Stepping into St. Augustine isn’t merely diving into America’s oldest city.
It’s plunging headfirst into a beach lover’s dream.
The sun, the surf, and oh, those endless stretches of pristine white sand!
As a local in the state, trust me when I say I’ve had my fair share of saltwater-kissed adventures.
And the best beaches in St. Augustine have left an indelible mark on my sun-soaked heart.
Over 40 miles of coastline beckon here, promising the most rejuvenating Vitamin sea experiences.
If you’re mapping out that perfect family seaside escape, let me guide you through the gems of St. Augustine’s shores.
Dive in.
The water’s just right.
Best Beaches in St. Augustine Compared
Ready to soak up the sun and make unforgettable memories?
Dive into our handpicked gems for the ultimate St. Augustine beach experience.
Editor’s Choice
Ponte Vedra Beach
Part of the popular Jacksonville Beaches region, this waterfront community is famous for its golf courses and ritzy resorts.
- Family-Friendliness: 4/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 3/5
- Water Quality: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#2nd Best Choice
Vilano Beach
While a little small, this 1.8-square-mile beachside community is filled with exhilarating activities.
- Family-Friendliness: 4/5
- Safety: 3/5
- Amenities: 3/5
- Water Quality: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Anastasia State Park
Encompassing 1,600 acres, this park amazes visitors with its hammock preserves, tidal salt marshes and white sand beaches.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4/5
- Water Quality: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Here are the top 6 beaches in St. Augustine, FL.
1. Ponte Vedra Beach (Editor’s Choice)
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
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Part of the popular Jacksonville Beaches region, this waterfront community is famous for its golf courses and ritzy resorts.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 4/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 3/5
- Water Quality: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Upscale atmosphere: Ponte Vedra Beach is known for its luxurious and upscale atmosphere, attracting visitors who seek a more refined beach experience.
- Beautiful scenery: The beach boasts stunning natural beauty, with its wide stretches of golden sand, picturesque dunes, and clear waters.
Cons
- Limited public access: Access to some parts of Ponte Vedra Beach can be restricted due to private properties and exclusive resorts.
- Higher costs: The upscale nature of Ponte Vedra Beach is accompanied by higher costs for accommodations, dining, and recreational activities.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Searching for upscale St. Augustine, Florida beaches?
Then, don’t forget to put this beach at the top of your list of the best things to do in St. Augustine.
For years, this resort town has been luring visitors with its fine, gorgeous and nice beaches that are lined with elegant resorts.
In fact, it’s often voted as one of the prettiest beaches in Florida.
But, guess what?
There’s more to this stretch than just relaxation and luxury.
As you explore these popular beaches in St. Augustine, you’ll find a mix of exhilarating recreation and outdoor pursuits.
Besides surfing, you can also go stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking here.
And, did we mention that it’s steeped in history too?
It even has a life-size Ponce de Leon statue and an overlook platform that describes the explorer’s journey in 1513 to this spot in Florida.
Expert Tip
To add an element of adventure to your trip, stop by the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Featuring 73,000 acres of mangrove tidal wetlands and salt marsh, this reserve offers ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and nature trips.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa
Related: Restaurants in Ponte Vedra Beach
2. Vilano Beach
Vilano Beach, FL 32084
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While a little small, this 1.8-square-mile beachside community is filled with exhilarating activities.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 4/5
- Safety: 3/5
- Amenities: 3/5
- Water Quality: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Laid-back vibe: Vilano Beach offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere compared to some of the more upscale neighboring beaches.
- Access to historic sites: Vilano Beach is close to the historic district of St. Augustine, allowing visitors to easily explore historic sites, museums, and charming streets while also enjoying the beach.
Cons
- Tidal changes: Vilano Beach is known for its tidal changes, which can impact the available beach area at different times of the day.
- Limited amenities: While Vilano Beach offers a relaxing environment, it may have fewer amenities and facilities compared to more developed beaches.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Vilano is one of the best beach spots in St. Augustine for water sports enthusiasts.
With its consistent and first-rate swells, it’s usually deemed as the top spot for surfing in the area.
What’s more, the beach offers a plethora of other recreational activities, including jet skiing and skimboarding.
Surprisingly, it’s pretty kid-friendly too, thanks to its convenient amenities, like picnic tables and restroom facilities.
There’s also a splash park for youngsters who want some splashy fun.
On top of it all, the beach boasts some spectacular and Instagram-worthy sunsets.
Expert Tip
For mesmerizing sunset vistas, head to the tip of the old bridge.
Alternatively, there are nearby eateries, like Beaches at Vilano, that reward guests with striking sunsets.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: St George Inn – Saint Augustine
3. Anastasia State Park
300 Anastasia Park Rd
St. Augustine, FL 32080
(904) 461-2033
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Encompassing 1,600 acres, this park amazes visitors with its hammock preserves, tidal salt marshes and white sand beaches.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4/5
- Water Quality: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Natural beauty and wildlife: Anastasia State Park is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring diverse ecosystems, rolling sand dunes, and unique wildlife.
- Secluded and peaceful: Unlike some of the more touristy beaches in the area, Anastasia State Park offers a quieter and more secluded atmosphere.
Cons
- Entrance fees: There is an entrance fee to access Anastasia State Park, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious travelers.
- Limited commercial activities: Due to its natural and protected status, Anastasia State Park has restrictions on commercial activities, which means fewer dining and shopping options directly within the park compared to more developed beaches.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Anastasia State Park is home to some of the finest St. Augustine beaches.
And, like most of Florida’s top beaches, this state park has everything you need for a rocking seaside escape.
You can go sunbathing, sailboarding, paddle boarding, fishing and surfing.
With its clear spotless waters and gentle surf, it’s also the best beach for swimming in St. Augustine.
And, when you need a break from the salty and sandy fun, you can hike nature trails winding through the scenic dunes.
Furthermore, the park shelters a wide variety of wildlife, including turtles and birds.
Expert Tip
For a memorable visit, spend a night at the full-facility campground of the state park.
With fresh breeze and a laid-back vibe, this state park is definitely soothing and beautiful at night.
Plus, it has all the essentials you need for your camping trip, including bathrooms and showers.
There’s even a store positioned near the beach that sells camping necessities.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sebastian Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals
Also See:
Best Beaches in Sarasota
Naples Beaches
4. Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach, FL 32080
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Nestled on Anastasia Island, this beach is well-known for its natural crescent-shaped shoreline.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Crescent Beach will, no doubt, captivate you in a variety of ways.
With little modern-day and commercial development, this beach is perfect for those who need to escape their bustling city life.
Moreover, this beachside community has some exciting activities if you want some action on your trip.
You may enjoy picturesque beach walks, bike rides, or play volleyball and frisbee.
Even better, it provides a slew of water sports, such as boating, boogie boarding and surfing.
With a special permit, you can go horseback riding on this beach as well.
To me, it’s indeed one of the best beaches near St. Augustine.
Expert Tip
Satisfy your cravings with a smorgasbord of fresh seafood goodies at South Beach Grill.
For more than 20 years, the restaurant has been delighting taste buds with crab cakes, fresh sandwiches and fish tacos.
We also love their shrimp paired with homemade pepper Datil cornbread.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott St. Augustine Beach
Related: Best Beaches in Sarasota
5. Butler Beach
Butler Beach, FL 32080
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Situated 8 miles away from the historic district of St. Augustine, this spot amazes visitors with its wide white sandy stretches.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Butler Beach guarantees a day filled with family fun.
As you visit this beach, you’ll have access to amenities, like picnic pavilions, barbecue grills, showers, restrooms and free parking.
There are also lifeguards available, ensuring a safe beach escapade for the little ones.
As a bonus, it’s a pet-friendly beach, making it a terrific spot for dog owners.
Expert Tip
Make your way to Butler Park West, and relish a fantastic vista of the Intercoastal Waterway.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western St. Augustine Beach Inn
Also See:
Tampa Beaches
St. Petersburg, FL Beaches
6. St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080
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Sitting perfectly on Anastasia Island, this oceanfront community boasts about 2 miles of clear waters and white sand beach.
Why We Recommend This Beach
No list of the best beaches in St. Augustine, FL is complete without this fine and dandy strip.
With a bevy of features and amenities, this stretch will surely give you a memorable beach getaway.
Not only does it offer tropical oceanfront restaurants, but it also has sunny accommodations.
And, it’s quite family-friendly too.
With gentle waves and lifeguards on duty, it’s even the safest beach for kids in St. Augustine.
There’s also an outstanding beachfront park with a pavilion, sand volleyball, a splash park and a fishing pier.
Expert Tip
The beach is pretty limited when it comes to complimentary lot and street parking.
So, make sure to arrive early if you’re planning on driving.
If you have a trolley pass, you may also ride the free beach shuttle of the Old Town Trolley Tour.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort
Related: Fun Things to Do in St. Augustine with Kids
Also See:
West Palm Beach, Florida Beaches
Pensacola, Florida Beaches
Beachgoer Guide
Comparing Beaches: Which One Is Right For You?
St. Augustine’s beaches each have their unique charm, but let me break it down for you so you can decide which sandy haven is calling your name.
Ponte Vedra Beach felt like an upscale escape from the norm.
While sipping my mojito from a nearby cafe, I marveled at its pristine sands and luxury resorts lining the shore.
It’s the kind of place where you half-expect to bump into a celeb while sunbathing.
Vilano Beach, on the other hand, feels like an old friend who’s always up for some fun.
It’s a local’s spot.
On my last visit, I made some spontaneous dance moves with a street musician and felt like I was in a sun-soaked music video!
Then there’s Anastasia State Park.
Picture miles of natural beauty, sand dunes whispering tales of ages past, and the gentle caress of sea waves.
I once spent an entire day there, lost in a novel, occasionally looking up to spot pelicans in the horizon.
Compared to other beaches I’ve known, St. Augustine’s shores are like a trilogy of magical stories.
Each one leaves a distinct footprint on your heart.
So, which one’s calling you?
Being a local, I might be a little biased, but trust me, you can’t go wrong with any.
How I Picked The Beach Spots
When it comes to uncovering the hidden treasures of St. Augustine’s shores, I’ve truly walked the sandy walk.
As a local and someone who’s soaked up endless saltwater-kissed adventures, I’ve not only experienced these beach spots firsthand but delved deep into research.
From poring over every inch of coastline to chatting with locals and travelers alike, I’ve left no sun-soaked stone unturned.
Living in this beautiful state has given me an insider’s perspective on what makes these beaches truly special.
So, rest assured, the spots I’ve picked aren’t just random names on a list.
They’re sun-soaked havens that have imprinted on my own heart.
Dive in, and let’s uncover the magic together.
Our Beach Rating Method
I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:
- Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion.
- Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach.
- Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach. Is it equipped with restrooms, showers, and changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach.
- Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality.
- Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Least Crowded Beach In St. Augustine?
The least crowded beach in St. Augustine is often considered to be Crescent Beach. Its quieter atmosphere and more secluded location make it a great choice for visitors seeking a more peaceful beach experience.
Can You Swim In St. Augustine Beaches?
Yes, you can swim in the beaches of St. Augustine. The city boasts several beautiful and swimmable beaches along its coastline, including St. Augustine Beach, Vilano Beach, and Crescent Beach, among others.
Does St. Augustine Have A Boardwalk?
St. Augustine does not have a traditional boardwalk like some other coastal destinations, but it does have a charming historic district with cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants, and attractions that offer a unique and enjoyable stroll for visitors.
Conclusion
After hopping through the best beaches in St. Augustine, taking in the sun, surf, and sounds of this historical paradise, here’s my sun-tanned take for you.
Living in the state and dancing on these shores myself, Ponte Vedra Beach in St. Augustine, FL stands out as our top choice.
With its upscale ambiance and jaw-dropping views, it’s the perfect spot for those luxury sun-soaked moments.
But whether you’re chasing the high-end vibes or seeking a more laid-back experience, St. Augustine’s beaches have a chapter for every kind of story you’re looking to write.
Dive in and make waves, fellow Florida adventurers.
Editor’s Choice
Ponte Vedra Beach
Part of the popular Jacksonville Beaches region, this waterfront community is famous for its golf courses and ritzy resorts.
- Family-Friendliness: 4/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 3/5
- Water Quality: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
