Map Of St Johns County Florida Travel Guide
Introduction
St. Johns County in Florida is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in this area. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, St. Johns County has it all. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States and is home to many historical sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Another must-see attraction is the St. Johns County Ocean Pier, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For animal lovers, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a great place to visit. The park is home to over 20 species of crocodiles and alligators.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to the Fort Matanzas National Monument, a hidden gem just south of St. Augustine. This historic fort was built in the 18th century and offers a glimpse into Florida’s colonial past. Another hidden gem is the St. Augustine Distillery, a small-batch distillery that produces award-winning craft spirits.
Food Scene
St. Johns County has a vibrant food scene with something for every palate. For seafood lovers, the Conch House Marina Resort is a must-visit, while The Floridian serves up delicious Southern cuisine. If you’re looking for something sweet, head to Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops for some of the best ice cream in town.
Budget-Friendly Tips
St. Johns County can be expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. Many of the area’s attractions offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, and children. For a free activity, take a stroll through the historic district of St. Augustine or visit one of the area’s many public parks.
Outdoor Adventures
St. Johns County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to many hiking trails, such as the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, where you can spot wildlife like alligators and sea turtles. For water sports, head to Anastasia State Park, where you can rent paddleboards and kayaks.
Family-Friendly Activities
St. Johns County is a great destination for families with children. The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is a fun and educational attraction that kids will love, while Marineland Dolphin Adventure offers the chance to swim with dolphins. The area’s many beaches are also great for families.
Natural Wonders
St. Johns County is home to many natural wonders. The Anastasia State Park is a beautiful beach park with sand dunes and salt marshes, while the St. Johns River offers the chance to see manatees and dolphins up close. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is a great place to spot wildlife and learn about the area’s ecosystem.
Vibrant Nightlife
St. Johns County has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and nightclubs in the historic district of St. Augustine. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to the Conch House Marina Resort, which has live music and outdoor seating with views of the water.
Local Markets
The St. Augustine Farmers Market is a must-visit for foodies. The market offers fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and live music. Another great market is the St. Augustine Flea Market, which has a wide variety of goods for sale, from antiques to handmade jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
St. Johns County is blessed with beautiful beaches and mountains. The Anastasia State Park is a popular beach with white sand and clear water, while the Hammock Beach Resort has a private beach and golf course. For a mountain experience, head to the St. Johns River, where you can hike through the forests and hills.
Cultural Immersion
St. Johns County has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s maritime history, while the Lightner Museum showcases art and artifacts from the Gilded Age. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
Art and Music Scene
St. Johns County has a thriving arts and music scene. The St. Augustine Art Association hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year, while the St. Augustine Music Hall is a popular venue for live music. The area’s many art galleries and studios offer the chance to see and buy local artwork.
Walking Tours
St. Johns County is a great place to explore on foot. The St. Augustine Historic Walking Tour takes you through the historic district, while the St. Augustine Food Tour offers the chance to sample local cuisine. The St. Augustine Ghost Tour is a spooky and fun way to learn about the area’s haunted history.
Architectural Marvels
St. Johns County is home to many architectural marvels. The Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish, while the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. The Lightner Museum is housed in a former hotel that is itself an architectural masterpiece.
Historical Sites
St. Johns County has a rich history that is worth exploring. The Fort Matanzas National Monument is a historic fort built by the Spanish in the 18th century, while the Castillo de San Marcos is a must-visit for history buffs. The St. Augustine History Museum offers a comprehensive look at the area’s past.
Biking Routes
St. Johns County has many biking routes that offer stunning views of the area’s natural beauty. The St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop is a 260-mile trail that takes you through forests, beaches, and historic sites. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve has many trails that are perfect for biking.
Wellness Retreats
St. Johns County is a great place to relax and rejuvenate. The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club offers wellness retreats that include yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. The St. Augustine Spa is another great option for relaxation and pampering.
Adventure Sports
St. Johns County is a great destination for adventure sports. The area’s many beaches offer the chance to surf, paddleboard, and kayak, while the St. Johns River is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The area also has many golf courses, including the famous TPC Sawgrass.
In conclusion, St. Johns County in Florida is a great destination for travelers of all types. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in this area. Whether you’re looking for adventure sports, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing vacation, St. Johns County has it all.