Find things to do on the beaches, on the river, and on the island.
Anastasia Island stretches from the tip of the sand bars at Anastasia State Park to the Matanzas Inlet, just past the Fort Matanzas Monument. This barrier island is about 14-miles long and averages one mile in width — bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Matanzas River.
Some of St. Augustine’s favorite beaches can be found in those 14 miles, as well as resorts, hotels, restaurants and bars, and area attractions. The City of St. Augustine Beach is located on Anastasia Island, and there are additional places to say, things to do, and places to eat on Anastasia within the City of St. Augustine Beach.
The island has a rich history, from the St. Augustine Lighthouse to the Coquina Quarry at Anastasia State Park, to the Matanzas Inlet and Fort Matanzas State Park. Like Ponte Vedra Beach to the north, Anastasia Island is home to a highly regarded music venue, in this case, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. This outdoor venue seats just under 5000 and is just a half-mile from the beach.
The beaches of Anastasia can be divided into five main sections, the beach at Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine Beach, Butler Beach, Crescent Beach, and Matanzas Beach. In addition to the ever-popular beaches, Anastasia Island boasts various attractions, historical sites, hotels, vacation rentals, shops, and eateries from fast food to fine dining restaurants. Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy the western side of the island, along the Matanzas River, where they can find inland fishing, beaches, and parks as well as eateries and places to stay.
Those who love the beach may prefer to stay on Anastasia Island, where the historic downtown could be up to 14 miles to the north. Those staying in Historic Downtown St. Augustine will find Anastasia State Park, at 3.4 miles from the Plaza de la Constitución, to be one of the closest beaches to the plaza.
The photo is of Crescent Beach on Anastasia Island.
At O'Steen's Restaurant on beautiful Anastasia Island in St. Augustine, visitors will find amazing seafood and a comfortable, fun atmosphere. This restaurant has remained a favorite of locals and tourists alike ever since it opened.
Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge and Kitchen combines a highly regarded craft cocktail bar and a kitchen known for creating Latin American tastes to please St. Augustine.
Oldest City Bait & Tackle is a fishing shop in St. Augustine Beach. The shop opens every day at 5:30 a.m. ready with live bait and supplies for fishers. Shop for reels, rods, fishing line, and more at this local supplier.