Anastasia Island, Florida sits on a small peninsula, very close to the city of St. Augustine, on the inlet of Matanzas Bay. The 1,600 acres that make up this park are home to one-of-a-kind ecosystems and some of the most abundant wildlife in the state of Florida.
History of the Park
As this state park is located directly adjacent to one of the most historically significant cities in the country, St. Augustine, it has a wonderfully rich history that spans hundreds of years. In the 1940s, the US Army Corps of Engineers created an inlet, which bisected a small peninsula into an island called Conch Island. Over time, sand built up, increasing the size of the island and connecting it to Anastasia Island. This landmass is now Anastasia Park.
The park is home to many sites of historical significance, such as the coquina quarries. These quarries were in use over 300 years ago, when scores of workers hauled massive rocks from the earth in order to build countless historical monuments in St. Augustine, such as Castillo de San Marcos. This is now an archeological site that visitors to the park can explore.
Anastasia Island Attractions
Any vacation to St. Augustine is not complete without a visit to this amazing park. There is so much to do and see here that there is something for everyone. As it is located on some of the most pristine natural landscape in the state, there are plenty of trails and hikes that will immerse you in one of a kind beauty. You can take a casual walk along any section of the over four miles of beautiful coastline or take a trek through the wooded areas and to ancient sand dunes.
You can also take part in any number of Anastasia Island’s attractions. These include, but are not limited to, hiking, swimming, beach combing, bird watching and fishing. You will also find opportunities to rent bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, sail boats and much more, giving you endless different ways to enjoy the beauty found here. If you just can’t get enough of the park you can always stay over. Anastasia Island is a Florida camping haven, famous for the variety of camping opportunities that it provides. There are 139 featured campsites, all offering a slightly different Anastasia experience.
Of all the parks in Saint Augustine, FL, this is one worth planning for on your next Florida vacation. This one of a kind landscape is sure to be nothing like you have ever experienced before, and will leave you with a sense of awe and wonder.
