St Augustine Attractions

St. Augustine offers a variety of accommodations catering to all budgets and preferences, from charming boutique hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some recommended areas to stay in St. Augustine:

1. Historic Downtown: Staying in the historic district allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, with easy access to attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos, Flagler College, and St. George Street’s shops and restaurants.

2. Vilano Beach: For a more laid-back beach experience, Vilano Beach offers a tranquil retreat just a short drive from downtown St. Augustine. Visitors can enjoy beachfront accommodations and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Anastasia Island: Home to St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park, Anastasia Island is a great choice for those looking to spend time by the beach and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking.

Accommodation options in St. Augustine range from budget-friendly motels and inns to upscale hotels and resorts. Here are some recommendations based on different budgets:

Budget accommodations:

- Best Western Bayfront Inn: Located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, this hotel offers affordable rates and a convenient location close to attractions.

- Hampton Inn St. Augustine-Historic District: Another budget-friendly option in downtown St. Augustine with comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast.

- The Saint Augustine Beach House: A budget-friendly beachfront hotel on Vilano Beach offering cozy rooms and access to the beach.

Mid-range accommodations:

- The Casa Monica Resort & Spa: A luxurious hotel in downtown St. Augustine with a historic Spanish-inspired design and upscale amenities.

- The Collector Inn: A boutique hotel located in the historic district offering stylish rooms, a courtyard pool, and complimentary wine hour for guests.

- Guy Harvey Resort on St. Augustine Beach: A beachfront resort on Anastasia Island offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to the beach.

Luxury accommodations:

- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island: For those looking for a luxurious experience near St. Augustine, this beachfront resort offers elegant rooms, fine dining, a spa, and golf courses.

- Ponte Vedra Inn & Club: Located in Ponte Vedra Beach, this upscale resort offers luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa, fine dining, and access to golf courses and other recreational activities.

- Casa Monica Resort & Spa: This iconic hotel in downtown St. Augustine offers luxury accommodations, upscale dining options, a spa, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.

In terms of accessible accommodations, many hotels in St. Augustine offer ADA-compliant rooms and facilities to accommodate seniors and individuals with disabilities. It’s recommended to contact the hotel directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and requirements. Additionally, some vacation rental properties may offer wheelchair-accessible amenities for those looking for more independent accommodations.

Transportation options in St. Augustine include the following:

1. Airport Transfers: if you are arriving at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), you can take a shuttle service, taxi, or rental car to get to St. Augustine, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. Some hotels also offer airport transfer services, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation.

2. Public Transport: St. Augustine does not have a comprehensive public transport system, but the Sunshine Bus Company does operate in the area. This service offers limited routes covering some parts of the city and neighboring areas. You can find information on routes and schedules on their website.

3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation: The St. Johns County Council on Aging offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. They provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential trips. You can contact them to inquire about eligibility and availability of their services.

4. Navigating the City: St. Augustine is a walkable city, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located in the historic district. You can easily explore the city on foot or by renting a bicycle. If you prefer to use a car, parking can be limited in some areas of the historic district, so it’s advisable to use public parking lots or garages. Additionally, there are several tour companies offering trolley tours of the city, providing a convenient way to see the sights and learn about the history of St. Augustine.

Overall, while transportation options in St. Augustine may be limited compared to larger cities, there are still options available for getting around the city and exploring all it has to offer.

1. St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: This popular attraction features a wide variety of animals, including exotic birds, reptiles, and of course, alligators.

2. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: Explore the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, with historical exhibits and beautiful waterfront views.

3. Anastasia State Park: This coastal park offers swimming, picnicking, and hiking opportunities, as well as a beautiful sandy beach perfect for the whole family.

4. St. Augustine Beach: Enjoy a day of fun in the sun at this family-friendly beach, with opportunities for swimming, sandcastle building, and beachcombing.

5. Lightner Museum: Housed in a historic hotel, this museum features a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and antiques sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

6. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Explore oddities and curiosities from around the world at this quirky museum, featuring interactive exhibits and mind-bending illusions.

7. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb to the top of the iconic lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and learn about the area’s maritime history at the museum below.

8. Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: Discover the legendary \"Fountain of Youth\" at this historical park, with interactive exhibits, reenactments, and beautiful gardens to explore.

9. Colonial Quarter: Step back in time to the colonial era with interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and hands-on activities for the whole family.

10. Carousel at Davenport Park: Let the kids enjoy a ride on the historic carousel at Davenport Park, located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district.

St. Augustine is a culturally rich city with a variety of experiences to enjoy. One of the most popular cultural attractions is the Lightner Museum, housed in a historic hotel and filled with artifacts and artwork from the Gilded Age. The city is also home to the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, where visitors can learn about the area’s maritime history and even climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view.

Throughout the year, St. Augustine hosts several local festivals that celebrate the city’s heritage and culture. One of the most famous is the Nights of Lights festival, held during the holiday season when the entire city is illuminated with millions of twinkling lights. Another popular event is the St. Augustine Seafood Festival, which showcases the area’s delicious seafood and features live music and entertainment.

For those looking to discover hidden gems in St. Augustine, the city offers plenty of off-the-beaten-path attractions. The Oldest Wooden School House, Fort Mose Historic State Park, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park are just a few examples of lesser-known gems that offer unique insights into the city’s history.

When it comes to nightlife and entertainment, St. Augustine has a lively scene with plenty of options for visitors. The historic district is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and live music venues where you can enjoy a night out on the town. Additionally, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts concerts and events year-round, attracting both local and national acts.

Overall, St. Augustine offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, festivals, hidden gems, and entertainment options that showcase the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

1. Budget-Friendly: The Floridian

The Floridian offers a range of affordable options that celebrate Southern cuisine with a modern twist. They have plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options on their menu, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

2. Fine Dining: Collage Restaurant

Collage Restaurant is a top-rated fine dining restaurant in St. Augustine, offering a blend of Mediterranean and American cuisine. Their menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of options for those with food allergies or specific dietary preferences.

3. Allergy-Friendly: The Present Moment Café

The Present Moment Café is a vegan and raw food restaurant in St. Augustine that caters to a variety of dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free options. Their menu is full of creative and flavorful dishes that are sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.

4. Dietary-Conscious: The Kookaburra

The Kookaburra is a cozy café in St. Augustine that specializes in Australian-style coffee and sandwiches. They offer a range of dietary-conscious options, including gluten-free bread and dairy-free milk alternatives. Their friendly staff is also happy to accommodate other dietary preferences as needed.

1. **Currency Exchange**: The currency used in St. Augustine, Florida is the United States Dollar (USD). It is recommended to exchange currency at local banks or exchange offices for better rates, as opposed to doing it at airports or hotels where rates may be less favorable.

2. **Financial Tips**: It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, as many local vendors may not accept card payments. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your cards being blocked for suspicious activity.

3. **Local Laws**: Respect local laws and regulations, including speed limits, alcohol consumption laws, and smoking restrictions. Drug laws are strictly enforced in the United States, so refrain from any illegal activities.

4. **Customs**: When interacting with locals, politeness and a friendly attitude are greatly appreciated. Tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, taxis, and other service industries, typically around 15-20% of the total bill.

5. **Etiquette**: Dress appropriately when visiting churches or religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals. It is considered polite to greet others with a smile and a handshake.

6. **Safety Advice**: St. Augustine is generally a safe city, but it is always wise to be cautious of pickpockets and petty theft in crowded tourist areas. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas and be aware of your surroundings.

7. **Emergency Numbers**: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including 911 for emergencies, local police, and medical services.

8. **Health Precautions**: Make sure to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications with you. Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the warmer months.

9. **Cultural Sensitivities**: Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of your behavior, especially in sacred or historical sites. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless invited to do so.

10. **Language**: English is the primary language spoken in St. Augustine. While most locals are fluent in English, learning some basic phrases in Spanish can be helpful, as it is also widely spoken in the area.

By following these essential tips for travelers in St. Augustine, you can have a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring this historic city.