Ever wake up and just feel like… exploring? You know that feeling, the sun is peeking through your curtains, the Atlantic is whispering just outside your door, and you’ve got a craving for a little bit of history mixed with a whole lot of charm.
If you’re staying with us at Bombora Oceanfront Suites, you’re already in the heart of Florida’s most relaxing retro beach town. But did I mention that one of the oldest, most magical cities in America is just a quick, scenic cruise away?
St. Augustine is the perfect companion to a Flagler Beach vacation. While we specialize in the "salt-in-your-hair, toes-in-the-sand" lifestyle, St. Augustine offers a deep dive into the 16th century, complete with cobblestone streets and Spanish fortresses.
Pack a sun hat and some walking shoes, we’re going on a day trip!
The Journey: Cruising the A1A
Before we even get to the "Nation’s Oldest City," we have to talk about the drive. Forget the highway; you’re taking the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway.
From Flagler Beach, it’s a straight shot north for about 45 minutes. You’ll have the Atlantic Ocean on your right and charming coastal scrub on your left. It’s the kind of drive where you roll the windows down, let the salty air fill the car, and maybe stop at a roadside stand for some fresh fruit. It’s not just a commute, it’s part of the Florida vacations experience.
Morning: Canons and Coquina
Your first stop should absolutely be the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This isn't just any old building, it's the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
Built by the Spanish to protect the city, its walls are made of coquina, a unique limestone made of broken sea shells. Fun fact: because the stone is so porous, it actually absorbed cannonballs rather than shattering under them! You can spend a good two hours exploring the gun decks, peering into the prison chambers, and soaking in the 180-degree views of the Matanzas River.
Pro Tip: Try to catch a cannon firing demonstration if you can. It’s loud, it’s smoky, and it’s a total thrill for the kids (and the kids-at-heart).
Midday: Shopping and Snacks on St. George Street
Once you’ve had your fill of military history, head over to the City Gates and step onto St. George Street. This is the pedestrian-only heart of the historic district, and honestly? It’s a vibe.
Think narrow lanes, colonial-era architecture, and more unique boutiques than you can count. You can find everything from handmade leather goods to authentic Spanish pottery.
Feeling hungry? St. Augustine’s food scene is legendary.
- For a casual bite: Grab a burger and a cold brew at Barefoot Bill’s.
- For something historic: The Columbia Restaurant is a classic for Spanish-Cuban flavors (their "1905" Salad is a local legend).
- For the sweet tooth: Do not, I repeat, do not, skip the local Ice Cream shops. Whether it’s a gourmet popsicle or a double scoop in a waffle cone, it’s a St. Augustine rite of passage.
Afternoon: Art and Grandeur
After lunch, take a short stroll to the Lightner Museum. Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel (built in 1888 by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler), the building itself is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find Victorian curiosities, fine art, and even an old indoor swimming pool that’s been converted into a cafe!
Directly across the street is Flagler College. You don’t even need a full tour to appreciate the stunning courtyards and intricate towers. It feels more like a European palace than a college campus.
Why Bombora is Your Smarter Home Base
You might be wondering: “Why wouldn’t I just stay in St. Augustine?”
Well, let’s be real. St. Augustine is beautiful, but it can be loud, crowded, and: let’s face it: a bit pricey for what you get. When you choose places to stay in Flagler Beach FL, you get the best of both worlds.
Imagine this: You spend your day navigating the crowds and the history of the city. Then, you drive back down the A1A as the sun starts to dip. You pull up to your suite at Bombora, and instead of a cramped hotel room and a noisy street, you’re greeted by the sound of crashing waves.
Our Florida oceanfront vacation rentals offer things those historic hotels just can't:
- Space to Breathe: From our 1-bedroom units to our 3-bedroom penthouse, you have a full kitchen to whip up a midnight snack or a morning Coffee.
- Direct Beach Access: No driving to the shore: just walk across our private dune walk-over.
- Peace and Quiet: Flagler Beach is that "retro" Florida town you’ve been looking for. No high-rises, no chain hotels: just you and the ocean.
- Practical Perks: Salt on your clothes? We have free on-site laundry. Need to check a quick email before heading out? Our suites offer dedicated workspaces with views that beat any office cubicle.
Sunset: The Perfect Ending
After your day trip, grab a cocktail and head to our shared ocean-side patio. Watch the sky turn those "postcard-worthy" shades of pink and orange. St. Augustine is for the stories, but Bombora is for the soul.
Ready to plan your Florida vacations? We’d love to have you. Check out our availability here and let’s make some memories.
Make yourself at home. Let’s chat soon!
The Ultimate Day Trip: Exploring St. Augustine's Historic Charm from Flagler Beach – Wix
Looking for a change of pace from the beach? St. Augustine is the perfect day trip from your home base at Bombora Oceanfront Suites. Just a 45-minute drive north on the scenic A1A, you’ll find a city filled with cobblestone streets, 16th-century history, and incredible food.
Your St. Augustine Itinerary
- Morning: Explore Castillo de San Marcos. This Spanish fortress is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. and offers stunning views of the Matanzas River.
- Midday: Stroll down St. George Street. This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is packed with unique shops and historic sites like the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse.
- Afternoon: Visit the Lightner Museum. Located in a grand 19th-century hotel, it’s full of Victorian treasures and breathtaking architecture.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at the Columbia Restaurant or grab a sunset meal by the water before heading back to the beach.
Why Stay in Flagler Beach?
While St. Augustine is great for a visit, Flagler Beach vacation rentals offer a much more relaxing experience. Instead of the hustle and bustle of the city, stay at Bombora and enjoy:
- Direct Beach Access: Steps from the sand.
- Full Kitchens: Perfect for families and longer stays.
- Unobstructed Views: Watch the sunrise from your living room.
Avoid the pricey St. Augustine hotels and choose the peace of an oceanfront suite. It’s the smarter way to explore Florida.
Ready to book your escape? Visit our website to see our available suites and start planning your ultimate Florida vacation today!