Discover St. Augustine: What to See and Do in the Nation's Oldest City

During your getaway vacation at the Beach Front Motel in Flagler Beach, you're already soaking in some of the best coastal vibes Florida has to offer. But let us let you in on a little local secret: just an hour up the road is St. Augustine, a place that’s perfect for a day trip if you’re in the mood for a bit of history, culture, and good eats.

Head out early and start your day at the Castillo de San Marcos — the oldest fort in the U.S. You can walk around, soak up some history, and take in the killer views of the Matanzas River. There's also the watchtower at Fort Matanzas and Fort Mose, a free-slave settlement. After that, wander down St. George Street. It’s pedestrian-only, so it’s ideal for a slow stroll. The brick-lined street is packed with cool little shops, galleries, and spots to grab a coffee. Don't miss the Colonial Quarter, a 2-acre living history museum. It’s like stepping back into the 1700s, with costumed re-enactors providing a vivid sense of life in St. Augustine hundreds of years ago.

Speaking of history, did you know that St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest city? Founded in 1565, it has more than 450 years of stories to tell. You can really feel the history in the air as you walk around its narrow cobblestone streets. Or take an Old Town Trolley Tour to hop on and off at various sites, including Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth. It’s a fun stop where you can learn about the explorer's quest for eternal youth and maybe even take a sip from the famous spring.

When lunchtime rolls around, you’ve got some great options. If you’re in the mood for something Southern and fresh, The Floridian is where it’s at. Everything’s local and delicious. But if seafood is calling your name, you’ve got to try O'Steen’s Restaurant. Their fried shrimp is legendary around here, and there’s a reason locals keep coming back. Or try award-winning Spanish/Cuban cuisine at The Columbia Restaurant, where the dining rooms are filled with hundreds of hand-painted tiles and Spanish-style fountains.

After you’ve filled up, it’s time to dive into some of St. Augustine’s culture. The Lightner Museum is a cool spot, especially if you’re into art and history. It’s housed in the stunning former Alcazar Hotel, built in 1888 by Henry Flagler, and features an eclectic collection of fine and decorative arts, including everything from Victorian-era antiques to shrunken heads. The building itself is a work of art, with its grand architecture and beautiful courtyards. For something a little more hands-on, check out the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. It’s fun and full of stories from the pirate days that’ll spark your imagination, with interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts that bring the swashbuckling world of pirates to life. You can even see one of the few surviving original Jolly Roger flags.

Next, head over to the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. This iconic black-and-white striped lighthouse is not just a pretty sight; it’s a piece of living history. Built in 1874, it stands 165 feet tall and offers some of the best views in the area. The climb up the 219 steps is a bit of a workout, but once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the city of St. Augustine, and the surrounding marshes. It’s a photographer’s dream, so don’t forget your camera!

Of course, St. Augustine has beaches. The city stretches out along the Atlantic with miles of sandy shores on Anastasia Island. Whether you’re looking for the serene, untouched beauty of Anastasia State Park or the vibrant, bustling vibe of St. Augustine Beach, you’ll find a beach that suits your mood.

As the day wraps up, cruise back down to Flagler Beach. If you’re not ready to call it a day, stop at one of the restaurants along the A1A. Nothing beats a sunset dinner with ocean views after a day of exploring.

So there you have it—a day trip to St. Augustine that’ll give you a taste of history, some local flavors, and plenty of memories to take back to the Beach Front Motel. The northeast coast of Florida is rich with history and adventure, and St. Augustine is one of the most iconic spots to explore.