St. Augustine is the oldest European settlement on the U.S. mainland, hence its nickname the “Ancient City.” It was founded by the Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, all the way back in 1565 and has been plundered and conquered several times. Visit the sunny Florida city to discover influences from the Spanish, English, Greeks, Africans and Native Americans.
Find traces of nearly five centuries worth of history in St. George Street alone. Admire the Spanish-style buildings, the Oldest Store museum and horse-drawn carts travelling along cobblestone streets. Visit the 1740s-themed Colonial Spanish Quarter, a living museum. Stop for a break in one of the old taverns some have dining by candlelight only. St. Augustine’s many 19th-century buildings still display the splendour of the “Gilded Age.”
Don’t miss the chance to visit Castillo de San Marcos: The oldest standing European fort in continental America. Book a scenic cruise from the Municipal Marina to see the fort from the water and get pictures of the old lighthouse. While you’re at Castillo de San Marcos, take the kids to the Pirate and Treasure Museum to see artifacts such as treasure chests, maps and flags.
St. Augustine has barrier islands accessible via two bridges: Francis and Mary Usina Bridge in the north, and the Bridge of Lions in the south.
Head south to Anastasia Island to enjoy the white sand of St. Augustine Beach. Stop by St. John’s County Pier when you visit Anastasia State Park with its bird sanctuary, beaches, nature trails, picnic areas and camping grounds. The quieter northern barrier island has Vilano Beach. Come here for beachfront restaurants and fishing excursions.
In St. Augustine most attractions are within walking distance of the city centre. Join a narrated hop-on, hop-off trolley tour for a faster, and affordable, way to see more of the city and learn the history. It’s best to rent a car if you plan to visit the barrier islands.
St. Augustine Travel Guide
Where to stay in St. Augustine
St. Augustine Historic District
St. Augustine Historic District is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine and St. George Street while you're in town.
Vilano Beach
Travellers to Vilano Beach praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Vilano Beach and Castle Otttis.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Crescent Beach and Fort Matanzas National Monument while you're in town.
Butler Beach
Butler Beach is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to St. Augustine Beach or Butler Beach.
Downtown Historic District
While visiting Downtown Historic District, you might make a stop by sights like Lightner Museum and Ponce de Leon Hotel.
Uptown
While visiting Uptown, you might make a stop by sights like Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and Mission of Nombre de Dios.
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Popular places to visit
St. Augustine Beach
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at St. Augustine Beach, a popular beach in St. Augustine. Experience the area's great live music and fascinating museums.
St. George Street
You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at St. George Street during your visit to St. Augustine. You can enjoy the cafes while in the area.
Flagler College
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit Flagler College during your trip to St. Augustine. Discover the area's fascinating museums or seek out its local tours.
Anastasia State Park
Camp in the forest and relax on spectacular beaches when you visit one of Florida’s most beautiful state parks.
World Golf Village
You can study the exhibits at World Golf Village, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in St. Augustine. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in this quaint area.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Explore one of the the oldest standing masonry forts in North America and watch cannons being fired from the ramparts.
Other places like St. Augustine
- Anastasia State Park
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
- Vilano Beach
- Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
- Bridge of Lions
- World Golf Village - King & Bear Golf Course
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Marineland Beach
- Ripley's Believe It Or Not
- Flagler Hospital
- St. Johns County Ocean Pier
- Palencia Club