Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting One of Florida’s Most Beautiful Beaches
Written by Locals. Trusted by Travelers.
Editor’s Note
Every recommendation in this guide has been carefully chosen to help you experience St. Augustine Beach the way locals do. Some are well-known favorites, while others are the little discoveries that visitors often overlook. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, celebrating a special occasion, escaping for a long weekend, or visiting Florida’s Historic Coast for the very first time, our goal is simple—to help you create unforgettable memories.
This isn’t another list of attractions.
It’s the guide we’d hand to our own friends and family before they arrived.
What is the best part of St. Augustine Beach?
St. Augustine Beach is one of Florida’s most family-friendly beach destinations, known for its wide sandy shoreline, easy public beach access, oceanfront hotels, local restaurants, surfing, fishing, and walkable area around the St. Augustine Beach Pier. Visitors can enjoy beautiful Atlantic sunrises, weekly events like the Farmers Market and Music by the Sea, and a relaxed atmosphere just minutes from historic downtown St. Augustine.
| Best For | Families, Couples, Beach Lovers |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Relaxed Coastal Town |
| Beach Type | Wide Sandy Atlantic Beach |
| Best Sunrise | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Walkability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Public Beach Access | Excellent |
| Drive-On Beach | Yes |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Parking | Free & Paid |
| Lifeguards | Seasonal |
| Wheelchair Accessible | Yes |
Welcome to St. Augustine Beach
The first thing you’ll notice isn’t the ocean.
It’s the sound.
Long before your feet touch the sand, you’ll hear waves rolling onto one of Florida’s most beautiful coastlines. As you step onto the boardwalk, the Atlantic suddenly stretches out before you. Pelicans skim just above the water searching for breakfast. Early morning joggers leave footprints in the sand. Surfers paddle into the first waves of the day while families begin claiming their perfect spot along the shoreline.
There is something calming about St. Augustine Beach that immediately slows your pace.
Unlike many Florida beach towns packed with towering hotels and endless commercial development, St. Augustine Beach still feels approachable. It’s relaxed. It’s welcoming. You can spend the morning watching the sunrise over the Atlantic, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the beach, let the kids cool off at the splash pad near the pier, browse a local farmers market, and end the evening listening to live music—all without feeling rushed.
It’s a beach town that invites you to stay awhile.
Whether you’re visiting for two days or two weeks, this guide will help you experience the very best of St. Augustine Beach—from choosing the perfect hotel to discovering hidden beach access points, favorite local restaurants, sunrise photography locations, surf fishing spots, and experiences that many visitors never realize are here.
Welcome to one of our favorite places on Florida’s Historic Coast.
Quick Facts About St. Augustine Beach
Before we dive in, here are a few things worth knowing.
- Beautiful wide sandy beach along Florida’s Atlantic coast
- Just minutes from historic downtown St. Augustine
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Public beach access every few blocks in many areas
- Home to the iconic St. Augustine Beach Pier
- Excellent surfing, paddleboarding, beach fishing, and shell collecting
- Drive-on beach access available in designated areas south of the pier
- Weekly Farmers Market
- Weekly Music by the Sea concert series
- Dog-friendly in designated areas and times
- One of Florida’s best sunrise beaches
| If You Love… | Rating |
|---|---|
| Family Vacations | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Relaxing Beach Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Walking Everywhere | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Surfing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Fishing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Romantic Getaways | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Luxury Resorts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Nightlife | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| History | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Why Stay at St. Augustine Beach?
This is probably the most important decision you’ll make when planning your trip.
Should you stay downtown?
Or should you stay at the beach?
The answer depends on the kind of vacation you want.
If your dream vacation includes strolling historic streets, exploring museums, shopping, and nightlife, staying downtown makes perfect sense.
But if your idea of a perfect vacation is waking up to the sound of waves, watching sunrise from the beach with a cup of coffee, spending the afternoon swimming or surfing, and walking to dinner without ever moving your car, St. Augustine Beach is hard to beat.
That’s exactly why so many visitors choose it.
The beach itself is the attraction.
You’re not driving to the ocean.
You’re already there.
Instead of packing beach bags into the car every morning, you’re walking a few minutes—or sometimes just a few steps—from your hotel room to the sand.
That changes the entire pace of your vacation.
Children can easily head back for snacks or naps. Couples can enjoy spontaneous sunset walks. Grandparents don’t have to worry about carrying chairs long distances. Families spend more time making memories and less time loading and unloading the car.
It’s one of those conveniences you don’t fully appreciate until you’ve experienced it.
The Beach Is More Than Just a Beach
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is just how much there is within walking distance around the pier area.
If you’re staying near the St. Augustine Beach Pier—especially at the Embassy Suites—you can comfortably spend an entire day without ever getting back into your vehicle.
Walk across to the beach in the morning.
Grab lunch nearby.
Cool off with Italian ice.
Browse local vendors.
Listen to live music.
Watch fishermen casting from the pier.
Take an evening walk under the stars.
That kind of vacation feels effortless.
And that’s exactly what many visitors are looking for.
🌴 Local Tip
One of my favorite things about staying near the pier is how relaxed the day becomes. Once you’ve parked your car, you can spend hours simply exploring on foot. Walk the beach, stop for lunch, grab dessert, watch the waves, and enjoy the evening without worrying about traffic or finding another parking spot.
Why We Recommend Staying Near the Pier
If someone asked me where I’d stay for their very first visit to St. Augustine Beach, I’d almost always recommend staying within walking distance of the pier.
Why?
Because everything comes together here.
The beach.
The splash pad.
Restaurants.
Coffee.
Ice cream.
Fishing.
Live music.
Weekly events.
Wide sidewalks.
Beautiful ocean views.
It’s one of the easiest areas in all of St. Augustine to enjoy without constantly getting in and out of your vehicle.
Families especially appreciate this.
After spending the morning on the beach, children can walk over to the splash pad next to the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion to cool off while parents relax nearby. When everyone gets hungry, several popular restaurants are only a short walk away.
It’s simple.
It’s convenient.
And it feels like the kind of beach vacation most people imagine when they think about Florida.
Featured Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort
Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort
Imagine waking up to the sound of the Atlantic Ocean just outside your window. Embassy Suites is one of the few true oceanfront resorts in St. Augustine, offering direct beach access, spacious suites, a beautiful pool overlooking the ocean, and easy walking access to local restaurants, the St. Augustine Beach Pier, and many of the area’s most popular attractions.
If location is your top priority, it’s difficult to beat the Embassy Suites.
One of its biggest advantages isn’t just the ocean views—it’s everything surrounding it.
Within just a few minutes’ walk, you’ll find yourself on the beach, exploring the fishing pier, watching your kids play at the splash pad, enjoying fresh seafood, grabbing pizza, cooling off with Italian ice, or simply strolling along the sidewalks with the Atlantic Ocean only steps away.
For many visitors, that’s exactly what vacation should feel like.
No rushing.
No constantly driving.
No searching for parking every time you want to do something.
Just park, unpack, and start enjoying St. Augustine Beach.
🌴 Local Tip
If you’re staying at Embassy Suites, plan one day where you don’t use your car at all. Start with sunrise on the beach, grab breakfast, spend the morning by the ocean, enjoy lunch nearby, let the kids play at the splash pad, stop for Rita’s in the afternoon, and finish the evening with dinner overlooking the beach. You’ll understand why so many visitors fall in love with this part of St. Augustine.
Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Beach
Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Beach
Another great choice if being on the beach is what your are looing for. You will be half block from St. Augustine Beach and 15 minutes from downtown historic St. Augustine. Grab dinner at The Garden Grille & Bar’s restaurant and lounge, then head outside to the firepit area and guest gas grills. Keep your routine going in the fitness center with stairclimbers, treadmills, and stationary bicycles.
Where to Eat at St. Augustine Beach
Some of the Best Meals of Your Vacation Might Be Within Walking Distance
There’s something special about eating near the ocean.
Maybe it’s the salt air drifting across the patio. Maybe it’s the relaxed pace that seems to settle over everyone after a few hours on the beach. Or maybe it’s simply that food tastes a little better after spending the morning swimming, surfing, building sandcastles, or walking barefoot along the shoreline.
Whatever the reason, St. Augustine Beach has developed into one of the best places on Florida’s Historic Coast to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
From fresh seafood and locally owned pizza shops to rooftop dining, beach bars, coffee shops, and homemade desserts, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
One of the things we love most about this area is that many of these restaurants are located close enough together that you can easily spend an afternoon exploring on foot.
Lunch can turn into ice cream.
Ice cream can turn into a walk on the pier.
A walk on the pier can become sunset on the beach.
Those are the kinds of vacation days people remember.
A Walkable Beach Vacation
One of the biggest advantages of staying near the St. Augustine Beach Pier is how incredibly walkable everything becomes.
Instead of planning your day around where to park next, you simply decide where you feel like walking.
Spend the morning on the beach.
Walk over to lunch.
Grab an frozen custard afterward.
Browse local shops.
Watch surfers from the pier.
Return to your hotel for a quick break.
Then head back out for dinner as the sun begins to set.
That slower pace is one of the reasons so many visitors choose to stay at the beach instead of downtown.
🌴 Local Tip
Try to leave one day completely unplanned. Some of the best vacation memories happen when you simply wander. Walk the beach, stop somewhere that looks interesting for lunch, grab dessert afterward, and enjoy wherever the day takes you.
Sunset Grill
Sunset Grille
Why We Love It: Located just a short walk from the ocean, Sunset Grill has become a longtime favorite among both locals and returning visitors. The restaurant offers indoor seating, an inviting outdoor patio, and an upstairs balcony where guests can enjoy ocean breezes while watching life along A1A. The menu offers fresh seafood, burgers, tacos, salads, and a wide variety of Florida favorites, but there is one item that deserves special attention.Order the Datil Pepper Wings. Even visitors who don’t normally order wings often leave talking about them.The sweet heat of the locally inspired Datil pepper sauce paired with the restaurant’s creamy housemade blue cheese dressing creates one of those unexpected vacation meals you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.
- 🍤 Must Order: Sunset Datil Wings
- 🥖 Don’t Miss: Baja Fish Sandwich
- 🌿 Outdoor & Balcony Seating
- 👨👩👧 Family Friendly
🌴 Local Tip
If the weather is nice, ask for seating outside or upstairs on the balcony. Enjoying lunch with a warm ocean breeze drifting through is part of the experience.
Salt Life Food Shack
Salt Life Food Shack
Why We Love It: Located only steps from the ocean, Salt Life has become one of the area’s most recognizable restaurants thanks to its lively atmosphere, rooftop seating, and menu filled with seafood, sushi, tacos, burgers, and tropical cocktails. Families appreciate the casual atmosphere, while couples often enjoy dinner upstairs as the afternoon sun begins to fade. Whether you’re stopping in after a day of surfing or simply looking for a fun evening with friends, Salt Life perfectly matches the laid-back personality of St. Augustine Beach.
- 🍤 Must Order: Fried Grouper Taco
- 🥖 Don’t Miss: Tune Tostada
- 🌿 Rooftop Seating
- 👨👩👧 Family Friendly
🌴 Local Tip
If rooftop seating is available, take it. The views and ocean breeze make the meal even more memorable.
Crabby’s Beachside
Crabby’s Beachside
Why We Love It: Located within walking distance of the beach and pier, Crabby’s is an easy choice after a long morning in the sun. Fresh seafood, sandwiches, burgers, and colorful beach cocktails create an atmosphere that feels welcoming whether you’re traveling as a couple, with grandparents, or with young children. It’s exactly the kind of restaurant you hope to find while staying at the beach.
- 🍤 Must Order: Stuffed Shrimp
- 🥖 Don’t Miss: Beachside Nachos
- 🌿 Outdoor Seating
- 👨👩👧 Family Friendly
Antonio’s Pizza
Antonio’s Pizza at the Beach
Why We Love It: Known for generously topped pizzas, delicious hot subs, fresh salads, and quick service, Antonio’s is a perfect choice after spending several hours on the beach. There’s something incredibly satisfying about carrying a hot pizza back to your hotel room after a day in the sun. Families especially appreciate having an easy, affordable option everyone enjoys.
- 🍤 Must Order: Italian Sub
- 🥖 Don’t Miss: Beachside Nachos
- 🌿 Curbside Pickup
- 👨👩👧 Family Friendly Food
🌴 Local Tip
Don’t overlook the subs, especially the Italian sub. They’re just as popular as the pizza with many returning customers.
A1A Burrito Works
A1A Burrito Works
Why We Love It: There is alot to be said about A1ABurrito Works from personal experience. Locals love this pace for their tacos, burritos and nachos. Whatever you do, do not fail to order “The UFO”, in fact, order two and take one with you to eat later.
- 🍤 Must Order: The UFO
- 🥖 Don’t Miss: Nachos
- 🌿 Walkup Window
- 👨👩👧 Family Friendly Food
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Why We Love It: That’s why Rita’s has become such a popular stop after a morning on the beach. Located near the pier, it’s the perfect place to cool off before continuing your afternoon adventures. Whether you choose Italian Ice, creamy frozen custard, or one of Rita’s signature combinations, it’s hard to imagine a better way to end a beach day.
- Must Order: Frozen Custard/li>
- Don’t Miss: Gelati
- Walk Up Window Service
- Family Friendly Food
Coffee Before the Beach
The Kookaburra Beachside
Why We Love It: Known for generously topped pizzas, delicious hot subs, fresh salads, and quick service, Antonio’s is a perfect choice after spending several hours on the beach. There’s something incredibly satisfying about carrying a hot pizza back to your hotel room after a day in the sun. Families especially appreciate having an easy, affordable option everyone enjoys.
- Must Order: Honeybadger Latte
- Don’t Miss: Their Brekkie Pies
- Several Locations In St. Augustine
- Good Coffee
One of the best traditions you can start during your vacation is waking up just a little earlier.
Not because you have to.
Because sunrise at St. Augustine Beach is worth experiencing.
Grab a coffee from one of the local cafés before heading to the sand and watch the Atlantic slowly come alive.
You’ll find dog walkers.
Joggers.
Photographers.
Surfers.
Pelicans gliding just above the waves.
And if you’re lucky…
Dolphins offshore.
It’s one of the quietest—and most beautiful—times of day.
Wednesday Farmers Market at the Pier
If your visit happens to include a Wednesday morning, make time for the weekly Farmers Market held at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion.
This isn’t just a place to buy fresh produce.
It’s an opportunity to experience the community.
Local artists display handcrafted goods.
Bakers offer fresh pastries and breads.
Food vendors prepare delicious breakfasts and lunches.
Musicians often add to the welcoming atmosphere.
It’s relaxed.
Friendly.
And one of the best ways to experience St. Augustine Beach beyond the shoreline.
🌴 Local Tip
Arrive hungry. One of the best parts of the Farmers Market is sampling food from local vendors while chatting with the people who made it.
Music by the Sea
As the sun begins to set, Wednesday evenings become something special.
Music by the Sea brings together live music, great food, and one of the friendliest atmospheres you’ll find anywhere along Florida’s Historic Coast.
Visitors gather on the lawn.
Children dance.
Families spread out blankets and lawn chairs.
Neighbors catch up.
Vacationers instantly feel like locals.
There’s something wonderfully simple about listening to live music with the ocean only a short walk away.
It’s one of those experiences that rarely appears on a “Top 10” list—but often becomes one of the highlights of an entire vacation.
Experience St. Augustine Beach
This Is Why People Come Here
There are beaches all over Florida.
Some are lined with towering condominiums.
Others are known for nightlife, shopping, or crowds.
St. Augustine Beach is different.
It feels authentic.
It invites you to slow down.
Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, life here naturally settles into an easier rhythm. Mornings begin with the sound of waves and coffee in hand. Afternoons are spent in the surf, walking miles of soft sand, or discovering a favorite local restaurant. Evenings end with ocean breezes, live music, and long walks beneath a sky filled with stars.
It’s not about checking attractions off a list.
It’s about enjoying every moment between them.
Sunrise Changes Everything
If there is one experience every visitor should make time for, it’s sunrise.
Even if you’re on vacation.
Even if you’re not a morning person.
Wake up once.
Trust us.
The beach is almost unrecognizable compared to the middle of the day.
The air is cooler.
The crowds haven’t arrived.
The ocean often looks like glass.
Pelicans glide only inches above the waves.
Sandpipers race along the shoreline.
Photographers quietly set up their tripods while surfers paddle toward the first breaking waves.
It’s peaceful.
It’s beautiful.
And it’s one of those moments that reminds you why people travel in the first place.
Many visitors remember sunrise more vividly than anything they did the rest of the day.
🌴 Local Tip
Pick up coffee before heading to the beach and arrive about 30 minutes before sunrise. The changing colors in the sky often create the most beautiful photographs before the sun actually appears above the horizon.
Walking the Beach
One of the greatest luxuries at St. Augustine Beach doesn’t cost a penny.
Just start walking.
Unlike many beaches where development crowds the shoreline, St. Augustine Beach feels wonderfully open. Depending on the tide, you can walk for miles with the Atlantic Ocean beside you, listening to nothing but the rhythmic sound of waves.
No schedule.
No destination.
Just the beach.
Every walk feels a little different.
Some mornings you’ll discover intricate seashells scattered along the sand after overnight tides.
Other days you’ll watch dolphins feeding just offshore.
Sometimes you’ll simply enjoy the breeze while watching families create memories that will last a lifetime.
It’s impossible to rush a beach walk here.
And honestly…
That’s the point.
The St. Augustine Beach Pier
Standing at the end of the St. Augustine Beach Pier gives you an entirely different perspective of the coastline.
Looking north, the beach stretches toward Anastasia State Park.
Looking south, the shoreline seems to disappear into the distance.
You’ll often see surfers catching waves beneath the pier, fishermen casting into deeper water, pelicans diving dramatically for baitfish, and photographers waiting for the perfect light.
Even if you don’t plan on fishing, walking the pier is part of the St. Augustine Beach experience.
Take your time.
Watch the waves.
Look for dolphins.
You never know what you’ll see.
🌴 Local Tip
Visit the pier twice during your vacation—once shortly after sunrise and again near sunset. The atmosphere is completely different, and both are worth experiencing.
Surf Fishing
One of the most relaxing ways to spend a morning at St. Augustine Beach is standing ankle-deep in the surf with a fishing rod in hand.
You don’t need a boat.
You don’t need expensive equipment.
Just the beach, the ocean, and a little patience.
Depending on the season, anglers target species such as whiting, pompano, redfish, bluefish, and flounder.
Many visitors are surprised to learn just how productive fishing from the beach can be.
Even if you’ve never surf fished before, it’s an experience worth trying.
Watching the sunrise while waiting for your first bite is reason enough.
🌴 Local Tip
Early morning and the last few hours before sunset are often the most comfortable and enjoyable times to fish. Even if you don’t catch dinner, spending a quiet morning on the beach is time well spent.
⭐ Don’t Miss This
You don’t need to catch anything for surf fishing to be worthwhile. Standing quietly beside the Atlantic at sunrise while the waves roll in is an experience all by itself.
Surfing
Long before many visitors finish breakfast, surfers are already in the water.
St. Augustine Beach has been a favorite among local surfers for decades, thanks to its consistent Atlantic swell and wide sandy shoreline.
You’ll find beginners taking lessons alongside experienced surfers who have been riding these waves for years.
Watching surfers from the pier is entertaining on its own, but if you’ve ever wanted to learn, vacation is the perfect time to try.
Standing on your first wave is something you’ll never forget.
Paddleboarding
Not every adventure has to be fast.
Some of the most memorable mornings begin standing quietly on a paddleboard.
Whether you’re exploring calmer waters nearby or enjoying a guided excursion, paddleboarding offers an entirely different perspective of Florida’s coast.
The slower pace allows you to notice things you might otherwise miss.
Schools of fish.
Wading birds.
Jumping mullet.
Occasionally even dolphins.
It’s peaceful.
Relaxing.
And suitable for almost every age.
Electric Skateboard Beach Tours
Looking for something completely different?
Electric skateboard beach tours have quickly become one of the most exciting ways to experience St. Augustine Beach.
These guided adventures allow visitors to glide along the packed sand while taking in miles of spectacular coastline.
It’s part sightseeing.
Part adventure.
Part unforgettable vacation memory.
And yes…
It looks just as fun as it sounds.
🌴 Local Tip
Book these tours early in your vacation. If you enjoy them as much as most people do, you’ll have time to go again before heading home.
Metal Detecting
Every morning, you’ll probably notice a few people slowly walking the beach with metal detectors.
They’re searching for something most visitors never think about.
Lost treasures.
After busy weekends and holidays, jewelry, coins, and other small valuables occasionally find their way beneath the sand.
Most treasure hunters aren’t expecting to strike it rich.
They’re simply enjoying another excuse to spend a peaceful morning on one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches.
Even if you don’t discover anything valuable, the experience itself is surprisingly relaxing.
Who knows?
Your vacation might include a story you’ll be telling for years.
⭐ Don’t Miss This
If you’ve never tried metal detecting, vacation is the perfect time. Even if you don’t discover buried treasure, you’ll spend hours walking one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches with a sense of adventure.
🏖️ Ready to Try Beach Metal Detecting? Here’s the Gear We Recommend
One of the most exciting things about walking St. Augustine Beach is that you never know what might be hiding beneath the sand. From modern coins and jewelry to relics lost decades ago, metal detecting has become a favorite hobby for both locals and visitors.
If reading this guide has you thinking, “That actually sounds like fun,” here are a few beginner-friendly tools that we recommend to help you get started. All are available on Amazon and make excellent gifts for outdoor enthusiasts.
🥇 Best Beginner Metal Detector
Nokta Simplex Lite
If you’re just getting into the hobby, this is our top recommendation. It’s lightweight, fully waterproof, easy to learn, and even includes a dedicated Beach Mode, making it an excellent choice for St. Augustine Beach. It offers features normally found on much more expensive detectors while remaining beginner friendly.
Nokta Simplex Lite Metal Detector
Why We Love It: Great for beginners. Waterproof for shallow water use. Dedicated Beach Mode. Lightweight enough for long walks. Excellent value
Check Today’s Price on Amazon →🥈 Best Mid-Range Upgrade
Minelab Vanquish 340
If you think metal detecting might become a long-term hobby, the Vanquish 340 is an outstanding step up. Its Multi-IQ technology performs especially well in mineralized and salty beach environments, making it a favorite among many beach detectorists.
MINELAB Vanquish 360 Metal Detector
Why We Love It: Excellent beach performance. Very easy to use. Lightweight. Great target separation. Outstanding value.
Check Today’s Price on Amazon →🥉 Best Premium Choice
Minelab X-Terra Pro
For serious treasure hunters, the X-Terra Pro offers more advanced features while remaining approachable for newer detectorists. It’s fully waterproof and frequently recommended by experienced hobbyists as a detector you can grow into rather than outgrow.
MINELAB X-Terra PRO Metal Detector
Why We Love It: Fully waterproof. Excellent depth. Great for beaches and parks. A detector you’ll enjoy for years.
Check Today’s Price on Amazon →Don’t Forget a Sand Scoop
A quality sand scoop will save you a tremendous amount of time. Instead of digging with your hands, simply scoop the sand, shake it, and let the sand fall away while your find stays behind.
Long Handle Metal Detecting Sand Scoop
Why We Love It: It makes recovering coins, rings, and other small finds much faster while saving your back from constant bending. Long-handle stainless steel scoops are especially popular for beach detecting because they handle wet sand well and are built to resist corrosion.
Check Today’s Price on Amazon →A Pinpointer Is Worth Every Penny
Ask almost any experienced detectorist what accessory they would buy first, and many will say a pinpointer.
Once your detector finds a target, a handheld pinpointer quickly locates the exact spot, making recovery much faster and reducing the size of the hole you need to dig.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT
Why We Love It: This waterproof handheld pinpointer trusted by hobbyists around the worldSpeeds up recoveries. Waterproof. Easy to use. Helps locate small targets precisely.
Check Today’s Price on Amazon →🏆 Local Tip: Early mornings after a busy weekend, holiday, or beach festival are often the most rewarding times to go metal detecting. Be sure to follow all local regulations, fill any holes you dig, and leave the beach cleaner than you found it. That’s how we keep St. Augustine Beach beautiful for everyone.
Seashells & Nature
One of the best things about St. Augustine Beach is that no two mornings are exactly alike.
A passing storm can uncover beautiful shells overnight.
Changing tides reshape the shoreline.
Pelicans gather where schools of baitfish move through.
Tiny ghost crabs dart across the sand after sunset.
Sea oats sway in the breeze behind the dunes.
Even after countless visits, there’s always something new to notice.
Nature has a way of making every walk feel unique.
Sea Turtle Season
Between late spring and early fall, another remarkable visitor quietly arrives.
Sea turtles return to Florida’s beaches to nest.
While nesting areas are carefully protected, visitors may notice marked nesting sites along portions of the beach.
These incredible animals have been returning here for generations.
If you’re fortunate enough to witness a hatchling event during your visit, remember to admire from a respectful distance and always follow posted guidelines.
Helping protect these remarkable creatures ensures future generations will enjoy the same experience.
🌴 Local Tip
If you’re walking the beach before sunrise during nesting season, stay aware of marked nesting areas and avoid disturbing them. It’s a wonderful opportunity to teach children about protecting Florida’s wildlife.
One of the Best Beaches in Florida for Doing… Nothing
Here’s something that almost every travel guide forgets to mention.
You don’t have to fill every hour.
Some of the best vacation memories happen when absolutely nothing is planned.
Reading a book beneath an umbrella.
Watching children chase waves.
Listening to the ocean.
Taking an afternoon nap.
Building sandcastles.
Collecting shells.
Watching clouds drift overhead.
Sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t another attraction.
It’s giving yourself permission to simply enjoy where you are.
And St. Augustine Beach might be one of the best places in Florida to do exactly that.
🌴 Local Tip
One morning during your vacation, leave your phone in your beach bag for an hour.
Watch the surfers.
Listen to the waves.
Feel the breeze.
Notice the pelicans, the laughter of children, and the rhythm of the tide.
Years from now, those quiet moments may be the ones you remember most.
☀️ Vacation Moment
“You’re sitting in a beach chair with your toes in the sand. Your kids are laughing in the waves, a pelican glides overhead, and you realize you haven’t looked at your phone in over an hour. That’s the magic of St. Augustine Beach.”
☀️ Perfect Beach Day at St. Augustine Beach
6:15 AM
Wake up before sunrise and grab a coffee from a local café.
6:45 AM
Walk onto the beach and watch the sun rise over the Atlantic.
8:00 AM
Enjoy breakfast before the crowds arrive.
9:00 AM
Spend the morning swimming, surfing, shell collecting, or simply relaxing on the beach.
12:30 PM
Head to Sunset Grill for lunch.
Order the Datil Pepper Wings with housemade blue cheese.
You’ll thank us later.
2:00 PM
Cool off with Rita’s Italian Ice.
2:30 PM
Walk the fishing pier.
Watch surfers.
Let the kids enjoy the splash pad.
4:00 PM
Take a peaceful walk along the shoreline or browse local shops.
6:30 PM
Dinner at Salt Life Food Shack or Crabby’s Beachside.
Sit outside if possible.
8:00 PM
End your day with one final barefoot walk along the beach beneath the stars.
Vacation doesn’t get much better than this.
Continue Planning Your St. Augustine Adventure
If this guide helped you plan your beach vacation, these local guides will help you make the most of your time on Florida’s Historic Coast.
- 🏨 Where to Stay in St. Augustine: Best Hotels, Resorts & Inns
- 🍳 The Local’s Guide to the Best Breakfast Restaurants in St. Augustine
- 🌅 The Best Sunset Spots in St. Augustine
- 🏖 The Complete Guide to St. Augustine’s Best Beaches
- 👨👩👧 The Complete Family Guide to St. Augustine
- ❤️ The Perfect Romantic Weekend in St. Augustine
- 🚤 Best Water Activities in St. Augustine
- 🌧 Rainy Day Things to Do in St. Augustine
- 🎣 The Complete Guide to Fishing in St. Augustine (future guide)
- 🐬 The Complete Guide to Anastasia State Park (future guide)
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Augustine Beach
Is St. Augustine Beach free?
Yes. Public access to St. Augustine Beach is free, and there are numerous public beach access points along the coastline. Some parking areas are free, while others require paid parking depending on the location and season.
Can you swim at St. Augustine Beach?
Absolutely. Swimming is one of the most popular activities, especially during the warmer months. Always pay attention to surf conditions, flags, and lifeguard instructions when available.
Is St. Augustine Beach family friendly?
Very much so. Wide sandy beaches, gentle surf on many days, nearby restaurants, the splash pad, playgrounds, and family-friendly accommodations make it one of the best beaches in Northeast Florida for families.
Is St. Augustine Beach better than downtown?
Neither is better—they simply offer different experiences. Downtown is ideal for history, shopping, museums, and nightlife, while St. Augustine Beach is perfect for relaxation, oceanfront accommodations, beach activities, and slower-paced vacations.
Can you drive on St. Augustine Beach?
Yes. Vehicles are permitted on designated portions of the beach south of the St. Augustine Beach Pier. Always check current conditions, tides, and county regulations before driving onto the sand.
Where are the best beach access points?
Public beach access points are located throughout St. Augustine Beach, making it easy to find convenient entrances whether you’re staying in a hotel, vacation rental, or visiting for the day.
Is there a fishing pier?
Yes. The St. Augustine Beach Pier is one of the area’s most popular attractions for sightseeing, fishing, photography, and watching surfers.
What fish can you catch from the beach?
Depending on the season, anglers commonly catch whiting, pompano, redfish, bluefish, flounder, and other Atlantic species.
Is surf fishing allowed?
Yes. Surf fishing is permitted along much of the beach. Be sure to review current Florida fishing license requirements and local regulations before fishing.
Is St. Augustine Beach good for surfing?
Yes. The beach offers consistent Atlantic waves that make it popular with both beginner and experienced surfers.
Can you rent paddleboards?
Yes. Several local outfitters offer paddleboard rentals and guided tours in nearby waterways.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on much of St. Augustine Beach when kept on a leash. Always clean up after your pet and follow posted regulations.
Is there parking near the beach?
Yes. Both free and paid parking options are available throughout St. Augustine Beach, including areas near the pier and numerous public access points.
Are there public restrooms?
Yes. Public restrooms are available near the St. Augustine Beach Pier and at several public beach facilities.
Are there outdoor showers?
Yes. Several public access areas provide showers for rinsing off sand after your beach day.
Is the beach wheelchair accessible?
Several beach access locations offer accessible boardwalks, and beach wheelchairs may be available through local programs.
What is the best time to visit?
Spring and fall offer excellent weather with fewer crowds, although St. Augustine Beach is enjoyable year-round.
What is the best time for sunrise?
Arrive about 30 minutes before the posted sunrise time to enjoy changing colors and a quieter beach.
Can you see dolphins?
Yes. Dolphins are regularly spotted offshore, especially during calm morning hours.
Are there sea turtles?
Yes. Sea turtle nesting season generally runs from spring through early fall. Protected nests are marked along portions of the beach.
Is there a Farmers Market?
Yes. The Wednesday Farmers Market at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion features local vendors, fresh food, baked goods, produce, and handmade crafts.
What is Music by the Sea?
Music by the Sea is a popular seasonal concert series held near the St. Augustine Beach Pier featuring live music, local food vendors, and a relaxed community atmosphere.
Where should first-time visitors stay?
Many first-time visitors enjoy staying near the St. Augustine Beach Pier because of its walkability, nearby restaurants, beach access, and family-friendly attractions.
How far is St. Augustine Beach from Historic Downtown?
St. Augustine Beach is only about a 10- to 15-minute drive from Historic Downtown St. Augustine, making it easy to enjoy both during your vacation.
Is St. Augustine Beach worth visiting?
Absolutely. Its wide sandy shoreline, beautiful Atlantic sunrises, walkable restaurants, public beach access, family-friendly atmosphere, and relaxing pace make it one of the best beach destinations on Florida’s Historic Coast.
🌴 Let Us Help You Plan the Perfect St. Augustine Vacation
You’ve explored the beaches, discovered local restaurants, found the best places to stay, and started planning your adventure. If you’d like a little extra help putting everything together, our local travel specialists are here to make the process easier.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, girls’ trip, golf weekend, anniversary celebration, or your very first visit to Florida’s Historic Coast, we’ll help you choose the right accommodations, recommend experiences that fit your travel style, and create a personalized itinerary designed around what matters most to you.
Through our trusted travel partner, Venturewell Travel Co., we can also assist with hotels, vacation packages, attractions, travel insurance, cruises, and other travel services—saving you time while helping you make the most of your trip.
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🌴 Until Next Time…
The best vacations aren’t measured by how many attractions you visited or how many photos you took.
They’re measured by quiet sunrise walks, conversations over dinner, children laughing in the waves, discovering a favorite local restaurant, and the moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Thank you for letting us be part of your journey.
Wherever your Florida adventure takes you next, we hope you’ll experience it like a local.
Safe travels, and we’ll see you again soon.
