21+ Best Day Trips from St. Augustine: Beaches, Springs, Small Towns & More

Updated December 2025

Are you looking for the best day trips from St. Augustine? I’ve grown up in central Florida and love exploring, whether it’s in this state or abroad! I’ve included the best day trips from St. Augustine into various categories to make it easy for you to find the best one for your trip!

I love all types of adventures, whether nature, parks, or strolling through small towns so this list will cover all types! If you’re planning on spending 3 days in St. Augustine or more, this post is for you!

Quick Guide

Here’s a quick guide of the best day trips from St. Augustine! There are so many options that you are sure to find the best one for your group!

🏖️ Beach Lovers	🌿 Nature Lovers	👨‍👩‍👧 Families	🏛️ History Buffs	🏘️ Small Town Explorers	🌟 Unique / Offbeat
Vilano Beach	Anastasia State Park	Marineland	Fort Matanzas	DeLand	Marineland (dolphin encounters)
Ponte Vedra Beach	GTM Reserve	Silver Springs	Palatka (Ravine Gardens + murals)	Mount Dora	World Golf Village (IMAX + golf)
Flagler Beach	Ocala National Forest	Blue Spring State Park	Fernandina Beach / Amelia Island (Fort Clinch)	Green Cove Springs	Lakeridge Winery
Jacksonville Beach	Silver Glen Springs	Daytona Beach	St. Marys / Cumberland Island	Palatka	San Sebastian Winery
Daytona Beach	Cumberland Island (St. Marys)	Orlando Theme Parks		Fernandina Beach / Amelia Island	Silver Glen Springs (snorkeling / float)
Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach)	Blue Spring State Park	Kennedy Space Center

Map of the Best Day Trips from St. Augustine

Beach & Coastal Escapes

While it can be too cold in the winter to enjoy the beach, Florida’s beach weather covers most of the year! If you’re wanting to enjoy the beach, here are some good options to consider.

Vilano Beach (10 min)

If you want a quieter option to St. Augustine Beach, but still close, Vilano Beach is the one to consider! While you will have more hotel options in St. Augustine Beach, Vilano Beach is quieter, more local vibes, and vacation rentals.

There are more homes that line this beach, so restaurant options or shopping is less on this side. However, for a quiet beach escape that is close to St. Augustine, this is the one!

For a day trip to the beach, here are some public access points. Vilano Beach Oceanfront Park or actually drive on the beach if you have four wheel drive! Surfside Park Beach is another good parking lot for a beach day.

Ponte Vedra Beach (30 min)

If you’re looking for a more upscale, peaceful beach day with wide, quiet stretches of sand, Ponte Vedra Beach is such a gorgeous option. It definitely feels a little more polished than St. Augustine Beach or Vilano with its beachfront homes, beautifully maintained dunes, and a relaxed, luxurious vibe.

There aren’t a ton of commercial areas right on the sand, which is part of its charm. It’s the kind of beach where you bring your own setup, stroll the coastline, and soak in a quieter atmosphere without big crowds.

Parking can be limited here, so going earlier is always better. The main public access point is Mickler’s Landing Beachfront Park, which has restrooms, showers, and a nice boardwalk over the dunes. This is also where you’ll often see people hunting for shark teeth.

If you want a calm, scenic beach that still feels close to St. Augustine but a world away in terms of vibe, Ponte Vedra Beach is a perfect day trip.

Flagler Beach (45 min)

If you want a laid-back beach town, Flagler Beach is such a fun option. The moment you pull in, it feels slow, local, and totally unpolished in the best way. Pastel beach cottages, quirky shops, and that classic old-Florida charm is why I love Flagler Beach.

The beach itself is wide and usually less crowded than St. Augustine Beach, and the shelly, orange-tinted sand makes it feel a little different from anywhere else nearby. There are no high risers or homes directly on the beach, so it feels more community minded.

Parking is easy along A1A, and you can access the beach from multiple walkovers. The Flagler Beach Municipal Pier area is the main hub, with cafes and restaurants within walking distance. It’s an easy, breezy beach day spot if you want something relaxed but still with enough going on to grab lunch or stroll around after the beach.

I like Next Door Beach Bistro for a nicer meal, or for a casual spot I love A1A Burrito Works TACO SHOP. Even if you don’t want to visit for a beach day, Flagler Beach is such a cute beach town worth a visit for lunch, dinner or even a half day trip from St. Augustine.

Jacksonville Beach (1 hr)

If you’re in the mood for a livelier beach day with more restaurants, cafés, and energy, Jacksonville Beach is a great pick. It has that classic big-beach-town vibe — wide beaches, a long pier, surfers out early, and plenty of places to grab a drink or snack.

It’s definitely busier than Ponte Vedra or Flagler, but sometimes that’s exactly the vibe you want: easy parking garages, lots of food options, and a good mix of locals and visitors. For beach access, the main area around the Jacksonville Beach Pier is the easiest, with plenty of walkovers and parking nearby.

If you prefer something a little quieter, just head a bit north or south along 1st Street and you’ll find less crowded access points with neighborhood parking. It’s an easy day trip if you want sun, sand, and plenty to do before or after your beach time.

Daytona Beach (1 hr 15 min)

Daytona Beach is the spot if you want a classic, touristy Florida beach day. The vibe here is definitely more lively (or built up) than St. Augustine Beach or Flagler, with a long stretch of oceanfront hotels, shops, and that nostalgic boardwalk feel.

For the liveliest area head to the Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk, where you’ll find plenty of parking and amenities. If you prefer something quieter, just head a few miles north or south — the beach opens up and gets more relaxed the farther you go from the main hub.

There are various parking lots along A1A if you don’t want to be in the thick of the touristy areas. The sand in Ormond Beach (just north of Daytona) is more shelly sand like you will find in Flagler Beach. I also find closer to Ormond the entry into the water is more intense where Daytona and Ponce have more gradual entries into the water.

It’s a fun, easy day trip if you want a beach day and a Daytona Beach itinerary that can include a walk on the pier, grab lunch on the ocean, climb a lighthouse, drive a NASCAR, or just enjoy the huge shoreline and warm Atlantic waves.

Your Ultimate Daytona Beach Itinerary: Things to Do, See, and Experience

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Florida has more nature to offer than the beach! So if you want to mix things up, whether you are spending 3 days in St. Augustine or more, these are great options to consider!

Keep in mind, there is a fee to visit these places, though the fee is usually minimal. It’s also wise to get to these places early on the weekends, or try to visit during the week.

Anastasia State Park (5 min)

Anastasia State Park is the closest and easiest nature escape because it is in St. Augustine. The beach here is wide, untouched, and absolutely beautiful, with rolling dunes, soft sand, and that peaceful “state park quiet” you just don’t get at the busier beaches. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a more natural, low-key beach day without driving far at all.

There’s plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and a long boardwalk that takes you over the dunes and straight onto the beach. You can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from the concession area if you want to explore the salt marsh instead of the ocean. You can also book a tour and enjoy the waterways of Anastasia!

Whether you’re coming to walk, lounge, or get a little dose of nature, Anastasia State Park is one of the easiest day trips since it’s in St. Augustine.

Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve (20 min)

If you want a true nature escape without going far, GTM Reserve is such a peaceful option. This whole area feels raw and untouched with its miles of trails, sweeping marsh views, and quiet coastal forests. It’s perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or just getting a break from the busy beach towns.

The trails range from super easy to longer loops, so you can make it as relaxed or adventurous as you want. There are several small parking areas along A1A, but the easiest place to start is the GTM Research Reserve Trailhead and Visitor Center.

From the visitor center, you can choose between marsh overlooks, shaded forest paths, or longer routes toward the Intracoastal. It’s not a swimming beach spot, but this is great for nature lovers. It’s one of the most underrated day trips near St. Augustine if you love quiet scenery and contemplative walks.

St. Marys, Georgia (1 hr 30 min)

St. Marys is a peaceful, waterfront town just over the Georgia border and a great change of pace from St. Augustine. The historic downtown sits right on the St. Marys River, with oak trees, quiet streets, and a small-town coastal feel. It’s the kind of place where you park once and wander — grab coffee, browse a couple of local shops, and walk the waterfront park.

I have this in the nature section because the biggest draw is actually Cumberland Island. I’ve read about the horses at here, but I have yet to visit this beautiful Georgia destination. You will need to reserve a spot on the ferry and you’ll take it from the Cumberland Island National Seashore Visitor Center.

You can rent a bike in St. Mary’s but there is no option for that once on the island. In fact, you will need to take everything with you, whether you are going for a day or camping! They do have water, so you can take a water bottle and refill it, but any lunch or snacks, you’ll need to take.

One reviewer said the main sites will take about three to four hours, so this can be a day trip! If you want a unique nature experience that includes ruins and wild horses, Cumberland Island is for you!

Blue Spring State Park (1 hr 15 min)

Blue Spring State Park is a great day trip from St. Augustine to swim or spot some manatees! This is a perfect place if you want that classic Florida spring experience. The water is crystal clear and stays around 72°F year-round.

In the winter, this is one of the best places in Florida to see manatees, sometimes hundreds of them, all gathering in the warm spring run (the swimming is closed in the winter to protect the manatees). In the warmer months, it’s all about swimming, tubing, and watching fish drift quietly through the water.

The park does get busy, so arriving early is your best bet, especially on weekends. During the week, you have more leniency with the time. There’s a big parking area, restrooms, and an easy boardwalk that follows the spring run and gives you beautiful views the whole way.

You can also enjoy a boat tour here showing you the St. Johns River views. Or rent a kayak or canoe or take a kayak tour and benefit from a guide. Just note, kayaks and paddle boards can only go in the run for the morning hours before 10AM and after 5PM, but is closed to paddlers and swimmers in the winter completely.

Whether you want to get in the water, take a nature walk, or just enjoy a peaceful Florida moment, Blue Spring makes a fantastic and super easy day trip from St. Augustine.

Also, Blue Spring State Park isn’t far from DeLand. You can easily add some of the fun things to do in DeLand to your day trip! For how to enjoy Blue Springs in the winter vs the summer, check out my full guide: Blue Spring State Park Guide (By a Local): How to Enjoy in Winter vs Summer!

Book the Manatee Discovery Kayak Tour for Small Groups near Orlando or the
St. Johns River Cruise – Blue Spring State Park

Silver Glen Springs (1 hr 45 min)

Silver Glen Springs is one of those spots that instantly makes you feel like you’re on vacation. The water is insanely clear like it is all the springs, but here the sand bottom really makes it pop! It’s one of the prettiest swimming springs in the Ocala National Forest and feels more like a huge natural pool than a river run, so it’s perfect for floating, snorkeling, or just cooling off in that crisp 72° spring water.

This spring is popular on weekends, so getting there early really pays off or even better, avoid the weekend. Boats line up along the run, and while the water area is off limits to boats, kayak, and paddle boards, it’s much noisier than during the week.

There’s a large parking area, picnic spots, restrooms, and plenty of shallow areas that are great for just relaxing in the water. It’s not a tubing spring, meaning you don’t lazy river down it. However, it’s one of the best day trips from St. Augustine for a clear-water swim.

If you want a truly unique experience, consider renting a boat or jetski and arriving to Silver Glen by water. We did this once when I was a kid, and it’s still a vivid memory of seeing the water turn from murky lake water to the clear spring water!

Ocala National Forest (2 hrs)

Ocala National Forest is a great day trip if you’re craving big nature, quiet trails, and that classic Florida wilderness feel. It’s huge — full of longleaf pine forests, natural springs, shaded hiking paths, and scenic drives that make you forget you’re only a couple hours from the coast. This is where you come to unplug (limited service), wander, and see a side of Florida that’s totally different from the beaches near St. Augustine.

My visits tend to be focused on the springs, though I have hiked a few trails. Also, it’s a popular area for camping, which I haven’t done, but my sister has (if you know my sister, this is quite a twist). If you do like camping, there are plenty of options here!

You can make a whole day out of it by pairing a spring swim with a hike or a picnic. Popular spots like Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, and Salt Springs (and Silver Springs or Silver Glen Springs both mentioned in this list) are all inside the forest, each with its own vibe.

Whether you want to paddle, hike, swim, or just enjoy that peaceful forest atmosphere, Ocala National Forest is an easy getaway when you want nature without the crowds.

Silver Springs

Silver Springs is one of Florida’s most famous springs and makes for a unique day trip from St. Augustine. The water here is incredibly clear, fed by the Silver River, and the park is best known for its glass-bottom boat tours, which let you see all the fish, turtles, and underwater plants without getting wet. It’s perfect if you want a more relaxing or family-friendly experience.

Beyond the boats, there are walking trails, kayak rentals, picnic areas, and plenty of spots to just sit by the water and take in the scenery. I’ve rented there and enjoyed the loop, but my favorite there (and one of my favorite paddles in Florida overall) is the 5 mile downstream paddle. The fee will include pickup and I saw several gators sunning themselves on the side during this paddle, so consider a kayak tour if that concerns you.

The park is a bit more developed than some of the other springs, so you’ll find restrooms, a café, and gift shops, but it still feels very natural. It’s a great mix of nature and history, as the park dates back to the 1800s and was one of Florida’s first tourist destinations.

Whether you want a peaceful walk, a paddle down the river, or a classic glass-bottom boat ride, Silver Springs makes a memorable day trip from St. Augustine.

Book the highly rated Glass Bottom Kayak Tours of Silver Springs

Historic Towns & Cultural Stops

While St. Augustine is the oldest city, there are other cute or older towns to explore! Places like DeLand or Mount Dora have cute, historic downtown areas, as well as other nearby attractions worthwhile. Palatka is a true country town, but there are gardens worth visiting!

If you enjoy exploring small towns, there are definitely some good options within a day trip of St. Augustine!

Palatka (45 min)

Palatka is a true country town and even it is showing signs of Florida growth. It sits right on the St. Johns River, and the whole downtown has this sleepy, charming, old-Florida feel. You can wander around and look for the historic murals scattered throughout the streets.

Just a few minutes away is Ravine Gardens State Park, which is definitely the highlight of a Palatka day trip. The park has dramatic ravines (yes, actual ravines in Florida!), suspension bridges, shaded trails, and beautiful landscaping. In spring, the azaleas bloom and the whole place feels magical.

I visited one March, and it was surprising! This is definitely a worthwhile stop, and I recommend giving yourself a couple hours to stroll around and hike the trails. Some of the trails are narrow and have large roots, so keep that in mind if you have any mobility issues. There are easier places to walk, but I wouldn’t suggest this if you are injured or impaired.

Pair a stroll through the ravines with a riverside walk or a stop at a local café downtown, and you’ve got an easy, relaxing day trip from St. Augustine that’s a little artsy, a little outdoorsy, and totally peaceful.

Fernandina Beach / Amelia Island (1 hr 45 min)

Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island is one of the most charming coastal towns in all of Florida. The downtown area is full of Victorian architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and that cozy small-town feel that makes you want to wander slowly and explore every corner.

The marina along the Amelia River is beautiful at sunset, and the whole area has a relaxed, slightly upscale vibe without being pretentious. If you’re craving beach time, the island has long stretches of quiet, walkable shoreline with soft sand and gentle waves.

Fort Clinch State Park is a must-visit while you’re here — the historic fort is fun to explore, and the park itself is full of shady trails, wildlife, and peaceful beach access. Amelia Island is one of the best day trips from St. Augustine, though it is a worthwhile weekend getaway in its own right!

Green Cove Springs (1 hr)

Green Cove Springs is such a relaxing little riverside town and makes for an easy, low-key day trip from St. Augustine. The highlight here is the historic spring-fed pool right on the St. Johns River — it’s been a community gathering spot for generations. The riverfront park surrounding it is peaceful, with big shade trees, swings, and pretty views across the water.

The downtown area is small but charming, with a handful of local restaurants and shops to explore. If you like historic sites, the old courthouse area and surrounding neighborhoods have that classic small-town Florida character. It’s not a high-energy destination, but if you want something simple, pretty, and close to nature, Green Cove Springs is an easy and enjoyable day trip from St. Augustine, and could be a good stopover if you wanted to do a mini historic town road trip.

DeLand (1 hr 30 min)

DeLand is a true small town with historic charm, with plenty to do and explore making it a super fun day trip from St. Augustine. The downtown area is lively but not chaotic — full of local cafés, restaurants, murals, and boutique shops.

Stetson University being right in town also offers a beautiful campus to stroll. It’s the kind of place where you can wander block to block and always find something interesting, whether it’s a craft coffee shop or a quirky little bookstore.

Just a few minutes outside of downtown is Stetson Mansion, one of Florida’s most stunning historic homes, famous for its tours and over-the-top Christmas decorations (only open certain times of the year, so check the website to make reservations).

If you want nature, you’re also close to Blue Spring State Park, so it’s easy to combine both into one trip. You can also jump out of a plane at Skydive DeLand or enjoy a nature walk at Lake Woodruff! Whether you’re coming for the food, the history, or a relaxing stroll through a beautifully preserved downtown, there are plenty of things to do in DeLand.

You may like 15 Best Things to Do in DeLand, Florida (From a Local)!

Mount Dora (2 hrs)

Mount Dora is one of the cutest small towns in Central Florida. While it’s closer to Orlando, it’s still a possible day trip from St. Augustine. The downtown area is full of charming boutiques, antique shops, cafés, and tree-lined streets, all sitting right along the shores of Lake Dora. It’s super walkable, and there’s always something going on: craft fairs, art festivals, or live music in the park.

One of the best things to do here is take a boat tour on Lake Dora and the Dora Canal, where you glide through a tunnel of cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss — it feels like a hidden slice of old Florida. You can also check out the lighthouse, stroll the lakefront boardwalk, or enjoy lunch with waterfront views. If you love cute downtowns, pretty scenery, and that easygoing small-town charm, Mount Dora is absolutely worth the drive from St. Augustine.

Small Town Road Trip Idea

If the idea of a mini road trip sounds appealing, here’s a sample idea as a day trip from St. Augustine. This loop will give you country towns, small towns, and coastal towns.

This drive is about 3.5 hours in total with no breaks, but we will definitely throw in things to do in each area. You can do this tour in either direction, depending on your preferences, or choose half the stops so you can enjoy each place more. It’s also easy to remove stops that don’t interest you as much, to give you more time at other places.

An Easy Road Trip Loop from St. Augustine

St. Augustine to Palatka is about 36 minutes. Stop at downtown or visit the Ravine Gardens State Park.

From Palatka, head to DeLand which will take just over an hour. In DeLand, explore the shops and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants downtown. Add a quick trip to Blue Spring State Park if you want, but be advised on the weekends it reaches capacity early.

Heading east, I recommend visiting Ormond Beach which will take about 40 minutes to drive there. You can visit The Casements (Rockefeller’s winter home) and enjoy a free tour. I recently did the tour and loved it! If a tour doesn’t interest you, I love Soraya, an elegant coffee shop, which is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or for my favorite “acai” type bowl, visit Solberry Bowls (I love the coconut or cacao base).

Check Out The Casements Tour: A Surprisingly Charming Look at Rockefeller’s Florida Life

Ormond is a nicer beach town vibe, but the downtown area isn’t as walkable in terms of interesting shops. If you don’t want to visit the Casements, you can head to Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna or Beach Street in Daytona (this will add a little time to your itinerary). New Smyrna is also a beach town, but their downtown on Flagler Avenue is more walkable.

After Ormond Beach, head north on A1A (the beachside road) and stop in Flagler Beach. This beachside town is a great place to grab dinner! It will take about 25 minutes from Ormond Beach, up A1A, so it’s not far. I’ve enjoyed Next Door Bistro and FARO Beachside Eatery, but there are plenty of options to in this small beach town!

From Flagler Beach, you can head up A1A to St. Augustine which will take about 50 minutes. If you want to shave about five minutes off your commute, you can take I-95. I like the drive up A1A, but I enjoy the ocean vibes.

City Experiences

If small towns aren’t your thing, there are some cities to consider as day trips from St. Augustine. Jacksonville and Orlando are bigger cities, while Daytona and Gainesville are less intimidating.

Jacksonville (1 hr)

Jacksonville is a great option if you want a mix of city vibes, outdoor spaces, and a lively beach scene for a day trip from St. Augustine. The city stretches along the St. Johns River and the Atlantic coast, so you’ve got lots of options depending on what kind of day you want.

Jacksonville Beach is perfect if you want sun and surf, while downtown and Riverside offer fun museums, trendy cafés, and a cool artsy feel. If you’re heading to the beach, the Jacksonville Beach Pier area is the easiest access point, with parking, restrooms, and restaurants nearby. For a quieter experience, just a little north or south along the coast, you’ll find stretches of sand with fewer crowds.

Downtown, don’t miss the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens or a stroll along the Riverside and around Five Points for a mix of culture and scenic views. Jacksonville works well as a full-day trip or a longer beach-and-city combo if you’re looking for a little variety.

The zoo in Jacksonville is another consideration. I saw the Land of the Tiger made a list for the top 10 zoo encounters in the United States. I have yet to visit, but if you enjoy a zoo, this is a good one!

Daytona Beach (1 hr 15 min)

A Daytona Beach itinerary is perfect if you want a classic Florida beach day with a lively, energetic vibe. The sand is wide and hard-packed, which is unique to this area — in fact, you can drive on the beach in designated spots, which makes it a fun, nostalgic experience. For a quieter experience, you can head a few miles north or south along the coast to find stretches of beach with fewer crowds.

Beyond the sand, the boardwalk and Daytona Beach Pier give you restaurants, shops, and carnival-style fun if you want a little extra action. For a quieter downtown feel, head to Beach Street, which is good for a meal, but the shops are lacking.

For history, consider visiting Mary McLeod Bethune House or for history and views, head to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse (Florida’s largest lighthouse). Daytona Beach works well as a day trip if you want a mix of sun, surf, and some classic Florida attractions all in one place.

For more ideas check out the
Ultimate Daytona Beach Itinerary: Things to Do, See, and Experience

Gainesville (1 hr and 30 min)

Gainesville can be a great day trip from St. Augustine if you’re looking for a mix of college-town and nature. Home to the University of Florida, the city has a lively, college town vibe. You can wander around the campus, check out the historic architecture, or enjoy some of the many parks and trails nearby.

For nature lovers, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park or the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens are perfect stops for hiking, wildlife spotting, or just enjoying the outdoors. Paynes Prairie can be a great stop. When I visited, the bison eluded me, but I did see the wild horses from a distance. I also saw more gators in one place than I’ve ever seen in my life! It’s a great place for hikes and wildlife!

Gainesville also has museums like the Florida Museum of Natural History, which is great if you want a little indoor exploration. Whether you’re combining outdoor adventure with a taste of city life or just want a change of scenery from the coast, Gainesville is an easy and rewarding day trip.

Orlando (1hr 40 min)

Orlando is an optional day trip from St. Augustine, but definitely try and avoid the high traffic times. While it’s best known for theme parks like Disney World and Universal, there’s also plenty to do outside the parks — from Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando to fun dining, shopping, and local art galleries.

If you’re a theme-park fan, you can pick one park for the day and make the drive worth it. Otherwise, Orlando has unique neighborhoods like Winter Park or Winter Garden with charming streets, cafés, and boutiques. Leu Gardens offers a relaxing outdoor escape or visit Bok Tower Gardens. It’s a different pace from the coast, offering a mix of city life, culture, and iconic attractions — perfect if you want variety on a day trip from St. Augustine.

Fun & Unique Day Trip Ideas

These day trips from St. Augustine don’t really fit in the other categories, but definitely range in fun and uniqueness. Of course, what is fun and unique to you may not be for the next person, so ultimately they just didn’t fit in the other categories.

There’s some really good options to consider here and some can be combined with other day trip ideas!

Marineland (30 min)

I haven’t been here since I was a kid, but it’s on my list to revisit soon and see how it is these days. Ocean life is my favorite, and I know zoos and aquariums can be a sensitive subject. I’m not here to debate, so if this isn’t something you’re comfortable with, feel free to skip it.

For me, my love for the killer whales came from watching Shamu at Sea World. I saw this magnificent, smart creature and now I’m interested in the preservation and protection of it. Do I support pulling these animals from the wild now? No, but the ones that have been born in captivity can inspire a new generation to love and care for them. This is my perspective, but you don’t have to agree.

This research center allows for dolphin encounters (no killer whales) and can be a fun and educational experience. It’s a small entrance fee (compared to what things cost these days) and has a very old Florida, small town vibe. A big difference from the theme parks of Orlando.

You can pay extra for various types of dolphin encounters as well! While I haven’t done a dolphin encounter here, I did do the one in Orlando at Discovery Cove which is a much busier destination. Once the weather warms up, I might try this one and do a comparison. I imagine Marineland’s version will feel more intimate, but it won’t have the snorkeling and extra activities you get in Orlando.

World Golf Village (25 min)

World Golf Village is a quick and easy day trip if you want something relaxed and close by. While the World Golf Hall of Fame is no longer there, the area still has a peaceful, resort-style feel with lakes, walking trails, and scenic grounds. The IMAX Theater is still operating, and the surrounding golf courses and restaurants make it a simple, low-key outing.

It’s not an all-day destination on its own (unless you play a round), but it works well when paired with another stop — like Palatka, Green Cove Springs, or even a beach walk on your way back into St. Augustine.

Winery Visit

If you’re in the mood for a relaxing day tasting local flavors, Florida has some great options. San Sebastian Winery is right in St. Augustine, making it perfect for a quick stop. You can sample their locally made wines, enjoy the historic ambiance, and even take a short tour to learn about their winemaking process. It’s a great way to unwind without leaving town.

For a longer, more scenic day trip, head about 1 hour 45 minutes inland to Lakeridge Winery in Clermont. The drive takes you through rolling hills, lakes, and lush countryside, making it as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the palate. Lakeridge Winery is one of Florida’s largest and most well-known wineries — you can do tastings, stroll their vineyards, and even pick up some bottles to take home. Both options make for a charming and low-key escape from the beaches and city streets of St. Augustine.

Fort Matanzas National Monument (25 min)

One winter I was looking for a fun little adventure and found Fort Matanzas on the maps. It doesn’t take long to visit, but I was pleasantly surprised! You simply park at the visitor center and get a ticket for the ferry. If there was a fee, it was minimal, but I think it might be free!

The ferry will take you across the intracoastal and you can explore the fort for about 45 minutes, which is all you need since the fort is small. It was built to protect St. Augustine by ensuring the enemy didn’t make it down the river!

The area itself is also beautiful, with sandbars (during low tide) on the intracoastal side fun for walking and exploring. You can also walk from the intracoastal side to the beachside, which is a beautiful and untouched walk.

This is only about 25 minutes from St. Augustine, so it’s an easy half day trip!

Kennedy Space Center (2 hrs)

The Kennedy Space Center can be an excellent day trip! It is a bit of a drive down I-95, but if you’re into space, this is an excellent day trip to consider! I’m planning on going soon, so I’ll update this once I go. As a kid, I loved it, but I’m excited to experience it as an adult as well.

Theme Parks (2 hrs)

Orlando is a longer day trip from St. Augustine, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a full day of excitement and iconic attractions. From Walt Disney World to Universal Orlando, the city is packed with theme parks, water parks, entertainment, and dining options that make it a classic Florida getaway.

Of course, most decide to make this a bigger part of their Florida trip, so if you are wondering the best area to stay near Disney World, I’ve got you covered!

Best Area to Stay Near Disney World:
Hotels With Shuttles, Top Neighborhoods & More

Tips for Planning Your Day Trips

Best Months for Outdoor Trips

October through April are ideal for Florida day trips. The weather is more comfortable, and the crowds are smaller (except for Christmas and Spring Break), making it perfect for exploring. It may not be as hot for beaches and springs, but I’ve noticed northerners seem to think the weather is great for water activities. Of course, being outside in general is nice without feeling rushed or overheated!

What to Bring

If your plans include springs or beaches, be sure to pack swimsuits, towels, and a cooler. Bringing snacks and drinks will help you stay comfortable and enjoy the day without having to hunt for food options once you arrive. For a true Florida experience, get a Pub sub (Publix sub sandwich) and enjoy a day by the water!

Florida Traffic Patterns

Florida traffic can be unpredictable, especially on I-95 and I-4 during morning and evening rush hours. Planning your departure and return around peak times will save you time and frustration, and can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your day trip. Generally speaking, 7AM to 9AM and 4PM to 7PM are higher traffic times.

Offline Maps and Connectivity

I rarely have issues, but it’s always good to be prepared. Some parks, springs, and natural areas have limited cell service. This is especially true of the Ocala National Forest area! Downloading offline maps ahead of time ensures you can navigate easily, find parking, and locate key points of interest without worrying about losing signal.

Best Day Trips from St. Augustine

I hope you were able to choose the best day trips from St. Augustine for your trip! With so many options in Florida, it can be difficult to decide, so I hope this was helpful in choosing the one that fits your travel style!

Whatever you choose to do, I hope you have an amazing time visiting the Sunshine State!