Spring is a fantastic time to visit St. Augustine, with warm sunshine, blooming flowers, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes exploring the nation’s oldest city even more enjoyable. A must-see is the lighthouse in St. Augustine, where you can climb 219 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Matanzas Bay, and the historic cityscape. The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers fascinating exhibits about the area’s maritime history, shipwreck discoveries, and even a few ghost stories for those who love a little mystery with their sightseeing.
After taking in the breathtaking view at the lighthouse in St. Augustine, spend some time strolling through the museum’s grounds, where you’ll find charming nature trails and an old Boatworks area showcasing traditional wooden boatbuilding techniques. From there, head out to enjoy the rest of Anastasia Island. Anastasia State Park is a favorite for beachgoers, with miles of soft, white sand perfect for sunbathing, kayaking, and spotting wildlife. If you’re up for an adventure, rent a paddleboard or a bike to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, or head to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, where you can see exotic reptiles, zipline over an alligator-filled lagoon, and learn about the island’s natural history.
After a day of exploring these coastal attractions, retreat to the Historic St. Francis Inn, the best St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast. Dating back to 1791, this charming inn blends historic character with modern comforts, offering beautifully appointed rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and a peaceful courtyard perfect for unwinding. The location puts you within walking distance of St. George Street’s quaint shops and restaurants while still feeling like a private getaway. With its warm hospitality and unbeatable location, the St. Francis Inn is the perfect home base for experiencing all that St. Augustine has to offer this spring. Book your trip now!
Tour the Historic Lighthouse in St. Augustine
Standing tall on Anastasia Island, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for history lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located just across Matanzas Bay from downtown St. Augustine, this striking black-and-white spiral tower has guided mariners since 1874 and continues captivating visitors with its rich maritime history. This famous lighthouse in St. Augustine played a crucial role in coastal navigation and even served as a lookout during World War II. Today, it remains a symbol of St. Augustine’s deep connection to the sea.
If you’re able, climbing the 219 steps to the top of this iconic lighthouse in St. Augustine is a must. The observation deck provides sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, Matanzas Bay, and the historic cityscape. Along the way, you’ll learn about the keepers who once maintained the lighthouse, the shipwrecks uncovered by the museum’s archaeologists, and the restoration efforts that have preserved this national treasure.
There’s more to visiting the lighthouse in St. Augustine than a beautiful view. The museum grounds offer plenty more to explore, including interactive exhibits and scenic walking trails shaded by ancient oak trees. The Keeper’s House, built in 1876, showcases artifacts and personal stories from the lighthouse’s past, while the working boatyard highlights traditional boatbuilding techniques. Special events, educational programs, and even nighttime tours can elevate your trip to the St. Augustine lighthouse further!
There’s even something here for fans of the paranormal. The lighthouse in St. Augustine is one of the region’s most haunted spots, with eerie stories and ghost tours available for those who dare. The Dark of the Moon Ghost Experience gives you the chance to conduct your own paranormal investigation as you climb the tower in the dark of night. Other interesting tours hosted by the lighthouse in St. Augustine include the following:
- Lighthouse Keeper’s Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at daily life inside a working lighthouse, led by an expert guide who shares insider stories and history.
- Sunset/Moonrise Tour is an excellent opportunity to sip drinks and savor appetizers while watching the sun dip below the horizon and the moon rise over the historic city.
More Things to Do on Anastasia Island
After taking in the panoramic views from the lighthouse in St. Augustine, there’s plenty more to discover on Anastasia Island. This barrier island just across the bay from our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast blends rich history, coastal beauty, and outdoor adventure, making it a fantastic addition to your itinerary. Though there are plenty of things to do on Anastasia Island, at the top of the list is a visit to Anastasia State Park.
This stunning park holds a protected stretch of unspoiled beach where visitors can kayak, hike through maritime hammocks, or simply relax on the soft white sand. Birdwatchers will love spotting ospreys, egrets, and even the occasional bald eagle soaring above the dunes. The park’s four miles of coastline provide a quieter escape from the bustling Historic District while keeping you close to St. Augustine’s top attractions. Another can’t-miss spot on Anastasia Island is Butler Beach, a lesser-known gem that offers a more peaceful alternative to St. Augustine Beach. This stretch of sand played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement and remains a beautiful place for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a sunrise over the Atlantic.
For those who prefer a bit more action, St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park on Anastasia Island offers a unique mix of wildlife encounters and high-adrenaline fun. This historic zoo has been a favorite since 1893, featuring everything from rare albino alligators to a thrilling zip-line course that lets you soar over live crocodiles.
At the south end of Anastasia Island, don’t miss your chance to head over to Fort Matanzas National Monument, where you’ll find the preserved Coquina Watchtower, built in 1742. It’s open year-round and can only be accessed by a passenger ferry from the Visitor Center on Anastasia Island. When your adventure is over, head for a bit to eat at O’Steen’s Restaurant—their fried shrimp is legendary. Just be aware that they don’t accept debit or credit cards!
Staying at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine places you just minutes from everything Anastasia Island has to offer, which means from one convenient destination, you’ll have easy access to all the best history and adventure this unique city has to offer. Book your trip to St. Augustine today!
