St. Augustine, also known as the Nation’s Oldest City, is a place that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive. Founded in 1565, this historic city is the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. With a population of just over 15,000, St. Augustine offers a true small-town vibe. Its unique combination of art galleries, local festivals, and culinary delights reflects its diverse heritage, creating an atmosphere that makes it hard to leave.
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Where is St. Augustine, FL?
St. Augustine, a charming city in St. Johns County, lies about 40 miles south of Downtown Jacksonville. As the county seat, it provides an elevated living experience that encourages a deep sense of belonging and an unmatched quality of life.
From December through March, St. Augustine enjoys mild temperatures, with highs generally in the 60s and lows in the 40s and 50s. The most comfortable months are later in March through most of May and from October through November when temperatures are moderate and perfect for outdoor activities.
Although July through September can be quite hot and humid, with daytime temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s and overnight temperatures in the mid-70s, the city's proximity to the ocean brings refreshing sea breezes that help to temper the heat.
Why You’ll Love Living in St. Augustine, FL
St. Augustine, FL, real estate presents a compelling choice for those considering a move to this historic city. The area boasts various architectural styles, ensuring potential buyers will find options to suit their tastes. Whether captivated by the intricate details of Victorian designs, the Mediterranean flair of Spanish-inspired structures, or the traditional charm of Southern-style homes, St. Augustine caters to diverse preferences.
Victorian homes in St. Augustine stand out with their elaborate and unique architecture, with wrap-around porches, ornate chimneys, and detailed gingerbread trim around windows, creating a storybook quality in the neighborhood. Meanwhile, the historic district's Spanish-style architecture showcases Mediterranean influences with low-pitched roofs, arches, stucco finishes, and distinctive floor plans.
1. Charming Neighborhoods
Some of the most desirable neighborhoods in St. Augustine include:
Historic District
The Historic District neighborhood, renowned as the cultural heart of St. Augustine, features charming narrow cobblestone streets. It offers convenient proximity to Flagler College, Castillo de San Marcos, and Ripley's Castle, all within easy walking distance from its historic core.
Uptown
Predominantly residential, the Uptown neighborhood of St. Augustine is best known for its historic architecture, great dining venues, and quaint shopping opportunities. This local ambiance is characterized by its well-preserved buildings and community life.
Vilano Beach
Nestled along the coast, Vilano Beach is a serene beachside retreat, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. The neighborhood is celebrated for its stunning waterfront properties, providing residents with unparalleled views and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Lincolnville
The Lincolnville neighborhood boasts tree-lined streets adorned with colorful Victorian homes, creating a picturesque setting that reflects its rich history and lively atmosphere. Alongside its architectural charm, Lincolnville is recognized for its vibrant art scene and dynamic cultural surroundings.
2. Big Beautiful Beaches
Known for its expansive and breathtaking coastline, St. Augustine, FL, features some of the most stunning beaches in Florida, totaling more than 42 miles. These shores are not just scenic but also offer a wide range of activities, from sunbathing to thrilling water sports like surfing and jet skiing. The beachfront is filled with lively shopping areas, a vibrant dining scene, and opportunities for various outdoor adventures, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean's turquoise waters.
Listed below are some of St. Augustine’s most-visited beaches:
St. Augustine Beach
As one of St. Augustine's top beach destinations, St. Augustine Beach offers sunny accommodations and an excellent beachside dining scene. This beachfront park features a fishing pier, pavilion, splash park, and sand volleyball courts, creating an ideal setting for both relaxation and recreation.
Matanzas Beach
Located just south of St. Augustine near Matanzas Inlet, Matanzas Beach is a favorite among the area's outdoor enthusiasts. Boating, fishing, surfing, and shell collecting are popular activities here, complemented by miles of lush hiking trails along the inlet. Visitors can also rent kayaks and jet skis for exciting adventures on the Matanzas River.
Ponte Vedra Beach
Ponte Vedra Beach epitomizes laid-back luxury with its natural beauty and extensive waterways like freshwater streams, creeks, and lagoons flowing through the area. This beach offers miles of pristine white sand beaches, where crashing waves provide a scenic backdrop for ample recreational and cultural activities, making it a cherished retreat for residents and visitors.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach, located on Anastasia Island, charms visitors with its crescent-shaped shoreline and extensive stretches of wide, white sand. Appreciated for its beautiful and pristine coastline, Crescent Beach is ideal for nature enthusiasts and shoreline explorers seeking tranquility and natural beauty along Florida's Atlantic coast.
3. Endless Activities
One problem you will never run into in St. Augustine, FL, is being at a loss for things to see and do. From family-friendly attractions and golf courses to popular shopping and dining experiences, the city provides endless activities to suit every interest and age group.
Some of the most popular attractions in St. Augustine include:
Golf Courses
- Royal St Augustine Golf and Country Club l 301 Royal St. Augustine Pkwy., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Marsh Creek Country Club l 169 Marshside Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32080
- The Golf Club at South Hampton l 315 S Hampton Club Way, St. Augustine, FL 32092
- Slammer & Squire Golf Course l 2 World Golf Pl., St. Augustine, FL 32092
Family-Friendly Attractions
- Anastasia Miniature Golf l 701 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
- St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum l 12 S Castillo Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park l 11 Magnolia Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park l 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Local Shopping
- Around the World MarketPlace l 21 Orange St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- 360 Boutique l 50 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Aunt Matilda's Steampunk Trunk l 106 St George St. Suite B, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Must-Try Restaurants
- Columbia Restaurant l 98 St George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grille l 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Prohibition Kitchen l 119 St George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Cortesses Bistro & Flamingo Room Piano Bar l 172 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084
4. Schools + Job Opportunities
Living in St. Augustine, FL, provides families with access to highly-rated schools within the St. Johns County School District. This district often attracts individuals moving to the Jacksonville metro area seeking top-tier education for their children.
As the county's population grows, plans are underway to construct additional school facilities to accommodate the increasing number of students. In addition to the public school system, St. Augustine offers numerous excellent private schools.
Public school options in the area include:
- R.B. Hunt Elementary School
- Osceola Elementary School
- Sebastian Middle School
- R J Murray Middle School
- Saint Augustine High School
Private school options in the area include:
In and around St. Augustine, you'll also find several higher education institutions. Flagler College, established in 1968, occupies the historic Ponce de Leon Hotel in Downtown St. Augustine. St. Johns River State College has a campus just west of the city, while nearby Jacksonville hosts the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville, providing ample educational opportunities in the region.
In terms of employment opportunities, St. Augustine, FL, benefits from a diverse range of top businesses such as Flagler Health, Premier Designs, Ring Power Cat, and The Ancient City Brewing Company, all of which significantly contribute to the local economy and cultural landscape.
5. Festivals, Events, and Music
If you are considering a move to St. Augustine, you'll discover a community atmosphere that is hard to beat. Celebrations play a pivotal role in making this town special, fostering a close-knit environment where everyone knows everyone. From annual festivals honoring local culture to neighborhood block parties and community events at the park.
Some of the annual events held in St. Augustine include:
- St. Augustine Food and Wine Festival
- Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam & Car Show
- First Friday Art Walk
- St. Augustine Music Festival
- St. Augustine Easter Parade
- Music by the Sea
6. Location, Location, Location
Situated just south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine offers a serene coastal lifestyle with easy access to the bustling metropolitan area. The nearby Northeast Florida Regional Airport provides convenient air travel options, while Jacksonville International Airport is only 51 miles away. Residents also benefit from proximity to UF Health Flagler Hospital, known for its exceptional medical services, and enjoy quick day trips to Daytona Beach and Orlando, famous for their attractions and entertainment opportunities.
As you begin to consider a move to St. Augustine, FL, you'll find a city rich in history, culture, and coastal charm. From the appeal of historic architecture and vibrant community events to picturesque beaches, St. Augustine presents a unique combination of attractions and amenities. Partnering with a local realtor can provide invaluable insights into the housing market and neighborhoods, guiding you toward finding your dream home in this wonderful city.
Matt Strickland and his team provide expert real estate buying and selling services in the greater Jacksonville area. With their local expertise, the Matt Strickland Team is ready to guide you through the process of finding the perfect property, or maximize your property's value and ensure a hassle-free selling experience. Whatever your needs or real estate questions are, they are at your service and ready to help!