The Best Summer Activities in St. Augustine
Florida’s St. Augustine has a fairly mild, pleasant climate all year long— at least, compared to American destinations farther north. Even in such a balmy locale, however, there’s nothing quite like the summer months—if only because the weather becomes even more delightful, and there are special activities you can enjoy accordingly. Check out our run-down of some of the best options.
Beach Bumming
There are fantastic beaches in the St. Augustine area, such as Villano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, and Butler Beach. Summer makes for an ideal time to splash around the Atlantic, as the weather hovers in the 70s and 80s.
Soaking in Hot Springs
Like the beaches, northern Florida’s springs are open all year long, but summer’s weather still makes the season the best time to go for a soak. Head to High Springs, Ichetucknee Springs, or the waterfront park where Ponce de León believed he had found the Fountain of Youth.
Boating
Those who enjoy sailing, kayaking, jet-skiing and other such watersports are spoiled for choice in summertime, with suppliers like Atlas Yacht Sales and Kayak St. Augustine offering rentals and charters. Stroll along the shores of Anastasia Island or English Landing to pick a boat in person at one of the city’s marinas.
Picnicking
There are many beautiful parks and nature reserves throughout the region where you can have a picnic. These include the area around historic Fort Matanzas National Monument (built by the Spanish in the 18th century), Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, and Anastasia State Park.
Attending concerts
Summer brings a raft of live music events throughout St. Augustine, as part of series such as Concerts in the Plaza and Music by the Sea (in the Plaza de la Constitución and St. Augustine Beach, respectively); local jazz, folk, blues, soul, and even salsa performers are known to make appearances.
Watching outdoor movies
Among the outdoor-movie series hosted by the city and its various institutions are Palm Coast Movies in the Park, and Community First Night Owl Cinema at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on select Fridays, which takes advantage of the latter’s open-air theater.