St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a treasure trove of history, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a delightful 6-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and fun for the whole family. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and Historic Downtown

Morning:

• Arrive in St. Augustine and check into your hotel or vacation rental. If you’re looking for a family-friendly place, consider staying near the historic district for easy access to attractions.

Afternoon:

• Start your adventure with a stroll through Historic Downtown. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Kids will love exploring the fort and learning about its history.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The Columbia Restaurant, a family-friendly spot with delicious Spanish cuisine. Don’t forget to try their famous 1905 Salad!

Day 2: Museums and More History

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the Lightner Museum. The building itself is a historic hotel, and the museum features fascinating exhibits that will intrigue both kids and adults.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at The Ice Plant, a unique restaurant with a great atmosphere. Afterward, take a short walk to the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and pirate lore!

Evening:

• Take a leisurely walk along St. George Street, where you can explore shops and grab some ice cream at The Hyppo.

Day 3: Beach Day at Anastasia State Park

Morning:

• Pack a picnic and head to Anastasia State Park. Spend the morning enjoying the beach! The park has beautiful sandy shores and is perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or just relaxing.

Afternoon:

• Have your picnic lunch at one of the park’s picnic areas. Afterward, consider renting bikes to explore the park’s trails or try out some kayaking.

Evening:

• Head back to town and enjoy a casual dinner at Salt Life Food Shack, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a laid-back atmosphere.

Day 4: Alligator Farm and Historic Tours

Morning:

• Visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. It’s not just alligators; there are also birds, monkeys, and a great zip line over the alligator exhibits for the adventurous!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, take a historic trolley tour. This is a great way to see the city and learn about its rich history. You can hop on and off at various stops, making it very family-friendly.

Evening:

• For dinner, try O'Steen's Restaurant, famous for its fried shrimp. It’s a local favorite and very family-friendly!

Day 5: Fort Matanzas and Scenic Views

Morning:

• Take a short drive to Fort Matanzas National Monument. You can take a free ferry ride to the fort, which is a fun experience for the kids. Explore the fort and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Afternoon:

• Head back to St. Augustine and have lunch at The Floridian, which offers delicious Southern-inspired dishes. Afterward, visit the Old Jail Museum for a fun and slightly spooky experience!

Evening:

• Enjoy a sunset at St. Augustine Beach. Pack a light dinner or snacks to enjoy on the beach while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Day 6: Shopping and Departure

Morning:

• Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at the local shops on St. George Street. Don’t forget to pick up some local treats!

Afternoon:

• Have a farewell lunch at The Blackfly Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and family-friendly atmosphere.

Evening:

• Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance for one last stroll along the waterfront or a visit to the Mission of Nombre de Dios, where you can enjoy the beautiful grounds and views.

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Check the local event calendar; St. Augustine often has festivals and events that are family-friendly.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and hats for the beach days!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in St. Augustine! Enjoy your trip! 🌞🏖️🏰