Live and love your time on the St. Augustine beaches.
Starting in the north, just a five-minute drive from the historic downtown area, is Vilano Beach. Often considered a local best-kept secret for beach combing, Vilano offers several access points including Usina and North Beach, secluded locales south of Ponte Vedra Beach.
The area’s main beach is Vilano Beach, which features a fishing pier, waterfront restaurants, town center, pavilion, boardwalk and shops. Also check out Surfside Park for picnic shelters, outdoor showers and Porpoise Point, a popular St. Augustine beach launch for kayaks and personal watercraft.
Located on Anastasia Island, and just a few minutes south of the city’s historic Bridge of Lions, is Anastasia State Park. Between four miles of pristine beach, a tidal salt marsh, protected bird sanctuary and upland hammock, the park is a clear favorite among tourists and locals alike for canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and rest and relaxation.
If you’re looking for more vibrant St. Augustine beaches, then head further south to St. Augustine Beach. Anchored by the St. Johns County Ocean Pier, the main part of the beach offers amenities like a Splash Park for the kids, shaded pavilion for picnicking, volleyball courts, pier fishing and bait shop.
In close proximity to a wide variety of restaurants and shops is St. Augustine Beach’s “A Street” access where cars can drive on the beach and park for a nominal fee between March 1 and Labor Day. A Street also offers public parking with outdoor showers and restrooms.
Didn’t bring a car on your St. Augustine beach vacation? No worries. The Old Town Trolley, the city’s premier tour company, has a Beach Buswhich will drop you off just feet from the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
If you’re looking for one of the less crowded St. Augustine beaches, then head further south to Crescent Beach. Located in the southern area of St. Johns County, Crescent Beach is a wildlife refuge offering a serene, natural setting for beachcombers including boating, fishing, diving and RV and camping facilities.
Live and love your time on the St. Augustine beaches; but remember a few safety tips. No alcohol or glass is allowed on the beach, all pets must be on a leash and, most importantly, the local beaches are home to several federally protected sea turtles that return every year to nest from May 1 to October 31.
FAQs
6 Best Beaches (6)
- 1 Ponte Vedra Beach. Ponte Vedra Beach. Get Directions. ...
- 2 Vilano Beach. Vilano Beach. Get Directions. ...
- 3 Anastasia State Park. Anastasia State Park. Get Directions. ...
- 4 St. Augustine Beach. St. ...
- 5 Butler Beach. Get Directions. ...
- 6 Crescent Beach. Crescent Beach.
If you're looking for one of the less crowded St. Augustine beaches, then head further south to Crescent Beach. Located in the southern area of St. Johns County, Crescent Beach is a wildlife refuge offering a serene, natural setting for beachcombers including boating, fishing, diving and RV and camping facilities.
What part of St. Augustine is best to stay in? ›
8 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in St. Augustine
- Historic District. Step into the timeless charm of St. ...
- Uptown. Delectable dining and lively local culture. ...
- See also. 9 Things to Do in St. ...
- Vilano Beach. St. ...
- St. Augustine Beach. ...
- Anastasia Island. ...
- Lincolnville. ...
- Butler Beach & Crescent Beach.
St. Augustine Beach and tranquil Crescent Beach are two favorites, complete with grassy dunes and windswept stretches of sand, but the protected wildlife sanctuary of Anastasia State Park is one of the area's most peaceful destinations.
Is St. Augustine Beach or Crescent Beach better? ›
Crescent Beach is Wider, Whiter & Cleaner
You'll also find that the sand is whiter and cleaner than other beaches in St. Augustine, primarily because it's well maintained and reason #2 below.
Does St. Augustine have white sandy beaches? ›
St. Augustine is home to white quartz sand beaches and pristine shorelines along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. You'll find 42 miles of unobstructed beaches in St. Augustine, offering ample room to explore and feel secluded.
What is the best month to go to St. Augustine, Florida? ›
The best time to visit St. Augustine is between March and May. During this time, you'll find fewer people, comfortable temperatures and low hotel and airfare rates.
What is the main tourist street in St. Augustine? ›
Augustine's early days, St. George Street was the main street, and today the thoroughfare is still considered the heart of the city. Here, visitors find historic attractions and some of the restaurants, galleries, bakeries and shops for which the city is famous.
Is it safe to walk around St. Augustine at night? ›
St. Augustine is generally considered safe to walk around at night, especially in well-traveled areas such as the historic downtown district. The city takes pride in its historic charm and strives to maintain a welcoming and secure environment for residents and visitors alike.
Can you swim in St. Augustine beaches? ›
Yes, you can swim at St. Augustine Beach as long as you are not within 400 feet of the St. Johns County Ocean Fishing Pier. From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, you will find lifeguards stationed along the shore for your safety.
There are plenty of free or cheap activities to keep the whole family entertained, from exploring the city's historic landmarks to spending a day at the beach. With a little planning, you can take an enjoyable and affordable trip to St. Augustine.
Do you have to pay to get on St. Augustine Beach? ›
From March 1 through September 30, vehicles are required to pay a vehicle access toll and obtain a beach pass. Daily and annual beach passes may be purchased at access ramps.
Is the water clear at St. Augustine Beach? ›
While St. Augustine doesn't have the crystal-clear waters of areas like the Florida Keys, West Palm Beach, and Miami, it is still a great entry place to snorkel. But if you do want crystal clear water, we recommend some of the regional springs located within a day trip of St Augustine.
Where is the best beach in St. Augustine to find shark teeth? ›
Take a walk on St. Augustine or Ponte Vedra Beach and you'll find history dating back to the ice age. Mickler's Landing is a popular access point for visitors and a secret place to find fossilized and modern day shark teeth. You may also find some shark tooth treasures along Vilano Beach.
What is the most pristine beach in Florida? ›
Siesta Key
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Siesta Beach features miles of white quartz sand, crystal-clear water and a lively atmosphere, with nearby dining, shopping and nighttime entertainment.
