Summer in St. Augustine: Beach days, live music, and history
From open-air concerts and art walks to golden-hour strolls, here’s how to make the most of summer in America’s oldest city.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | March 19, 2026
Summer in St. Augustine blends coastal relaxation with centuries of history. Wander the cobblestone stretch of St. George Street, tour the mighty Castillo de San Marcos, or cool off with ocean breezes on nearby beaches. Dolphin cruises, ghost tours, and live music keep evenings lively, while cafés and ice cream shops offer sweet breaks from the sun. With its laid-back vibe and rich past, the nation’s oldest city makes an unforgettable warm-weather getaway today. The right stay means you are always close to the action. Whether that’s a sunrise swim or a gallery stroll after dark, you can let the city’s summer energy guide your plans. Here’s how to plan the ultimate summer getaway to St. Augustine.
In this article: Hotels in St. Augustine for summer getaways
Beachfront mornings
Early risers can catch the sunrise before a swim or surf lesson at St. Augustine Beach, then stroll the shore or relax under a beach umbrella. As the day warms, cool off with a dip in the outdoor pool at Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort. When evening arrives, open-air concerts at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre are just a short ride away. The hotel places you close to the music and the sand, with spacious suites, free made-to-order breakfast, and on-site dining at Harvest & Reel. While exploring all that St. Augustine has to offer during the summer, guests can enjoy easy oceanfront access, water sports, poolside cabanas, and other family-friendly amenities that make travel seamless.
Historic bayfront nights
As twilight settles over St. Augustine’s Historic District, lantern-lit streets and the gentle hum of street musicians create a magical evening atmosphere. Stroll the bayfront promenade or explore the pedestrian corridors lined with boutiques and galleries. Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront sits just steps from St. George Street, offering easy access to downtown’s robust music and art scene. It’s an ideal hub for enjoying plaza concerts and lively evenings in the heart of the Old City. Here, guests can also enjoy waterfront views, on-site dining at Aviles Restaurant & Lounge, and colorful cottage-style buildings inspired by Spanish Colonial architecture. When you’re not immersing yourself in St. Augustine’s rich history and culture, you can also take advantage of the hotel’s refreshing outdoor pool.
Surfside afternoons
Afternoons in St. Augustine are made for breezy beach days, whether you choose the family-friendly sands of St. Augustine Beach, the laid-back vibe of Vilano Beach, or the ancient dunes of Anastasia State Park. Arrive early to claim your spot, pack sunscreen and shades for the midday sun, and plan a casual snack stop just off the shore. Hampton Inn St. Augustine Beach is located steps from the sand, with free hot breakfast and easy access to the beach, dining, and evening concerts. It’s a simple, reliable base for making the most of summer’s surfside afternoons, with free parking and an outdoor pool for cooling off between outings. If you’re traveling with family and friends, ask about the Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™.
Artsy Fridays
Once a month, St. Augustine’s Historic District comes alive with the energy of the First Friday Art Walk. Galleries open their doors for evening hours, live music spills into the streets, and the city’s creative spirit takes center stage. Start your stroll early to catch the opening receptions, then wander from gallery to gallery, ending your night with a relaxed walk along the illuminated corridors. Hitch a ride on the Old Town Trolley, which provides free seasonal transportation during the event. Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Historic District provides a walkable base for art lovers, with easy access to the city’s top galleries and dining streets. Recharge between creative stops in comfortable guest rooms, and enjoy the convenience of on-site dining at The Garden Grille after a night of exploring.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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