Highlights of recent trip

Question

Our first time in St. Augustine (1 week in late Dec - Jan). We stayed in St. Augustine Beach. We had a great time and I want to share our favorites:

Walking tour of St Augustine Old Town area with Spyglass Tours. This is a tour company is comprised of a husband and wife). We learned so much and had lots of fun with Angie, our tour guide. We did this tour on our first day.

Kayaking with Three Brothers was awesome. We chose kayaks but paddle boards are also an option. (this company was started by brothers and it is family run).

Cathedral Basilica (it was dark at 7am Mass and the Night of Lights were shining brightly outside)

Castillo de San Marcos

Fort Matanzas - the ferry was closed, we walked on a wooden boardwalk trail

Flagler Beach - Betty Steflik Preserve which was a wooden boardwalk trail in nature

Princess Palace Reserve - huge grounds, historical buildings, we had a tour of the main lodge

National Shrine of our Lady of LaLache Mission - beautiful peaceful grounds with lots of history

We loved St Augustine Beach - the sand is packed down and so very walkable

Our favorite spots to eat were: Aunt Kate's and the Grilled Cheese Gallery

Answer

It sounds like you had an amazing first visit to St. Augustine! Here’s a summary of your highlights and recommendations based on your experience:

For history and culture:

Walking tour of Old Town with Spyglass Tours: A fantastic introduction to St. Augustine, especially with a knowledgeable guide like Angie. Great for learning history and getting oriented on your first day.
Cathedral Basilica: The early morning Mass allowed you to experience the beauty of the basilica and the Night of Lights outside added a magical touch.
Castillo de San Marcos: A must-see historic fort offering insights into the city’s colonial past.
Fort Matanzas: Even though the ferry was closed, the wooden boardwalk trail provided a scenic and historic experience.
Princess Place Reserve: Beautiful grounds with historical buildings; a guided tour of the main lodge adds depth to the visit.
National Shrine of Our Lady of LaLeche Mission: Peaceful and historically rich, a wonderful spot for reflection and photography.

For outdoor and nature activities:

Kayaking with Three Brothers: A family-run operation offering kayaks and paddle boards, providing a fun and active way to explore the waterways.
Flagler Beach – Betty Steflik Preserve: A wooden boardwalk trail through natural surroundings, perfect for a leisurely stroll and nature observation.
St. Augustine Beach: Notable for its firm, walkable sand—great for morning or evening walks along the coast.

Dining favorites:

Aunt Kate's: A cozy spot with hearty, comforting meals.
Grilled Cheese Gallery: Creative and fun sandwiches, perfect for a casual lunch or snack.

Overall, your trip combined historical exploration, outdoor adventure, and beach relaxation. Staying at St. Augustine Beach gave you easy access to both the beach and Old Town attractions, making it a convenient and enjoyable base.

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