Drinking The Water
The Fountain of Youth really does exist. During the past 100 years, millions of tourists have sipped from the famous waters and heard the colorful tales of its legendary youthful benefits. Our advice is try a sip of authentic Fountain of Youth spring water, then buy a bottle of the sweeter-smelling spring water available in the gift shop. The Discovery Globe, Navigator's Planetarium, Indian Burial Grounds, and Shipwreck Exhibit can all add to the fun.

The Old City Farmers Market is held every Saturday at the St. Augustine Amphitheater. Select local artists and craftspeople are invited to sell their wares each week. We saw an abundance of locally grown produce and stocked up for our return trip. Try any of the freshly harvested vegetables, fruits, artesian breads, pastries, flowers, plants, herbs, roasted peanuts, and especially the pepper sauces (a spicy sauce made from a local peppers). Produce availability depends on the season.

St. George Street
During our stay in St. Augustine, we checked out the St. Augustine amphitheater. It is located at 1340 A1A South, a couple from the Bridge of Lions and a mile north of SR 312 on A1A. The many shops along St. George Street also make for a worthwhile afternoon stroll. St. George Street was originally the main route into St. Augustine and is still considered the heart of the city today. Cars weren't allowed there, but visitors could walk through the historic attractions, fantastic restaurants, galleries, bakeries, and countless shops that made it famous.

Only a few minutes away, there's more to see at Flagler College, or the fascinating Lightner Museum with its magnificent collections, and the Zorayda Castle, a reproduction of Spain's famous Alhambra. Horse-drawn carriages are a good way to see the city too. Located on the waterfront, off King Street, St. George Street was just a block from the famous Bridge of Lions.

Beaches
Spending some time soaking up the sun on the beach seems to be the thing to do. You'll find miles of luxurious sand under good weather most of the year. Being able to drive on the beach means not having to drag lawn chairs, coolers, and blankets down to your perfect spot. We parked, stepped out, and enjoyed the views!

Driving is possible because of a hard layer of coquina just below the surface stabilizes the sand. Any passenger car can negotiate the almost 23 miles of waterfront without a problem (but it is still possible to get stuck). Alcohol and glass are not allowed, and pets must be kept on a leash. Personal watercraft must be launched from the boat ramps, not directly from the beach. Daily vehicle passes were $6. You might investigate the inland waterway as well for its many public areas offering beach recreation and secluded relaxation.

No matter what time of the year, St. Augustine temperatures are moderate. Temperatures in January and February are typically in the mid-50s with an average of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. September is the rainy season in St. Augustine.

While historians celebrate its many treasures, take it from us: The true wealth of St. Augustine are the multitude of things to see and do there.