The Most Haunted Places in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, FL, is a city steeped in history and shrouded in mystery. With centuries of stories, battles, and legends embedded in its cobblestone streets, it's no wonder it's considered one of the most haunted places in the United States. From eerie cemeteries to historic landmarks with paranormal reputations, this city offers a ghostly thrill for anyone brave enough to explore its darker side. If you're looking to dive into the supernatural history of St. Augustine, these haunted locations will surely give you chills.

The Historic Huguenot Cemetery: Restless Spirits

Huguenot Cemetery near the Old City Gates is one of the city’s most haunted spots. Established in 1821, this cemetery served as the final resting place for those who died of yellow fever, though not all found peace in the afterlife. The most famous ghost sighting here is of Judge John B. Stickney, a victim of the 1882 epidemic. He is said to roam the cemetery, possibly searching for stolen possessions that went missing after his exhumation.

Access to the cemetery is limited—it's only open once a month, adding to its eerie allure. Walking by its ancient gravestones at night, you can almost feel the weight of centuries past.

For a spine-chilling experience, visit during one of the rare public openings. Ghost tour enthusiasts should not miss this eerie spot!

Flagler College: The Haunting of the Ponce de Leon Hotel

Once the luxurious Ponce de Leon Hotel, Flagler College is now a hub for education—and ghostly activity. The building was built by Henry Flagler in 1888 and is known for its spirits. Students and staff frequently report sightings of Flagler himself, his second wife, Ida Alicia, and a mysterious “Woman in Black.” Others have encountered a man with a mustache, dressed in early 20th-century clothing, who vanishes before anyone can approach.

Campus reports indicate that dozens of students have witnessed unexplained phenomena, making Flagler College one of the most haunted buildings in St. Augustine.

Don Pedro Horruytiner House: The 1600s Hauntings

Stepping into the Don Pedro Horruytiner House on St. George Street is like walking back in time. Built in the early 1600s, this historic home is one of the oldest in the city and has been the site of ghost sightings for over two centuries. In 1821, Brigita Gomez reported seeing two ghostly women in the garden, believed to be former house owners.

Its prime location on St. George Street makes this house a favorite for ghost hunters and history buffs.

Tolomato Cemetery: The Bishop & the Priest

Tolomato Cemetery is the resting place of some of St. Augustine’s earliest settlers. While the cemetery is typically closed to the public, it opens once a month for visitors eager to explore its historic graves. Among the most famous spirits are Bishop Verot and Father Varela, two religious figures said to walk the grounds in search of peace. Their spectral presence makes Tolomato Cemetery a popular stop on ghost tours.

Be sure to plan ahead, as access is limited, making this an exclusive haunt for those fascinated by history and the supernatural.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse: Tragedy on the Rails

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a favorite among paranormal investigators due to a tragic incident during its construction in 1873. A group of children playing on a rail car accidentally fell into the ocean when the brakes failed. Only two survived. The spirits of the three who perished are said to haunt the lighthouse, often heard laughing and playing near the spiral staircase.

The lighthouse is a stunning part of St. Augustine’s history and a beacon for those exploring the city’s darker past.

Join a lighthouse night tour to get the full paranormal experience—perfect for those seeking a blend of history and chills.

St. Francis Inn: A Haunted Stay in St. Augustine

Built in 1791, St. Francis Inn is the oldest inn in St. Augustine and is known for its unexplained phenomena. Guests report flashing lights, visible apparitions, and moving objects. Its blend of historic charm and paranormal reputation makes it one of the most sought-after inns for those interested in an eerie overnight stay.

For the ultimate experience, consider booking a room at St. Francis Inn during the Halloween season, when ghost sightings are said to peak

The Old Jail: Echoes of the Past

The Old Jail served as a prison for 60 years, and with eight inmates executed here, it’s no surprise that it’s considered one of St. Augustine’s most haunted places. The most famous spirit haunting the jail is Charlie Powell, who died on the gallows. His ghost and others are said to roam the halls of the old prison to this day.

Now a museum, the Old Jail is a popular stop on ghost tours, allowing visitors to explore the cells and gallows where these spirits linger.

Over 60 paranormal encounters have been recorded at the Old Jail, making it one of the most active haunted sites in the city.

Castillo de San Marcos: The Fort’s Ghostly Past

The Castillo de San Marcos may be St. Augustine’s most iconic landmark, but it’s also one of its most haunted. The fortress has witnessed its share of bloodshed, including the massacre of French soldiers and the beheading of Chief Osceola. Visitors have reported seeing a disembodied head near the fort’s walls, believed to be Osceola’s, along with restless spirits of soldiers who died defending the fort.

The Castillo offers more than just historical significance—it’s filled with untold stories of ghosts from centuries past. While the fort is not open to the public at night, its grounds still offer a chilling experience for those willing to explore.

Conclusion

St. Augustine’s haunted spots aren’t just spooky tales—they’re woven into the fabric of the city’s history. Whether you’re here for the ghostly thrills or to explore the rich past of America’s oldest city, these haunted locations are sure to captivate your imagination. Ready to discover a place where history and the supernatural collide? St. Augustine is waiting for you.