Welcome to St. Augustine—America’s oldest city and a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, centuries-old landmarks, and sun-drenched waters. As a first-time visitor, you’ll want to balance historic exploration with coastal adventures. This guide shows you where to stay, what to see, and why a boat cruise in St. Augustine with Fury St. Augustine tops every itinerary.
Where to Stay: Historic Inns & Waterfront Hotels
Choosing the right base makes all the difference. These options blend Old World charm with modern comforts:
- Casa Monica Hotel: Built by railroad magnate Henry Flagler in 1888, this Moorish-Revival landmark offers lush courtyards and easy access to historic downtown.
- Hyatt Place St. Augustine/Vilano Beach: Overlooking Vilano Beach, enjoy spacious rooms, ocean views, and a quick drive to historic sites.
- Magic Beach Hotel: A boutique retreat steps from the sands, ideal for families who want beach time and city sights.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach: Suites with private balconies bring you seaside breezes, plus free cooked-to-order breakfast before a day of exploring.
Must-Do Attractions: History & Hidden Gems
St. Augustine brims with sites that span more than 450 years of history—and a few off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Iconic Landmarks
- Castillo de San Marcos: The nation’s oldest masonry fort (constructed 1672–1695) offers guided tours, cannon firings, and bay views.
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb 219 steps for panoramic vistas, then explore shipwreck relics and interactive exhibits.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Finds
- The Colonial Quarter: Step into a living history village complete with blacksmith demonstrations and musket drills.
- Lincolnville Museum & Cultural Center: Learn about the city’s 19th‑century African‑American heritage through compelling exhibits.
- Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: Sip from Ponce de León’s fabled spring and wander reconstructed Timucua habitats.
Where to Dine: From Casual to Coastal Fine
Whether you crave fresh seafood or Southern classics, St. Augustine’s culinary scene satisfies every palate.
- The Floridian: Farm‑to‑table Southern fare in a cozy, modern setting—don’t miss the locally sourced shrimp and grits.
- Catch 27: Sustainable, seasonal plates spotlight Gulf seafood. Patio seating adds a breezy waterfront vibe.
- A1A Ale Works: Overlooking the bayfront, sip craft brews alongside fish tacos and grouper sandwiches.
- Beaches at Vilano: This local favorite serves beachfront cocktails and sunset views—perfect before your evening activities.
Waterfront Adventures: Sail, Cruise, & Explore
No visit is complete without experiencing St. Augustine from the water. Fury Water Adventures—locally renowned—offers several unforgettable choices.
Live Music Sail St. Augustine
- Drift along the waterfront on a Live Music Cruise in St. Augustine, complete with local musicians and open-air seating.
- Enjoy unlimited sodas, beer, wine and margaritas as the sun dips below the skyline.
Daytime Cruises St Augustine, FL
- Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a dolphin-watching St. Augustine, FL, eco-tour.
- Learn marine facts from expert naturalists aboard Fury’s spacious catamaran.
Night of Lights Boat Tour, St Augustine
- During the holiday season, see the city aglow on a night of lights boat tour in St. Augustine, passing festive displays and twinkling shorelines.
Romantic Sunset Cruises St Augustine
- Share a toast on a sunset cruise in St. Augustine featuring panoramic views and a serene atmosphere—ideal for couples.
Off‑Water Experiences: Culture & Entertainment
Balance your time on deck with land-based discoveries.
- Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour: Uncover eerie tales on a haunted trolley ride through the city’s old prison and graveyards.
- St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum: Hands‑on pirate artifacts and interactive exhibits bring swashbuckling adventures to life.
- Live Music Cruise St. Augustine: Extend the fun with an evening sail featuring local bands and sing-along favorites.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Getting Around
- Walkable Downtown: The historic core is compact—lace up your sneakers for easy exploration.
- Parking: Limited downtown; consider remote lots with shuttle service.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring & Fall: Mild weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for sunset sail in St. Augustine.
- Summer: Warm waters beckon, but plan for an occasional afternoon shower.
- Winter Holidays: The night of lights boat tour in St. Augustine transforms the city into a festive spectacle.
What to Pack
- Comfortable Shoes: Cobblestone streets require sturdy soles.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen keep you cool on deck and ashore.
- Light Layers: Coastal breezes can be cool at sunset or during evening cruises.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
From historic landmarks to waterfront thrills, St. Augustine delivers an unforgettable first visit. Book your boat cruise in St. Augustine with Fury St. Augustine to experience the city from a fresh perspective—whether you choose a dolphin boat tour, live music sail, or romantic sunset cruise.
Ready to plan your getaway? Contact Fury St. Augustine today and discover your St. Augustine story on land and sea!
Sources:
[1] https://www.noaa.gov/tropical-cyclone-climatology[2] https://www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm
Kyra Gorman is a seasoned marketing director based in Key West, where she has lived and worked for the past decade. As the marketing director for a leading company in the watersports industry, Kyra has helped shape the brand’s reputation as a trailblazer in the field, using innovative strategies to connect people with the thrill and beauty of water-based adventure. With a passion for both the ocean and storytelling, she brings a unique perspective to her work, blending business acumen with a deep appreciation for the island lifestyle.