Local Shopping Markets and Malls to Visit in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, FL, the nation's oldest city, seamlessly blends history and shopping into an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking unique antiques or modern treasures, shopping here immerses you in the local culture and charm. Dive into our guide to discover the best shopping spots that St. Augustine has to offer. Historic Downtown Shopping Historic downtown St. Augustine is a shopper's dream, with its cobblestone streets lined with unique boutiques and artisan shops.  Aviles Street  Aviles Street is a must-visit, known for its eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and eateries. This charming street, the oldest in the city, offers a perfect blend of history and modern flair. Key highlights include: The Pena-Peck House and Woman's Exchange: This historic house offers a wide array of antiques and handmade gifts. Operated by the Women's Exchange of St. Augustine, supporting the preservation of the building and local artisans. High Tide Gallery: Specializes in coastal-themed art and decor, featuring works by local artists. It's the perfect place to find a unique piece that captures the essence of St. Augustine's seaside charm. Aviles Street Gallery: A cooperative gallery showcasing the talents of local artists. From paintings to sculptures, you’ll find a variety of artwork that reflects the vibrant culture of the city. Traveler Tip: Aviles Street often hosts street fairs and art walks, making it an exciting spot for spontaneous finds. St. George Street  St. George Street is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that captures the essence of St. Augustine. This bustling street is lined with an array of shops and attractions, making it a hotspot for both tourists and locals. Some must-visit shops include: Whetstone Chocolates: Renowned for handmade chocolates and confections. Take a tour to learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy free samples of their delicious treats. The Pirate Store: Offers pirate-themed merchandise perfect for unique gifts. The store also features interactive pirate experiences for kids, making it a fun stop for families. St. Photios Greek Shrine Gift Shop: Features religious items and unique gifts from Greece, located within a historic shrine that celebrates Greek heritage and the first Greek settlers in America. The street's ambiance is enhanced by occasional street performers and live music performances at various establishments like Sangrias and the Colonial Quarter, where you can also experience living history with costumed guides and interactive exhibits offering a glimpse into life in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Fun Fact: St. George Street was originally a residential street and has evolved into one of the city's most vibrant commercial areas. San Marco Avenue San Marco Avenue is a delightful blend of antique stores and boutique shops. Known as “Uptown” in the historic district, it's the ideal spot for those seeking unique home decor and local crafts. Notable stores include: Antique Emporium: A treasure trove of vintage finds, including furniture, collectibles, and rare items. This store is perfect for those who love the charm and character of antique pieces. Dianthus Vintage: Specializes in retro and mid-century modern pieces, offering unique home accents and vintage clothing. It's a favorite among those who appreciate the style and quality of bygone eras. Market to Market: Offers a variety of local crafts, gifts, and handmade items. Often sourced from local artisans, you can find everything from jewelry to home decor that reflects the local culture and craftsmanship. Coastal Traders: A colorfully eclectic shop featuring fine handcrafted Indonesian furniture, home decor, clothing, accessories, and one-of-a-kind art pieces. Coastal Traders also features the works of several local artists.  After shopping, take a break at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants along the avenue, such as Sunday Gathering Table, known for their classic cafe fare and sourdough bread, or Juniper Market, offering fresh, healthy bites in a relaxed setting. Traveler Tip: Many shops on San Marco Avenue offer shipping services, making it easier to send your unique finds home without the hassle of carrying them. Outlet Shopping For those looking for brand names at discounted prices, St. Augustine offers one excellent outlet mall and two other nearby options depending on the brands you’re looking to shop from: St. Augustine Premium Outlets Home to luxury brands like Coach, Kate Spade, and Polo Ralph Lauren, as well as budget-friendly options like Gap Outlet and Old Navy Outlet. The mall often hosts seasonal sales and events, providing even greater savings opportunities. Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach Just an hour's drive south of St. Augustine, this outlet mall is worth the trip for its extensive selection of brands like Michael Kors, H&M, and Nike. The mall also offers a pleasant shopping environment with beautiful outdoor spaces and a variety of dining options. St. Johns Town Center in Jacksonville Located just an hour's drive north of St. Augustine, the open-air St. Johns Town Center has more than 175 of the hottest retailers and restaurants including Apple, Sephora, The Capital Grille, Tiffany & Co., Banana Republic, PF Changs, Louis Vuitton and more. Pro Tip: Visit during weekdays or early mornings for the best deals and a more relaxed shopping experience. St. Augustine Premium Outlets offers VIP Shopper Club memberships for additional discounts and special offers, making it easier to score fantastic deals. Farmers Markets and Specialty Food Shops St. Augustine boasts several farmers markets where you can find fresh produce and handmade goods. Notable markets include: St. Augustine Amphitheater Farmers Market Held every Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music. It’s a great place to meet local farmers and artisans, and enjoy the lively community atmosphere. Wednesday Pier Farmers Market Held every Wednesday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Park, this market offers a variety of local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It's a vibrant market that reflects the beachside community's spirit and supports local vendors. Lincolnville Farmers Market Held every Sunday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Willie Galimore Community Center, featuring a variety of local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s a vibrant market that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Lincolnville neighborhood. Specialty food shops such as Hot Stuff Mon (hot sauces) and The Spice & Tea Exchange provide unique local flavors and products. Additionally, Claude’s Chocolates is a must-visit for gourmet chocolates and confections, offering delectable treats made with high-quality ingredients. Traveler Tip: Bring reusable bags to the farmers markets to carry your fresh finds and help support the local environment. Gifts and Souvenirs For those seeking unique St. Augustine-themed souvenirs, the following shops are highly recommended: Silver Feather Jewelry & Gifts Known for its beautiful handcrafted jewelry and Native American crafts. This shop offers a wide range of unique items that make perfect keepsakes or gifts. Spanish Dutch Convoy Offers an array of unique gifts reflecting the city’s history, including hand-painted tiles, traditional Spanish pottery, and other decorative items that capture the essence of St. Augustine's rich heritage. The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse Gift Shop Perfect for historical memorabilia and educational gifts, located next to the iconic oldest wooden schoolhouse in the U.S. This shop offers a variety of items that provide a glimpse into the city’s educational past. Fun Fact: The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse is over 200 years old and is made from red cedar and cypress, held together with wooden pegs and handmade nails. Seasonal Shopping Events St. Augustine hosts several seasonal shopping events that are worth attending. These include: Nights of Lights Holiday Market A festive market featuring holiday decor, gifts, and local crafts. The event runs from late November through January, illuminating the city with millions of lights and creating a magical holiday atmosphere. St. Augustine Celtic Festival Held in March, this festival offers a unique blend of Celtic merchandise, food, and entertainment. Enjoy traditional music, dancing, and a variety of vendors offering Celtic-themed products. St. Augustine Art & Craft Festival Held annually over Thanksgiving weekend, showcasing local and regional artists and their works. From paintings to sculptures and handcrafted jewelry, this festival is a celebration of the artistic talent in the area. These events provide an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and find one-of-a-kind items. Pro Tip: Check event schedules in advance and plan your visit around these special events to enhance your shopping experience. Practical Tips for Shoppers To make the most of your shopping trip in St. Augustine, consider these practical tips: Best times to visit: Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded, making for a more enjoyable shopping experience. Parking: Utilize public parking lots or garages in busy areas. The Historic Downtown Parking Facility near the Visitor Information Center is a convenient option, offering easy access to many downtown attractions and shops. Transportation: Consider using the city’s trolley tours to combine shopping with sightseeing. The trolleys offer hop-on, hop-off service, making it easy to explore different shopping areas without the hassle of finding parking. St. Augustine offers a rich and varied shopping experience that caters to all interests. From historic downtown shops to modern outlet malls, there’s something for everyone. We invite you to explore and enjoy the local culture through shopping. Share your favorite St. Augustine shopping spots with us and help others discover the charm of this historic city.

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5 Best Properties That Offer The Hottest Deals This May

May is an exciting time in the real estate market. With spring in full swing, buyers and sellers are actively looking for the best opportunities. This month, we’ve identified the top five properties that offer the hottest deals. Whether you're looking for a historic home, suburban retreat, condo, beachfront property, or a fixer-upper, timing is crucial in securing these great deals. What Makes a Deal 'Hot' in Today’s Market? A hot deal in the real estate market typically means a property that offers excellent value for its price. Factors like location, potential for future appreciation, and current market conditions all play a role. This May, the market has seen a mix of stable interest rates and high buyer demand, leading to competitive prices and valuable deals. Property 1: The Historic Property (71 Marine St.) Located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, 71 Marine Street offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.  Price: $2,799,000Bedroom/s: 3Bathroom/s: 3Size: 3,267 sq. ft. Why It's a Good Deal: This charming home in St. Augustine, Florida, is located in the city's historic downtown district, reflecting the rich history of America's oldest city, founded in 1565. Upon entering, you'll find a space filled with elegance and luxurious details. The foyer features a grand entry door from France, dating back 300 years, made from Wormy Chestnut wood with original hardware and wrought iron gridwork. Flagstone floors, coquina walls, and antique beamed ceilings add to the historic charm. The main hall includes a classic half bath with a High-Tank Toilet and a Copper sink on a custom vanity. The living room is a cozy retreat with an oversized gas fireplace. Property 2: Suburban Area Property (61 Sandstone Dr.) 61 Sandstone Drive is perfect for those seeking a family-friendly environment in a suburban setting. This property is located in a quiet residential neighborhood known for its excellent schools and community amenities.  Price: $549,000Bedroom/s: 4Bathroom/s: 3Size: 2,466 sq. ft. Why It's a Good Deal: This pristine home in the coveted Treaty Oaks community combines convenience and elegance. It is located near shopping, historic downtown, and offers an easy commute to Jacksonville or Daytona via I-95. This residence features higher ceilings thanks to an extra row of blocks added during construction by the original owners. The spacious interior includes a bonus room ideal for a home office or versatile flex space. The gourmet kitchen, complete with new stainless steel appliances, is perfect for both family meals and entertaining. The master suite provides a serene retreat with its ensuite bathroom and generous closet space, while the fourth bedroom functions as an in-law suite with its own private bath. Property 3: Condo Property (129 Sea Grove Main St.) For those who prefer condo living, 129 Sea Grove Main Street offers a fantastic option with minimal maintenance.  Price: $639,900Bedroom/s: 3Bathroom/s: 2Size: 2,210 sq. ft. Why It's a Good Deal: This spacious single-level residence combines luxury and comfort seamlessly. The guest wing includes two bedrooms, a full bath, a laundry room, and access to a private balcony with lush green views. The master suite is a peaceful retreat with a custom walk-in closet and an ensuite bath featuring a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and dual vanities. The expansive living area is perfect for entertaining, complete with a custom stacked stone fireplace, crown molding, and a chef's kitchen with granite countertops, a stylish backsplash, soft-close cabinets, and a dining nook. Relax on the screened lanai, set to be freshly painted in May 2024, and enjoy the island breeze. Property 4: Beachfront Property (254 Barrataria Dr.) Beach lovers will be thrilled with 254 Barrataria Drive, a stunning beachfront property that offers unparalleled views and access to the ocean.  Price: $3,500,000Bedroom/s: 5Bathroom/s: 3Size: 4,538 sq. ft. Why It's a Good Deal: Discover unparalleled serenity and luxury with this magnificent waterfront estate, ideally located where the Matanzas Inlet, Atlantic Ocean, and Intracoastal Waterway meet. This custom-designed property offers a daily escape reminiscent of a five-star resort, capturing the essence of natural beauty at every turn. Enjoy sweeping views across the merging waters, perfect for boating, fishing, and relaxing on your private beach. Tailored for those who demand the finest in life, this private retreat seamlessly blends elegance and tranquility. Soaring ceilings and expansive living and dining areas all offer picturesque water views, providing a panoramic backdrop of beauty and peace. Property 5: Fixer-upper Property (134 Washington St.) For buyers looking to invest in a property with potential, 134 Washington Street is a fantastic fixer-upper opportunity.  Price: $750,500Bedroom/s: 5Bathroom/s: 2Size: 3,143 sq. ft. Why It's a Good Deal: This historic 1925 home in the sought-after Lincolnville neighborhood is full of potential. Currently set up as two separate residences, it can easily be transformed back into a single-family home. Whether you choose to live in one side and rent out the other or capitalize on the AirBnB-friendly status for extra income, the options are plentiful. he left side of the house boasts three bedrooms, a family room, dining room, and kitchen. Meanwhile, the right side includes a large family room with a fireplace, a bright dining room with a bay window, a kitchen, laundry room, and two bedrooms. The property features original hardwood floors and windows, plus a basement/cellar (rare in Florida). Just a few blocks from historic downtown, you’ll enjoy the convenience of walking to nearby coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques, and explore the home's captivating history documented by the historical preservation society. Conclusion These are some of the best deals currently available, but this is just the beginning. St. Augustine offers a wealth of opportunities for homebuyers, and we are here to help you explore them all. If you’re interested in these properties or any others in the area, don't hesitate to reach out. When you work with my team at Endless Summer Realty, you benefit from our extensive knowledge and deep roots in the St. Augustine market. Our dedication to prioritizing customer needs and upholding the highest standards of integrity ensures that you receive unparalleled service throughout your real estate journey. Let us help you find your perfect property. Contact us today to get started!

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Official Guide to Sea Turtle Nesting Season in St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine, FL, is not just a haven for sun-seekers and history buffs; it's also a critical sanctuary for sea turtles during their nesting season. This period is one of nature's most extraordinary phenomena, where female sea turtles return to their birthplace to continue the cycle of life. As residents and visitors of St. Augustine, it is our privilege and duty to ensure these marvelous creatures can safely carry out their nesting rituals. Understanding Sea Turtle Nesting Season Time Frame Nesting season in St. Augustine runs from May 1st through October 31st, with the bulk of nesting occurring between June and August. St. Augustine’s shores see an average of 150 nests per season. Species Three primary species of sea turtles grace our shores: Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all sea turtles, Leatherbacks are unique for their soft, leather-like shells.  Loggerhead (Caretta caretta): Recognizable by their large heads and robust shells, Loggerheads are the most frequent visitors. Green (Chelonia mydas): Named for their greenish body fat, these turtles are known for their herbivorous diet. In early April, a massive Leatherback sea turtle was seen in Crescent Beach laying her eggs in broad daylight, which is rare! Check out the incredible footage by clicking here. Nesting Process The nesting ritual of sea turtles is a poignant demonstration of nature's tenacity. First, the female turtle makes her way to the beach, often traveling hundreds of miles from her feeding grounds. Using her hind flippers, she digs a pit deep enough to protect her eggs from surface threats. She then lays her clutch of ping pong ball sized eggs, which can number over a hundred, in the sandy pit. After covering her eggs with sand to disguise the nest from predators, the turtle makes the exhausting trip back to the ocean. They usually lay 2 to 3 nests per season on a 2-3 year cycle. The eggs incubate in the sand for about 2 months. As the conditions have cooled inside the egg chamber, the hatchlings emerge out of the nest as a group. As the young turtles exit the nest, they instinctively seek the horizon by looking for natural light reflecting off the water. Upon reaching the water, hatchlings begin their journey spending their first days of their lives swimming offshore. Once there, the tiny sea turtles crawl into mats of drifting algae called sargassum. They spend the first few years of their lives passively drifting on their oceanic rafts feeding on almost anything they can catch in the sargassum. After a few years, the juvenile sea turtles leave their protective nursery and move to inshore feeding grounds where they spend the rest of their pre-adult lives. Ultimately, at the age of 12 – 30, adult, female, sea turtles return to their natal beach to lay nests of their own. Estimates predict that about one in a thousand hatchlings survive to adulthood. Local Conservation Efforts Several organizations dedicated to marine conservation play vital roles during the nesting season, leading to a hatching success rate often above 80%: St. Augustine Sea Turtle Patrol: Every morning during nesting season, trained sea turtle volunteers patrol the beaches looking for signs of sea turtle nesting. Each sea turtle emergence is examined and documented as a nest or false crawl (a non-nesting emergence). Each nest is marked with stakes, flagging, and, if necessary, covered with a metal screen to protect it from predators. After a nest has been marked, it is carefully monitored for signs of tidal inundation, predation, and finally hatching. After the hatchlings emerge from the nest, volunteers return to evaluate and document how many hatchlings emerged. The eggs are counted and a hatching success (the number of hatched egg shells in relation to the total number of eggs) is calculated for each nest. Marine Rescue Center: Specialists at the center are involved in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles, as well as public education and awareness campaigns. Guidelines for Residents and Visitors Beach visitors can have a positive impact on nesting sea turtles by taking the following actions: 1. Use designated beach walkovers. Stay off dunes and vegetation. 2. Stay out of sand dunes and conservation zones (15 feet seaward of the dune line). 3. Fill holes and remove sandcastles at the end of your beach day. 4. Do not leave beach chairs or canopies on the beach overnight. 5. Refrain from using fireworks and open fires. 6. Refrain from releasing balloons, as they can fall into the ocean and harm marine life. 7. Reduce litter and marine debris – dispose of trash properly. Pick up any fishing line and plastic that you see and participate in beach clean-ups. 8. Never approach sea turtles emerging from or returning to the sea. Nesting females are vulnerable and timid, and can be easily frightened away. 9. Turn off east facing exterior lights if you live or are staying near the beach. 10. Do not use flashlights on the beach at night. St. Johns County prohibits the use of flashlights on the beach at night during sea turtle nesting season. How to Safely Observe Sea Turtle Nesting While it's crucial to keep a respectful distance from nesting turtles, guided turtle walks provide a controlled environment for witnessing this natural marvel. Conducted by conservation experts, these tours educate participants about sea turtle behavior and how to observe without causing distress. Although it might seem helpful to guide hatchlings to the sea, doing so can disrupt their critical imprinting process necessary for their navigation and survival. If you encounter a stranded or disoriented hatchling, the best action is to contact local wildlife authorities who can provide the necessary care. If you find a sick / injured / dead sea turtle, do not put them back into the water as they may need medical attention. Please call FL Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 24-hour Wildlife Alert Number at 1-888-404-FWCC (1-888-404-3922). How You Can Get Involved Engagement in local conservation can take many forms, from active participation in beach clean-ups to financial support of marine protection initiatives. Every effort contributes to the sustainability of our sea turtle populations. The awe-inspiring sight of a sea turtle making her way to the shore to lay eggs is a stark reminder of the resilience of nature and our role in its preservation. By adhering to guidelines and supporting conservation efforts, we ensure that future generations will also enjoy the privilege of witnessing these magnificent creatures.

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