St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, is a beautiful coastal destination with a rich history and modern attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, planning a family vacation, or just looking for a weekend escape, St. Augustine offers a wide range of activities for everyone. From historic landmarks to boat rentals, this guide provides a complete overview of the best things to do in St. Augustine.
1. St. Augustine Restaurants on the Water
One of the best ways to enjoy St. Augustine is by boat, docking at waterfront restaurants with stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. These eateries provide the perfect setting for a relaxed meal by the water.
- Cap’s on the Water: Located just north of downtown, Cap’s offers a relaxed vibe with fresh seafood and unbeatable views. This is our favorite spot to dine when boating.
- Kingfish Grill: Situated near the Camachee Cove Marina, this spot is perfect for boaters looking to dock and dine. The crab cakes here are top-notch.
- The Conch House: Just south of the inlet near Salt Run, The Conch House is known for its Caribbean-inspired menu. The restaurant offers a fun island vibe with outdoor seating overlooking the marina. We highly recommend waiting for one of the tiki tables with a view.
2. Things to Do in St. Augustine for Couples
St. Augustine is the perfect city for a romantic getaway. Its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and scenic waterfront create the ideal atmosphere for couples to explore together.
- Dolphin and Wildlife Eco Tour: A must for couples wanting to explore historical sights and wildlife. Consider booking a glass-bottom kayak tour with a guide for a unique experience.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Sit back and relax as you ride through the historic district near Castillo de San Marcos.
- Vilano Beach: Pack a picnic and enjoy a romantic sunset at Vilano Beach.
3. Boat Tours in St. Augustine
Boat tours are a popular way to see St. Augustine, offering beautiful views of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Bridge of Lions, and plenty of wildlife. While there aren’t many glass-bottom boat tours available, kayaking tours like Get Up and Go Kayaking provide a great alternative.
- Black Raven Pirate Ship: A family-friendly pirate-themed boat adventure where you can battle pirates and reclaim your treasure—great for all ages.
- Dolphin Tours: Perfect for maximizing your chances of seeing dolphins and other local wildlife.
- St. Augustine Boat Tour: Highly rated tours with experienced captains who will take care of your every need.
4. Best Bars in St. Augustine
After a day of sightseeing, unwind with a drink at one of St. Augustine’s best bars. Whether you prefer craft beer or cocktails, the bar scene has something for everyone.
- Odd Birds Bar: Known for its lively atmosphere and weekly silent disco on Thursdays.
- No Name Bar: Located across from Castillo de San Marcos, this dive bar is perfect for a cold beer and live music with a great view.
- Dos Coffee & Wine Bar: A quieter option, this cozy spot serves both coffee and wine—ideal for first dates or a casual evening out.
5. St. Augustine Boat Rentals
Exploring St. Augustine by boat is one of the best ways to experience the city’s natural beauty and historic landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on a pontoon or an exciting fishing trip on a center console, there are plenty of rental options available.
- Freedom Boat Club: Reserve boats all the time with Freedom Boat Club.
- Boatsetter: A great way to try boating in the area. We recommend renting the Key West 239 DFS, our favorite boat.
- Bluewater Adventure: Transparent pricing and options ranging from 2-hour rentals to 6-hour adventures.
6. St. Augustine Fishing: Where to Cast a Line
St. Augustine is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer saltwater or freshwater fishing, there are plenty of spots to cast a line.
- Offshore Fishing: Head to Nine Mile Reef for deep-sea fishing, where you can catch kingfish, cobia, and snapper.
- Inshore Fishing: The Intracoastal Waterway is perfect for catching redfish, trout, and flounder.
- Fishing Charters: If you’re new to the area, consider booking a local fishing charter to show you the best spots.
7. St. Augustine Fishing Pier
If you prefer fishing from land, the St. Augustine Fishing Pier is a great place to spend the day. Located at St. Augustine Beach, the pier extends into the Atlantic and offers space for anglers of all skill levels.
- Vilano Pier: A large pier located by the Vilano Bridge, known for excellent fishing opportunities.
- Salt Run: A smaller pier with a fish-cleaning station and great views.
- St. Johns Fishing Pier: The pier no longer reaches the water except at high tide, but it’s been redone to offer more beach access.
Conclusion
St. Augustine offers something for everyone, and exploring the area by boat makes it even better. From enjoying waterfront dining and sunset cruises to fishing and wildlife tours, getting out on the water adds a new level of excitement to your visit. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly adventure, St. Augustine has plenty to offer.