St. Augustine City Guide

Seafood dishes like shrimp and grits and clam chowder are local favorites. International options include Italian, Mexican, and Asian. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing, especially downtown. Late-night options are limited outside tourist areas.

Nightlife centers on historic downtown with bars, pubs, and some live music. The vibe is relaxed, not loud or crowded.

Emerging coffee scene with local cafes and some specialty roasters. Quality is improving.

Tipping is expected for many services in hospitality.

SIMs are sold at carrier stores like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon and also electronics retailers. Activation help is best done in stores. Pre-paid plans require ID but less paperwork than post-paid.

Historic and tourist areas are clean and maintained with waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 options mostly at chain pharmacies and some convenience stores. Late-night food options are scarce after midnight.

Main supermarkets include Publix, Winn-Dixie, and Walmart. Hours are generally 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM, including Sundays, with reduced hours on holidays. Specialty stores offer some international items. No bargaining in stores.

Most places take cards, including shops and restaurants. Cash helps for small buys or local markets.

ATMs are common at banks, stores, and tourist spots. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5 per use.

The area is served by St. Johns County School District with mostly English instruction. Private schools like St. Joseph Academy are available. Contact schools for enrollment info.

A small but growing community. Meetups are informal and work-friendly cafes are available.

Good access to parks and nature areas. Anastasia State Park offers trails and space for outdoor activities.

Popular routes include the Bridge of Lions and Anastasia State Park. The city is safe and has running groups.

Gyms include chain fitness centers and local CrossFit.

Tennis courts at parks and clubs; some require reservations. Equipment rental may be offered.

Padel courts exist but are rare, mainly at private clubs.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in classes. English-speaking instructors are standard.

Various martial arts like BJJ, Muay Thai, and karate are taught in local dojos. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing near St. Augustine due to climate and terrain.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular. Rentals and guided tours are available year-round.

Surf spots at nearby beaches are close by. Conditions vary by season with better swells in fall and winter. Surf schools and rentals available.

Diving offshore around reefs and wrecks. Water visibility varies. Mostly for experienced divers; some snorkeling possible on calm days.

Flagler Hospital is the main hospital with English-speaking staff. Quality is high but care can be expensive without insurance. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens carry OTC meds and have pharmacists.

Tap water meets safety standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Attractions like the Alligator Farm and Pirate Museum suit families. Baby supplies available at major stores.

Generally welcoming with inclusive venues and annual Pride events. Legal protections are in place.

Pet-friendly city with many outdoor dog-friendly spots, parks, and veterinary services. Accommodations often welcome pets.