restaurants on the Northeast Coast are located in Vilano Beach. Cap’s on the Water, The Reef, Aunt Kate’s, Kingfish Grill, Puccinni’s Pizza and Beaches all have something in common. They offer outdoor seating and waterfront views, the freshest seafood and Old Florida favorites such as shrimp and grits, Minorcan Clam Chowder, succulent shrimp, and flavorful farm-to-table fare. All served up by friendly locals. Live music is available at all of these venues on select nights. Call for details. Fishing in Vilano Beach Choose from surf fishing, fishing from the pier, or launch your boat from the ramp. Boaters can tie up at the marina, the pier, or at one of many local restaurants with docks for guests to disembark and take a break from the waves. Boat Tours Red Boat Water Tours delivers stunning views of St. Augustine and Matanzas Bay from the water. Choose from a Sunset Tours or a Dolphin Odyssey. Florida Water Tours will take you on an eco-tour, where a knowledgeable guide will point out dolphins, fish, birds, and share information about different species. Jump on a floating tiki at Cruisin tikis from the Vilano Beach marian located at beaches restaurant. Groceries: Publix groceries and liquor store can cover all of your food and drink needs if you want to cook at home or make your own beverages. Exercise: Run the Vilano Beach bridge (1 mile each way). There is a concrete safety barrier to protect pedestrians. Once you cross to the west side of the bridge there are sidewalks to safely job into the historic district. Vilano Beach Special Events Check out the Air Stream park Saturdays and discover art and foods from local vendors. In August, the Florida Skimboarding Pro/Am Tournament is held in Vilano Beach. These athletes defy gravity as they skip from the shoreline to the skyline propelled from the waves. Guana State Park: Beautiful trails with pine and oak trees. Well-traveled so it's safe. over 9 miles of trails for hiking or biking.
Take this self guided tour for beginners: Park at the Visitors Parking Center on Castillo Drive Walk to the Castillo Fort Enter through the City Gates Stroll down Saint George Street Read the Minorcan memorial inside the garden of the Cathedral Basilica (see if you can spot any of these names around town) Pass by the Governors House and Plaza de la Constitucion View the koi pond inside the Lightner Museum's garden and throw a coin into the fountain Head toward the Bridge of Lions Turn North and walk along the Bay front Arrive back at the Parking Garage Want a more specific tour, try one of these: Brew Tour: park at the paid parking lot next to the Barley Republic and go in this order: 1 Barley Republic 2 Mill Top Tavern 3 Prohibition Kitchen 4 Ancient City Brewing Taproom 5 Chatsworth Pub and Tea Room 6 Dog Rose Brewery Church Tour 1 Mission of Nombre de Dios 2 Great Cross 3 Cathedral Basilica 4 Saint Benedicts Catholic Church 5 Memorial Presbyterian Church 6 Grace Methodist Church Museum Tours (My recommendations) Villa Zorayda Museum Lightner Museum Spanish Military Museum Medieval Torture Museum Pirate Museum St Augustine History Museum
49 locals recommend
Old Town
49 locals recommend
Take this self guided tour for beginners: Park at the Visitors Parking Center on Castillo Drive Walk to the Castillo Fort Enter through the City Gates Stroll down Saint George Street Read the Minorcan memorial inside the garden of the Cathedral Basilica (see if you can spot any of these names around town) Pass by the Governors House and Plaza de la Constitucion View the koi pond inside the Lightner Museum's garden and throw a coin into the fountain Head toward the Bridge of Lions Turn North and walk along the Bay front Arrive back at the Parking Garage Want a more specific tour, try one of these: Brew Tour: park at the paid parking lot next to the Barley Republic and go in this order: 1 Barley Republic 2 Mill Top Tavern 3 Prohibition Kitchen 4 Ancient City Brewing Taproom 5 Chatsworth Pub and Tea Room 6 Dog Rose Brewery Church Tour 1 Mission of Nombre de Dios 2 Great Cross 3 Cathedral Basilica 4 Saint Benedicts Catholic Church 5 Memorial Presbyterian Church 6 Grace Methodist Church Museum Tours (My recommendations) Villa Zorayda Museum Lightner Museum Spanish Military Museum Medieval Torture Museum Pirate Museum St Augustine History Museum
St. Augustine is a stunningly beautiful town divided by an Intracoastal Waterway. On one side of the Intracoastal is “The Mainland,” where historic downtown overlooks the bay. Cross over one of its three bridges to find a long, skinny sandbar of an island — Anastasia Island. On one end of the island is the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which still rotates its beacon of light to the ocean, and on the other end is Matanzas Inlet, where surfers, beachgoers, and sharks can all mingle together in the aqua blue water. St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier, Playground & Splash Park: Located at the St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier, there’s a fabulous free splash pad with varying types and sizes of sprinklers, so that both kids and infants can mingle together in the appropriate level of splashy-ness. There are huge umbrella-type shades that stretch over the picnic tables, so you are almost always out of the sun. You have a view of the ocean and that fabulous breeze, too! A shaded swing-set and park next to the splash park are an added bonus. 350 A1A Beach Blvd. Anastasia IslandMatanzas Inlet On the opposite end of the island is the inlet. There are two small parking lots that fill up rather quickly on the weekend. Once full, people just begin parking on the side of the road and lining the end of the island. There is a sand pathway that leads to the Intracoastal side of the inlet, which is usually a bright aqua blue color. Set up for a picnic and enjoy the day here! Families often opt for the Intracoastal-side, as opposed to the ocean-side, because the waves can be too big for little ones. Be careful of the ocean-side of the inlet, as there can be sharks waiting for the river fish to dump out in the ocean. Anastasia Island Tidal Pools at Low Tide The beach is always there and always free, and this is the biggest perk for families living on the island! For those with little ones, check online to see when the tide is low and find a shallow, calm and warm tidal pool for them to safely splash in. It’s a lot less nerve-wracking than watching them in the ocean waves! More Beach Tips There are lots of public beach access roads and boardwalks for walking or biking to the beach. There are also seven access roads for driving 4×4 vehicles on the beach (view a map here). Most beaches can’t accommodate vehicles on a beach because their sand-type won’t allow it. We are unique in that our sand has just the right amount of compactness to it that we can take a 4×4 and not get stuck. This is wonderful because you’re not dragging an ice-cooler, a wagon, three lawn chairs and five beach bags for a mile across a beach…you can just park where you’d like to spend your day and have the vehicle set up as “home base” for all of your beach items. Similarly, take a bike ride with your kids down the beach! Again, look for low-tide, as the sand is more compact at the water’s edge. Look into getting a pull-wagon, a rear-mount seat, a tricycle, or other kid-friendly options to make the bike ride easier and safer. If you would like to stroll or bike to the beach, I recommend taking Hammock Park. There is a gravel parking lot and a stunning nature walk boardwalk that leads to the beach. Anastasia Island Anastasia State Park Locals often take their children camping, biking or hiking on the many the trails at this gorgeous 1,600-acre state park with four miles of beaches. There are also grills and rentals available for bicycles, paddleboards, kayaks, windsurf boards, sailboats, and canoes. Click here to view park fees or consider purchasing an annual pass. 300 Anastasia Park Rd. Fort Matanzas National Monument Take the children to visit a 1740 Spanish fort! Made of coquina stone, Fort Matanzas is located on “Rattlesnake Island,” and surrounded by about 100 acres of salt marsh and barrier islands along the Matanzas River. Fort Matanzas National Monument is accessible via a free boat service (which holds 35 people at a time). Check the website for ferry times. There is also a beautiful nature trail you can take on the park grounds with your kids (don’t forget your bug spray!). Visitors can currently access the beach via the vehicle ramp, the west sand trail to the riverside beach and the west bridge trail to the Inlet. You can read about the interesting history of the fort here and here. 8635 A1A South Anastasia Island Ron Parker Park There’s a lovely playground at this park with slides and swingsets nestled under twisted scrub oaks that keep it shady nearly all day long. This seems to be the main playground for Anastasia Island moms. There is also a picnic area, dog park, softball field, basketball court, tennis and paddle tennis courts on the other side of the park. 607 Old Beach Rd. Lighthouse Park There are great “climbing trees” here and plenty of hermit crabs to look for. Locals refer to it as “the lighthouse park” but it’s technically a park created for the historical marker for “Sentinels of the Coast” and is located close to the lighthouse, the yacht club, and the skate park. The body of water it overlooks is called “Salt Run” and many moms have told me they have spotted dolphin pods with their children here. 201 Red Cox Dr. Anastasia IslandSplash Park Playground There’s a huge playground by the splash park under a shaded canopy. The perks for this spot is that there is both the ocean and the splash pad to help you cool down after you and your littles have worked up a sweat while playing! 350 A1A Beach Blvd. Windswept Acres Park This is a great little playground spot for folks who live further south on the island. Be sure to bring the sunscreen since there isn’t any shade. Hamilton Upchurch Skate Park If you have older kids who need to burn some energy on skateboards, pack helmets and visit this skate park for some fun in the sunshine! Located across from the Alligator Farm, the park has a 3-foot quarter pipe and semi-circle bowl as well as a few ledges and humps. 1020 Anastasia Blvd St. Frank Butler County Park Located on the South end of the island, this park does not have a playground. However, it does have a lot of grass for playing in or having picnics. There are also six shaded picnic tables, grills, and restrooms available. The park features a dune walkover with off-beach parking, a boat ramp, and showers, as well. 292 Majorca Rd. Saint Augustine Alligator Farm: This is a really fun zoo for kids. Children enjoy walking around looking not only at gators and crocs but birds, marsupials, snakes and more. Watch the gators eat, play on the playground, have a snack. Easily spend 3 hours
6 locals recommend
Anastasia
6 locals recommend
St. Augustine is a stunningly beautiful town divided by an Intracoastal Waterway. On one side of the Intracoastal is “The Mainland,” where historic downtown overlooks the bay. Cross over one of its three bridges to find a long, skinny sandbar of an island — Anastasia Island. On one end of the island is the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which still rotates its beacon of light to the ocean, and on the other end is Matanzas Inlet, where surfers, beachgoers, and sharks can all mingle together in the aqua blue water. St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier, Playground & Splash Park: Located at the St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier, there’s a fabulous free splash pad with varying types and sizes of sprinklers, so that both kids and infants can mingle together in the appropriate level of splashy-ness. There are huge umbrella-type shades that stretch over the picnic tables, so you are almost always out of the sun. You have a view of the ocean and that fabulous breeze, too! A shaded swing-set and park next to the splash park are an added bonus. 350 A1A Beach Blvd. Anastasia IslandMatanzas Inlet On the opposite end of the island is the inlet. There are two small parking lots that fill up rather quickly on the weekend. Once full, people just begin parking on the side of the road and lining the end of the island. There is a sand pathway that leads to the Intracoastal side of the inlet, which is usually a bright aqua blue color. Set up for a picnic and enjoy the day here! Families often opt for the Intracoastal-side, as opposed to the ocean-side, because the waves can be too big for little ones. Be careful of the ocean-side of the inlet, as there can be sharks waiting for the river fish to dump out in the ocean. Anastasia Island Tidal Pools at Low Tide The beach is always there and always free, and this is the biggest perk for families living on the island! For those with little ones, check online to see when the tide is low and find a shallow, calm and warm tidal pool for them to safely splash in. It’s a lot less nerve-wracking than watching them in the ocean waves! More Beach Tips There are lots of public beach access roads and boardwalks for walking or biking to the beach. There are also seven access roads for driving 4×4 vehicles on the beach (view a map here). Most beaches can’t accommodate vehicles on a beach because their sand-type won’t allow it. We are unique in that our sand has just the right amount of compactness to it that we can take a 4×4 and not get stuck. This is wonderful because you’re not dragging an ice-cooler, a wagon, three lawn chairs and five beach bags for a mile across a beach…you can just park where you’d like to spend your day and have the vehicle set up as “home base” for all of your beach items. Similarly, take a bike ride with your kids down the beach! Again, look for low-tide, as the sand is more compact at the water’s edge. Look into getting a pull-wagon, a rear-mount seat, a tricycle, or other kid-friendly options to make the bike ride easier and safer. If you would like to stroll or bike to the beach, I recommend taking Hammock Park. There is a gravel parking lot and a stunning nature walk boardwalk that leads to the beach. Anastasia Island Anastasia State Park Locals often take their children camping, biking or hiking on the many the trails at this gorgeous 1,600-acre state park with four miles of beaches. There are also grills and rentals available for bicycles, paddleboards, kayaks, windsurf boards, sailboats, and canoes. Click here to view park fees or consider purchasing an annual pass. 300 Anastasia Park Rd. Fort Matanzas National Monument Take the children to visit a 1740 Spanish fort! Made of coquina stone, Fort Matanzas is located on “Rattlesnake Island,” and surrounded by about 100 acres of salt marsh and barrier islands along the Matanzas River. Fort Matanzas National Monument is accessible via a free boat service (which holds 35 people at a time). Check the website for ferry times. There is also a beautiful nature trail you can take on the park grounds with your kids (don’t forget your bug spray!). Visitors can currently access the beach via the vehicle ramp, the west sand trail to the riverside beach and the west bridge trail to the Inlet. You can read about the interesting history of the fort here and here. 8635 A1A South Anastasia Island Ron Parker Park There’s a lovely playground at this park with slides and swingsets nestled under twisted scrub oaks that keep it shady nearly all day long. This seems to be the main playground for Anastasia Island moms. There is also a picnic area, dog park, softball field, basketball court, tennis and paddle tennis courts on the other side of the park. 607 Old Beach Rd. Lighthouse Park There are great “climbing trees” here and plenty of hermit crabs to look for. Locals refer to it as “the lighthouse park” but it’s technically a park created for the historical marker for “Sentinels of the Coast” and is located close to the lighthouse, the yacht club, and the skate park. The body of water it overlooks is called “Salt Run” and many moms have told me they have spotted dolphin pods with their children here. 201 Red Cox Dr. Anastasia IslandSplash Park Playground There’s a huge playground by the splash park under a shaded canopy. The perks for this spot is that there is both the ocean and the splash pad to help you cool down after you and your littles have worked up a sweat while playing! 350 A1A Beach Blvd. Windswept Acres Park This is a great little playground spot for folks who live further south on the island. Be sure to bring the sunscreen since there isn’t any shade. Hamilton Upchurch Skate Park If you have older kids who need to burn some energy on skateboards, pack helmets and visit this skate park for some fun in the sunshine! Located across from the Alligator Farm, the park has a 3-foot quarter pipe and semi-circle bowl as well as a few ledges and humps. 1020 Anastasia Blvd St. Frank Butler County Park Located on the South end of the island, this park does not have a playground. However, it does have a lot of grass for playing in or having picnics. There are also six shaded picnic tables, grills, and restrooms available. The park features a dune walkover with off-beach parking, a boat ramp, and showers, as well. 292 Majorca Rd. Saint Augustine Alligator Farm: This is a really fun zoo for kids. Children enjoy walking around looking not only at gators and crocs but birds, marsupials, snakes and more. Watch the gators eat, play on the playground, have a snack. Easily spend 3 hours

Sightseeing

The grounds and interior of the Castillo are so beautiful that we go once a month to enjoy it and we have lived here our entire life. If you don't want to pay to go inside, at least take a picnic and enjoy it on the Fort Green or walk along the front wall of the fort along the bay front.
391 locals recommend
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
11 S Castillo Dr
391 locals recommend
The grounds and interior of the Castillo are so beautiful that we go once a month to enjoy it and we have lived here our entire life. If you don't want to pay to go inside, at least take a picnic and enjoy it on the Fort Green or walk along the front wall of the fort along the bay front.
Saint Augustine Alligator Farm: This is a really fun zoo for kids. Children enjoy walking around looking not only at gators and crocs but birds, marsupials, snakes and more. Watch the gators eat, play on the playground, have a snack. Easily spend 3 hours
28 locals recommend
Alligator Farm
999 Anastasia Blvd
28 locals recommend
Saint Augustine Alligator Farm: This is a really fun zoo for kids. Children enjoy walking around looking not only at gators and crocs but birds, marsupials, snakes and more. Watch the gators eat, play on the playground, have a snack. Easily spend 3 hours
The property is beautiful, has trails and a playground. Great for kids!
313 locals recommend
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.
100 Red Cox Dr
313 locals recommend
The property is beautiful, has trails and a playground. Great for kids!
For the lover of oddities, this museum has some strange and interesting things
26 locals recommend
Villa Zorayda Museum
83 King St
26 locals recommend
For the lover of oddities, this museum has some strange and interesting things
This is great museum for lovers of the history of medicine
11 locals recommend
Spanish Military Hospital Museum
3 Aviles St
11 locals recommend
This is great museum for lovers of the history of medicine
This is one of the coolest collections for those interested in torture methods of olden days. It is not kid friendly in any way shape or form fyi
9 locals recommend
Medieval Torture Museum
100 St George St
9 locals recommend
This is one of the coolest collections for those interested in torture methods of olden days. It is not kid friendly in any way shape or form fyi
Kids love this place. It is stimulating to their senses and interesting for adults to read along. Warning there is a gift shop at the end. You will spend money there if you bring kids.
70 locals recommend
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
12 S Castillo Dr
70 locals recommend
Kids love this place. It is stimulating to their senses and interesting for adults to read along. Warning there is a gift shop at the end. You will spend money there if you bring kids.
This is for the historian who likes to read. There is a lot to read here.
7 locals recommend
St. Augustine History Museum
11 Estey St
7 locals recommend
This is for the historian who likes to read. There is a lot to read here.
For the lover of oddities, this museum has some strange and interesting things
202 locals recommend
Lightner Museum
75 King St
202 locals recommend
For the lover of oddities, this museum has some strange and interesting things
Our family really loves it here. The grounds are beautiful and there is a cool film on Saint Augustine's history to see inside of the small planetarium. You must drink some of the sulfur-infused water from the...you guessed it.. fountain of youth. Weapon demonstrations on the weekends. Make sure to do a photo op on Magnolia Street located just outside the entrance to the Fountain of Youth. Voted one of the country's most picturesque streets.
38 locals recommend
Fountain of Youth Ticket Office
11 Magnolia Ave
38 locals recommend
Our family really loves it here. The grounds are beautiful and there is a cool film on Saint Augustine's history to see inside of the small planetarium. You must drink some of the sulfur-infused water from the...you guessed it.. fountain of youth. Weapon demonstrations on the weekends. Make sure to do a photo op on Magnolia Street located just outside the entrance to the Fountain of Youth. Voted one of the country's most picturesque streets.
You have to at least peak inside. It really is beautiful. There is a monument in the side garden which is a tribute to Minorcan history. Play a fun game and see if you recognize any of those names around town.
39 locals recommend
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
38 Cathedral Pl
39 locals recommend
You have to at least peak inside. It really is beautiful. There is a monument in the side garden which is a tribute to Minorcan history. Play a fun game and see if you recognize any of those names around town.
Kids love this place for some reason and it's an interesting piece of Saint Augustine history. This is included on the Old Town Trolley Tour.
77 locals recommend
Old Jail
167 San Marco Ave
77 locals recommend
Kids love this place for some reason and it's an interesting piece of Saint Augustine history. This is included on the Old Town Trolley Tour.
This is the tourist strip but there are other local favorites mingled in. It's the oldest street in Saint Augustine so you are kind of obligated to walk down it.
101 locals recommend
Saint George Street
Saint George Street
101 locals recommend
This is the tourist strip but there are other local favorites mingled in. It's the oldest street in Saint Augustine so you are kind of obligated to walk down it.
This is a beautiful little spot. Only takes about an hour but it's free. Great place to geocache for kids.
16 locals recommend
Fort Mose Historic State Park
15 Fort Mose Trail
16 locals recommend
This is a beautiful little spot. Only takes about an hour but it's free. Great place to geocache for kids.
Guana State Park: Beautiful trails with pine and oak trees. Well-traveled so it's safe. over 9 miles of trails for hiking or biking. Also, a cute little learning center for kids (open on week days). Kayak rentals available in advance. Great place to fish.
61 locals recommend
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
505 Guana River Rd
61 locals recommend
Guana State Park: Beautiful trails with pine and oak trees. Well-traveled so it's safe. over 9 miles of trails for hiking or biking. Also, a cute little learning center for kids (open on week days). Kayak rentals available in advance. Great place to fish.
The gardens offer visitors a peaceful stroll along winding reflection ponds sheltered by a picturesque oak hammock. Washington Oaks is also famous for its unique shoreline of coquina rock formations along the Atlantic beach. This ancient rock formation creates the perfect spot for beachcombing, tidal pool exploring, and photography. Visitors can picnic and fish from either the beach or the seawall along the Matanzas River on the park's west boundary. A number of short trails are perfect for hiking and bicycling, and a visitor center offers opportunities for learning about the park's natural and cultural resources. Washington Oaks hosts several annual events, including an Earth Day celebration, Holiday in the Gardens and saltwater fishing clinics. First Friday Garden and History walks along with Second Saturday Plant Sales are monthly events enjoyed by the community and first-time visitors. Hiking, birding, fishing, strolling or spending a day at the beach - Washington Oaks offers something for everyone!
193 locals recommend
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
193 locals recommend
The gardens offer visitors a peaceful stroll along winding reflection ponds sheltered by a picturesque oak hammock. Washington Oaks is also famous for its unique shoreline of coquina rock formations along the Atlantic beach. This ancient rock formation creates the perfect spot for beachcombing, tidal pool exploring, and photography. Visitors can picnic and fish from either the beach or the seawall along the Matanzas River on the park's west boundary. A number of short trails are perfect for hiking and bicycling, and a visitor center offers opportunities for learning about the park's natural and cultural resources. Washington Oaks hosts several annual events, including an Earth Day celebration, Holiday in the Gardens and saltwater fishing clinics. First Friday Garden and History walks along with Second Saturday Plant Sales are monthly events enjoyed by the community and first-time visitors. Hiking, birding, fishing, strolling or spending a day at the beach - Washington Oaks offers something for everyone!
There are hiking trails, rentals for SUP boards and kayaks and plenty of room to ride a bike. The beach here does not allow driving so it's safe for kids. Beautiful! Try the Ancient City Dunes Trail or the Old Quarry Trail (see All Trails App)
224 locals recommend
Anastasia State Park
300 Anastasia Park Rd
224 locals recommend
There are hiking trails, rentals for SUP boards and kayaks and plenty of room to ride a bike. The beach here does not allow driving so it's safe for kids. Beautiful! Try the Ancient City Dunes Trail or the Old Quarry Trail (see All Trails App)
One of the Oldest houses in Saint Augustine. If you're into old houses and history also visit: Ximenez-Fazio house (the oldest) Llambias House Father Miguel Oreilly house Tovar House Acosta House Governors House Oldest Wooden School House
Gonzalez-Alvarez House
14 Saint Francis Street
One of the Oldest houses in Saint Augustine. If you're into old houses and history also visit: Ximenez-Fazio house (the oldest) Llambias House Father Miguel Oreilly house Tovar House Acosta House Governors House Oldest Wooden School House
This is such a serene beautiful property with walking trails, shrine, cemetery and great cross. If you're into cemeteries, do a walking tour and see them all: Tolomato Cemetery Huguenot Cemetery Saint Augustine National Cemetery
12 locals recommend
Mission Nombre de Dios Museum
89 A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway
12 locals recommend
This is such a serene beautiful property with walking trails, shrine, cemetery and great cross. If you're into cemeteries, do a walking tour and see them all: Tolomato Cemetery Huguenot Cemetery Saint Augustine National Cemetery
Enjoy this beautiful park. Grab a coffee from Kookaburra coffee located on the north side of the plaza. Also, there are many art shops, boutiques and restaurants that border this plaza.
14 locals recommend
Plaza de la Constitucion
170 St George St
14 locals recommend
Enjoy this beautiful park. Grab a coffee from Kookaburra coffee located on the north side of the plaza. Also, there are many art shops, boutiques and restaurants that border this plaza.
You have to walk through the city gates on your stroll down Saint George Street. It's tradition
Old City Gates and Historical Marker
11 Orange St
You have to walk through the city gates on your stroll down Saint George Street. It's tradition
This is a cool cobblestone street that begins with a pretty arch. Cute restaurants and a wine cellar are here.
9 locals recommend
Aviles Street
Aviles Street
9 locals recommend
This is a cool cobblestone street that begins with a pretty arch. Cute restaurants and a wine cellar are here.
This is the best park in town for kids. Even big kids love it here. We walk our kids to the Black Parrot candy shop afterwards for a much loved treat.
10 locals recommend
Project Swing Park
25 Cordova St
10 locals recommend
This is the best park in town for kids. Even big kids love it here. We walk our kids to the Black Parrot candy shop afterwards for a much loved treat.
Tours will begin again in May of 2021
175 locals recommend
Flagler College
74 King St
175 locals recommend
Tours will begin again in May of 2021
Swim with the dolphins!
63 locals recommend
Marineland
63 locals recommend
Swim with the dolphins!
This is where the locals play mini golf because it is located on the picturesque bay front of Saint Augustine's historic town
9 locals recommend
Ripley's Bayfront Mini-Golf
111 Avenida Menendez
9 locals recommend
This is where the locals play mini golf because it is located on the picturesque bay front of Saint Augustine's historic town

Food scene

This is a local favorite as they typically have live music every weekend. The open air courtyards on the third floor provide stunning views of the historic district
183 locals recommend
San Sebastian Winery
157 King St
183 locals recommend
This is a local favorite as they typically have live music every weekend. The open air courtyards on the third floor provide stunning views of the historic district
This is a great music venue. Check out their schedule online. Beautiful oak trees provide plenty of shade and lots of seating. Alcoholic drinks available when open.
38 locals recommend
Colonial Quarter
14 St George St
38 locals recommend
This is a great music venue. Check out their schedule online. Beautiful oak trees provide plenty of shade and lots of seating. Alcoholic drinks available when open.
This is located underneath the Ice Plant restaurant (a recommendation of mine). It is award winning and you get a free taste. This is a stop on the Old Town Trolley
159 locals recommend
St. Augustine Distillery
112 Riberia St
159 locals recommend
This is located underneath the Ice Plant restaurant (a recommendation of mine). It is award winning and you get a free taste. This is a stop on the Old Town Trolley
Wonderful little food truck park. A great selection for lunch.
19 locals recommend
The Village Garden Food Truck Park
1480 S Old A1A
19 locals recommend
Wonderful little food truck park. A great selection for lunch.
Really good brews especially IPA selection
59 locals recommend
Dog Rose Brewing Company
77 Bridge St
59 locals recommend
Really good brews especially IPA selection
Great selection of brews especially IPA choices are on point
53 locals recommend
Old Coast Ales
300 Anastasia Blvd
53 locals recommend
Great selection of brews especially IPA choices are on point
Awesome brews and a great location on the historic plaza
22 locals recommend
Ancient City Brewing Taproom
18 Cathedral Pl
22 locals recommend
Awesome brews and a great location on the historic plaza
great brews and a spot on lunch if you like sandwiches
9 locals recommend
The Chatsworth Pub and Tea Room
10 Marine St
9 locals recommend
great brews and a spot on lunch if you like sandwiches
Really great selection of brews. Cool atomosphere
Rendezvous Imported Beers
106 St George St
Really great selection of brews. Cool atomosphere
A little off the path but worth the brews
51 locals recommend
Bog Brewing Company
218 W King St
51 locals recommend
A little off the path but worth the brews
This place is hands down my favorite for cocktails and farm to table food. They never disappoint here
261 locals recommend
Ice Plant Bar
110 Riberia St
261 locals recommend
This place is hands down my favorite for cocktails and farm to table food. They never disappoint here
This place makes THE BEST martinis. Be careful the portions are quite large
96 locals recommend
The Tini Martini Bar
24 Avenida Menendez
96 locals recommend
This place makes THE BEST martinis. Be careful the portions are quite large
Great places for cocktails and farm to table food. Very interesting historical atomosphere
186 locals recommend
Prohibition Kitchen
119 St George St
186 locals recommend
Great places for cocktails and farm to table food. Very interesting historical atomosphere
This place is awesome for it's outdoor third story courtyard, live music and local wine
183 locals recommend
San Sebastian Winery
157 King St
183 locals recommend
This place is awesome for it's outdoor third story courtyard, live music and local wine
This place is hands down my favorite for cocktails and farm to table food on Vilano Beach. They never disappoint here and you dont even have to leave Vilano
246 locals recommend
Cap's On the Water
4325 Myrtle St
246 locals recommend
This place is hands down my favorite for cocktails and farm to table food on Vilano Beach. They never disappoint here and you dont even have to leave Vilano
This is the best place to catch a sunset at Vilano Beach and have a drink. Their food is decent enough especially if you don't feel like leaving the Vilano area
98 locals recommend
Beaches at Vilano
254 Vilano Rd
98 locals recommend
This is the best place to catch a sunset at Vilano Beach and have a drink. Their food is decent enough especially if you don't feel like leaving the Vilano area
Now called forgotten tonic. Different owners but the same great experience for wine and appetizers. Also located on lovely Aviles Street
41 locals recommend
Cellar 6
6 Aviles St
41 locals recommend
Now called forgotten tonic. Different owners but the same great experience for wine and appetizers. Also located on lovely Aviles Street
Very good food. Menu is always changing. They never disappoint
10 locals recommend
Bantam Chef
101 E Court St
10 locals recommend
Very good food. Menu is always changing. They never disappoint
This is the best farm to table in town. They also have amazing beer and cocktail selection. Tasty homemade desserts too.
189 locals recommend
The Floridian Restaurant
72 Spanish St
189 locals recommend
This is the best farm to table in town. They also have amazing beer and cocktail selection. Tasty homemade desserts too.
Seafood here is always fresh and well-prepared. Beautiful little garden area in the back as well
90 locals recommend
Catch 27
40 Charlotte St
90 locals recommend
Seafood here is always fresh and well-prepared. Beautiful little garden area in the back as well
This is white table cloth. Very Romantic. Excellent dishes
62 locals recommend
Collage
60 Hypolita St
62 locals recommend
This is white table cloth. Very Romantic. Excellent dishes
This restaurant is new and hot. So good. Super fresh seafood, great services and excellent view of the water
95 locals recommend
St. Augustine Fish Camp
142 Riberia St
95 locals recommend
This restaurant is new and hot. So good. Super fresh seafood, great services and excellent view of the water
best bbq in town and great cocktails. Beautiful little open air deck with tables for outdoor dining
66 locals recommend
MOJO Old City BBQ
5 Cordova St
66 locals recommend
best bbq in town and great cocktails. Beautiful little open air deck with tables for outdoor dining
Love this place for appetizers and brews.
31 locals recommend
Barley Republic Public House
48 Spanish St
31 locals recommend
Love this place for appetizers and brews.
Best pizza in town! Fun because it's in the historic district. Walk to get dessert afterwards
19 locals recommend
Pizzalley's on St. George
117 St George St
19 locals recommend
Best pizza in town! Fun because it's in the historic district. Walk to get dessert afterwards
great family restaurants. Excellent burgers and wood fired pizzas. perfect for kids.
19 locals recommend
One Twenty Three Burger House
123 King St
19 locals recommend
great family restaurants. Excellent burgers and wood fired pizzas. perfect for kids.
excellent vegetarian and vegan food. best for breakfast or lunch
34 locals recommend
The Manatee Cafe
525 FL-16
34 locals recommend
excellent vegetarian and vegan food. best for breakfast or lunch
Is there anything that isn't good here. Seriously hands down one of my favorite restaurants for local fresh seafood and steaks. great views of the intracoastal
25 locals recommend
Culinary Outfitters Catering
173 Shipyard Wy
25 locals recommend
Is there anything that isn't good here. Seriously hands down one of my favorite restaurants for local fresh seafood and steaks. great views of the intracoastal
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice atmosphere too!
De Leon Latin Cocina
1111 North Ponce De Leon Boulevard
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice atmosphere too!
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice atmosphere too!
50 locals recommend
Casa Maya
22 Hypolita St
50 locals recommend
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice atmosphere too!
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice historic atmosphere too!
150 locals recommend
Columbia Restaurant
98 St George St
150 locals recommend
wonderful latin food. you won't be disappointed. nice historic atmosphere too!
Great espressos and signature coffees. Walk around historic town after you visit and sip your beverage of choice
49 locals recommend
The Kookaburra Downtown
24 Cathedral Pl
49 locals recommend
Great espressos and signature coffees. Walk around historic town after you visit and sip your beverage of choice
Cute little locals favorite coffee and beer & wine shop.
61 locals recommend
DOS Coffee & Wine
300 San Marco Ave
61 locals recommend
Cute little locals favorite coffee and beer & wine shop.
Good southern style breakfast. large portions. great after a long night out!
20 locals recommend
Georgie's Diner
100 Malaga St
20 locals recommend
Good southern style breakfast. large portions. great after a long night out!
Locals favorite! Come early to get in here because they pack out! Closed on Tuesdays
145 locals recommend
The Blue Hen Café
117 M L King Ave
145 locals recommend
Locals favorite! Come early to get in here because they pack out! Closed on Tuesdays
Delicious breakfast. A locals favorite. Make a reservation!
75 locals recommend
Preserved Restaurant
102 Bridge St
75 locals recommend
Delicious breakfast. A locals favorite. Make a reservation!
This place is the bomb! Everything they make for breakfast and lunch is phenomenal. Also, a cute little garden dining area.
27 locals recommend
Sunday
73 San Marco Ave
27 locals recommend
This place is the bomb! Everything they make for breakfast and lunch is phenomenal. Also, a cute little garden dining area.
Really and truly the best dessert in town.
24 locals recommend
Cousteau's Waffle and Milkshake Bar
15 Hypolita St
24 locals recommend
Really and truly the best dessert in town.
Hands down the best ice cream in town. Home made with local flavors like datil pepper dark chocolate.
15 locals recommend
Mayday Ice Cream Historic St. Augustine
100 St George St
15 locals recommend
Hands down the best ice cream in town. Home made with local flavors like datil pepper dark chocolate.
They came to town and we've never been the same. The best chocolates and desserts anywhere in town. Limited hours
20 locals recommend
Crème de la Cocoa
299 San Marco Ave
20 locals recommend
They came to town and we've never been the same. The best chocolates and desserts anywhere in town. Limited hours
really good asian food. a local favorite
Andaman Asian Bistro
1935 A1A S
really good asian food. a local favorite
Best Tacos in Town!! Best for takeout or eating in the outdoor dining area
74 locals recommend
Osprey Tacos
300 Anastasia Blvd
74 locals recommend
Best Tacos in Town!! Best for takeout or eating in the outdoor dining area

Traveler advice

Don't miss

The Saturday Farmer's Market

The Saturday Farmers Market is from 8:30-1 every saturday morning at the Saint Augustine Amphitheater. This is a local favorite and one of the best ways to buy local foods, beverages, produce and art.
Don't miss

Wednesday Farmer's Market

The Wednesday's Farmer's Market is available every Wednesday at the Saint Augustine Beach Pier Parking Lot. 8am-12pm. This is a local favorite for food, beverages, produce and art
Don't miss

Uptown Saturday Night

Uptown Saturday Night takes place along San Marco Avenue on the last Saturday of each month. There, between Ripley's Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios, a number of shops remain open after 5:00 to showcase their products. Some serve refreshments, some have live music, and still others will have special art and other items on display. All the shops at Uptown on San Marco are locally-owned and locally curated. Visitors will find a vintage clothing store, a number of antique stores, clothing, gifts, art, jewelry, and more in the shops of Uptown San Marco. When: From 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. on the
Don't miss

Friday night Art Walk

On the first Friday of every month, St. Augustine's renowned art galleries open their doors and welcome visitors to browse the latest art exhibits at some 30 participating galleries. This cooperative open house showcases the amazing variety of artwork represented in St. Augustine’s fine art galleries, from contemporary to traditional and everything in between, created by local and national artists working in oils, pastels, photography, ceramics, wood, textiles, metal, and much more.
Don't miss

Vilano Beach Market at AirStream Row

Join us from 10:00am-3:00pm on the 3rd Saturday of the month for the Vilano Beach Market at Airstream Row. Local Shopping * Food * Entertainment