Boasting a historic background befitting of the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States, St. Augustine simply oozes charm at every turn. That rich reminder of times-gone-by is one of the many reasons visitors come in droves to vacation in the famed Floridian city on the Atlantic Ocean. And while like many Sunshine State spots, the city makes its mark in travel and tourism, St. Augustine is also a hugely popular destination for people wanting to relocate permanently to live that coveted Florida lifestyle. If you’re considering a move, here are 10 reasons why you should move to St. Augustine.
1. It’s huge on history
We touched on this a bit, but it’s so impressive that it warrants further discussion. French Huguenots began attempting to colonize the area around modern-day St. Augustine beginning in the 1560s; however, Spain believed that it already laid claim to the land. King Phillip II dispatched a young conquistador named Pedro Menéndez de Avilés (that’s a name you’ll see a lot of around St. Augustine) to stave off the French and protect the land. He would eventually settle what was there and name it in honor of the Catholic saint, Saint Augustine of Hippo.
Many battles commenced in the decades following between Native Americans, the Spanish and the English. The U.S. gained control at the end of the War of 1812, and in 1880, Henry Flagler (that’s another name you’ll get used to seeing) brought new life to the settlement as a vacation spot for northerners.
2. Downtown has a little bit of everything
Don’t let the “downtown” title here mislead you—there are no towering skyscrapers. What you will find is a variety of shops, bars, restaurants, historical monuments, and kitschy and fun attractions. St. George Street is one of several walkable routes downtown, but it steals the show with its many must-see stops. The district is also adjacent to the Matanzas River, which offers a sparkling backdrop.
3. You can tap into your inner child and play fort
On the edge of downtown, you’ll find the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest-known masonry fort in the continental U.S. The fort was built between the years of 1672 and 1695, and though some repairs have been completed, much of it is hundreds of years old. Visitors to the fort can take in sweeping views of the Matanzas, peruse historical facts and figures, visit an example of the sleeping quarters used by soldiers, and watch an assortment of reenactments.
4. There are miles of beautiful beaches to visit
For many people, the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean are one of St. Augustine’s most enticing lures. St. Augustine has more than 40 miles of beautiful beaches, offering a little something for everyone. There are quiet, serene and laid-back beaches, and there are more action-packed alternatives where you’re bound to see surfers catching waves while you catch your rays. In addition to sunbathing and surfing, fishing, boogie boarding, kayaking, sailing, and nature watching are some of the most popular activities enjoyed by St. Augustine locals.
5. It’s small and quaint
There’s a smallness about St. Augustine that’s both refreshing and reassuring. It’s unassuming and quirky, welcoming and locally focused. If you live in St. Augustine and see someone that you don’t know, chances are they’re on vacation.
6. But it’s big where it wants to be
Despite that smallness, there are some big-time amenities to be found in St. Augustine. Though it’s an intimate setting with just under 5,000 seats, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre has hosted some of the biggest acts in music, including Bob Dylan, John Legend, ZZ Top, Weezer, The Avett Brothers and Imagine Dragons. The St. Augustine Distillery is the most visited craft distillery in America and produces and distributes some of the country’s finest spirits, including its barrel-strength bourbon. St. Augustine is also the home of the World Golf Hall of Fame that receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
7. It’s a short drive from major Florida cities
If St. Augustine doesn’t have what you’re looking for, there’s a good chance you can get it within a short drive. The nearest large city is Jacksonville, which hosts professional and college athletic events, blockbuster concerts, has a bustling craft beer scene, and an international airport. Head the other direction, and you’ll run into Daytona, home of the world-famous Daytona 500 and one of the country’s most recognizable beaches. Additionally, Orlando and its abundant shops, theme parks and resorts are just a quick two-hour jaunt away.
8. Quality education awaits
As a member of the St. Johns County School District, St. Augustine public schools belong to one of Florida’s top-performing districts. Additionally, St. Augustine’s Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is the largest school of its kind in the entire country. Liberal arts powerhouse, Flagler College, is located downtown and routinely receives awards for the quality of its education and the beauty of its campus.
9. It’s a bike-friendly place
What better way to enjoy the sunshine and St. Augustine’s beauty than by taking a trip on two wheels? The city caters to cyclists by offering many bike lanes and trails that make biking around town an enjoyable experience.
10. There’s a neighborhood for everyone
No matter your budget or wish list, there’s a neighborhood to fit your tastes in St. Augustine. Neighborhoods like Casa Cola/Durbin and Elwood Whites Ford are big with families, while the quiet Butler Beach is an ideal landing spot for retirees.
The post 10 Reasons to Move to St. Augustine first appeared on Real Estate Jacksonville.
