A Sanctuary of Dunes and Hammocks
While most visitors flock to the white sands of St. Augustine Beach, those in the know head to Anastasia State Park. Spanning over 1,600 acres, this park is a pristine ecosystem of maritime hammocks and ancient sand dunes. It offers a rare glimpse of what Florida looked like before the high-rise condos and boardwalks.
The Coquina Quarry
History isn't just in the buildings downtown; it’s in the ground here. Inside the park, you can visit the historic coquina quarry. This is where the stones were mined to build the Castillo de San Marcos. Walking through the quarry, you can still see the markings where Spanish workers cut the massive blocks of compressed shells nearly 400 years ago.
On the Water: Salt Run
The park borders Salt Run, a tidal lagoon that is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Because it is protected from the Atlantic surf, the water is calm and teeming with wildlife. It’s common to see manatees, sea turtles, and roseate spoonbills as you glide through the mangroves.