St Francis Inn Bed and Breakfast – St. Augustine, Florida
A fun Day at Vilano Beach Near St. Augustine
The Best Things to Do in Vilano Beach Near St. Augustine
Located just across the bridge from the St. Augustine Historic District, Vilano Beach offers visitors a refreshing coastal escape with beautiful scenery, waterfront dining, and easy access to many of the most popular things to do in St. Augustine. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or simply looking to spend time along Florida’s Historic Coast, there are plenty of things to do in Vilano Beach throughout the year.
The wide sandy shoreline is one of the area’s biggest attractions. Visitors can spend the morning walking along the beach, collecting shells, watching surfers ride the waves, or enjoying a peaceful sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Compared to some of the busier beaches in St. Augustine, Vilano Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing easy access to outdoor recreation and local attractions.
The Vilano Beach Pier remains a favorite destination for visitors seeking scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you enjoy fishing, photography, or simply taking in the surroundings, the pier offers a great place to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the coast. Nearby, Porpoise Point provides panoramic waterfront views where the inlet meets the ocean, and dolphin sightings are common throughout the year. It is also considered one of the most popular sunset spots near St. Augustine.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of additional things to do in Vilano Beach, including kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, and sightseeing cruises. Local operators offer boat tours and dolphin excursions that allow visitors to experience the waterways from a unique perspective. The Vilano Beach Nature Boardwalk also provides a scenic setting for wildlife viewing and leisurely walks along the coast.
A Relaxing Stay at One of the Best St. Augustine Bed and Breakfasts
After a day spent exploring beaches in St. Augustine, enjoying waterfront activities, or dining at popular Vilano Beach restaurants such as Cap’s On the Water, The Reef, Beaches at Vilano, Pesca Vilano Rooftop, Aunt Kate’s, and Michael’s St. Augustine, return to the timeless comfort of St. Francis Inn.
Located in the heart of the historic district, our Bed and Breakfast offers elegant accommodations, peaceful courtyards, and thoughtful amenities designed to help guests relax and recharge. Guests can also enhance their stay with local tours, spa services, and getaway packages while enjoying convenient access to both downtown attractions and the coast. Book your stay today and discover why St. Francis Inn remains a favorite destination for a memorable St. Augustine escape.
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.
Unbeatable Views at the Top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse
Explore Florida’s Coast at the St. Augustine Lighthouse
The St. Augustine Lighthouse stands as one of the most recognized landmarks along Florida’s historic coast, offering a compelling mix of panoramic views, maritime history, and interactive exhibits. Located on Anastasia Island, this active aid to navigation dates back to 1874 and remains an essential part of the region’s identity. Visitors who climb the 219-step spiral staircase are rewarded with sweeping views of St. Augustine, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the surrounding beaches.
Beyond the tower, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum provides a deeper look into the area’s maritime heritage. The Keepers’ House features hands-on exhibits, including artifacts from a documented 1782 British loyalist shipwreck. Additional structures across the property highlight the evolution of coastal industries and the people who shaped them. For those interested in craftsmanship, Heritage Boatworks offers a close-up look at traditional wooden boat building, led by dedicated volunteer boatwrights.
Guided experiences and local tours add another dimension to a visit. The Lighthouse Keeper’s Tour shares detailed historical insights, while the Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour explores the site’s more mysterious stories. These tours provide context and storytelling that extend beyond the standard self-guided climb.
Visitors can also explore the Maritime Hammock Nature Trails, which wind through native Florida landscapes and offer a quieter way to experience the grounds. Nearby, Anastasia State Park provides additional opportunities for coastal walks and beach access, making it easy to turn a lighthouse visit into a full afternoon outing. It won’t take you long to see why a visit to this historical gem is one of the best things to do in St. Augustine.Â
Walkable Lodging at Our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast
For those planning a weekend stay, choosing a Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine FL places you close to both the lighthouse and the city’s historic district. The St. Francis Inn offers a location that balances accessibility with a quieter setting just off the main streets. Guests can expect thoughtfully designed rooms, a courtyard garden, and amenities such as a pool, fitness center, and fire pit. A notable inclusion is complimentary admission to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, adding convenience and value to your visit.
What to Do in St. Augustine?
Best St Augustine Tours to Explore Top Attractions
St. Augustine offers history, coastal scenery, and walkable charm, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway in Florida. As the oldest city in the United States, it features cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and landmark sites. Choosing St Augustine Tours is one of the best ways to experience the city, with guided insights that add context to every stop.
There is no shortage of things to do in St Augustine. Visitors can spend time at St. Augustine Beach, browse shops along St. George Street, or explore historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos. These St Augustine attractions provide a strong foundation for your itinerary, whether you are visiting for a full weekend or a shorter stay.
St Augustine Tours range from flexible city overviews to specialized experiences. Old Town Trolley Tours St Augustine offers a convenient way to navigate more than 20 stops, including major landmarks and cultural sites, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
For those interested in the water, St Augustine boat tours provide a different perspective of the city. Cruises along Matanzas Bay highlight landmarks like the Bridge of Lions and St. Augustine Lighthouse, often with opportunities to spot dolphins. Options range from sightseeing cruises to wine-focused experiences that combine views with curated tastings.
Culinary tours add another dimension to what to do in St Augustine. Guided tastings through the historic district introduce guests to local flavors and notable dining destinations. Evening tours often include multiple stops, pairing small plates with wine in an intimate setting.
For a different pace, St Augustine ghost tours explore the city’s longstanding paranormal history. These guided experiences visit historically significant locations and focus on well-researched storytelling. Visitors can also choose active options such as kayaking tours, which combine coastal wildlife viewing with historical narration.
With such a wide range of St Augustine Tours available, the hard part about planning your getaway will be narrowing down what to do in St. Augustine.
Where to Stay in St Augustine
After a day of sightseeing, staying in the historic district keeps everything within easy reach. The St. Francis Inn offers a Bed and Breakfast St Augustine experience with amenities such as a daily gourmet breakfast, weekend brunch, and an evening social hour with light refreshments. Its central location allows guests to transition easily between tours, dining, and local attractions.