Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. It was also one of the initial cities in Florida established for tourism, when Henry Flagler built a railroad connection and two opulent hotels there. Today, St, Augustine remains a popular visitor destination, with a well-preserved historical center, numerous important sites, attractive waterfront location, and pretty beaches. There’s a good variety for running in St. Augustine, between historic neighborhoods, waterfront trails, scenic bridges, and some longer multi-use paths in the area.
The best place to run in St. Augustine is along the waterfront trails, and the pretty streets of the historic center. The Lincolville, Davis Shores, and Camachee Cove neighborhoods have quiet streets and lovely homes. Two extensive area beaches — St. Augustine and Vilano, are good for running. For a longer off-road run, we recommend the trails of Anastasia State Park, and the Palatka-to-Saint Augustne Rail Trail. The planned community of Nocatee, with its miles of fitness trails and Nature Preserve, makes for a nice destination run.
A car is generally needed in the area. There’s a modest local bus system, but it covers a limited area. Like much of Florida, summers can be hot for running — best to go early and use caution.
