The charming city of St. Augustine can be found in the northern part of the state of Florida, where ocean views and sunny weather draw millions of visitors and retirees to the state. The city was founded in 1556 by a Spanish admiral and is still the oldest European-established settlement in the United States. The detailed historic architecture and character of the city and its beautiful buildings have drawn thousands to its doors. The Florida National Guard now calls St. Augustine home, as it is located right near the water’s edge. See this surprisingly glorious city and fell as you’ve stepped into a European vacation.
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Sunny Days and Lovely Weather in St. Augustine
The city spans about 10 square miles and is located in the northeastern corner of Florida, right along the Atlantic Ocean. It has a humid sub-tropical climate meaning winter can be anywhere from about 50 degrees to 70 degrees, and summers average out at the high 80s to low 90s, making it a mellow climate that can be visited year round. It has a large number of sunny days, and many people will be out and about enjoying them.
St. Augustine Beach
Of course, if you’re located along the ocean people are going to want to go to the beach! The beach has a nice wide section of sand, so it doesn’t seem crowded, and you can enjoy your area. It is much less crowded than the crazy beaches of Miami or other tourist destinations in Florida. The area is great for walking too, and there are some delicious seafood restaurants along the way. Bring your dog as it is a dog-friendly beach and you both can play in the sand. Pay a dollar and take the romantic walk out on the pier to get a better view of the waves and the ocean on a bright, sunny day.
Flagler College
While visiting a college campus may seem like an odd idea while on your trip, you will be amazed at the sight. The architecture is stunning. Students provide you with the history and tour, and this is a photographers dream. The buildings are beautiful, and many see the sight from a distance and wander over to see what it is. It was originally built as a hotel and now serves as one of the top colleges in the country. The garden area is just as delightful as the architecture, so grab a seat on a bench and start taking those photos.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
Ferry over to see and learn about the neat Fort Matanzas National Monument. The fort was known as the “back door” to the city St. Augustine, protecting the city from pirates and other threats. A boardwalk over a ½ mile long is available and is ideal for walking. Your pet can come as long as it stays on a leash and doesn’t go inside the visitor’s center. Visitors report seeing dolphins in the water on the way over. Climb to the second level and get some lovely views of the ocean. Admire the old cannon and enjoy a touch of history on your trip.
Alligator Farm Zoological Park
The Alligator Farm is fun for all ages. It has a zoo-like setting and quality and has transformed into one of the best reptile wildlife sanctuaries in the world. They also have monkeys, birds, snakes and more to see too. Shows are carried out for all visitors at the top of every hour, and don’t miss feeding time! There is also a zip line that goes over the alligators for the thrill seekers. Make sure to see the “Lagoon” and the ginormous saltwater crocodile. Bring the kids and spend all day here exploring and having fun.
Castillo de San Marcos
The Castillo de San Marcos is an old masonry fort with a fascinating history and layout. The fort lies in a square shape with a courtyard in the middle, and it is located right along the water’s edge. You can see the windows where the cannons popped out to fire and defend the fort. Make sure to see the cannon show and the short film that is provided to visitors. Take a guided tour or explore on your own and see all the exhibits that are nicely done. Enjoy the views of the water, the massive fort, and St. Augustine.
St. Augustine Distillery Company
The Distillery Company is a great place to a grand tour. Not only is the tour interesting and entertaining, but they give you free samples of their gin, run, and vodka samples to try out. There is a rooftop restaurant to ease your hunger pains at, and the trolley makes stops right at the distillery enabling you to catch it and move on so you don’t have to drive. The tour is short but informative, and a gift shop is on site to buy anything you sampled that you liked. This is a neat way to spend a couple of hours in St. Augustine.
Sunny St. Augustine
This city has a devout gathering of visitors who like to return every year and still have a great time. The European flair in the architecture and history is extraordinary, and the beaches are large and uncrowded. The sun shines most of the year, and the mild weather makes sunny St. Augustine a good idea all year long.
