st augustine scenic tours

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A view only available from the water!!

Welcome to St. Augustine Scenic Cruise!!

Since the 1900’s St. Augustine Scenic Cruise has been giving visitors to St. Augustine a unique view of the city and a way to enjoy St. Augustine’s historic land marks and natural beauty.

The Usina’s were among settlers from the island of Minorca, located off the coast of Spain, finally settling in St. Augustine in 1777. Many of their descendants remain in St. Augustine today. In 1900 Captain Frank Usina and his wife, Catherine, could not return to Miami were he had been working as a carpenter on the Miami train station because of an outbreak of yellow fever.

They settled in the area known today as North Beach, then accessible only by boat. Henry Flagler approached Frank and his wife, asking them to hold oyster roasts for friends and guests staying at his Ponce De Leon Hotel, now Flagler College, and the Alcazar Hotel, now the Lightner Museum. The outings to North Beach became a regular attraction, and thus, the family boat business was born. Initially starting with a chartered launch, Frank ferried guests to and from North Beach for Minorcan Style dinners, oysters, music, dancing and sightseeing along the Matanzas Bay. Shortly thereafter, Frank purchased a 45′ launch stuck on a mud bar. He repaired, refinished and christened it the Victory , replacing the chartered launch, but remaining at the helm as Captain.

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Celebrating 100 Years!

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Brunch & Bottlenose - Book for Sunday, May 26th!

Florida Water Tours

Scenic boat tours in st. augustine, fl.

View our beautiful city by water!

Experience St Augustine on the water with our Expert Guides!

Offering our popular Dolphin & Wildlife Adventure, Sunset Cruises, Wine Tasting Cruises, Private Charters and more. Embark on a journey with our knowledgeable experts, who make every sighting a moment to remember. With something for everyone, let our guides be your companions in crafting memories that last a lifetime.

• Adults Only
• User Ages 21+
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Brunch & Bottlenose

Mimosas, Brunch & Dolphin! Our expert guides will lead you on a captivating search for wildlife, as you enjoy a delightful brunch on board!

• User 21+ or Family Friendly
• Hour Glass 90 minutes
• Clock During Sunset

Sunset Cruise

Choose between our Adults Only Sunset Cruise or our Family Friendly Sunset Cruise! Get lost in the glorious wonder of St. Augustine’s attractions with perfect picture opportunities. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets of St. Augustine!

• Best Seller!
• User All ages
• Clock Daytime

Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure

Combining sightseeing and learning, our Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure appeals to nature enthusiasts! Enjoy the wetlands, coastal marshes, and wildlife with a bit of history on this tour great for any age.

• Only one in St. Augustine!
• Clock Early Evening

Wine Tasting Cruise

Sample 6 delicious wine as we take you on an adventure to the bayfront, where our experienced guides give you a tour of the local nature, wildlife, and historic landmarks.

Private Charters

Let our professional staff of USCG Licensed Captains & Tour Guides welcome you and your guests aboard for an experience like no other in the beautiful city of St. Augustine.

Marine Field Experience

Great for families and kids! Come out onto the water and become a Jr Marine Scientist! This cruise provides a hands on experience where you help us collect real data and use it to keep a profile of our waterways. Every single dollar goes to provide educational cruises for students.

• Hour Glass 120 minutes
• Clock 8:30 p.m.

Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise

We bring you as close as possible to St. Augustine’s spectacular fireworks show — one of the largest on the East Coast! No matter where you sit, you get a great show!

Welcome to Florida Water Tours

Experience the Intracoastal Waterway at its finest featuring picture-perfect attractions. Based in St. Augustine, we offer amazing eco-tourism cruises for vacationers and locals year-round. Offering private and public services, we encourage you to explore the fun side of learning about nature, history and wildlife through our exciting cruises. Our private cruises  are ideal for larger groups.

What makes us unique?

• Free parking! *Parking fills up quick on weekends and holidays so please arrive early, carpool or take a cab!
• Restroom on board.
• Bar on board!
• A variety of different cruises to choose from.
• St. Augustine’s only Wine Tasting on the water!
• An experienced crew with tour guide and marine naturalist licenses.
• The Salty Boutique! We have a great little gift shop for you to explore while you check in and wait for your tour!

Aside from all of those wonderful things, Florida Water Tours takes a percentage of EVERY TICKET PURCHASED and donates into our educational outreach program. This non-profit, called Florida Water Warriors is something that we are very proud of! We take low income and under-served students on Educational Cruises, all in an effort to spark some passion about marine wildlife, nature and conservation! Children are our future! To learn more about this program or to donate please head to FloridaWaterWarriors.org

Check out our Social Media pages for more pictures of our vessel and tours!

• TripAdvisor

Over 1,000 Visitors Love Cruising with Us!

Personable staff, beautiful scenery, great tour! We really enjoyed ourselves - having a drink, listening to the crew talk about St A, snapping pics as the sun slowly set over the historic downtown. Can’t believe we hadn’t done this before & will definitely take one of their other tours next time we’re in town.

The sunset cruise was a lot of fun while also informative. Kevin was our tour guide and he was great...he and the captain, Mike, gave us the perfect introduction to St. Augustine! I would highly recommend this tour. Oh, and we saw dolphins and a stingray jumped out of the water right next to our boat! That was such a thrill!

Kevin really made the tour fun while also being very informative. Good selection of beer and wine on board and the ride was smooth. It was a really good time and well worth the money. On top of that we were thrilled to hear that the company also gives free tours to schools which we support 100%. Great company, great tour, great time.

The Sunset Cruise in St. Augustine was great! The boat ride was relaxing and informative. Kevin, the co-pilot / narrator was witty and knowledgeable. Made the trip light and fun. The scenery was beautiful and included sightings of Dolphins,Terns & Pelicans. Sunset was nice too.

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★★★★★

8799 reviews

Old Town Trolley Tours St Augustine 4.6

Scenic Cruise

St. Augustine Scenic Cruise

The Scenic Cruise company was founded more than a century ago when Frank Usina and his wife settled in North Beach, which at the time was only accessible by boat. In the early days, Frank would ferry guests of the Ponce de Leon Hotel and Alcazar Hotel back and forth from St. Augustine to North Beach, showing them the beautiful sites along the way and treating them to oysters, Minorcan cuisine, music and dancing.

Throughout the years, the Usinas were known to transport many people who lived in the North Beach area, Military Personnel and visitors to the area across Matanzas Bay when the bridge was under construction or closed.

Today, Scenic Cruise is still sailing daily, offering a delightful view of the many beautiful and historic sights of St. Augustine by water. The 1 hour and 15 minute tours depart every few hours and are an enjoyable excursion for adults and children alike.

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St Augustine’s Best Tour Guides

St Augustine tours provide individuals, couples, and families a unique glimpse into the area’s rich and exciting history and geography. From land to sea, St Augustine Land & Sea Tours is committed to providing our guests with the best experiences possible while visiting America’s oldest city. There’s something for everyone wanting to enjoy sunny Florida and all it has to offer in beauty, entertainment, and culture.

A narrated tour of your choice allows you to see a side of St Augustine Florida unavailable anywhere else. Tap into the knowledge and expertise of local guides who know the area inside and out. See for yourself what makes the city a constant place of interest for tourists of all ages. When you book a guided tour with us, you’re guaranteed to have a good time, learn something new, and feel relaxed as we take care of transportation for you in America's oldest city.

Our open-cabin electric carts allow you to see everything you’d see on foot without the likelihood of leg cramps. Save your energy by putting us in the driver’s seat! Tours in St Augustine range in length and cost, making each visit unique and memorable for our customers. If you want to spend the day exploring landmarks such as the Fountain of Youth or The Ponce de Leon Hotel, book a tour with an English-speaking or Spanish-speaking guide today.

CHOOSE A CATEGORY

Discover Hidden Gems

Ghosts and Spirits of St Augustine Pub Crawl

Come explore the dark side of the oldest city by visiting three haunted pubs with lots of ghostly material in between each stop while you taste some fine locally brewed beers. Your first beer is on us as part of a two hour sweep thru the Colonial City.

Spirits and spirits! This tour provides a ghostly experience with very limited walking for small groups accompanied by a designated driver and haunted historian all in one!

We will visit three local pubs some of which have ghosts among their patrons. You will hear about their ghosts stories as you view the most important landmarks of St Augustine at dusk. The comfortable cart provides the perfect way to move about the city as we look for ghost and more spirits!

St Augustine Nights of Lights by Electric Cart

Every year more than 2 million white lights are installed throughout downtown St Augustine to celebrate Christmas. The best way to experience this is by golf cart. So invite some of your friends and bring your loved ones and join us to make these holiday season a memorable event.

During this ride we play a selection of Christmas music and carols.

Book early as this tours are very popular and sell fast.

St. Augustine Nights of Lights by Electric Cart

Book early as these tours are very popular and sell fast. You may reserve this outing as a private tour for only your family and friends. You will see a "private" option once you select the date and time.

Riding with the Ghosts St Augustine

Why walk when you can drive through the most haunted spots in town. In addition to its amazing history, St Augustine is known as one of the most haunted cities in the US. You will drive by some of these haunted sites: cemeteries, old churches and hotels that provide the perfect ambient to hear spooky ghost stories. Come join us if you dare…

We are now providing transportation from local area hotels. Call us to inquire.

St Augustine Boat and Walking Tour en Español

San Agustin Por Tierra y Mar. Disfrute un paseo narrado en bote, visita a Flagler College y un paseo caminando por las areas históricas mas importantes de la ciudad. Cubriremos tres períodos históricos: Descubrimiento, Períodos Español y Británico y la era dorada de Henry Flagler. Durante este tour usted entenderá la importancia histórica de San Agustin.

Que Esperar Recorrido en bote narrado a bordo del Victory III de 75 minutos por la bahía de Matanzas, seguido de un recorrido a pie de 60 minutos por el centro de San Agustín, que incluye una visita al Flagler College, anteriormente el Hotel Ponce de Leon y el Hotel Alcazar, hoy en día el museo Lightner. Capture imágenes únicas del Castillo de San Marcos, el faro de San Agustín, el Puente de los Leones y otros sitios importantes.El Paseo a pie narrado recorre desde el centro de San Agustín, en el área de la Plaza de la Constitucion hasta el Colegio Flagler. Caminará en la calle mas antigua de los EU, Aviles Street. Se Observará la Basílica de San Agustín; la piscina interior mas grande del mundo en su época; Tambien visitaremos el famoso mostrador de Woolworth donde el evento de los St Augustine Four tuvo lugar. Después del recorrido a pie, podrá seguir explorando la ciudad a su gusto.

Private St. Augustine Boat and Golf Cart Tour

The ideal way to experience St Augustine for those who prefer to keep walking to a minimum when visiting the city. This tour combines a 1:15 mins narrated boat tour of Matanzas harbor with magnificent views of the city with a one hour narrated golf cart tour for you to get up close to all the amazing landmarks the oldest city has to offer with live commentary from your city certified tour guide/driver.

On the boat choose between the open top deck or the lower covered deck and then feel the breeze under the covered canopy of the limo golf cart. During the land portion of the tour, you will pass by the Plaza de la Constitucion, Castillo de San Marcos, Former Hotel Ponce de Leon, and Alcazar and Casa Monica hotels. Then you will visit the Mision Nombre de Dios site, the Fountain of Youth among others. Depending on the departure time chosen, your tour may start with the golf cart or the boat.

St Augustine History, Wine and Cheesecake Tasting Tour

Indulge in an unforgettable experience with our Wine and Cheesecake Tasting History Golf Cart Tour in charming St. Augustine, Florida. Hop aboard a luxurious golf cart as our expert guide takes you on a journey through the city's rich history, exploring its iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Along the way, savor a delightful selection of exquisite wines paired perfectly with decadent cheesecakes, tantalizing your taste buds with each flavorful combination. Immerse yourself in the sights, flavors, and stories of St. Augustine, making cherished memories on this unique and delicious adventure.

After the history tour, you will visit The Bar Harbor Cheesecake Company where you will sample various types of wines paired with delicious cheesecakes both savory and sweet. Have you ever tried an artichoke or bbq brisket cheesecake?

You and your new friends will seat down at a table and your host will serve the samples and wine.

After the tasting experience, your driver will pick you up and drive you to the starting point at Plaza de la Constitucion.

During this 90 minutes tour you will visit the most important sites in St Augustine on an electric cart at sunset. You will drive by the oldest parish; oldest street; Ponce de Leon and Alcazar hotels; Flagler’s Memorial Presbyterian Church and Fountain of Youth among others.

After the history tour, you will visit the elegant Bar Harbor Cheesecake Company where you will sample three flavors of cheesecakes each paired with a particular wine to enhance the flavor.

You and your new friends will seat down at a table and your Bar Harbor host will serve the cheesecakes sample for the nicest dessert experience in the oldest city.

Private St Augustine Boat and Walking Tour

The Most Complete Tour Of St Augustine From Land To Water! Experience St. Augustine combining a walking tour and narrated boat tour of the US oldest city. Includes a visit to the most important landmarks through three historic periods: Discovery and Conquest, Spanish and British periods, the Flagler era. During this 2.5 hour tour, you will get a broad perspective of the importance of St. Augustine in our history.

Narrated boat tour aboard the Victory III, in the Matanzas Bay followed by a walking tour of downtown St Augustine including a visit to Flagler College formerly the Ponce de Leon Hotel and Hotel Alcazar nowadays the Lightner museum. Capture unique pictures of Castillo de San Marcos, The St Augustine Lighthouse, bridge of Lions and other important sites.

St. Augustine Shared Golf Cart Tour

Visit the entire city of St Augustine on a Golf Cart! The perfect way to experience St Augustine for those that would like to keep walking to a minimum. The one hour narrated golf cart tour allows you to get up close to all the amazing landmarks the oldest city has to offer with live commentary from your city certified tour guide/driver.

You will board your golf cart at the Plaza de la Constitucion. After a short introduction, your tour will proceed by the waterfront with maginifecnt views of the Matanzas Harbor and the Bridge of Lions. The tour will pass in front of the Castillo de San Marcos on its way to The Mision Nombre de Dios site where the city founder, Pedro Menendez de Aviles, first arrived. You will then drive by Fountain of Youth, Magnolia Street and the Old Jail site.

Once downtown, your tour will pass by the former Hotel Ponce de Leon, Alcazar and Casa Monica hotels and then by the Governors House and down Aviles Street (Oldest Street in the US). You will be in the oldest part of town where you will be able to observe examples of Spanish and British colonial architecture.

Before returning to the Plaza, you will drive by the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church and the outside of the Hotel Ponce de Leon where the largest collection of in use Louis Comfort Tiffany-stained glass windows collection may be observed.

St. Augustine Boat and Golf Cart Tour

Great shared tour to enjoy St Augustine from land and sea. Combines a boat tour with a golf cart tour of St Augustine. We are now providing transportation from local area hotels. Call us to inquire.

The perfect way to experience St Augustine for those that would like to keep walking to a minimum. This tour combines a 1:15 large body of water minutes narrated boat tour of Matanzas harbor with magnificent views of the city with a one hour narrated golf cart tour for you to get up close to all the amazing landmarks the oldest city has to offer with live commentary from your city certified tour guide/driver. a blue bus parked in front of a palm treeIncludes complimentary bottled water or soda. This is a shared tour. To choose a private activity, select our Private Boat and Golf Cart Tour just for your group.

On the boat choose between the open top deck or the lower covered deck and then feel the breeze under the covered canopy of the limo golf cart. During the land portion of the tour, you will pass by the Plaza de la Constitucion, Castillo dea statue in a park with Lightner Museum in the background San Marcos, Former Hotel Ponce de Leon, and Alcazar and Casa Monica hotels. Then you will visit the Mision Nombre de Dios site, the Fountain of Youth among others. Depending on the departure time chosen, a small boat in a body of watera train traveling down tracks next to a treeyour tour may start with the golf cart or the boat.

Dolphin Eco History Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through time and nature on a History and Dolphin Watch Boat Tour in St. Augustine, Florida. Set sail along the picturesque waters of the Matanzas Bay, where the city's rich history comes to life as you glide past centuries-old landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos and the historic bayfront. Knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of St. Augustine's Spanish colonial past, pirate legends, and maritime history, all while keeping a keen eye on the waters for playful dolphins that often frolic in these pristine waters. This tour offers a perfect blend of educational insights and enchanting encounters with nature, making it a must-do experience for visitors of all ages.

Why choose us?

Skip The Walking Tour And Ride With Us Instead

The rich history of the area deserves to be told by an experienced guide on St Augustine tours. Rather than invest in other forms of entertainment while visiting St Augustine, choose a time to tour the nation's oldest city with our knowledgeable guides. Our ghost tour, in particular, does not disappoint!

People worldwide choose us because our tours are three things. They are:

A tour of Saint Augustine is personal. It allows you to take in all the sights by a golf cart instead of exhausting yourself by walking or missing important sights by driving. Have fun searching for dolphins on a boat tour or sampling local cuisine on a food tour. Tours are the perfect addition to any trip for children, adults, couples, and families seeking to view the historic district in a new and incredible way. Create memories and have something fun to share with others at home upon returning from your adventure.

Ghost tours are nothing less than spooktacular! Spine-tingling destinations await you and your party as you traverse through the city learning about spirits from the past. Considering the age of St Augustine Florida, it’s fair to say that it’s been the final resting place for many people throughout history. Hold onto your seats because there are sure to be a few hair-raising moments in store for you!

Get a history lesson about Downtown St Augustine and how it has evolved throughout the years. The historic district makes the perfect setting for scenic cruises or ghost tours. A guided tour provides you with historical details that you don’t want to miss while visiting Florida. By the time you leave the city, you’ll have grown your knowledge about it immensely. Now, who’s the expert on St Augustine’s past?

What Makes St Augustine, Florida Extra Special

The nation’s oldest city, St Augustine, is charming and memorable. It’s full of haunted locations and historical landmarks that excite, entertain, and educate. The ancient city is a national historic landmark itself, catering to visitors from all around the globe wanting to explore its majestic scenery and old-world charm. From St. George Street and the Castillo de San Marcos to the Colonial Quarter, there is plenty to experience, learn about, and enjoy as a visitor to St Augustine Florida.

Augustine's Historic District has colonial buildings from the 1700s and 1800s lining its streets. There are many places to visit, too, including Basilica Cathedral, the Oldest House, and Villa Zorayda. Shopping and dining options exist, too, making it the perfect location for meals and souvenirs. Bringing back a little piece of St Augustine with you from your trip is easy with a culturally rich and historically intriguing city like ours.

Frequently asked questions

Where do we meet our guide.

38 Cathedral Place, St Augustine, Florida

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SIZE OF THE GROUPS?

The average size of groups is 10 participants.

ARE THERE RESTROOMS NEARBY?

Yes, there are plenty of restrooms within walking distance.

DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE TOURS?

Yes, please call us to understand your specific needs. We can provide guided tours for larger groups and provide a menu of activities for your party based on your particular interests.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?

Please check the weather forecast for the day of your tour and dress accordingly. Carts have open cabins (that is the fun part!). Light rain is ok but thunderstorms will force us to cancel or reschedule the tour. Boat tours will operate in rain but it is up to the boat captain to cancel the tour if conditions are not appropriate to be in the water.

WHERE CAN I PARK?

There are metered parking spaces and private parking lots around the Plaza de la Constitucion.

CAN WE BRING OUR PUPPY?

Well behaved dogs are welcomed as long as they can seat on the owner's lap and remain on a leash.

ARE YOUR TOURS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

Our tours are not wheelchair accessible.

HOW MUCH CAN WE EXPECT TO WALK?

There is a limited amount of walking during our golf cart tours. The boat and golf cart tours require walking from the Marina building down the dock to the boat.

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Ghost Tours by Golf Cart in St Augustine, Florida

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7 Pleasurable Things To Do In St Augustine For Couples

Let’s dive into a world of enchantment and discovery by exploring these fun and romantic things to do in St Augustine for couples. Strolling through the picturesque St Augustine streets, indulging in mouthwatering treats, and immersing yourselves in the rich…

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Explore st augustine like never before ..

117 Dockside Drive, St Augustine FL 32084

Call Us Now! (904) 310-4999

DAILY BOAT TOURS

St augustine boat tours, sunset cruises, holliday tours & nights of lights tours.

Enjoy the breathtaking sunset, local wildlife, and see historic St Augustine from a new perspective. Sabrage St Augustine is conveniently located near downtown and offers the best tours in St Johns County. Book our Eco Tour or Sunset Cruise today as spots are limited.

Sunset Cruise Boat Tour St Augustine

Our Most Popular Tour! 

Sunset over historic downtown St Augustine offers some of the most picturesque views in the world. Seeing the view of downtown St. Augustine, Castillo de San Marcos, and Bridge of Lions during our sunsets are something you will remember the rest of your life. This is a great opportunity to get that one photo you show everyone from your trip. We offer a very open bar, bathrooms, entertainment, spacious accommodations, great service, & guaranteed fun.

Perfect for:

• Girl’s Night Out
• Family-friendly Fun
• 90 Minutes: $50 Per Person + Tax
• Kids 12 and under 50% off

Scenic Eco Boat Tour

 dolphin tour st augustine.

Our spectacular daytime eco-tour is an amazing way to see the beauty, nature & architecture of historic St Augustine. During our tour of the intra-coastal waterway, we experience majestic wildlife such as dolphins (most of the time!), and breathtaking scenery all while enjoying the comfort, amenities & great service that Sabrage offers.

90 Minutes: $40 Per Person + Tax.

Kids 12 and under 50% OFF.

2-under FREE

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Contact information.

Phone: (904) 310-4999

Email: [email protected]

Address: 117 Dockside Drive, St Augustine FL 32084

Public holidays: Christmas Day Closed

OUR LOCATION

Best of St. Augustine with Scenic Cruise

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Driving tour of St. Augustine
• Skip the line at select attractions
• Free pick-up and drop off in the downtown of St. Augustine
• Local tour guide - fully narrated tour experience
• Admission to St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
• Admission to St. Augustine Scenic Cruise
• Admission to Castillo de San Marcos
• Entry/Admission - St. Augustine
• Entry/Admission - St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.
• Entry/Admission - Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
• The Old Senator Tree, 137 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA For guests staying outside of our pick up zone, please meet your guide at The Old Senator Tree, 137 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA, to begin the tour. Your guide will be waiting underneath the tree.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at The Old Senator Tree Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 St. Augustine Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 2 St. Augustine Scenic Cruise Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc. Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in St. Augustine

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Best of St. Augustine with Scenic Cruise provided by Tripshepherd St. Augustine Tours

Outdoor Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Ultimate Guide to Tours in St Augustine: Top 10 Experiences You Can’t Miss

Yes, we know! You already know how much Carlos and I love St Augustine, and for all the right reasons! Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking exciting tours in St Augustine for your next visit, you will find it all in this guide!

From ghostly encounters to historic and fun adventures, we’ve handpicked our favorite top 10 tours in St Augustine that you absolutely must experience at least once.

As you may know, this wasn’t an easy task. Not because there aren’t any great tours, but because all of them are! Being America’s Oldest City, a lot can be expected when you’re visiting St Augustine for the first time .

Table of Contents

Disclaimer: Some affiliate links are placed in this content which means we receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products via those links–at no extra cost to you . All of the opinions are our own. Thank you for supporting our blog!

And let me tell you that many little experiences will exceed your expectations in this city!

Apart from being beautiful, there’s something very special about the history of St Augustine , which is in many ways, tied to Juan Ponce de León who discovered Florida back in 1513.

As you walk through the cobblestone streets, you can be captivated by building structures made from coquina (limestone composed of shell fragments) that are still standing to this day.

With many things to see and explore in St Augustine , it’s considered one of the top destinations to visit in Florida, especially during the holiday season when the world-known Nights of Lights festival takes place.

When is the Best Month to Visit St Augustine?

St. Augustine is a year-round destination, offering something special in every season.

However, if you’re looking for more of an ideal time to visit, you can consider planning your trip during the months of September through November.

During this time the weather in St Augustine is a lot more comfortable and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that every year, the Nights of Lights festival takes place from mid-November to the end of January.

Is St Augustine a Walkable Town?

With its narrow streets lined with centuries-old buildings and captivating landmarks at every turn, exploring this city on foot is an absolute must.

As you wander through the cobblestone streets of St. George Street—the city’s former main street, you’ll find yourself immersed in the vibrant energy of the city, especially during the weekends.

From unique boutiques to quaint cafes and historic sites and attractions , there’s plenty to catch your eye.

Walking in St Augustine is also the best way to capture the personality and beauty in every corner.

As you pass by stunning Spanish colonial-style structures like Flagler College, Villa Zorayda Museum , or Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, you can’t help but fall in love with their unique beauty.

But it’s not just about the sights. Walking in St Augustine is a complete vibe!

You might stumble upon street performers playing music which definitely adds more charm to your visit.

Additionally, you’ll find many popular tourist attractions within walking distance of each other, making it easy to create your own personalized walking tour itinerary to navigate the city.

Are Ghost Tours in St Augustine Worth It?

With St Augustine being America’s Oldest City, it’s completely natural for it to also be known for its ghost stories and haunted locations.

But are the ghost tours really worth your time? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for.

If you enjoy a good scare or if stories of the paranormal are of interest to you, then ghost tours in St Augustine can be a thrilling experience.

I’ve taken ghost tours in some of the most haunted cities in the U.S., like New Orleans and Savannah, and I personally feel that St Augustine has places that are just as haunted as these other cities!

Tour guides will share some known and not-so-known spine-chilling stories of hauntings and supernatural occurrences that have happened in St Augustine.

Some of these stories might keep you up at night while others are just your typical story of being haunted by a ghost.

Regardless, I will always recommend these ghost tours as a fun and entertaining experience to enjoy at night.

However, whether or not St Augustine ghost tours are worth it, ultimately comes down to a personal preference.

If you enjoy hearing spooky stories and exploring hidden corners of a historic city after dark, then by all means, ghost tours in St Augustine are for you.

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Our Favorite Tours in St Augustine to Add to Your Trip Itinerary

Like I said at the beginning, this was not an easy task! Nonetheless, I tried to include the best tours based on our personal experience as well as reviews and feedback from others.

Just so you know, these tours listed here are in no particular order of preference.

1. Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour

The Old Town Trolley tour in St Augustine is one of our absolute favorites, especially during the holidays when it gets transformed into a joyful experience for the Nights of Lights festival.

This is a hop-on-hop-off narrated tour and it’s the perfect way to get a complete overview of the city.

The trolley takes you to all the major attractions, and you can jump off wherever piques your interest.

🎟 How much does it cost to ride the trolley in St Augustine? With our affiliate link, you can get tickets as low as $38.47! The ticket also includes some great discounts to attractions and museums around St Augustine. Get your tickets here !

2. St Augustine Nights of Lights Trolley Tour

The Nights of Lights festival is an annual Award-winning lighting display of the city with worldwide recognition.

With over 3 million glistening white lights adorning every nook and cranny of the city, spanning across nearly 20 blocks, a mesmerizing wonderland is crafted.

During Nights of Lights, St Augustine transforms into a place that’s bound to put a smile on your face and leave you with heartwarming holiday memories.

This Nights of Lights Trolley Tour offers the ideal vantage point for sightseeing and capturing those picture-perfect moments.

The tour includes complimentary magical viewing glasses that completely enhance the experience! Plus, you’ll also get a cookie and warm apple cider at the end of the tour.

3. Haunted Pub Crawl

Visit some of the historic bars in St Augustine with plenty of ghost stories to tell! In this Haunted Pub Crawl tour , the tour guide unveils the chilling tales of St Augustine and eerie accounts of long-departed pub managers and a suspicious number of fiery incidents.

Some of the stops on this tour are Scarlett O’Hara’s, Stogies Jazz Club, Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill, and O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits.

This Haunted Pub Crawl promises a night of spine-tingling history and local favorites.

4. Old Jail Guided Tours in St Augustine

Built in 1891, St Augustine’s Old Jail held prisoners for more than 60 years, and it’s now a registered National Historic Place.

In this guided tour of the Old Jail , you will step back in time as you explore the cell blocks, witness the gallows, and peek into the sheriff’s living quarters.

You’ll learn what it was like in this prison back in the day and the tour guide will share some incredible stories of the prisoners that were once kept in this Old Jail.

If you’re intrigued by the supernatural, you can opt for the Jail After Dark Paranormal Tour option in which you’ll join experts on a late-night paranormal investigation, equipped with the latest ghost-hunting gear.

👻 Fun fact : The Old Jail is renowned as one of St. Augustine’s most haunted buildings.

5. St Augustine Walking Ghost Tour

Follow the storytellers through the Old Town, visiting some of their favorite haunts, on this guided walking ghost tour through St. Augustine’s ghostly locations. 

You will stroll through the darkened streets, listening to stories of long-deceased residents who have not moved on.

During our ghost tour, we learned the stories behind some of the ghosts seen and heard in the ancient boarding house, a haunted house on Cuna Street across from the Triay-Hall House, and Tolomato Cemetery.

From the Old Cemeteries to the infamous Castillo de San Marcos, your guide will make sure you have every chance to capture and explore your own paranormal encounters.

👻 Fun fact : This is an award-winning tour!

6. Ghosts and Gravestones Old Town Trolley Tour

The main difference between the Ghost and Gravestones and other ghost tours in St Augustine is that this one is not a walking tour.

This chilling journey includes a visit to the Old Jail, a site with a long history of documented paranormal experiences.

During this tour, you will hear tales of the haunted Huguenot & Tolomato Cemeteries and other stories of real paranormal encounters.

As an added thrill, you’ll even step inside the eerie Potter’s Wax Museum—one of the best things to do in St Augustine, for a unique and spooky experience.

We personally think that the wax museum is the absolute best in St Augustine!

7. Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour

This is one of the most exciting tours in St Augustine for those who love the outdoors.

The tour takes you through the serene waterways of St Augustine with a guide by your side.

This dolphin and manatee tour includes either a paddleboard or kayak and it’s an activity that is suitable for all levels of expertise.

You’ll begin with a comprehensive on-land demonstration and a brief water lesson before setting out to seek out the captivating marine creatures and enjoy the scenic beauty.

8. Guided St Augustine Historical Tour

This historical tour in St Augustine gives you the option to explore some of the most iconic landmarks in St Augustine in a unique and eco-friendly way with this intimate small-group electric vehicle tour.

This is one of the many great tours in St Augustine and it offers multiple tour times in the morning and afternoon.

Once on board, your journey takes you to the most notable historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos, the Tolomato Cemetery, and the Mission Nombre de Dios.

9. Wine & Dine Historic District Foodie Tour

You might already be aware that we don’t talk much about food on this blog, but we know we should.

This is why we decided to add this foodie tour in St Augustine to our list.

This wine and dine tour is considered to be one of the best tours in St Augustine for those traveling in groups.

Furthermore, I personally think it’s a complete delight that offers the best of both worlds: wine and history!

This culinary adventure transports you through the picturesque streets of St. Augustine’s historic district in an open-air electric vehicle.

The best part of this wine and dine tour is that you will get to discover many local restaurants handpicked by your tour guide.

Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by landmarks such as Flagler College, the Huguenot Cemetery, Plaza de la Constitución, and the Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine.

10. St Augustine Scenic Boat Ride Tour

What better way to experience St Augustine than from a serene vantage point with a captivating sightseeing boat tour ?

This beautiful and scenic journey will treat you to glimpses of the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , and the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios.

With this sightseeing boat tour, you’ll enjoy an affordable way to discover many of St Augustine’s from a different angle. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins!

Final Thoughts

With the great amount of tours and experiences in St Augustine, you can’t go wrong with any of them!

This quaint city is one of the many great destinations in Florida that the whole family can enjoy.

Furthermore, St Augustine is one of the best places to visit when traveling solo and an ideal one for a couple’s getaway.

Next time you visit, check out one of the many tours and support local businesses.

Which St Augustine tour is your favorite? Comment below. We’d love to hear from you!

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About the Author

Yanitza Ninett

Yanitza is an avid adventurer with 15+ years of hiking experience and outdoor travel. As a PADI-certified scuba diver, she's also passionate about ocean conservation. When she's not exploring the great outdoors, Yanitza obsesses over The Vampire Diaries and dreams of traveling to Mallorca, Spain.

• Yanitza Ninett https://nextstopadventures.com/writer/nextstop 12 Lighthouses on the East Coast for an Epic Road Trip
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St Augustine

St. augustine scenic cruise.

Highlights:

1 hour and 15 minute cruise aboard the victory iii, learn how st. augustine was founded by pedro menendez de aviles in 1565, sit back, relax, and enjoy the gentle ocean breezes, operating times:, reservation notes:, booth location:, nearest intersection:, age requirements:.

• Dolphin and Wildlife History Boat Tour
• Sunset Boat Tour
• Nights of Lights Boat Tour
• Private Charter & Small Boat Tours

St. Augustine Sunset Boat Tour

Enjoy the view, $34 per person (family friendly for all ages), time varies according to sunset. available daily from feb – nov., other tours, dolphin/wildlife.

$27 adults / $15 kids / $5 infants

Nights of lights.

$34 adults / $15 kids

Nothing else like it.

• Dolphin and Wildlife Tour
• Private Charter

• Map & Guide
• Request Visitor's Info

Adventure Boat Tours

Cruise the coastal waters in search of dolphins and unforgettable views.

260 Vilano Road St. Augustine, FL 32084

View Google Map

Adventure Boat Tours offers a variety of family-friendly and specialty tours, including dolphin, sunset, and seasonal tours. They also offer a wedding package and a fishing and shark expedition. The tours depart from the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier on the company's 32-passenger pontoon boat or six-passenger catamaran. This touring company also offers a water shuttle service connecting Historic Downtown and Vilano Beach .

Cruises and Tours

Dolphin Bay Eco-history Cruise

While the dolphins are typically the show-stealers, guests often spot other animals, including sea turtles, manatees, and many shore birds.

Sunset Cruise  

The sunset cruise takes guests along the coastal waters and by popular sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos , the Bridge of Lions , and the St. Augustine Lighthouse .

Nights of Lights Tour

Guests cruise the banks of the Matanzas Inlet to enjoy and capture photos of St. Augustine's dazzling holiday lights. As a popular way to view the Nights of Lights, guests are advised to plan their tour early. 

Learn more about the Nights of Lights here.  

Private Cruise

Adventure Boat Tours offers private tours upon request. Call for more information.

Something Blue Wedding Boat

Couples tie the knot aboard a 32-passenger boat with close friends and family in attendance. 

Learn more about getting married in St. Augustine.

Let's Go Fishing & Shark Adventure

This package has options for either a two or three-hour fishing trip. Visitors should contact Adventure Boat Tours for questions concerning gear, bait, sharks, or fishing locations.

Water Shuttle

The shuttle runs daily (weather permitting) and is operated in partnership with Red Boat Water Tours .

Departures from St. Augustine Municipal Marina (Downtown to Vilano):

Red boat water tours, departures from vilano beach pier (vilano to downtown):, restaurants nearby.

Beaches at Vilano

within 1 block

180 Vilano Grill and Pizza

Vilano Coffee Shop

Fire Wok Chinese Restaurant

Places to Stay nearby

Holiday Inn Express St. Augustine - Vilano Beach

Hyatt Place St. Augustine/Vilano Beach

Hampton Inn & Suites Vilano

Magic Beach Motel

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Pia & Me Scenic Charters

Pia & Me Scenic Charters 3020 Harbor Dr. Dock D, Slip #10 St. Augustine, Florida 32084

PIA & Me Scenic Charters specializes in relaxing private boat tours. Enjoy the visually stunning historic sites of St. Augustine from the calm waters of the intracoastal waterway. Observe the coastal wildlife in their natural habitat. Take a leisurely boat ride, and enjoy our magnificent sunrises or sunsets. With a six guest maximum, PIA & Me Scenic Charters is the ultimate way to observe all that our exquisite coast has to offer. Our tours include Simply St Augustine Boat Tour (our signature customizable tour), Romantic Tour for Two, Sunset Cruise, Nights of Lights Boat Tour, St Augustine’s Regatta of Lights (Holiday Boat Parade), Sunrise Tour, Dolphin Tour, Full Moon Tour, Twilight Cruise, 4th of July Fireworks Cruise, New Year’s Eve Fireworks (Beach Blast-off) and more. We can also customize a tour for you. PIA & Me Scenic Charters is your 5-Star boating experience!

• Family-Friendly
• Group-Friendly
• Guided Tours
• Open Year-Round
• Wildlife Viewing

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