Jacksonville to St. Augustine Scenic Drive Itinerary

Day 1: Coastal Exploration & Historic St. Augustine

Morning: Start your day strolling along the Jacksonville Riverwalk, where the city skyline meets the St. Johns River and cafés line the promenade. After a coffee, head north on I‑95 and make a quick detour to the Fort Clinch State Park on Amelia Island for a breezy walk through historic fortifications and beach views.

Afternoon: Cross the bridge into St. Augustine and wander the Historic District, soaking up cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to explore its cannon‑filled walls, then wander down St. George Street for boutique shops and lively street performances.

Evening: As the sun dips, climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for panoramic ocean vistas and a glimpse into maritime history. Finish with dinner at a waterfront restaurant on St. George Street, then unwind on the sands of St. Augustine Beach while watching the sunset.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Jacksonville Riverwalk – Estimated time: 1 hour, Estimated cost: $0
• Fort Clinch State Park – Estimated time: 1 hour, Estimated cost: $5 (vehicle fee)
• Castillo de San Marcos – Estimated time: 2 hours, Estimated cost: $16 (adult admission)
• St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – Estimated time: 1.5 hours, Estimated cost: $12 (adult admission)
• Fountain of Youth – Estimated time: 1 hour, Estimated cost: $16 (adult admission)
• Dinner on St. George Street – Estimated time: 1.5 hours, Estimated cost: $30 (average meal)
• Total Estimated Cost – $79

Tips

If you have an extra day, consider extending your stay to explore the Alligator Farm Zoological Park or take a sunrise kayak tour on the Matanzas River. To shorten the trip, skip the detour to Fort Clinch and head straight to St. Augustine, focusing on the historic downtown and lighthouse for a fulfilling half‑day adventure.