Father’s Day is just around the corner now, and we want to use this special occasion to honor and celebrate the dads in our lives! St. Augustine, with its rich history, scenic views, and lively community, offers a ton of fun activities to make this day truly memorable. Whether Dad is a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, St. Augustine has something for everyone. Here are some of our top recommendations for celebrating Father’s Day in our city:
Explore Historic St. Augustine
St. Augustine, known for being the nation’s oldest city, is full of history. Take Dad on a journey back in time by visiting the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with breathtaking views over Matanzas Bay. This landmark, made of coquina stone, stands as a testament to the city’s Spanish colonial past. You can choose to tour the fortress at your own pace or with a guided tour that will provide you with fascinating insights into the fort’s history, architecture, and the battles fought there.
After exploring the Castillo, take a stroll along St. George Street. This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with historic buildings, unique shops, and local eateries. Here, you can visit the Oldest Wooden School House, enjoy some ice cream at a quaint parlor, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this charming street.
For more historical insights, visit the Colonial Quarter, where you can step back in time and experience life as it was in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and guided tours make this an engaging stop for history enthusiasts.
Take a Scenic Boat Tour
Treat Dad to a relaxing and scenic boat tour along the beautiful waterways of St. Augustine. Companies like Florida Water Tours offer various options, including sunset cruises, dolphin and wildlife adventures, and private charters. The sunset cruises are especially beautiful, providing spectacular views as the sun dips below the horizon and casts a golden glow over the city skyline.
During the cruise, you might spot dolphins or see the historic landmarks from a new perspective. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to spend quality time together, creating memories that will last a lifetime!
Another great option is a sailing excursion with Schooner Freedom Charters. These tours offer a more hands-on sailing experience aboard a tall ship, perfect for dads who love sea and adventure.
Go Fishing
If Dad loves fishing, St. Augustine is the perfect place to cast a line! Book a charter with one of the local guides who know the best spot for catching a variety of fish, including redfish, trout, and flounder. Companies like Jodi Lynn Fishing Charters offer half-day or full-day trips, and they provide all the necessary gear and expertise!
A day on the water, with the excitement of a good catch, will surely be a hit! Whether Dad is an experienced angler or trying it out for the first time, the thrill of reeling in a big one and the camaraderie of a shared adventure will make for an unforgettable Father’s Day.
For freshwater fishing enthusiasts, consider visiting the St. John’s River, which offers excellent bass fishing opportunities.
Visit the Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, & Alligator Farm
Head to the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for a truly unique experience. Climb the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the area, including Anastasia Island and the surrounding waters. The museum offers interesting exhibits on the city’s maritime history, including shipwreck artifacts and interactive displays.
For the more adventurous dads, there are even nighttime ghost tours that explore the darker side of the lighthouse’s history. These tours, filled with eerie tales and historical anecdotes, add an element of mystery and excitement to your visit.
Nearby, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park offers another fun visit. It’s home to every crocodilian species, as well as exotic birds, mammals, and reptiles. A zipline adventure over the alligator enclosures is sure to be a challenging and thrilling experience for dads who love wildlife.
Enjoy a Round of Golf
St. Augustine is home to several top-notch golf courses. Treat Dad to a round of golf at the World Golf Village, which features two championship courses designed by gold legends Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Sam Snead, and Gene Sarazen. The King & Bear and Slammer & Squire courses offer challenging play set against beautiful backdrops.
For a different golfing experience, consider the St. Johns Golf & Country Club, known for its beautiful and challenging 18-hole course, or the St. Augustine Shores Golf Club, which offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Savor Local Cuisine
No Father’s Day is complete without a delicious meal! St. Augustine boasts a diverse culinary scene with something to satisfy every palate. For a special treat, reserve a table at Collage Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet dishes. Their menu features an array of international flavors, with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
If dad prefers a more laidback setting, head to The Columbia Restaurant for a taste of Spanish cuisine in a historic setting. Founded in 1905, this family-owned restaurant serves up classic dishes like paella, Cuban sandwiches, and their famous 1905 Salad, all in a beautifully decorated space that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage.
For seafood lovers, O’Steen’s Restaurant is a local favorite, renowned for it’s fried shrimp and homestyle sides. Speaking of seafood, celebrating is always better with a boil! If you’re gathering for dinner at home, book a boil with Outer Banks Boil Company for a truly authentic seafood experience. Doing something smaller and more intimate? Grab one of their Pots To-Go!
If you want a truly unique and fun experience, check out The Tasting Tours! Join them for a three hour tasting adventure, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy and explore the city while indulging in the best local cuisines perfectly paired with delicious and exquisite wines!
Take a Distillery Tour
A tour of the St. Augustine Distillery is a must for dads who appreciate fine spirits! Learn about the distillation process and sample some of their award-winning spirits, including bourbon, gin, and rum. The distillery is housed in a beautifully restored ice plant, adding a touch of history to the experience.
The guided tour takes you through the entire process, from grain to glass, and ends with a tasting session where you can sample their handcrafted spirits. It’s an educational and enjoyable experience, perfect for a Father’s Day celebration!
If Dad enjoys craft cocktails, visit The Ice Plant Bar, located in the same building as the distillery. The bar offers creative cocktails made with the distillery’s spirits, served in a stylish 1920s-era setting.
Explore Anastasia State Park
For nature-loving dads, a visit to Anastasia State Park is a great way to spend the day. The park offers miles of pristine beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching. Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings while celebrating Father’s Day in the great outdoors!
For an added adventure, consider renting a sailboat or taking a guided eco-tour with Anastasia Watersports, located within the park. These tours offer a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Attend a Live Music Event
Check out the local events calendar for live music performances happening around Father’s Day. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre and various local venues often host concerts and events that cater to a variety of musical tastes. Enjoying live music in the open air is a wonderful way to end off the day.
St. Augustine’s music scene offers something for everyone, from local bands performing in intimate settings to big-name artists playing at larger venues. Gather your family, find a cozy spot, and enjoy the rhythms and melodies as you celebrate Dad.
For a more intimate setting, visit The Colonial Oak Music Park, an outdoor venue under a canopy of ancient live oak trees, offering a unique and relaxed atmosphere for enjoying live performances.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine’s blend of history, natural beauty, and lively culture provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable Father’s Day celebration. Whether you choose to explore historic sites, indulge in the local cuisine, or simply relax in the great outdoors, the time spent together will make this Father’s Day truly special. So, plan your day and make this Father’s Day in St. Augustine an experience Dad will cherish forever.
