5 Best Day Trips From St. Augustine, Florida

1. Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach is ideally positioned between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. Mainly, it is known for its waterfront restaurants, pristine beaches, and laidback coastal vibe. This city appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and tourists seeking adventure. You can enjoy numerous recreational opportunities here, including fishing and surfing. Moreover, various guided paddling tours along the estuary are available. At Marineland Dolphin Adventure, you can meet and swim with dolphins.

If you want to learn more about Florida’s rich history, head to Florida Agricultural Museum. This museum celebrates the past, present, and future of local agriculture.

Flagler Beach

Address: 32136, Florida, USA

Website: Flagler Beach

2. Palatka

Situated within a bend of Saint Johns River, Palatka offers a nice breath of fresh air without compromising the comforts of modern living. It is an ideal home base for those who want to try various outdoor activities such as biking, camping, canoeing, and hiking. One of the state’s most visited parks, Ravine Gardens State Park, is located here. Spread over about 24.3 hectares (60 acres), this park is home to many ravines, artificial terraces, and cultivated gardens.

If you fancy some shopping and dining opportunities, check out Downtown Palatka. You might get lucky and visit just in time for one of its many festivals.

Palatka

Address: Florida 32177, USA

Website: Palatka

3. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is one of the most popular cities among tourists in Florida, mainly because of Daytona International Speedway. Of course, it is also famous for its long stretch of pristine, white-sand beaches. If you are traveling with your whole family, including the kids, you will appreciate the city’s abundance of family-friendly attractions. A good example is the Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art. Meanwhile, the Marine Science Center nearby provides many learning opportunities for visitors, on top of nurturing marine life.

Further, the city is home to Jackie Robinson Ballpark, where the Daytona Tortugas play.

Daytona Beach

Address: 32114, Florida, USA

Website: Daytona Beach

4. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Notable for its formal gardens, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park has stunning displays of native and non-native plant species. At its core, you will find a coastal scrub community where a hammock nestles. Strolling along winding reflection ponds surrounded by lush greenery is guaranteed to give you the breather you need. Further, the state park has a unique shoreline of ancient rock formations along a breathtaking beach.

The beautiful beach scenery is ideal for activities such as beachcombing and tidal pool exploring. Other activities you can enjoy here include biking, fishing, and hiking.

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Address: 6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137, United States

Website: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Opening hours: 8am - sundown (daily)

Price: from 2 USD

5. Jacksonville

Jacksonville boasts a vibrant coastal scene, with numerous eco-adventures, scenic beaches, and world-class public art. It is home to over 32.2 km (20 mi) of beaches and the longest stretch of the famed Saint Johns River. Further, you will find the country’s biggest urban park system, which is composed of 10 national and state parks. Over 450 city parks are also spread across the city, such as Jessie Ball DuPont Park and Henry J. Klutho Park.

If you are visiting with your kids, ensure that you include Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) in your itinerary.

Jacksonville

Address: 32207, Florida, USA

Website: Jacksonville

Enjoy Florida’s diversity

Florida boasts a rich diversity, attracting millions of tourists who want to experience a little bit of everything each year. As you map out your itinerary, ensure that you take a look at these best day trips from St. Augustine, Florida.