Chances are you didn’t come to St. Augustine, Florida, to stay indoors – not with so many fantastic outdoor things to do!
There’s well over a dozen state parks, along with smaller parks, campgrounds, and beaches in and around St. Augustine, that would keep even the heartiest outdoorsman busy. Outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, hiking, camping, and surfing are available in the St. Augustine area.
One of the largest parks for those seeking outdoor activities is Anastasia State Park – just across the bay from downtown St. Augustine. This state park offers 1,600 acres of beaches, campgrounds, and wooded trails that provide you with the opportunity to do any of the numerous outdoor activities that are popular to this area.
Let’s take a closer look at the many things to do at beautiful Anastasia State Park.
The Beach at Anastasia State Park
If you love the beach, Anastasia State Park has plenty to offer you… as in FOUR miles of beautiful white sand and surf. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, sail boating, surfing, wind surfing, fishing, and biking (no ATVs or other vehicle allowed) – there are so many things to do at the beach at Anastasia State Park, and lots of beach to do it on!
The beach has sand dunes, tidal marshes, and a lagoon where you can kayak or take out a paddleboat. There’s also a play area for the kids and a picnic pavilion, complete with a barbecue grill. A full day just might not be enough to enjoy all the outdoor activities offered at this park! You will, however, have to keep Fido at your hotel or beach rental if he’s joined the family on this vacation – no dogs are allowed on the beach.
You’ll enjoy ample parking, along with bathroom and bathhouse facilities, and in most cases, a beach that’s not too crowded.
Other Outdoor Activities at Anastasia State Park
Not a beach person, or simply taking a break to find something else to do?
No worries… Anastasia State Park has enough to satisfy everyone!
Walk the park’s self-guided nature trail – a short, but interesting, trek over sand dunes under the shade of oak trees. The trail is also a great attraction if you’re into birdwatching – owls, osprey, bald eagles, warblers, woodpeckers, and robins are among those you’ll see here.
If you’re a winter visitor, you’ll spot hawks, falcons, and the Northern Harrier. If birdwatching is your thing, you’ll also enjoy seeing the gulls, terns, heron, spoonbills, and more that populate the beach area. The walk also allows you to enjoy the park’s plant and other life: wildflowers and various kinds of butterflies abound!
Additionally, there are 139 campsites (104 with electricity) for both tents and RVs located along the coastal hammock. You can enjoy living in the great outdoors, being just a short walk from the beach, but far enough away that your stay isn’t ruined by the blowing salt water and sand.
Love history? Anastasia State Park offers the Coquina Quarry: check out ancient Spanish ruins in this protected historic place.
When it comes to things to do, Anastasia State Park just may outdo many other attractions found in the area.
To book your next stay, check out vistas and condo rentals currently available.
