8 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in St. Augustine
Where to Stay in St. Augustine?
Discover the rich tapestry of St. Augustine through its diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine has centuries-old architecture and historically significant sites from Spanish settlement through the Civil Rights Movement.
Spend an afternoon exploring a fortress and in the evening head Uptown to sample local flavors. Explore the sun-soaked shores of the city’s beaches or embark on a journey to ancient sand dunes and the breathtaking natural beauty of the sprawling Anastasia State Park. Wherever you find yourself, St. Augustine’s colorful neighborhoods are sure to charm you.
1. Historic District
Step into the timeless charm of St. Augustine’s cultural heart
Good for: Couples, Families, Shoppers, History
The Historic District is the heart of St. Augustine. Founded by Spanish explorers in 1565, the city has a rich cultural heritage that you’ll encounter as you walk between the historic buildings on its narrow cobblestone streets.
Browse the shops on George Street and admire the various architectural styles of the well-preserved buildings, from Spanish Colonial to Victorian and Moorish Revival. This vibrant area is home to a number of museums and landmarks, like the 17th-century fortress Castillo de San Marcos, and the Lightner Museum, which showcases Victorian-era art, furniture, and musical instruments.
2. Uptown
Delectable dining and lively local culture
Good for: Couples, Families, Shoppers, History
Uptown St. Augustine is a blend of historic architecture, great dining, and unique shopping. North of the city’s historic center, the neighborhood offers a more local ambiance as it is largely residential.
Spend an afternoon browsing Uptown’s art galleries and antique stores and enjoy an elegant intercontinental meal at the Raintree Restaurant. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself walking into a farmer’s market or live music performance, as the neighborhood regularly hosts events like these. Families should stop by the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where visitors can learn about the first Spanish settlers and the native Timucuans.
3. Vilano Beach
St. Augustine’s oceanfront playground
Good for: Couples, Families
Head to charming Vilano Beach for a relaxed beach town atmosphere. Located on a small barrier island just north of downtown, the neighborhood is a short drive via the Vilano Bridge and offers a quiet getaway from the city.
Grab a slice of pizza in the town center or take a dip in the Atlantic. The beach has a long pier perfect for fishing or picnic in its pastel pavilion. Say hello to the Blue Bird of Happiness, a giant, friendly bird sculpture that’s been a fixture of the neighborhood since the 1970s.
4. St. Augustine Beach
Appreciate the natural beauty of the Florida coast
Good for: Couples, Families, Adventure
St. Augustine Beach is a lively beach community popular with visitors and locals alike. This neighborhood on Anastasia Island has wide stretches of sandy beaches, a beachfront park, and amenities like volleyball courts and a children’s splash zone.
Have your fill of tacos or a plate of grilled triggerfish at one of many seaside restaurants. Walk the nature trail in Ocean Hammock Park and with some luck you may spot a sea turtle, as this is a nesting site. Just north of the neighborhood is the beautiful Anastasia State Park, a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
5. Anastasia Island
Take in the view of this captivating island from atop a lighthouse
Good for: Couples, Families, History, Adventure
Home to the city’s favorite beaches, a waterfront state park, and a historic lighthouse, Anastasia Island is an essential stop for any visitor to St. Augustine. Go for a swim at Butler Beach or St. Augustine Beach and immerse yourself in the relaxed coastal lifestyles of these beach communities.
The 1,600-acre Anastasia State Park is a highlight of the island, home to ancient sand dunes, maritime hammocks, and tidal salt marshes. Walk the park’s nature trails and spot diverse wildlife like gopher tortoises and colorful roseate spoonbills. Head to the northern end of the island to climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for panoramic views of the area.
6. Lincolnville
Discover the rich history of this artistic community
Good for: Couples, Families, History
Eclectic Lincolnville is a neighborhood of tree-lined streets, colorful Victorian homes, and a thriving arts scene. Founded by freed slaves after the Civil War, Lincolnville is deeply rooted in African American culture and heritage.
Explore the neighborhood via the ACCORD Freedom Trail, a collection of 31 historic sites from the Civil Rights Movement navigated with a self-guided audio tour. At the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center, visitors learn about the history and contributions of the African American community. Don’t miss the Lincolnville arts scene; there are diverse galleries showcasing local and national art, all open for evening Art Walks on the first Friday of the month.
7. Butler Beach & Crescent Beach
Paddle downstream along quiet beaches
Good for: Families, History
Butler Beach and Crescent Beach get fewer crowds than other St. Augustine beaches. The largely residential communities on Anastasia Island are great destinations for those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere to take in the beautiful coastal surroundings.
The historic Butler Beach was named after African American entrepreneur Frank B. Butler, who opened a beach resort for African Americans during the era of segregation. Kayaking and fishing are popular in the area, so hop in a boat and float down the Intracoastal Waterway or Matanzas River. From the south end of Crescent Beach, take a short ferry ride to Fort Matanzas National Monument, where you can tour an 18th-century Spanish fort with a park ranger.
8. North City
Hunt for treasure and meet the locals
Good for: Families, Shoppers, History
Shop and dine with the locals in the aptly named North City. Wander along San Marco Avenue to discover great thrift shops and family-run restaurants serving everything from pancakes to surf ‘n’ turf.
Explore the grounds of Fort Mose Historic State Park, a natural preserve and the site of the first free African settlement in the United States. Catch sight of wildlife as you walk along the boardwalk over the marshland and learn the fascinating history of the site at the museum. Head over to St. Augustine Sailing school to learn to sail on the calm waters of the Tolomato River.
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.
