St. Augustine, Florida Travel Guide: What to See & Do (Updated 2026)
Did you know that St. Augustine was once considered a part of Spain? This makes for captivating cobblestone streets, plenty of fascinating history, and a unique culture. Located on the east coast of Florida, St. Augustine has something for everyone. If you love the beach, history, enjoy shopping or just want to be in the warm weather, St. Augustine is for you. This guide to St. Augustine will go over everything you need know to plan the perfect trip to the historical city.
I visited the, once Spanish colony on my east coast road trip and was lucky enough to explore and learn all about St. Augustine. Honestly, I think that this beach town is highly underrated and cannot recommend it enough for a Florida vacation. Read on to discover the oldest city in the United States!
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A Quick Guide To St. Augustine
About St. Augustine
History - St. Augustine is one of the oldest settlements in the United States. So, as you can imagine there is a ton to do and see here. Established by the Spanish in 1565, St. Augustine played a role in the slave trade. If you decided to visit St. Augustine you will have the opportunity to learn all about it.
Plugs: type A & B
Safety - St. Augustine is super safe, but always take normal precautions. (Avoid walking alone at night, keep belongings on your person, etc.)
Weather - Weather in Northern Florida is super hot May - October (80s - 100s F). It can get chilly November - April (50s - 80s F). Avoid St. Augustine in the fall and summer altogether because it is unbearably hot and it is hurricane season. The best time to visit St. Augustine is the spring! My favorite month in Florida is March.
Getting Around St. Augustine
Fly into Jacksonville airport and either uber, rent a car, or take a bus to St. Augustine. This drive will take around 50 minutes.
St. Augustine is super walkable, especially if you are staying in the downtown area.
You can also take the trolly around the downtown which will save you some money.
Best St. Augustine Hotels
Southern Oaks Inn - The Southern Oaks Inn is a wonderful place to stay because of the comfortable rooms at cheap prices. If you are traveling will a dog you should definitely stay at the Southern Oaks Inn. They have a dog park, a dog friendly pool ,and a complimentary dog bed for your pup during your stay. I stayed here with my three dogs and we had a blast.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa - Located in Downtown St. Augustine, The Casa Monica Resort & Spa is the most luxurious and high-end hotel in St. Augustine. The Casa Monica is the oldest hotel in St. Augustine, opening its doors in the 1800s. Marvel at the gorgeous chandeliers and bohemian decor at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa.
What To Do In St. Augustine
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument holds so much of history. Being the oldest masonry fortification in the United States, it is one of St. Augustine's claims to fame. With construction starting in 1672 by the Spanish, Castillo de San Marcos embodies St. Augustine's history. The fort was used to defend the small city from invaders, like pirates and is made up of Coquina Shell Stone which absorbs cannon fire.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
A restored 1876 keepers house and on a mission is to preserve and keep alive the stories of the Nation's Oldest Port. When visiting the lighthouse you will have the option to climb all the way to the top, learn more about the history of St. Augustine, and see authentic cannons from shipwrecks in the 18th century.
St. Augustine Beach
The St. Augustine Beach is one of the nicest beaches in the country. Known for their gorgeous sunrises, white sand, and clear water - a beach day at the St. Augustine Beach is a must. While I was by the beach I did a lovely sunset cruise that was amazing.
Old Jail Museum
The Old Jail Museum is unlike any jail you have seen before. This jail is built like a hotel because, in the 1800s, the people of St. Augustine did not want an ugly jail that would scare off investors. The Old Jail Museum is honestly so cool to visit because of its uniqueness. If you want to learn about historical accounts and more of what being in the Old Jail was like - do this tour so you can learn about it from a guide.
Lighter Museum
The Lighter Museum is a lovely place to visit if you enjoy art and history. Founded in 1948, the Lighter Museum houses exhibitions, natural history pieces, Americana art and, decorative art. The Lighter Museum also holds events every week, like yoga and art classes.
St. George Street
St. George Street is one of the most unique streets in America. It looks like pirates once roamed it, which they did. On St. George Street you will find souvenir shops, boutiques, taverns, restaurants, and more.
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Built in 1565, the Cathedral Basilica sits in the center of St.Augustine and is one of the most significant religious landmarks in the United States as it is oldest Catholic parish in the continental U.S. It is open daily for anyone to visit.
Pirate Museum
The Pirate Museum focuses on the Port Royal and Jamaica time period which was the height of the Golden Age Piracy. You will feel like you have transported back in time at St. Augustine's Pirate Museum.
Where To Dine In St. Augustine
Best Coffee shops in st. augustine
St. Augustine Coffee House - Located on St. George Street, St. Augustine Coffee House offers lovely lattes and a cozy environment.
The Kookaburra Downtown - Kookaburra Downtown serves delicious Ethiopian coffee. Enjoy outdoor seating and insanely good coffee at Kookaburra. Make sure to try one of their famous donuts.
Sweetwater Coffee Bar and Gallery - The Sweetwater Coffee Bar and Gallery is your one stop shop for everything breakfast. At The Saltwater Coffee Bar you will find great coffee, bagels, pastries, muffins, and more.
best Restaurants in st. augustine
Burrito Works Taco Shop - Located right off the beach, Burrito Works Taco Shop is insanely good. Burrito works serves food with the best ingredients including hormone free-meat. I loved the chicken tacos.
St. Augustine Fish Camp - Located on the beach, enjoy a seafood dinner next to the ocean. St. Augustine Fish Camp serves seafood with a southern twist.
Prohibition Kitchen - Prohibition Kitchen is a gastropub located right on St. George Street. At Prohibition Kitchen you will find live music, amazing cocktails, and classic pub food.
The Drunken Horse St. Augustine - The Drunken Horse is a French restaurant in the downtown area. Serving up traditional french cuisine the highly rated Drunken House is one the pricer side and requires a reservation.
Meehan's Irish Pub & Seafood House - Who doesn't love an Irish pub? Meehan's Irish Pub & Seafood House serves up guinness, pub food, and almost always has live music!
Best Tours To Take In St. Augustine
St. Augustine Sunset Cruise - This affordable St. Augustine Sunset Cruise is a lovely way to see the city on the water. On this Sunset Cruise you will pass by Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Bridge of Lions, Fountain Of Youth Archaeological Park, St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.
St. Augustine Ghost Tour - Being the oldest city in the nation, St. Augustine is bound to have a ghost or two. On this St. Augustine ghost tour you will take a haunted walk around the downtown area, hear spooky stories, visit the Old Fort, and cemeteries.
Guided Tour of St. Augustine - On this guided tour of St. Augustine you will see all of the best spots in the city with a local guide and van transportation to each stop.
Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine - This Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine is the ultimate way to relax. Try six different kinds of wines while enjoying a Florida sunset on a boat on this wine tasting cruise.
St. Augustine Walking Tour - If you enjoy explore cities on foot, you will love this St. Augustine walking tour. On this walking tour you will visit Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, Spanish Military Hospital Museum, Plaza de la Constitución, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine,
Historic Tours of Flagler College, and more.
St. Augustine FAQs
Is St. Augustine the oldest city in the us?
Yes. St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by the Spanish.
Is St. Augustine dog friendly?
Yes! I traveled to St. Augustine with my three dogs and we had a blast. The best hotel in St. Augustine for dog owners is the Southern Oaks Inn.
Is St. Augustine Beach nice?
Yes. The St. Augustine Beach is one of the nicest in the country. You will find clear water and white sand at the glorious St. Augustine Beach.
Is St. Augustine safe?
Yes. St. Augustine basically runs on tourism, so locals make sure it is a safe place to be. Just take normal precautions (beware of pickpockets, be vigilant walking at night.)
A Quick Guide To St. Augustine, Florida Wrap Up
St. Augustine is easily one of the best places to visit in the United States. The European style architecture, gorgeous beaches, and museums make St. Augustine such an interesting destination. I hope that this guide to St. Augustine helps you plan the best trip ever. If you liked this post I think you will love 8 unique places to visit in Florida.
Happy Travels,
Daisy
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