Top Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida in 2024

by | Nov 24, 2023 | Travel By State, Beaches, Florida, Small Town

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, has been charming visitors for centuries. With its cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and beautiful beaches, it’s no wonder that St. Augustine is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sightseeing, or cultural experiences, St. Augustine has something to offer everyone.

Top Outdoor Activities in St. Augustine, Florida

76 feet of steel, Freedom was built in Norfolk, Virginia and brought to St. Augustine in 2001 by owners Captain John Zaruba, and his wife, Admiral Sarah. Freedom is the only schooner charter vessel between Charleston and the Florida Keys.  With nearly 2400 square feet of sail, she is an honorable testament to naval history and to the privateers of the early 1800s.

1. Spend the day on the beaches of St. Augustine:

With over 40 miles of breathtaking coastal shoreline, tourists are bound to find the perfect place to relax, sunbathe, swim, walk, picnic, or breathe in the fresh air. The best beaches for swimming in St. Augustine are St. Augustine Beach, Vilano Beach, and Crescent Beach.

2. Rent paddleboards or go kayaking:

Kayak rentals are available at several locations in St. Augustine, including Lattitude 29. Kayaking is a great way to explore the waterways of St. Augustine and see wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.

3. Bike rentals and peddling the oldest city in America:

Renting a bike is a great way to get around the city and see the sights. Several companies offer bike rentals in St. Augustine, including Island Life Bike Rentals.

4. Book a Sailing Experience 

The views of St. Augustine should not be missed from the deck of a sailing tour.  One of our personal favorite boat tours is aboard the Schooner Freedom. 

5. Explore Anastasia State Park:

Anastasia State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park has over 1,400 acres of beaches, marshes, and forests to explore. Visitors can go hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and camping in the park.

6. Go for a walk at Cape Francis Beach:

Cape Francis Beach is a beautiful and unspoiled beach that is perfect for a relaxing walk.

Historical Sightseeing Not To Be Missed

Image: 

A towering white cross stands proudly against a clear blue sky in St. Augustine, Florida. The cross is adorned with intricate carvings and stands atop a hill overlooking the historic city. It is a symbol of faith and hope for many people, and a reminder of the city’s rich history.

The Great Cross is a replica of the original cross that was erected in St. Augustine by Spanish settlers in 1565. The original cross was destroyed in a fire in 1776, but it was rebuilt in 1928.

The Great Cross is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a place of pilgrimage for many people. It is a beautiful and inspiring sight, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who see it.

A towering white cross stands proudly against a clear blue sky in St. Augustine, Florida. The cross is adorned with intricate carvings and stands atop a hill overlooking the historic city. It is a symbol of faith and hope for many people, and a reminder of the city's rich history.

The Great Cross is a replica of the original cross that was erected in St. Augustine by Spanish settlers in 1565. The original cross was destroyed in a fire in 1776, but it was rebuilt in 1928.

The Great Cross is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a place of pilgrimage for many people. It is a beautiful and inspiring sight, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who see it.

7. Tour Castillo de San Marcos: Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century Spanish fort that is now a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history.

8. Find the Tiny Oldest Wooded Schoolhouse:

The Tiny Oldest Wooded Schoolhouse is a small schoolhouse that was built in 1783. It is now a museum that is open to the public.

9. Explore the Lightner Museum:

The Lightner Museum is a museum that houses a collection of art, artifacts, and memorabilia. Visitors can tour the museum and learn about its history.

10. Climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse:

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a 165-foot-tall lighthouse that was built in 1824. Visitors can climb the lighthouse to the top and enjoy stunning views of the city.

11. Visit the Shrine of Our Lady La Leche and the Great Cross:

The Shrine of Our Lady La Leche and the Great Cross is a religious site that is popular with pilgrims from all over the world.

12. Walk the grounds of Flagler College:

Flagler College is a beautiful college campus that is worth taking a walk around. The college is home to several historic buildings, including Ponce de Leon Hall, which was built in 1887.

13. Stroll through the historic streets of downtown St. Augustine:

The historic streets of downtown St. Augustine are lined with colorful buildings, historic churches, and beautiful public spaces. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the many museums and historic sites in downtown St. Augustine.

14. Take an Old Town Trolley Tour:

Old Town Trolley Tours offer a great way to see the sights of St. Augustine. The tours are narrated and provide visitors with an overview of the city’s history and attractions.

Conclusion

St. Augustine is a beautiful and historic city that has something to offer everyone. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including outdoor adventures, historical sightseeing, and cultural experiences. I hope this blog post has helped you plan your trip to St. Augustine. I hope these suggestions help you

When considering where to stay in St. Augustine, Florida check out the St. Francis Inn

Need more historic town inspirations in America?  Check out Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Alleia Chattanooga Review

Looking for the best Italian food in Chattanooga? As a Jersey Italian girl, I had to try Alleia, a local favorite buzzing with claims of "best in town." Here's my honest review, highlighting the ambiance, service, food, and whether it truly lives up to the hype. ...

read more