Anastasia Island, FL

Anastasia Island is a flat strip of land just off the eastern coast of Florida. Its edges are adorned with the golden sand of pristine beaches, while nature trails wind through a varied terrain filled with local wildlife. Visit Anastasia Island to explore the sand dunes and salt marshes of Anastasia State Park on the northern end of this barrier island.

Stay at one of the 139 campsites near the beaches and sleep beneath the stars. In the state park, rent a canoe or kayak to take out on the water with Anastasia Watersports. Wander along St. Johns County Ocean Pier for stunning ocean views.

Embark on a nature trail, bringing binoculars to spot majestic ospreys and eagles soaring above. You may also see warblers and painted buntings, among other birds in the woodland area.

Continue following the Ancient Dunes Trail, strolling between oak and red bay trees. Informative displays describe in detail the park’s plants and animals. Relax on a bench in the middle of the forest and listen to the wildlife calls, before heading to the trailhead again to complete the loop.

One of the major attractions on the island is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Take photos of the tall red-and-white tower that dates back to the 19th century. Study the range of intriguing relics on display in the museum to learn about boat building and the regional shrimping industry, among other maritime topics. Nearby, check out the fearsome reptiles in the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.

Anastasia Island extends north and south parallel to the eastern coast of northeastern Florida. From Jacksonville, drive southeast for about 45 miles (70 kilometers) to travel here in roughly 1 hour.

While in the region, make sure to see nearby sights such as the Ocala National Forest, Lake George and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.