St. Augustine

With 42 miles of beach stretching along the Atlantic shore just beyond the city’s architecturally preserved center, St. Augustine is a treasured historic destination on Florida’s northeast coast. Combining authentic old-world charm with amazing beaches, enthralling events, and family-friendly entertainment, St. Augustine’s allure stretches well beyond its brick-lined streets and Spanish colonial architecture.

The Timucua inhabited this region of what is now St. Augustine for 500 years before the arrival of Spanish settlers. On Sepember 8, 1565, Spanish admiral Don Pedro Menendez and a group of 600 settlers founded the area, giving it its present name. Don Pedro chose the name St. Augustine in honor of the saint whose feast day fell on the day he first sighted land.

Today, St. Augustine welcomes over 2 million visitors annually, with many coming from the southeast, including Jacksonville, Atlanta, Savannah, Charlotte, and Birmingham. As the “Nation’s Oldest City”, St. Augustine is a must-stop getaway on Florida’s Historic Coast. The area draws a wide mix of travelers, from couples (largest segment), to families, and multi-generational groups.

Located just an hour south of Jacksonville, and minutes from the beaches of Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine provides travelers of all ages the chance to explore remarkable Spanish forts and castles while enjoying plenty of sunshine fun. Speaking of age, be sure to visit Ponce de León’s Fountain of Youth Archaeology Park to add your name to the guest registry dating back to 1868.

Being in St. Augustine feels like stepping into a living postcard. The cobblestone streets, 450+ years of history, and vibrant arts scene create an atmosphere that’s unlike anywhere else in Florida. You can catch live music under the stars, grab oysters on the water, and walk to a centuries-old fort—all in the same afternoon.

With year-round events ranging from film festivals to seafood fests, and from St. Augustine’s renowned Nights of Lights to skimboarding championships and historic reenactments, the “Nation’s Oldest City¨ sustains its energy and enchantment. Plan your beach vacation getaway to St. Augustine for oceanfront views, historic landmarks, and local charm. Start exploring now!