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Saint Augustine, Florida - America's oldest city
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Castillo de San Marcos protected the city from sea-vaders of another era
Located on the east coast of Florida, St. Augustine is famous for its mild climate and Atlantic beaches as well as old world buildings and artifacts. The city is near Interstate 95 on the Atlantic Ocean just south of Jacksonville. It is one of those quaint cities that pays a lot of attention to zoning regulations in its historic district to insure that Saint Augustine's original structures never get bulldozed and buried in the name of progress.
North Florida boasts a year-round mild climate perfect for strolling Saint Augustine's delightful historic district with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, bars, unique shops and bed-and-breakfast inns. Experience the beauty of an early morning that slowly comes alive with locals and tourists.
The multitude of historical St. Augustine structures include the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument that has been forever closely intertwined with the city and the neighboring buildings that served as the city's outer defenses from sea invaders. For a 3-D virtual tour of the fort readers will find a click-on link on site link list.
Fort Matanzas was built in 1740-1742, and represents a well-preserved masonry watchtower fort built by the Spanish. By providing a perch to observe enemy vessels approaching from the south, the fort played a strategic role in warning St. Augustine of potential enemy advancements from the south via the Matanzas River.
The many marinas dotted around the area make boating access ultra convenient by sea, river or Intra coastal waterway. Fishing, diving, surfing, parasailing and other water sports are abundantly accommodated. If one desires a less active role for partaking of the sunshine and the gorgeous environment there are many oceanside cafes offering visitors full view of St. Augustine's rapturous environment while sipping Margarita's and dining on lobster or enjoying other drinks and entrees. St. Augustine offers 43 miles of beach, and there are sections that allow pets and vehicles.
From town, it is possible to view both an Atlantic sun rise and the sunsetting over the inter coastal waterway. History buffs will adore the many museums in the area. The Lightner Museum is among the most unique, featuring an intriguing array of items, from shrunken heads and mummies to stunning collections of stained glass and crystal. When it opened its doors in 1889, Henry Flagler's Alcazar Hotel delighted guests with its gigantic indoor pool and retractable roof, casino, spa, and movie theater. O.C. Lightner jumped at the opportunity to live in the hotel when it became available for purchase and house his unique collections here.
If you are searching for the Florida vacation with a perfect mix of quiet, action, sun and fun with a real sense of Florida history, consider Saint Augustine, Florida - America's oldest city.
