St. Augustine, Ponte Verde & the Beaches: Florida's Historic Coast
The nation’s oldest city is home to coastal views, amazing attractions, golf courses, beaches, State Parks and more
Introduction
Florida’s Historic Coast
St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest city and one of Florida’s finest destinations. This historic city and its neighbors are home to a wealth of attractions and can be reached via Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1 and scenic Florida Highway A1A. Visitors from the West are served by Interstate 10. Jacksonville International Airport is 50 minutes north of St. Augustine and 30 minutes from Ponte Vedra.
Popular Activities
- With Schooner Freedom Charters, groups can sail on a replica 19th-century blockade-runner. St. Augustine’s premier tall ship, it stands 76 feet and is a testament to naval history.
- From its distinctive 35-foot watchtower and colonial buildings to shops and diners, Colonial Quarter has something for everyone.
- Sea Serpent Tours takes guests through the Matanzas River, Tolomato River and St. Johns River, giving an unforgettable perspective of this side of Florida.
- From international fare and waterside seafood shacks to fine dining in the top resorts of Ponte Vedra Beach, there are no better dining experiences than the cuisine along Florida’s Historic Coast.
Get a Planner’s Perspective
Don’t just take our word for it, hear what these planners had to say.
The team with the St Augustine CVB has been great to work with to launch our conference championship. Their support and insight is going to make our event even better. We look forward to working with them for years to come!”
Rob Chismark, ACL (American Cornhole League) SE Conference Pro
Find Your Perfect Facility in Florida’s Historic Coast
Facility Summaries
More than a dozen golf courses
Sports Covered: Golf
One of the best golfing destinations in the whole country, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches are home to more than a dozen outstanding courses, including the world famous TPC Sawgrass, which annually hosts The Players Championship every March. If you love the feel of the ocean breeze as you play, visit the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club. The par-72, 6,811-yard ocean course offers stunning seaside views and has served as the site for St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, FL the U.S. Open qualifying round five times. The Ocean Course at Hammock Beach Resort was carved out of the Atlantic Coast coastline and was designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. This 7,201-yard par 72 is a Florida oceanfront course with six holes that overlook the Atlantic Ocean.
More than a dozen boating ramps
Sports Covered: Fishing
This coastal region features a variety of accessible boating ramps and perfectly placed fishing piers. One such spot is Lighthouse Park Boat Ramp, a historic ramp that features two boat ramps, a dock, water fountains and ample parking. The lovely view can be enjoyed from the vantage point of picnic tables and grills and is perfect for an afternoon cookout. Alpine Groves Park is a beautiful area that is home to a citrus grove, butterfly garden, nature trails, and of course, a dock for fishing. Anastasia State Park is another popular outdoor destination as it features picnic tables, a playground, seasonally staffed lifeguards and a host of fishing spots.
42 miles of scenic coastline
Sports Covered: Hiking, biking, swimming, padding/kayaking
When Ponce de Leon was first drawn to Florida’s historic coast 500 years ago, he may have been so attracted to the gorgeous coastline that he couldn’t resist sticking around. This area is home to 42 miles of spectacular beaches, from the pristine coast of Ponte Vedra Beach to St. Augustine Beach’s lively surf and south to the wide sands of Crescent Beach. Other top spots include Anastasia State Park, featuring pristine beaches, native Florida hammocks and tons of wildlife, Crescent Beach, which sports a majestic stretch of coastline, and Vilano Beach, which features a charming community and one of St. Augustine’s best-kept secret beaches. The 42 miles of scenic views also makes for an unforgettable road trip, so make sure to bring your camera.
First Coast BMX
Sports Covered: BMX biking
This spectacular BMX track in St. Augustine is ideal for BMX riders of all ages. It features a track of tight turns and wavy jumps and is perfect for riders who crave the thrilling speed and stunning tricks of the sport. This 8-lane, 24-foot track is ideal for any level of rider, from the youths still learning to balance to the seasoned rider flying through the air.
What are you waiting for?
Let Sports Planning Guide help you plan the perfect event.
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Jaya Dillard
Sales & Services Manager
Telephone: 904-209-4429