Top Things to do in St. Augustine Florida
Top Things to do in St. Augustine Florida
As you may know, we recently moved back home to Florida. Being born and raised in the Sunshine State, I was BEYOND excited to be back close to family and the beach! The beach has always been my #1 destination spot for summer fun, weekend relaxing, evening walks and any other reason I can find to get my toes in the sand. There’s just something therapeutic about listening to the ocean waves roll and crash, while soaking up the sun. Now that we are settled in (kinda, still unpacking a few boxes teehee) we look forward to any extra moment we have to get out and revel in all the fun that St. Augustine has to offer.
There is so much more to St. Augustine than the beach and today I’m going to share some of my favorite things to do whether you are visiting for the day or enjoying a long weekend. I know you will love the city just as much as I do.
I don’t know about you, but the first thing on my mind is always “where are we going to eat?” There are endless dining options in the area but here are a few of my favorites:
1. Columbia Restaurant – This is a favorite because it is located in the heart of the Historic District and is a total vibe. If you love Spanish food, check out the menu. Empanadas are to die!
2. The Floridian – In their own words, the restaurant is a “synthesis of down-home southern comfort foods, and lighter, healthier, vibrant and creative dishes—with many vegetarian options”. This spot offers outdoor dining and a very “Florida” feel, hence the name.
3. One Twenty Three Burger House – I’m a sucker for a good burger. We recently discovered this gem.
4. Burrito Works Taco Shop – There are two locations in the city but we hit up the one on the beach (A1A). It really is the ultimate taco shop and was again voted #1 burrito in St. Augustine. Grab a taco and walk across to the beach. So yum!
5. Ka’Meli Hawaiian Shaved Ice - Shaved ice runs are our daily when we’re close to Ka’Meli’s. No website available but I’ve been a fan of the coconut shaved ice with marshmallow topping for so many years now! You can check out the Yelp listing for the address and if you happen to be driving by, do yourself a favor and stop for a treat! It has just recently undergone a change in ownership/business name but is still a fav.
St. Augustine is a cozy city that is filled with history. Fun activities and places I’ve enjoyed to visit in St. Augustine include:
1. Historic District – The Historic District is the oldest part of the city and the nation’s oldest city. It is filled with opportunities to see first-hand the architecture of early design and influences that have shaped the area. You’ll have the chance explore the district and enjoy shopping (including local vendors), snacking and discovering historic sites.
2. Walking Ghost Tour – Walking and riding ghost tours are available. I enjoyed the walking tour as we toured the most “haunted” spots of St. Augustine’s Historic District at dusk. Spooky!
3. Castillo de San Marcos – Also known as “The Fort”, it is one of the main attractions in St. Augustine. Built by the Spanish to protect their claims in the New World, you’ll purchase a ticket at the booth on site in order to tour the fortress. Also a fun thing to catch is the firing of the cannon as part of the weapons demonstration.
4. Lighthouse and Maritime Museum – If you’re looking for a room with a view, the top of the lighthouse is the place to be. It is a remarkable view of the ocean and the city.
5. St. Augustine Beaches – I saved the best for last. When it’s all said and done, the beach is the reason that I visit St. Augustine. Just south of St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach is our most visited beach spot. Grab a towel, water and sunscreen and plant yourself towards the ocean.
Check out SOOOOO many more options of Things to Do in St. Augustine, as well as places to stay, on their website. St. Augustine is truly the place you will love to visit time and time again. Enjoy your travels!
Also, St.Augustine is pretty "Instagrammable"! Keep your eye out for a "Most Instagrammable Spots in St.Augustine" blog post.