Discover the Trails of Florida’s Historic Coast: A Journey of Flavor, Spirits, and History

Embark on a journey through Florida’s Historic Coast, where themed trails guide you to culinary delights, handcrafted spirits, sweet treats, and historic landmarks. Each trail offers a unique way to explore the region’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Florida’s Historic Coast has always attracted explorers, from Ponce de Leon to Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Visitors today continue to seek new adventures along its sandy beaches, guided by popular trails that promise to inspire new discoveries.

The Culinary Trail

St. Augustine’s diverse cuisine is best savored slowly. Start at Columbia Restaurant for Latin and Cuban flavors, then head to Harry’s Seafood for Louisiana gumbo and Cajun shrimp etouffee. La Cocina at the Cellar Upstairs in the San Sebastian Winery offers a menu with international flair and a rooftop view of downtown St. Augustine. Asado Life offers an authentic Argentinian grilling experience. Cross the Bridge of Lions to Llama Restaurant for modern Peruvian dishes, then continue to Paladar Cuban Eatery for Cuban cuisine. Local favorites include The Floridian, Lotus Noodle Bar, and Pesca by Michael’s.

The Spirits Trail

Experience Florida’s spirits at The St. Augustine Distillery, where handcrafted bourbon, rum, gin, and vodka are made from locally-sourced ingredients. Nearby, Bourbon & Boards serves small-batch bourbons and charcuterie. A short walk away, City Gate Spirits offers tastings of their unique, locally-crafted liquors, including moonshine, vodka, and whiskey. In Ponte Vedra Beach, The Bourbon Library at Valley Smoke BBQ provides a cozy setting for bourbon and scotch tastings. Wine lovers can tour San Sebastian Winery, while beer enthusiasts can sample brews at Ancient City Brewing, Dog Rose Brewing, Bog Brewing, and Old Coast Ales Brewery and Taproom.

The Sweet Trail

St. George Street is a haven for sweet treats, starting with Tedi’s Ice Cream and Café de Hidalgo’s homemade gelato. The Spanish Bakery and Café, Whetstone Chocolates, and Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops offer delightful sweets. On Aviles Street, Peace Pie serves artisan ice cream sandwiches, and Claude’s Chocolate on Granada Street offers handcrafted bonbons and truffles. Uptown, Crème de la Cocoa provides French macarons and jewel-like desserts. At the beach, Rita’s Italian Ice, Cone Heads, and Mayday Ice Cream are popular stops.

The Coffee with a Twist Trail

St. Augustine’s coffee shops offer more than just coffee. Sweetwater Coffee Bar and Gallery features local artwork, and Witty Whisker Café combines coffee with cat adoption. The Crucial Coffee Café, located in a former blacksmith shop, offers a historic vibe. Juniper Market Café and DOS Coffee and Wine provide cozy atmospheres uptown, while Beachside Caffé by YAMO near the Magic Beach Motel offers a beachside coffee experience. Other local favorites include Kookaburra Coffee and Vilano Coffee Shop.

Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine Fl with sun rising in the background

The Landmark Trail

St. Augustine’s Historic District is a treasure trove for history and architecture buffs. The Castillo de San Marcos, Hotel Ponce de Leon (now Flagler College), Hotel Alcazar (now the Lightner Museum), and Casa Monica Resort & Spa showcase Gilded Age splendor. The Villa Zorayda Museum evokes the Alhambra Palace, while the Gonzalez-Alvarez House (The Oldest House Museum Complex) and Ximenez-Fatio House offer glimpses into colonial life. The Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum, Pena-Peck House, and St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine highlight local history and art. Beyond the Historic District, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, and Fort Matanzas National Monument await exploration. Happy trails!

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