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Guide Book

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Welcome to St. Augustine, Florida!

A Guided Tour to See St. Augustine Florida in a Jiffy!

St. Augustine, known as the Nation’s Oldest City, is a treasure trove of history, charm, and coastal beauty. While you are here to compete in the Kyokushin tournament or if you are just tagging along to soak up the sun and rich culture, this guide will help you make the most of your stay. Here are the top things to do, places to eat, and landmarks to explore.

1 Castillo de San Marcos

Visit the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., offering stunning views of Matanzas Bay and an immersive look into colonial history. This beautiful historic landmark is located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay. Built and opened in 1695, the Castillo de San Marcos is a historical place you would not want to miss.

Notes: Cashless Park/ Credit/ Debit Cards Only.

2 St. George Street

Wander down this pedestrian-only street filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Colonial Quarter for a step back in time. St. George Street holds history as part of the oldest buildings in town along with a plethora of shops to visit for trinkets to take home and foods of mixed cultures to try.

It costs nothing to take a walk right down the center of the street without the headache of traffic. Well, vehicles that is! St. George Street is one of the greatest Tourist spots in town. A stroll you wouldn’t want to miss!

3 St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Prove your resilience as you climb 219 steps for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the St. Augustine’s beautiful city and coastline. The museum offers fascinating insights into maritime history. The Lighthouse has kept it’s light shining since 1874. Step way up into history and breath in the views of true historic beauty and dedication here.

Notes: The Lighthouse Tower may close due to weather and other events.

4 Anastasia State Park

Relax on pristine beaches, kayak in the estuarine tidal marshes, or enjoy a peaceful stroll in this natural haven. This is the place to put your feet in the sand and ground yourself to become one with this amazing planet we call earth! Don’t miss this opportunity to decompress and enjoy being in the present, it cost nothing to feel so good to be alive!

5 Flagler College

Take a guided tour of this architectural masterpiece, once the grand Ponce de León Hotel, and admire its Spanish Renaissance design. The design is mesmerizing!

6 Lightner Museum

Founded in 1948, explore a diverse collection of art, antiques, and curiosities housed in the historic 1888 Alcazar Hotel a Gilded Age resort hotel commissioned by Standard Oil executive Henry Flagler.

7 Fort Matanzas National Monument

Take a ferry ride to this small but significant fort that once guarded St. Augustine’s southern river approach.

Notes: Due to weather and Hurricanes Ferry Rides may not be available.

8 St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

Perfect for families, Reptile Lovers and Animal Enthusiast! This park features reptiles from around the world, including a thrilling zip-line course. Learn about these giant dinosaurs and the difference between alligators and crocodiles. Take a trip into ancient Egypt with the Nile crocodiles and see all of the exotic mammals and birds along the way. This is what makes education super fun for all ages! Don’t forget to hold one of these amazing reptiles before you leave!

9 The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Learn about the city’s first settlers and drink from the legendary spring that Ponce de León believed would grant eternal youth.

10 Vilano Beach

Just minutes from downtown, this serene beach is ideal for shelling, surfing, or simply unwinding. There are many sites to see and things to do in such a relaxing environment such as visiting the North Shores Community Center or boating with the Red Boat Water Tours. One of St. Augustine beaches is a must to visit to experience a piece of serenity.

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Food Places

St. Augustine is celebrated for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, making it a haven for food lovers. Renowned for fresh, locally sourced seafood, the area boasts an array of mouthwatering options, including shrimp, oysters, grouper, and mahi-mahi. Beyond seafood, the town offers a rich variety of cuisines that reflect its unique cultural heritage. Visitors can savor authentic Spanish tapas, indulge in hearty Italian pastas, enjoy the bold flavors of Caribbean dishes, and relish the comforting taste of Southern barbecue.

But the delights don’t stop there. St. Augustine also caters to those with a sweet tooth, offering delectable handmade chocolates, creamy gelato, and traditional Florida Key lime pie. Foodies can explore craft coffee shops, gourmet burger joints, farm-to-table restaurants, and even creative vegan eateries. With so much to choose from, it’s no surprise the historic town was named one of the South’s Best Small Towns in 2023 by Southern Living Magazine as part of its annual The South’s Best feature. Whether you’re seeking fresh seafood or diverse international flavors, St. Augustine continues to solidify its reputation as a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts.

The Floridian

Serves up Southern comfort food with a modern twist, focusing on fresh and local ingredients.

Collage Restaurant

Perfect for a romantic dinner, offering a creative menu of international dishes.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Enjoy Cajun and Creole cuisine with views of the historic district.

Beachcomber St. Augustine

Located near Anastasia State Park, this casual spot offers fresh seafood and beach vibes.

Crave Food Truck

Healthy and delicious wraps, salads, and smoothies served in a laid-back waterfront setting.

These are only few hot spots to eat in St. Augustine, there are many more to choose from! It’s all up to you and what you are craving!

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Beaches Near Town

There are 3 main beaches near town that are all within 20 minutes of each other. It is based upon what you prefer, such as white sands or a plethora of seashells. Either way the beach is a place you will not want to miss.

St. Augustine Beach

A family-friendly beach with soft sand, a fishing pier, and plenty of nearby restaurants.

Vilano Beach

Known for its quieter atmosphere and panoramic views, this beach is great for relaxation.

Crescent Beach

About a 15-minute drive south, this beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
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Landmarks and Attractions

1 Bridge of Lions

An iconic landmark connecting downtown St. Augustine to Anastasia Island.

2 Aviles Street

The oldest street in the U.S., filled with art galleries, cafes, and history.

3 Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

A stunning example of Spanish Colonial architecture.

3 Old Jail Museum

Explore the fascinating history of law enforcement in the 19th century.

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Tips for Your Visit

Getting Around

01 Getting Around

St. Augustine is very walkable, but consider renting bikes or using the Old Town Trolley for convenient sightseeing within the down area. If you are traveling further distances think about taking cab or the faithful rideshare apps such as Uber or Lyft. St. Augustine’s Surrounding areas for Beaches, Hotel Stays, Food and attractions are no more than a 20-30 minutes’ drive in moderate to heavy traffic.

Weather

02 Weather

This is our transition period. Its best to pack for mild, sunny weather but bring layers for cooler evenings. Check out the link below to see the weather most likely for May.

Parking

03 Parking

Use public lots or the Historic Downtown Parking Facility for easy access to major attractions.

Enjoy your stay in St. Augustine and best of luck in the Kyokushin tournament! Whether you’re here for competition, history, or relaxation, this enchanting city has something for everyone.