Just a quick 10-minute drive from Saltwater + Sunsets, downtown St. Augustine feels like stepping into another world — one where centuries-old charm meets coastal cool, and every street corner seems to have a story to tell. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, there’s always something new (and totally Instagram-worthy) waiting to be discovered.

Start your adventure with a slow stroll through the historic district, where cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and tucked-away courtyards feel like Europe — just with palm trees and salty air. Head to St. George Street, a lively, pedestrian-only stretch packed with boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, and old-school candy stores that smell like childhood. It’s the kind of place where you wander with no real agenda and stumble upon your new favorite thing. There are some amazing art galleries – we always discover something new and beautiful.

If you’re even slightly into history, this place will blow you away. Tour Flagler College (don’t miss the stained-glass dining hall — it’s stunning), or check out the Old Jail, Castillo de San Marcos, and the Colonial Quarter for a hands-on dose of St. Augustine’s 450+ years of history. Bonus points if you catch a cannon firing or a reenactor in full colonial garb — trust us, it’s a vibe.

Now let’s talk food — because St. Augustine doesn’t mess around when it comes to great eats (and Derek and I are foodies!). Here are some tried-and-true favorites:

• The Floridian – Southern comfort food meets fresh, local ingredients. Think shrimp & grits, fried green tomatoes, and sweet tea the way it’s meant to be.
• The Ice Plant – Set in a restored 1920s building with serious speakeasy vibes. Come for the craft cocktails, stay for the crispy Brussels sprouts and short rib sliders.

• The Columbia – A Florida institution and one of the oldest restaurants in the state. Expect Cuban and Spanish cuisine, pressed Cuban sandwiches, paella, and a sangria that’ll sneak up on you (in the best way). There’s almost always a wait — and it’s worth it.
• Casa Reina – Overlooks the water, and if you snag one of the outdoor tables, you’ve got front-row seats to the boats and buzz of the bayfront. Great cocktails, chips and salsa, and an easy crowd-pleaser. Derek and I have brought several out-of-town guests here, and the place has not disappointed.

• Harry’s – Their twinkle-lit, canopied patio practically pulls you in from the street. Cajun-creole classics, cocktails, and that magical ambiance that makes you want to stay awhile. It’s the icing on the cake when they have live music.

Asado Life – We haven’t tried it yet, but friends (who know food) can’t stop raving. It’s a chef-driven experience with live-fire cooking, riverfront seating, and dishes that change with the seasons. Definitely on our list.

And of course — don’t skip dessert. Right in the middle of all the action is Kilwins, a must-stop for handmade fudge, caramel apples, and ice cream that never disappoints. You’ll smell the waffle cones before you see them. Our go-to? A scoop of rocky road (Derek’s fave) or chocolate chip cookie dough (Tabitha’s fave) in a fresh waffle cone (just trust us). Grab a treat and keep wandering — it’s part of the downtown experience.

Pro tip: If you time your visit right, end the night at a rooftop bar. Head to San Sebastian Winery’s Cellar Upstairs for wine, live music, and views of the marsh at golden hour. Or check out River & Fort, a newer rooftop with 360-degree views of the bayfront, the fort, and the city skyline — plus some of the best cocktails around.

Local tip: Hit downtown early or on a weekday if you can — it’s easier to park, less crowded, and you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. There’s a parking garage by the Visitor Center if you want to skip circling the block.

Downtown St. Augustine is one of those places that’s hard to describe until you’re there — romantic, a little mysterious, and effortlessly cool. It’s rich with history, full of life, and the perfect complement to the chill coastal vibe of Vilano Beach.

Book your stay at Saltwater + Sunsets and make downtown St. Augustine part of your story — full of slow strolls, unforgettable bites, sweet treats, and moments that make you want to come back again and again.