Helicopter Rides - St. Augustine Beach Pier

A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway

An iconic drive through Northeast Florida.

The A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway

Endless ocean views, salty air on your face, and centuries of history right outside your window. That's the undeniable magic of Florida's A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway. This road is so special, it's even called an American Byway.

View of the Bayfront from A1A Ale Works in St. Augustine, Florida

What Makes This Drive So Special?

This isn't just any drive. Northeast Florida's portion of A1A is an amazing 72-mile road (mostly two lanes) mixing breathtaking natural beauty with fascinating history. It winds along the Atlantic coast, from Amelia Island to Jacksonville Beach, through historic St. Augustine, along Anastasia Island and to Flagler Beach. Along the way, you’ll see gorgeous beaches, coastal forests buzzing with wildlife, and cute seaside towns. Being an American Byway, the route is recognized nationally for its incredible views, history, culture, nature, and fun spots. Every turn offers a picture-perfect moment, plenty of excursion alternatives, and good vibes for some Jimmy Buffet Car-aoke.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse during the Chirstmas Season

Must-See Stops Along the Way

The A1A Byway is packed with amazing spots. Make sure to pull over and explore these gems (listed from north to south):

GTMNERR (Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve): Explore ecosystems from the ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway. Don't miss the GTM Research Reserve Overlook for incredible vista views, perfect for birdwatching or simply soaking in the landscape. Their environmental education center is also a fascinating stop for families.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: An absolute must-do. Climb the 219 steps to the top for panoramic views of the entire coast and city—a defining St. Augustine experience.
St. Johns County Ocean Pier: A lively hub offering great fishing, a fun splash pad for the kids, volleyball courts, and sunrise views over the Atlantic. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and feel the ocean breeze.
Fort Matanzas National Monument: Just a bit south of the main St. Augustine Beach area, this well-preserved 18th-century Spanish fort offers a glimpse into early Florida defense. A must-see for history buffs.
Marineland Dolphin Adventure: Get up close and personal with dolphins and other fascinating marine life at one of Florida's original and beloved marine parks.
Pristine Beaches: With miles of coastline to drive, you'll find numerous public access points along the Byway. Pull off and feel the soft sand between your toes, hunt for unique shells, shark teeth, or sea glass. Rumor has it that the best beach for this is right next to Marineland Dolphin Adventure.

Plan Your Perfect Drive

This Byway is gorgeous any time of year! For amazing sunrises and soft, gentle light, try an early morning drive. Or, catch the golden hour late in the afternoon for Insta-worthy photos. You'll need a few hours to drive the Byway, but we highly suggest making a whole day (or even two!) out of it to truly explore everything this route offers. Don't forget snacks, water, sunscreen, and, of course, your camera. The A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway is your invitation to experience coastal Northeast Florida's heart and soul.