St Francis Inn Bed and Breakfast – St. Augustine, Florida
Birding Spots Along the Florida Coast Near St. Augustine
Discover Spring Birding on the Great Florida Birding Trail
Spring is prime time to explore the Great Florida Birding Trail near St. Augustine, where coastal wetlands, maritime forests, and tidal creeks create reliable habitat for both resident birds and seasonal migrants. This stretch of Florida’s coast is well-suited to an adventure-focused itinerary because you can cover multiple environments in a single day without long drives, then return to town for dinner, history, and an easy evening.
Start with Anastasia State Park, one of the top things to do in St. Augustine. This park is a productive mix of beach, tidal marsh, and maritime hammock, and a worthwhile stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The shoreline and salt marsh boardwalk are strong choices for wading birds, terns, skimmers, and migratory shorebirds, especially when you time your visit around lower tides. Continue south to Fort Matanzas National Monument, another fabulous stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, where estuarine edges and wooded trails can add rails, ibises, and raptors to your list, plus a short ferry ride that makes the outing feel like part nature excursion, part local history.
For open-coast scanning, Ponte Vedra Beach offers classic surf-zone birding with shorebirds along the tide line and pelicans cruising just above the water. If you want a quieter, more secluded stop, head to Pellicer Creek Conservation Area, where freshwater wetlands and shaded hammocks support a different mix of species and a calmer pace, including productive paddling opportunities when conditions cooperate.
The GTM Reserve is another must as you travel along the Great Florida Birding Trail, with broad estuary views and mudflats that reward patience, especially during migration. Round out the day with a change of scenery at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, where formal gardens meet a distinctive coquina shoreline, and bird activity often pairs well with spring blooms.
Stay Close to the Trail at A Downtown St. Augustine Hotel
After your time on the Great Florida Birding Trail, base your stay at St. Francis Inn, steps from historic downtown St. Augustine. Begin mornings at our St. Augustine Hotel with a gourmet buffet breakfast before heading out with binoculars and a field guide. Return for a complimentary social hour with wine, beer, and light snacks, then wind down with courtyard s’mores and evening desserts packaged for you.
With guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, plus thoughtful touches like fresh flowers and sherry in every room and a heated pool for recharging between outings, it is a practical, comfortable home base for spring birding on Florida’s coast. Book directly to plan your next adventure.
Discover the Best Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida
Best Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine delivers an experience that blends history, coastal beauty, and modern Southern charm. From centuries-old landmarks to sun-soaked beaches and lively food and drink scenes, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in St. Augustine, whether you’re here for a long weekend or a multi-day escape.
Florida is a year-round destination, but many visitors consider spring and fall the ideal time to explore. Comfortable temperatures make it easy to walk the St. Augustine Historic District, enjoy outdoor dining, or spend time by the ocean. Summer brings beach lovers and a lively energy, while winter offers a quieter pace without sacrificing sunshine.
Start your visit with a guided ride on the Old Town Trolley, one of the easiest ways to learn the city’s story and get oriented. From there, dive into history at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, where coquina stone walls overlook the Matanzas Bay. Nearby, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park offers a fascinating look at the earliest days of European settlement.
When it’s time to slow down, St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park provide wide stretches of sand, scenic trails, and opportunities for kayaking or wildlife viewing. Back in town, stroll along St. George Street to browse local shops, enjoy live music, and sample everything from casual bites to craft cocktails. Wine tastings at San Sebastian Winery and spirits at the St. Augustine Distillery add another layer to the experience.
Where to Stay During Your St. Augustine Vacation
Choosing the right St. Augustine lodging makes all the difference. Staying within walking distance of the Historic District means you can leave the car behind and fully enjoy the city’s rhythm. Our historic St. Augustine Lodging places you steps from top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, while offering a comfortable retreat at the end of the day.
From lighthouse views and ghost tours to alligator encounters and beach days, the best things to do in St. Augustine are as varied as they are unforgettable. Plan your stay, explore at your own pace, and discover why this Southern city continues to captivate travelers year after year.
Find the Ultimate December Getaway for the Holidays
Best Christmas Getaway in December
A December escape to St. Augustine brings together warm Southern charm, festive energy, and a holiday calendar unlike anywhere else in the country. A St. Augustine Christmas is defined by glowing streets, historic architecture dressed in lights, and seasonal experiences that turn every evening into something special. From the famous St. Augustine Night of Lights to waterfront celebrations, this city offers one of the most memorable holiday trips in the South.
Christmas lights in St. Augustine transform the historic district into a walkable wonderland. Millions of white lights illuminate centuries-old landmarks, the Bridge of Lions, and the bayfront, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and joyful. Riding the Night of Lights trolley is an easy way to enjoy the display while learning about the city’s history. Boat cruises across Matanzas Bay provide another perspective, letting you see the lights shimmer across the water.
Beyond the lights, St. Augustine Christmas events fill December with variety. The St. Augustine Christmas parade brings families together downtown with music and festive floats. The Holiday Regatta of Lights highlights decorated boats gliding through the harbor. Candlelit museum tours, holiday markets, concerts at the amphitheater, and seasonal celebrations at the lighthouse all add depth to your stay. There are countless things to do in St. Augustine at Christmas, whether you prefer history, entertainment, or relaxed evenings under the lights.
Where to Stay During Your St. Augustine Christmas Getaway
Choosing the best place to stay in St. Augustine at Christmas time makes all the difference. St. Francis Inn is a historic, centrally located St. Augustine bed and breakfast that allows you to walk to Night of Lights displays, dining, and seasonal events without worrying about parking. Staying close to the historic district gives you the flexibility to enjoy daytime sightseeing and return easily for evening festivities.
This well-appointed bed and breakfast enhances the holiday experience with thoughtful amenities, inviting guest rooms, and warm hospitality. Features like complimentary bikes, private parking, daily breakfast, evening treats, and comfortable gathering spaces create a true home base during December travels. After a full day of St. Augustine Christmas events, it’s a relief to return somewhere calm, welcoming, and close to everything.
If you are planning a December getaway filled with lights, history, and festive Southern charm, a St. Augustine Christmas delivers an experience worth repeating year after year.