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Are you planning a romantic journey through the ancient city of St. Augustine, FL?

As native Floridians, my husband and I love to explore our home state while also keeping things affordable and St. Augustine is a great place for a budget friendly getaway. So get ready for the best activities and hidden gems that St. Augustine has to offer even if you’re traveling on a budget.

In this guide, I’ve got 28 things to do in St Augustine for couples, but these activities are budget-friendly because I believe that money should not hold you back from an amazing experience!

As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway in Florida. Whether you’re basking in the glow of a sunset on a scenic cruise, exploring the hauntingly beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, or indulging in a chocolate tour you will have the perfect weekend in St. Augustine.

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Short on Time?

One of our favorite ways to explore a new city is with a Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour!
It’s a great way to combine transportation and sightseeing.

1. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos

Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos is a great way to experience the historical essence of St. Augustine without stretching the budget. As the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, you’ll wander through centuries-old corridors and stand atop bastions for views of the Matanzas Bay. It’s perfect for the history-loving couple!

  • Address: 1 South Castillo Drive Saint Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Ages 16 and above is $15 per person valid for 7 consecutive days. Children under the age of 15 are free when admitted with an adult. Free or discounted admission is available for certain groups such as the Military or Seniors.
Aerial view of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, surrounded by water on two sides, with adjacent roads and nearby buildings in St. Augustine, Florida.

2. Stroll down St. George Street

Strolling down St. George Street is a quintessential experience for couples visiting St. Augustine and offers a glimpse into the heart of the city’s history and culture. Located within walking distance of the Castillo de San Marcos, this pedestrian-only street is filled with unique boutiques, artisan shops, and cafés all set against the backdrop of Spanish colonial architecture.

St. George Street is also home to other affordable attractions and landmarks such as City Gate, Oldest Wooden School House, Peña-Peck House, Cathedral Basilica, and more, making this an enchanting spot in America’s oldest city.

  • Address: St. George Street St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Free, there may be parking fees.
aerial view of the st. augustine beach with the ocean waves crashing up against the shores

3. Relax at Vilano Beach

Vilano Beach is a short drive north of the city across the Matanzas River and has fewer crowds. It’s a quiet atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls searching for shells, watching for dolphins, or taking in a sunrise and sunset. The nearby Vilano Beach Pier is also a great spot for fishing and views of the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Augustine skyline.

There are paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports available. So whether you want to lounge on the beach, have a picnic, or visit some local eateries and shops, Vilano Beach is the perfect thing to do in St. Augustine for couples on a budget!

  • Address: 2750 Anahma Drive St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Free, there may be parking fees.

4. Check out the Art Walk in Downtown St. Augustine (monthly)

The Art Walk in Downtown St. Augustine is held on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. What we love about it? It’s free!

During the event, you’ll stroll through the heart of historic St. Augustine, where over 20 galleries and art spaces open their doors to the public. Located throughout downtown St. Augustine, the Art Walk spans across various districts. You’ll enjoy complimentary refreshments and live music. The Old Town Trolleys offers complimentary shuttle service to all of the galleries so you won’t have to worry about a thing!

  • Address: 1 Cathedral St. St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Free
Vibrant red-capped lighthouse peeking through the lush green leaves under a clear blue sky in St. Augustine, Florida

5. Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a fun day of discovery and breathtaking views. It’s located on Anastasia Island where you’ll be able to climb to the top and meet with a stunning 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s 219 steps to the top.

Besides the lighthouse is the maritime museum where you can explore the rich nautical history of the area, from shipwrecks and pirates to the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. The museum’s grounds also have scenic nature trails, a Victorian-era keeper’s house, and picnic areas so you can bring lunch!

  • Address: 100 Red Cox Drive St. Augustine, FL 32080
  • Price: Adults $14.95, Seniors (60 & over), Children (12 and younger) $12.95

6. Join a Ghost Tour

Joining a Ghost Tour in St. Augustine is perfect for a couple into the spooky stuff. On these tours, you’ll hear about the city’s eerie history. These tours are meticulously crafted from years of research, personal accounts, and chillingly real-life experiences which are the kind of tours we love!

One great option is the open-air haunted trolley, we love it for unobstructed views and photo opportunities of St. Augustine’s haunted hot spots. It’s not just a tour; it’s a unique experience that combines history, horror, and romance under the cloak of night, the perfect night out for couples!

7. Discover Downtown St. Augustine

We love discovering Historic Downtown St. Augustine for its cobblestone streets, cafes, and boutiques, it’s all just steeped in centuries-old historic charm. Be sure to take a stroll along the waterfront, and take in the views of the Bridge of Lions.

Some popular sites include Magnolia Avenue, a perfect place to stroll down under Spanish moss-draped oak trees. Continue to the heart of the city at Plaza de la Constitución, the oldest public park in the U.S., where you can do some people-watching, and enjoy the occasional free concert.

  • Address: 170 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Free, there may be parking fees.
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8. Picnic at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is located along the Matanzas River and is a place where legend meets history. Ponce de León may have explored these grounds during his quest for the mythical fountain in 1513.

Discover the Timucuan village, watch historical reenactments, and visit the planetarium to learn about the navigation methods of early explorers. Not to be missed is the legendary Fountain of Youth itself, where you can drink from the waters believed to grant eternal youth.

  • Address: 170 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults $19.95, Seniors (60+) $17.95, Children 6-12 $9.95, Children 5 and under FREE. Discounts are available for residents of St. Johns County and groups.

9. Take a Scenic Boat Ride

A scenic boat ride in St. Augustine is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown. I love to be on the water and a scenic boat ride is the perfect way to enjoy a romantic evening in St. Augustine!

Most boat tours will take you past the Bridge of Lions, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, and the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche. You’ll also have an opportunity to spot wildlife, including dolphins!

Historic stone turret of Castillo de San Marcos overlooking the bay with palm trees and a bridge in the background in St. Augustine, Florida

10. Take a Guided Historical Tour

Taking a guided historical tour of St. Augustine is both fun and inspiring! You’ll get a close-up view of the ancient city’s historical landmarks. From Castillo de San Marcos to Mission Nombre de Dios, the Tolomato Cemetery, and the Plaza de La Constitución. It’s an amazing way to explore what makes St. Augustine America’s oldest city!

11. Explore the Lightner Museum

The Lightner Museum housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, built by Henry M. Flagler in 1888 is a place to discover fine and decorative 19th-century art. The museum’s collection includes examples of cut glass, Victorian art glass, costumes, furnishings, mechanical musical instruments, and other eclectic pieces showcasing the opulent lifestyles of America’s elite during the late 1800s.

  • Address: 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adult $19, Senior $16, Student $16, Military $16, St. Johns County Resident $12, Youth (12-17) $12, Child (11 and under) Free.

12. Explore Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park is a short drive from the historic downtown and is 1,600-acres of untouched beauty. We love state parks and at Anastasia State Park you’ll find lush canopy of trees, four miles of beaches, and a chance to spot ospreys, eagles, and even sea turtles, depending on the season.

Available activities include kayaking through the salt marshes, hiking or biking along the nature trails, and exploring the area. The park’s ancient sand dunes and oceanfront views make it a perfect spot for laying out in the sun, swimming, or a romantic picnic.

  • Address: 300 Anastasia Park Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
  • Price: $8 per vehicle.

13. Book a St. Augustine food tour

Ok, this activity is the priciest on the list, but I wanted to include it. One of my philosophies when it comes to budget travel is to save aggressively on things that don’t matter to you as much so that you can splurge on what does and this activity may be worth a splurge!

A St. Augustine food tour is a great way to experience the culinary scene and get a taste of the local cuisine while also exploring the city. Most tours include a variety of dishes that will make up a full lunch or a full dinner. They are led by a local foodie who will take you to all the hidden gems that locals love.

You’ll learn a lot and your belly will be full too, what more could you ask for!

14. Embark on a Free Walking Tour

A free walking tour of St. Augustine was our favorite way to see the city. The tours depart daily at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. from Ponto Central and are about 90-minutes. It’s a great opportunity to see the sites and hear stories from knowledgeable local guides.

The best part is that it’s free! I think that walking tours make for the perfect first activity when in a new city because you get a lay of the land without paying for an expensive tour. Don’t forget to book the tour in advance so they know you’re coming.

Although the tour itself is free, don’t forget to tip the guide to show your appreciation!

  • Address: 1960500000, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Free
Twilight view of a lighted bridge with street lamps reflecting on the water in St. Augustine, with a park bench and palm trees in the foreground.

15. Rent kayaks for a day on the water

Renting kayaks for a day on the water is a fun and active activity that will give you and your partner a unique vantage point of St. Augustine and the surrounding areas.

You can book a kayaking tour and several locations around St. Augustine, including the the Matanzas River and Anastasia State Park, offer kayak rentals. These sites provide easy access to some of the area’s natural environments, from Salt Run to the marshlands of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.

16. Take a wine tasting tour at the San Sebastian Winery

Taking a wine tasting tour at the San Sebastian Winery is a fun thing to do for couples that enjoy learning about and tasting wine. We definitely fall into this category! We love this because San Sebastian offers a complimentary, self-guided tour of the winery which also includes a tasting. There’s a short audio-visual presentation in the upstairs theater, where the art of winemaking comes to life.

  • Address: 157 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Self-guided tours and tastings are free.

17. Explore the Colonial Quarter

Exploring the Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine will take you on a journey back in time. This living history museum offers a a glimpse into the life of the oldest city in the United States through the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.

You’ll explore re-created colonial buildings, and experience live demonstrations of blacksmithing, musket shooting, and more. The Colonial Quarter also offers an immersive experience with its two full-service restaurants themed to be part of the historical experience. There is admission fee is relatively affordable and includes guided tours and access to certain exhibits.

  • Address: 14 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults (16 & over ) $15.99, Seniors and Military $12.9, Children (5-15 ) $9.99, 4 & under FREE
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18. Attend the Night of Lights (seasonal)

Attending the Night of Lights in St. Augustine is a romantic and magical experience available seasonally from November through January. The event features over three million lights on the historic district’s buildings, trees, and landmarks.

I don’t know why, but I find night light displays so romantic, so this is definitely one of my favorites on the list! It’s also during this time that downtown businesses extend their hours. There are seasonal tours available with the trains and trolley tours as well as electric cart tours, boat tours, and even aerial tours.

  • Address: 1 Cathedral St. St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults: Free, there may be a fee for parking.

19. Browse the art galleries and shops of Aviles Street

Aviles Street is the “oldest street in the nation” and the perfect backdrop for a romance. You can wander and peek into the galleries, pop into street’s boutique shops, and experience the St. Augustine art district.

Also along Aviles Street is the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum where you can get a glimpse into St. Augustine in the 1800s. Aviles Street not only offers a nice outing but the opportunity to support local artists and businesses in this charming part of the ancient city.

  • Address: 2 Aviles Street St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults: Free, there may be a fee for parking.

20. Go on a sunrise or sunset sail

Are you and your partner early risers? A Sunrise Tour at Lighthouse Park is a great way to start the day! My husband is not really a morning person, so we usually opt for a Sunset Cruise which is also perfect for scenic views of the city.

We like to pick tours that allow us to bring our own drinks and snacks that we can enjoy while sailing by landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the majestic Bridge of Lions, and St. Augustine Lighthouse.

21. Visit the Fort Matanzas National Monument

The Fort Matanzas National Monument is a great way to experience the Spanish colonial history of Florida. It’s about 14 miles south of St. Augustine on the Matanzas River constructed in 1742 to guard the southern approach to St. Augustine.

Admission to all areas of the Fort Matanzas National Monument is free, including the ferry ride to the fort itself, which is subject to availability. But please make sure that you stop in the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center, not the St. Augustine City Visitor Center, to obtain your free boarding pass for the ferry.

  • Address: 8635 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080
  • Price: Adults: Free

22. Explore the St. Augustine Distillery

The St. Augustine Distillery is a fun experience for couples who appreciate the crafting of a delicious cocktail. It’s located in a beautifully restored ice plant from the early 20th century.

The St. Augustine Distillery offers paid guided tours and free self-guided tours that include a tasting. On a tour, you’ll learn about the distillation process, from grain to bottle, the meticulous care and local ingredients that go into each batch of vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey.

  • Address: 112 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults: Tours start at $15, but the self-guided tour is free and includes a tasting!
barrels stacked on racks at st augustine distillery

23. Visit the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve) is an amazing experience the nature loving couple! Located approximately halfway between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, the reserve spans over 73,000 acres.

It represents a significant effort to conserve the natural biodiversity and beauty of the region, including salt marshes, mangrove wetlands, oyster bars, and unspoiled beaches, making it a key site for research, education, and conservation.

You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, kayaking through the estuarine waters to get an up-close look at the aquatic flora and fauna. Make sure you visit the Environmental Education Center featuring interactive exhibits about the natural and cultural history of the area. Birdwatching is another popular activity, with the reserve being home to a vast array of bird species.

  • Address: 505 Guana River Rd #6527, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
  • Price: Adults: $3.00 per vehicle up to 8 people.

24. Plan a Day Trip to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, approximately 30 minutes south of St. Augustine. It’s worth the visit for its several hundred acres of scenic landscapes, including formal gardens, vast coastal hammocks, and rocky beaches.

It’s perfect for romantic strolls through the gardens of azaleas, camellias, and roses and exploring the coquina rock formations that line the beach. It’s nice for a picnic and amazing for photo opportunities. It’s a beautiful park and great for an affordable romantic experience.

  • Address: 6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137
  • Price: Adults: $5 per vehicle.

25. Visit the St. Augustine Wild Reserve

If you or your partner are animal lovers then you must visit the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. Just a short drive from downtown St. Augustine, this non-profit sanctuary is a haven for unwanted exotic animals, providing them with a safe and caring home. The reserve offers guided tours by appointment when you can observe various wildlife such as lions, tigers, jaguars, and wolves.

The cost of the tour is a donation to the reserve, supporting their mission to care for and maintain the well-being of the animals. During the tour guides share insight into the importance of wildlife conservation.

  • Address: 5190 Farm Creek Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32092
  • Price: Adults: Tours start at $35 per person.

26. Take a Chocolate Tour

If you and your partner are chocolate lovers, then you can’t go wrong with a chocolate-tasting tour at the Whetstone Chocolates Factory. The tour is a glimpse into the craft of chocolate production, from bean to bar.

During the tour, you will learn about the history of chocolate, the intricacies of its production, and the art behind crafting the perfect piece of chocolate. Of course, the highlight is the tasting session!

  • Address: 139 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
  • Price: Adults: $10.95, Children (Ages 5-17): $8.45, Children under 5: Free.
Aerial view of a wooden pier extending into the ocean at sunset with a golden sky reflecting on calm waters and beachside houses lining the shore

27. Take a Hop on Hop off Trolley Tour

The St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is the perfect way to explore America’s ancient city! We love hop-on hop-off trolley tours and do them in just about every city or town we visit if available.

Not only is it a convenient mode of transportation to see all of the sights and attractions, but you get a narrated tour along the way! We usually grab the first trolley in the morning, take it around the full loop, and then get off at the various stops. It’s flexible, affordable, and informative making it the perfect activity for your romantic visit to St. Augustine.

  • Address: 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA
  • Price: From $39 per person.

28. Plan a Day at Mickler’s Landing Beach

Mickler’s Landing Beach located in Ponte Vedra Beach near St. Augustine, is renowned for its distinctive pink coquina sand and dunes. It’s a beautiful setting to catch a sunrise and you can expect fewer crowds too.

The beach is well-equipped with convenient access, including a parking lot (which can fill up quickly on busy days), restrooms, and showers. You’ll love shelling and maybe find a shark tooth! It’s also a great spot for a picnic.

  • Address: 1109 Ponte Vedra Boulevard Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
  • Price: Free, there may be a fee for parking.

Things to do in St Augustine for Couples FAQs

Is St Augustine good for couples?

Yes, St. Augustine is a fantastic destination for couples! My husband and I love St. Augustine for its rich history, Spanish colonial architecture, and romantic ambiance. The beaches, cultural experiences, restaurants, bars, wineries and activities all make St. Augustine the ideal destination for couples.

What is the tourist street in St Augustine?

The most famous tourist street in St. Augustine is St. George Street. It’s a pedestrian street with historic buildings, tons of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and sightseeing, all within easy walking distance.

When was St Augustine Florida established?

St. Augustine, Florida, was established on September 8, 1565, by Spanish admiral and Florida’s first governor, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. This makes it the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European origin in the contiguous United States.

Is St. Augustine a romantic city?

Yes! St. Augustine is a place for romance. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and scenic waterfronts offer a beautiful backdrop for romance. Activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, wine tastings, and sailing tours add to its romantic appeal, making St. Augustine a favored destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

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