Anastasia Island, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to find the hidden spots that make Anastasia Island, Florida, a paradise by the sea? This island off St. Augustine's coast has something for everyone. It's perfect for a chill beach vacation or an exciting journey into history and nature.

Just minutes from St. Augustine, Anastasia Island mixes natural beauty, history, and fun for families. You'll find beautiful beaches, state parks, and landmarks. Plus, there's a great local food scene to explore.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the rich history and architecture of St. Augustine, the Oldest City in the United States
• Relax on the soft, sandy beaches of Anastasia Island and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and windsurfing
• Discover the stunning natural wonders of Anastasia State Park and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
• Indulge in the local food and drink scene, including the St. Augustine Distillery and iconic coastal restaurants
• Unwind at scenic resorts and embrace outdoor adventures on Anastasia Island

Explore Historic St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a city on Florida's northeastern coast. It's the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the U.S., dating back to 1565. Walking its cobblestone streets and seeing the Spanish colonial architecture takes you back in time.

Old Town Trolley Tour

The Old Town Trolley Tour is a great way to dive into St. Augustine's history. This tour takes you to key landmarks like the historic St. Augustine, Spanish colonial architecture, and the 16th-century fortress of the Castillo de San Marcos. Guides share stories that make the city's history come alive.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Don't miss the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century stone fortress. It's a symbol of St. Augustine's Spanish past. Inside, you'll see amazing architecture and views of the St. Augustine Inlet. This visit lets you understand the city's role in colonial times.

"St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in America dating back to 1565."

Relax on Pristine Beaches

Anastasia Island is a paradise for beach lovers along Florida's northeastern coast. It's known for its stunning and serene beaches. Each beach, from St. Augustine Beach to Crescent Beach and Butler Beach, offers a unique experience.

St. Augustine Beach stretches for four miles and is loved by many. It has a kids' splash pad, volleyball courts, a shaded pavilion, and a fishing pier. The white sand and gentle waves make it perfect for coastal relaxation.

Crescent Beach and Butler Beach are peaceful spots for those who want to escape. These Anastasia Island beaches are famous for their white sand and calm vibe. They're ideal for a relaxing beach day.

Looking to enjoy the sun, build sandcastles, or just relax? Anastasia Island's beaches are perfect for your coastal escape. Dive into the beauty of these pristine shores and let go of your worries.

Discover Nature's Wonders

Anastasia Island and the area around it are perfect for exploring coastal nature and wildlife. You can dive into the beauty of Anastasia State Park and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Reserve). These places offer an amazing outdoor adventure.

Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park sits by the Atlantic Ocean and has 4 miles of untouched beaches. You can hike through beautiful trails and look for dolphins, sea turtles, and other local animals. It costs $8 per vehicle to get into the park, making it a great choice for nature lovers.

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, or GTM Reserve, covers 73,000 acres. It has dunes, tidal lagoons, and forests, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and seeing wildlife. You can follow trails and waterways to enjoy the area's stunning beauty.

Looking for a quiet beach walk, a tough hike, or a calm kayak trip? Anastasia Island and the nearby areas have lots of ways to enjoy Florida's coastal beauty.

Anastasia Island, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Anastasia Island is a treasure off the coast of historic St. Augustine. It's full of history, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant food scene. There's something for everyone here.

Begin by visiting the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This 17th-century Spanish fort tells the island's story. Walk its walls and learn about its important history.

Then, head to Anastasia State Park for outdoor fun. You can hike, birdwatch, or enjoy water sports like kayaking. The park's salt marshes and tidal creeks are perfect for adventure.

For nature lovers, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is a must-see. It has salt marshes, tidal creeks, and sand dunes. You can birdwatch, hike, and see wildlife here.

Don't miss the local food and drink scene. Try the Salt Life Food Shack for fresh seafood and amazing cocktails. Enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean too.

Anastasia Island has history, nature, and beach fun. It's perfect for making memories. Plan your trip now and see what this beautiful place offers.

Experience St. Augustine's Iconic Attractions

Visiting Anastasia Island and St. Augustine means exploring its famous spots. You'll find the tall St. Augustine Lighthouse and the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. These places offer stunning coastal views and chances to see wildlife up close. They show off the area's deep history.

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Climb the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for amazing views. This 165-foot tower from 1874 lets you see the city, the harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean. You can also check out the museum to learn about its history and how it helped sailors.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

At the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, see all 24 types of crocodilians. Be amazed by American alligators, Nile crocodiles, and the huge saltwater crocodile. The park also has other native animals, letting you get close and learn about their lives and habits.

Whether you like the historic lighthouse or seeing wildlife, these spots will make your trip memorable. They're key parts of your adventure in Anastasia Island and St. Augustine.

Indulge in Local Flavors

Anastasia Island and St. Augustine are famous for their lively food and drink scene. They show off the area's rich local tastes. Visitors can start a fun food journey, tasting the flavors that make the Oldest City special.

St. Augustine Distillery

The St. Augustine Distillery is in a historic ice factory. It's a place where craft spirit lovers can dive deep into the world of spirits. You can go on tours and try the distillery's top-notch local cuisine and craft cocktails. These are made with ingredients from around here. They offer everything from small-batch gin to special bourbon, showing their focus on quality and caring for the planet.

The Floridian Restaurant

If you want to try fancy Southern cuisine, go to The Floridian Restaurant. It's a spot loved by locals that honors the many food influences of the Oldest City. They use fresh, local ingredients in their farm-to-table dishes. You'll find everything from traditional comfort food to new takes on Southern cuisine. The Floridian gives you a dining experience that celebrates the area's rich tastes.

"The Floridian's farm-to-table approach and dedication to local ingredients truly capture the essence of St. Augustine's vibrant food culture."

Looking for a craft cocktail, a tasty Southern cuisine meal, or a tour behind the scenes of a famous distillery? Anastasia Island and St. Augustine have lots of choices. They'll make sure you get to try the unique flavors of the area.

Embrace Outdoor Adventures

Anastasia Island and the area around it are perfect for those who love outdoor activities. You can enjoy calm kayaking or exciting stand-up paddleboarding. Or, you can go on thrilling sailing trips. These activities let you dive into the beauty of the coast and its unique ecosystems.

If you want a calm day on the water, try kayaking in Anastasia State Park or the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. You might see manatees, dolphins, and many birds. Stand-up paddleboarding is another great choice. It lets you move through calm coves and inlets for a fun workout and amazing views.

For a bigger adventure, take a sailing trip on Matanzas Bay. You'll see the beautiful Castillo de San Marcos and learn about the area's history. These experiences connect you with the natural beauty of Anastasia Island and its surroundings.

"Anastasia Island and the surrounding area offer a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region's natural beauty."

Unwind at Scenic Resorts

Visitors to Anastasia Island, Florida, can find scenic resorts perfect for unwinding. The Endless Summer Resort and The Conch House Marina Resort offer comfort, amenities, and easy beach access. They make it easy to enjoy the area's beauty and attractions.

Endless Summer Resort

The Endless Summer Resort is a beachfront oasis. It captures the laid-back coastal vibe. With vacation rentals from cozy studios to spacious suites, it suits those looking for a relaxing stay. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, private beach access, and on-site dining.

The Conch House Marina Resort

The Conch House Marina Resort sits by the Matanzas River. It combines coastal living with resort amenities. Guests can enjoy water activities like kayaking and fishing from its private marina. The resort also has comfortable suites, a pool, and dining options.

Whether you want a beachfront or riverside retreat, Anastasia Island's scenic resorts are ideal. They offer easy access to activities, comfortable stays, and many amenities. These resorts let you dive into the laid-back Florida lifestyle.

Savor Casual Coastal Dining

Anastasia Island and St. Augustine are famous for their casual coastal dining. You can enjoy fresh seafood and classic beach food in a relaxed setting. Rippy's Beach Shack and Salt Life Food Shack are top spots for this kind of dining.

Rippy's Beach Shack

Rippy's Beach Shack is right by the beach. It's the perfect place for fresh seafood like crab cakes and shrimp tacos. With its outdoor seating and live music, it's great for relaxing and enjoying Florida's coast.

Salt Life Food Shack

The Salt Life Food Shack is all about the "salt life" vibe. It offers a menu full of seafood and coastal dishes. Whether you want a cool cocktail or fish and chips, they have it all.

These places, along with others in Anastasia Island and St. Augustine, let visitors enjoy the local food scene. They also offer a chance to experience the laid-back beach life.

Conclusion

Anastasia Island and St. Augustine offer a unique vacation experience. They have many activities and attractions for different interests. You can explore the area's history and architecture, like the Castillo de San Marcos and St. George Street.

Or, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, nature at Anastasia State Park, and the local food and drink. This place is perfect for a memorable Florida trip.

Looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure? Anastasia Island and St. Augustine have it all. You'll find historical sites, cultural spots, outdoor fun, and beautiful resorts. This place lets you dive into the mix of Spanish, American, and Native American cultures.

There are many attractions to see, like the Lightner Museum and the Oldest Store Museum. Don't miss the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park and the Governor's House Cultural Center and Museum. Plan your trip to this amazing place and start an unforgettable journey through Anastasia Island and St. Augustine.