This is one of America’s oldest settlements, founded by Pedro Menendez de Aviles on the feast day of St Augustine in 1565. Although the original town burned down, it was rebuilt and it is this picturesque old quarter which draws the tourists today.
This historic district is fairly compact and the pedestrianised St George Street is the main focus, leading from the old City Gates to the Plaza de la Constitution. Highlights include America’s oldest schoolhouse, the Pena-Peck House (built in the mid 18th century for the Spanish Royal Treasurer), the Spanish Military Hospital (a reconstructed hospital to afford visitors a glimpse into the lives of early settlers), Prince Murat House (the home of Napoleon’s nephew Prince Archille Murat) and the lovely Ximenez-Fatio House (built as a private residence in the late 18th century before becoming a genteel boarding house in the mid 19th century). Visits are also recommended to the Lightner Museum, with its impressive collection of Victorian fine arts as well as mummies and shrunken heads, and Flagler College (opened in 1888 as the Ponce de Leon Hotel by Henry Flagler).
 But the district has many other attractions which have placed it firmly on the tourist map, including long sandy beaches, international golf courses and modern marinas.
Vilano Beach is the closest, as well as one of the quietest, local beaches - just a short drive from St Augustine centre over Usina Bridge. As well as public beach access there are picnic sites, waterfront restaurants and a whole host of watersports to choose from.
St Augustine beach can be found on the nearby barrier island of Anastasia. Here you will find a good selection of shops and restaurants as well as a popular fishing pier. The Anastasia State Park is a protected bird sanctuary and there is an admission fee for entrance and parking. As well as 5 miles of beautiful beaches, there are nature trails, hiking paths, boat ramps, canoe rentals and picnic areas. If you’re looking for something a little quieter then Crescent Beach, to the south, is ideal for a spot of beach combing and looking for shells.
|
To the north of the island is Fort Clinch, built to defend the Cumberland Sound during the American Civil War. Wardens and volunteers regularly don Confederate and Union uniforms for historical re-enactments to give visitors a taste of Civil War life. The surrounding park is home to some beautiful beaches as well as nature and hiking trails. The island’s only campgrounds are also located here.
