Just across the Matanzas Bay from historic St. Augustine, Anastasia Island offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxed coastal charm. One of the best ways to experience the Island is by visiting Anastasia State Park, home to four miles of unspoiled white sand and rolling dunes. Anastasia Beach is a favorite for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks along the shore, while the park’s tidal marshes are ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. Whether you’re looking to explore the nature trails, rent a paddleboard, or simply take in the ocean views, this protected stretch of coastline is one of the best things to do in St. Augustine.
Beyond spending your day lounging on the beach, this charming barrier Island offers plenty. It’s home to the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which provides stunning views from the top and a fascinating look at the area’s maritime history. The Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a must-see just down the road, featuring everything from rare albino alligators to thrilling zip line courses that soar over crocodile habitats. From big adventures to laid-back afternoons, the Island is an ideal escape from the busier and more crowded historic district.
When the day is done, there’s nothing better than heading to our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine. Our cozy Inn is an elevated couple’s retreat on the edge of the St. Augustine Historic District and offers a romantic hideaway from across the bridge from Anastasia Island. Here, you’re within easy walking distance of St. Augustine’s best restaurants, shops, and historic sites. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an active coastal escape, a stay at Casa de Suenos makes the perfect home away from home for your getaway. Book your stay today!
Birdwatching and More at Anastasia Beach
If you’re looking for the best beach near St. Augustine, Anastasia Beach at Anastasia State Park is the place to be. This stretch of soft, white sand offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the Atlantic breeze. Unlike busier public beaches, Anastasia Beach is part of a protected state park, meaning fewer crowds, well-maintained facilities, and a pristine shoreline free from high-rise developments. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or walk along the rolling dunes, this beach provides the ultimate coastal escape.
Getting to Anastasia State Park is easy—just cross the Bridge of Lions from downtown St. Augustine and follow A1A to Anastasia State Park. Once inside, a short walk along the boardwalk leads you to the beach, where you’ll find everything you need for a full day by the water. The park encompasses 1,600 pristine acres of coastal habitat, including tidal marshes, marine hammocks, and ancient sand dunes. The habitats are protected and serve as vital feeding and breeding grounds for various wildlife, including shorebirds.
The Anastasia Beach area is exceptional for birdwatching. The park is a dedicated site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and is home to at least 195 different species of our avian friends. The Anastasia Beach area is one of the most important areas for beach-nesting birds on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, with species like least terns, Wilson’s plovers, and black skimmers common. Other birds to keep an eye out for include brown pelicans, ospreys, and great blue herons wading in the shallows. You might spot painted buntings and even the occasional bald eagle during migration seasons.
It’s not all about quiet activities like birdwatching, though. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Salt Run, a scenic inlet that runs along the park, or try surfing in the gentle waves. If you prefer to stay on land, bring a bike and cruise along the park’s trails, or simply settle in with a good book and let the ocean soundtrack take over. Picnic areas and a snack bar make it easy to refuel without leaving Anastasia Beach, so there’s no need to cut the day short.
More Things to Do on Anastasia Island, St. Augustine
Beyond the sand and surf of Anastasia Beach, Anastasia Island offers even more ways to enjoy the Florida coast. Just minutes from St. Augustine’s historic district, the island is packed with outdoor adventures, unique attractions, and laid-back local spots, making it a great place to spend a day. From climbing the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Atlantic to spotting rare wildlife at The Alligator Farm Zoological Park, there are plenty of fun things to do on Anastasia Island, St. Augustine.
Paddle over the blue ocean water, fish, watch for dolphins playing in the shallows, and then dive into local flavors at top Anastasia Island restaurants. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Florida’s coastal landscape. You’ll find a few of our favorite highlights of this coastal playground below!
- Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Be sure to climb all 219 steps to the top for panoramic views of the coast, then explore the museum’s exhibits on local maritime history.
- Get in touch with your inner child at the Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Don’t worry – it’s packed with fun for adults and kids alike! This historic wildlife park features everything from albino alligators to exotic birds, plus a thrilling zip-line course over crocodile habitats.
- For a different kind of beach experience, head to Butler Beach. Like Anastasia Beach, it offers a quiet alternative to St. Augustine Beach, with plenty of fascinating history tied to Florida’s Civil Rights movement.
- Don’t miss the chance to dine at the top seafood restaurants on Anastasia Island. Try spots like O’Steen’s Restaurant or The Conch House for fresh shrimp, oysters, and catch-of-the-day specials.
- At the southern tip of Anastasia Island, you’ll find the Fort Matanzas National Monument. Built in 1762, the structure is one of the oldest in the St. Augustine area and offers a unique glimpse into what made this fortified city so historically significant.
When your day of adventure is over, our Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine is just a few minutes away. Our charming couple’s retreat is the coziest, most welcoming home away from home, and we’re right on the edge of the St. Augustine historic district for your convenience. There’s no better place to stay in this remarkable city. Book your getaway today!
