Outdoor Activities for Families: Best Parks, Trails, and Beaches in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, FL, is a treasure trove of outdoor activities perfect for families seeking ways to spend quality time together. With a mix of history, nature, and adventure, our city always has something to do. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top three family-friendly parks, trails, and beaches in St. Augustine that are guaranteed to offer fun, relaxation, and a connection with nature.

Top 3 Best Parks

Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park is a must-visit for families. It's a haven for nature lovers with over 1,600 acres of unspoiled beaches, tidal marshes, and maritime hammocks. The park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. The beach is perfect for building sandcastles or enjoying a family picnic.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the park features well-maintained nature trails, a historic coquina quarry site where coquina rock was mined for the construction of the nearby Castillo de San Marcos, and three playgrounds for children. With so many options, Anastasia State Park provides an ideal setting for a fun-filled family day out.

Don't miss the park's nature trails, which are great for a leisurely family hike. Bring binoculars for bird watching—Anastasia State Park is home to a variety of bird species.

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park combines history and natural beauty. This site offers a glimpse into the past with its historical exhibits and lush gardens. Kids will love exploring the planetarium, the Timucua Indian Village, and the scenic waterfront.

As the original site of St. Augustine's founding, this park is steeped in history. Families can walk through 15 acres of landscaped grounds to explore exhibits like the Spring House, which contains the legendary Fountain of Youth. The park also features peacocks roaming freely, adding to the charm and educational value of the visit.

According to park records, over 200,000 visitors explore the Fountain of Youth each year, making it one of St. Augustine's most popular attractions.

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is famous for its formal gardens and unique shoreline of coquina rock formations. It’s a beautiful spot for a family picnic, leisurely walks, and photography. The gardens bloom with seasonal flowers, offering a picturesque setting for family photos.

This park offers a contrast of formal gardens and natural coastal scenery. Families can explore the rose garden, citrus grove, and the rock-strewn beach. The park's walking trails meander through live oak hammocks and along the Matanzas River, providing scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Plan your visit during the spring or fall when the gardens are in full bloom. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and family moments.

Top 3 Best Trails

GTM Research Reserve Trails

The GTM Research Reserve is excellent for families who love nature and education. This reserve offers a mix of salt marshes, mangroves, and maritime hammocks, along with educational programs and guided tours.

Spanning over 73,000 acres, the GTM provides a unique ecosystem for exploration. Families can participate in guided walks or rent kayaks to explore the estuary's waterways. The Environmental Education Center offers interactive exhibits that are both fun and informative for children and adults alike.

Visit the Environmental Education Center first to get an overview of the reserve and plan your activities accordingly. Check the schedule for family-friendly educational programs and guided tours.

Fort Mose Historic State Park

Fort Mose is a significant historical site and offers a beautiful trail through various landscapes, including salt marshes and coastal hammocks. The park is not only educational, but also provides a peaceful setting for a family walk.

Fort Mose Historic State Park is known as the site of the first free African settlement in the U.S. Families can explore the visitor center to learn about its history and then take a walk along the nature trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding marshes and wildlife.

The park features over 40 acres of diverse habitats, making it a great spot for bird-watching and wildlife photography.

Ravine Gardens State Park

Ravine Gardens State Park features a unique landscape with a series of steep ravines and various hiking trails. It’s perfect for families looking for a bit of adventure and stunning natural beauty.

Located a short drive from St. Augustine, this park is renowned for its azalea blooms and dramatic geological formations. The trails here range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, ensuring there’s something for every family member. The park's suspension bridges and picnic areas add to its charm.

Visit during the spring for the azalea bloom, which offers a breathtaking display of colors. The park also has a playground and picnic areas for a complete family outing.

Top 3 Best Beaches

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is a cherished family destination, renowned for its wide, sandy shores and gentle waves, making it perfect for swimming, beach volleyball, or simply basking in the sun. This vibrant beach locale is ideal for families seeking a day of fun and relaxation.

Known for its welcoming and accessible environment, St. Augustine Beach offers many activities for all ages. The nearby St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier is a hub of activity, featuring a splash park and playground that children adore. With several nearby restaurants, families can easily spend an entire day enjoying the beach without the need to venture far for refreshments. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, ensuring a safe swimming experience for everyone.

St. Augustine Beach consistently ranks as one of Florida's top beaches, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Its family-friendly amenities and beautiful setting make it a favorite among locals and tourists.

Vilano Beach

Vilano Beach offers a more tranquil experience compared to St. Augustine Beach. It’s ideal for families looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time. The beach is great for shell collecting and has beautiful sunset views. It also offers the best and most consistent surf break in the area. 

Vilano Beach is celebrated for its natural beauty and less crowded shores, making it perfect for a peaceful family outing. The beach’s shoreline is dotted with coquina rocks, creating an excellent environment for beachcombing and exploring tidal pools. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy casting a line off the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier. Additionally, the nearby Vilano Beach Town Center offers quaint shops and diverse dining options, adding to the charm of this delightful destination.

Visit the beach in the early morning for the best shelling opportunities. The sunsets here are spectacular, so plan to stay until evening if possible.

Butler Beach

Butler Beach is another excellent option for families. It offers wide, expansive shores that are perfect for various beach activities. The calm waters make it a safe spot for young children to swim and play.

Located just south of St. Augustine Beach, Butler each is renowned for its serene environment and stretches of sand. The beach provides a tranquil and less commercialized setting, ideal for those looking to relax away from the crowds. Amenities include picnic areas, dune walkovers, and clean restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit. Butler Beach is also historically significant, as it was one of the first beaches in the area to be desegregated, thanks to the efforts of Frank Butler, a prominent African American businessman and local civil rights activist.

Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the beach and its surroundings. The ample parking and restroom facilities make it a convenient choice for families. After your beach day, head over to Frank B. Butler Park West to enjoy sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway. 

Conclusion

St. Augustine’s outdoor spaces are a testament to the city’s rich natural and historical heritage. From the sandy shores of Anastasia State Park to the educational trails of the GTM Research Reserve, there’s no shortage of adventures awaiting families. So pack your picnic basket, grab your hiking shoes, and head out to discover the best parks, trails, and beaches our city has to offer.