Spend Christmas on the Historic Coast of Florida
If you’re looking for a holiday destination that captures the magic of the season with a dash of history and seaside charm, St. Augustine, Florida, might be your perfect getaway. As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States, St. Augustine is already steeped in history and allure—but during the holidays, the city transforms into a wonderland that’s truly worth experiencing. Here’s why you should consider a visit to St. Augustine during the holiday season:
Nights of Lights: A Holiday Spectacle Like No Other
From mid-November to the end of January, the historic streets and buildings of St. Augustine are glowing with millions of tiny white lights for the annual Nights of Lights festival. This event, recognized as one of the best holiday light displays in the world, gives the town an enchanting ambiance. Stroll through cobblestone streets under canopies of sparkling lights, or hop on a trolley or boat tour for a unique view. The whole city feels like it’s wrapped up in a festive glow, creating unforgettable holiday memories. https://www.visitstaugustine.com/ev ent/nights-lights
Tiny twinkling lights decorate homes and buildings throughout St. Augustine at Christmas. Photo: Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock
Festive Historic Districts and Shopping
The heart of St. Augustine, particularly along St. George Street, becomes a bustling holiday scene with unique shops, galleries, and cafes decked out in seasonal decor. As you wander, you’ll encounter local artisans and boutiques offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, from handmade crafts to gourmet treats and jewelry. And since it’s St. Augustine, the historic charm permeates every storefront, giving holiday shopping a nostalgic feel.
Shops and Inns along historic St. George Street in the center of town. Photo: SeanPavone/Getty Images
Cozy Carriage Rides Through Historic Streets
For a quintessential holiday experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district. During Nights of Lights, these rides are even more magical, with each turn revealing dazzling displays and charming architecture. Bundle up with a warm drink in hand and enjoy a romantic or family-friendly ride that feels like a step back in time.
Carriage rides are popular year-round in town and through the neighborhoods of St. Augustine. Photo: Steve Wiltsie/Shutterstock
Festive Dining
St. Augustine’s food scene is a delight year-round, but during the holidays, many local restaurants offer special menus and festive treats. Indulge in seasonal cocktails, freshly baked holiday pastries, and seafood straight from the Atlantic. Many places feature cozy outdoor seating with fire pits, allowing you to savor your meals while basking in the holiday lights. https://hookedonharrys.com/location/st- augustine/ https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/historic- district-st-augustine Head to the beach: https://thereefstaugustine.com/ https://www.capsonthewater.com/
Crowds outside of Tini Martini Bar, Nero’s Waterfront Cafe, and the Casablanca Inn during the holidays. Photo: Melissamn/Shutterstock
Holiday Concerts and Events
St. Augustine offers a variety of holiday-themed events to fill your days and nights with seasonal cheer. The city’s historic venues host holiday concerts and performances, from choir ensembles and symphonies to ballet performances of The Nutcracker. Additionally, special events like the Regatta of Lights—a parade of decorated boats in the bay—add a unique coastal twist to holiday celebrations. https://www.visitstaugustine.com/event/regatta -lights https://www.visitstaugustine.com/music/all
A scene from the Nutcracker Ballet, a holiday performance by the Saint Augustine Ballet. Photo: Saint Augustine Ballet
Mild Winter Weather
One of the best parts about visiting St. Augustine in the winter? The weather. While much of the country may be blanketed in snow or experiencing harsh winter winds, St. Augustine enjoys mild and comfortable temperatures. You can walk along the beach or explore the historic district without bundling up too heavily, making it ideal for outdoor activities without sacrificing that festive feel.
There are 42 miles of coastline in the St. Augustine area and 6 named beaches. Photo: Michael Warren/iStock
History and Festivity
St. Augustine’s historic charm perfectly complements the holiday season with its Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and famous landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos. Exploring centuries-old sites like the Lightner Museum or the Fountain of Youth feels even more magical during this time of year, giving you a unique holiday experience you won’t find elsewhere. https://www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/
An aerial view of Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Plan Your Trip to St. Augustine This Holiday Season
A holiday visit to St. Augustine combines the best of a festive atmosphere, mild weather, and rich history, making it an ideal destination to kick off or wrap up the season. Whether you’re looking for an intimate escape or a family adventure, this historic city promises a holiday experience filled with wonder, warmth, and endless memories. So, pack your bags, bring your camera, and get ready to experience one of Florida’s most magical holiday destinations! Where to stay: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/jaxak- casa-monica-resort-and-spa-autograph- collection/overview/ https://www.thecollectorinn.com/ https://casadesolana.com/
Casa Monica Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the United States, illuminated at dusk during the holidays. Photo: Vlad G/Shutterstock.
