Explore Coastal St. Augustine

The beaches of St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach offer beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Located about halfway between downtown St. Augustine and the beaches of Anastasia Island, visitors will find the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. It’s the oldest navigational site in North America and a favorite attraction of visitors to the area. Hike up the Lighthouse’s 219 steps for a breathtaking view of the historic city below and boats sitting in the bay. A few blocks away from the lighthouse, you’ll find the beaches of Anastasia Island, which offer an affordable, relaxing atmosphere – a perfect place to stop during an extended vacation.

On the Water

With an average of 70-degree weather, fishing is a year-round pastime in St. Augustine. Bluefish, whiting and drum are the easiest catches on the inland waterways. Cast a line and drop your anchor near Anastasia Beach State Park. It is one of three state parks located near the city – ideal for hiking and camping, or renting sailboats and paddleboards. The park is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Salt Run Lagoon. A swath of land that juts out into the water provides a natural setting ideal for kite-flying, picnicking and photographing the area’s idyllic coastal scenery.

Seaside Dining and Drinks

If you’re looking for a great meal on the water, head to Salt Life Food Shack on St. Augustine Beach. The popular outdoor restaurant and bar features a menu of fresh seafood – try the conch fritters and a cold beer. Other dining options include Amici Italian Restaurant (which has been voted St. Augustine’s best), the Beachcomber Restaurant (great food with an oceanfront deck), or O’Steen’s local seafood served Southern-style. In the evening, try Café Eleven or the Gypsy Cab Company – all within a short ride from the beaches.

Accommodations

There are 10 moderately priced hotels on Anastasia Island, including The Local - St. Augustine, Guy Harvey Resort, Anastasia Inn and Best Western Seaside Inn. There are also campgrounds nearby, including Anastasia State Park, Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort, Ocean Grove Camp Resort and the St. Augustine KOA Campground.