Last Updated on November 20, 2023
Anastasia State Park is located in St. Augustine, Florida. The Northeast Florida state park is in St. Johns County.
It’s approximately 2 miles from Downtown St. Augustine and 3 miles north of St. Augustine Beach.
It is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient sand dunes.
From historic accommodations to tasty comfort food to unique shops, you will undoubtedly have an amazing time on a trip to this gorgeous, unspoiled coastal destination.
These are our recommendations on the top places to visit near Anastasia State Park, including nearby places to eat, stay, and shop during your excursion.
Anastasia State Park
Beautiful Anastasia State Park is a great place to visit with the whole family. The park offers plenty of things to do, from walking nature trails and miles of beaches to relaxing at a designated swimming area.
There are so many ideal spots to check out. There are diverse ecosystems in the park, which will become apparent shortly after you make your way past the park entrance.
The park is situated between Salt Run and the Atlantic Ocean, providing lots of coastline. The area contains tons of natural beauty in its beautiful maritime hammock habitats, tidal marshes, and beach area.
Things to Do at Anastasia Beach State Park
There are so many different things to do at Anastasia State Park. The park occasionally hosts events you can attend that are included with park admission.
One of the most popular events is a guided bird walk where you can observe a variety of birds that call this region home, like roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and osprey.
Outdoor Activities
If you enjoy outdoor activities, you have great options where you can explore hammock forests and do some wildlife viewing.
Check out Anastasia Watersports. You can get rental kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and sailboats directly in the park.
The park also rents out bikes so you can enjoy a bike ride along park roads and beaches.
Hiking is another great activity to enjoy, with the Ancient Dunes Nature Trail extending through maritime hammocks.
The park has picnic areas with scenic views of marsh and ocean, so snag a picnic table and enjoy a picnic.
Old Spanish Quarries
The Spanish Coquina Quarries are located within Anastasia State Park.
Coquina is a type of limestone made up of sand and mollusk shells. The material was used when building buildings in Historic St. Augustine, including the remarkable Castillo de San Marcos.
Anastasia Park Camping
The Anastasia State Park campground consists of 139 sites for tents and RVs. The grounds are conveniently located just a short walk from the beach.
Booking a site within the park includes access to water hookups, a dump station, a fire ring, hot showers, and more.
TIPS:
- Anastasia State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown.
- Visit Island Beach Shop and Grill on the main park drive for in-park food options and a gift shop. Call for operating hours (904) 461-9322.
- Check the park’s event page prior to visiting to see if scheduled events, such as guided bird walks through a wildlife trail, will be held during your visit. Park admission is required.
- Admission fees are $8 per vehicle (two to eight people), $4 per single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
- Camping costs $28 per night plus tax and a $6.70 reservation fee. RVs are also charged a $7 utility fee per night.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Anastasia State Park Address: 300 Anastasia Park Rd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Where to Eat Near Anastasia State Park
O’Steen’s Restaurant
O’Steen’s Restaurant has been in St. Augustine for over 50 years. The restaurant is just a mile and a half away from Anastasia State Park.
It was opened in 1965 by Mr. and Mrs. O’Steen and has served delicious Southern fare ever since.
This family-friendly spot serves various comfort dishes and some of the best seafood in town.
The menu hasn’t changed much over the course of several decades, which is why it remains so popular six decades later.
Choose from popular dishes like Famous St. Augustine Fried Shrimp (the name says it all) or homemade clam chowder.
The restaurant also offers daily specials, which are always a great deal. Desserts include ice cream and assorted pies.
If you are looking for fresh, delicious food and a great atmosphere, make sure to check this place out on your visit to Anastasia State Park.
TIPS:
- O’Steen’s Restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 8:30 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
- Reservations are not accepted.
- You can call for carry-out orders.
- Bring cash with you. This establishment doesn’t accept debit or credit cards, though there is an ATM onsite.
- This restaurant is popular, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table.
For more information, visit the official O’Steen’s Restaurant website.
O’Steen’s Restaurant Address: 205 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Additional Places to Eat Near Anastasia State Park
Gas Full Service Restaurant
Gas Full Service Restaurant in St. Augustine is family-owned and serves traditional Southern cuisine. You can enjoy home-style favorites in a comfortable atmosphere.
Locals rave about the burgers but will also say you can’t go wrong with the fried pickles.
Gas Full Service Address: 9 Anastasia Blvd. C, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Osprey Tacos
This relaxed taqueria on A1A in Saint Augustine offers fresh, made-to-order tacos, taco bowls, and sides You can even find gluten-free and vegan options.
Don’t leave without trying the pork fried rice taco. Vegetarians love the blackened organic tempeh with green tomato pico & sriracha aioli.
Osprey Tacos Address: 300 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Anastasia Diner
Anastasia Diner is a family-run diner in St. Augustine that serves home-style breakfast dishes with local flavor.
Everyone raves about their home-made sausage and the pancakes they serve up.
Anastasia Diner Address: 1770 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080
The Conch House Restaurant
The Conch House in St. Augustine is an iconic seafood restaurant featuring outdoor dining and live entertainment on the waterfront.
Many of the items on their menu are what dreams are made of. Don’t miss the conch fritters, the fresh salads and fish sandwiches. And the shrimp and grits are a must.
The Conch House Address: 57 Comares Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Llama Restaurant
Llama Restaurant tantalizes taste buds with its innovative fusion of traditional Peruvian cuisine and contemporary culinary techniques.
It’s set in an intimate and elegantly designed atmosphere.
We dream about their Arroz con Mariscos. It’s a creamy risotto with a mix of fruits of the ocean, perfumed with Andean Pepper sand Herbs, and garnished with parmesan and green peas.
Llama Restuarant Address: 415 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Where to Stay Near Anastasia State Park
Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast
Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast is located approximately 2.5 miles from Anastasia State Park. It is on Aviles Street, the oldest street in the oldest city in the US.
The inn is within walking distance from sites like Bridge of Lions and Lightner Museum.
Originally built and owned by Don Manuel Lorenzo Solana in the 1700s as a home for his family, the space transitioned to a B&B, now celebrating over 250 years.
There are ten guest rooms and suites at Casa de Solana. Enjoy the cozy, historical atmosphere and gorgeous courtyard.
Each morning, you can partake in a delicious breakfast, which is served in the dining room from 8:30 am to 9:30 am on weekdays and 8:00 am to 9:30 am on weekends.
The breakfast menu typically includes dishes like omelets, quiches, stuffed crepes, and fresh fruit cups.
TIPS:
- Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast is open daily.
- Check-in is from 3 pm to 7 pm. Check-out is at 11 am.
- Wine Social Hour is held every day from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm and includes a glass of wine to enjoy in one of the common spaces.
- Children under 14 years old cannot be accommodated.
- The inn has one dog-friendly room with an additional pet fee. Contact the inn in advance.
For more information, visit the official Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast website.
Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast Address: 21 Aviles St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
Additional Places to Stay Near Anastasia State Park
Hemingway House Bed & Breakfast
If you want to stay in the center of everything, you won’t want to miss this bed & breakfast. It’s a great place to stay with so much history.
Staff are friendly and happy to help you make the most of your stay. The breakfast is delicious and motivates guests to return time after time.
Hemingway House Address: 54 Charlotte St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
The Pirate Haus Inn
If you are hoping to stay in the center of St. Augustine and want to add something special to your stay, book a toom at The Pirate Haus Inn for a unique experience rooted in history.
There are personalized pancakes in the morning and a variety of pirate-themed items throughout the inn. This is the perfect place to stay with a family.
The Pirate Haus Inn Address: 32 Treasury St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
Anastasia Inn
Anastasia Inn is offers a homey vibe at a budget price.
Amenities include a pool, a coffee maker, and a breakfast coffee bar. This hotel is near many of the most interesting parts of St. Augustine.
Anastasia Inn Address: 218 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Beachfront Bed & Breakfast
Are you looking for a cozy place to stay close to the beach? Then Beachfront Bed & Breakfast is a must-visit on your next trip.
You can hear the waves of the beach from room. It’s a great place for a romantic getaway.
Beachfront Bed and Breakfast Address: 1 F St., St Augustine Beach, FL 32080
Check out this article: Old Florida Meets the Digital Age at St. Augustine Motel
Places to Shop Near Anastasia State Park
Aunt Matilda’s Steampunk Trunk
Aunt Matilda’s Steampunk Trunk is a unique place to shop in St. Augustine.
It is just over two miles away from Anastasia State Park, located in the Historic District.
Aunt Matilda was a strong-willed woman whose spirit of adventure and interest in antiques and trinkets inspired the concept of this shop.
Visitors can shop everything steampunk at Aunt Matilda’s. The store sells apparel like shirts, dresses, waistcoats, and hats.
Find classic steampunk goggles and masks, or check out their jewelry and home décor. If you are looking for something fun like games and toys, they have that too.
TIPS:
- Aunt Matilda’s Steampunk Trunk is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
- There is an online shop available if you prefer to have your purchases shipped.
For more information, visit the official Aunt Matilda’s Steampunk Trunk website.
Aunt Matilda’s Steampunk Trunk Address: 106 St. George St., Suite B, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Additional Places to Shop Near Anastasia State Park
Heritage Walk Mall
With 24 shops you can stroll through, the Heritage Walk Mall is a must-visit if you are a shopping fan. Spend time perusing a variety of shops.
No matter what you are looking for, expect to find it. This place is full of interesting decorations, hats, and other unique local goods.
Heritage Walk Mall Address: 162 St. George St., St. Augustine, FL, 32084
Antiques & Things
If you are hoping to go antiquing while in St. Augustine, make sure to stop at Antiques & Things. This place has a variety of antique vendors within the same building.
It’s like going on a treasure hunt. Whether it’s dishes, clothing, or a variety of other items you can be sure your antiquing heart is in its happy place.
Antiques & Things Address: 62 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Around the World Marketplace
The Around the World Marketplace is the perfect place to combine perusing and shopping. You can find one of kind decorations and specialty items here.
Be prepared! Some of the items are larger than life and hard to transport.
If you are just visiting the area, you can send items home if you fall in love with something.
Around the World Marketplace Address: 21 Orange St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
Artsy Abode at St. Augustine
It’s easy to spend the entire day and your full vacation budget here. The store is a collection of some of the best art items you can find in St. Augustine.
This shop allows you to walk around and look at everything. If you need help, staff are always available to help you with anything you need.
Artsy Abode at St. Augustine Address: 41 King St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
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