There is a wide range of romantic things to do in St. Augustine. Couples can book a sunset cruise on Matanzas Bay to watch dolphins swim alongside the boat, enjoy a quiet afternoon at a hidden courtyard cafe, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district. The Castillo de San Marcos offers sweeping views and a tangible connection to the city’s past, while Old Town Trolley Tours® makes exploring simple with engaging live narration from friendly and knowledgeable guides. In the evening, listen to acoustic music in a candlelit courtyard or sip cocktails at a rooftop bar as the city lights reflect off the bay.
Why Is St. Augustine a Top Destination for Couples?
St. Augustine’s history, architecture, and waterfront views make it one of the most romantic cities in the country. Founded in 1565, it’s the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States, and the past is easy to spot. Coquina stone walls from the 1600s line the streets, Spanish Colonial homes sit just as they did centuries ago, and historic churches still welcome visitors. Couples can step into museums to see artifacts from the city’s earliest years, then wander into quiet courtyards or shaded squares for a break from exploring. Things to do in St. Augustine for couples range from sailing on Matanzas Bay to browsing local art galleries or sharing fresh seafood at a waterfront table. No matter how you spend the day, the city offers plenty of moments worth remembering together.
What Makes Historic Downtown St. Augustine So Romantic?
Historic downtown is full of places to explore together. Horse-drawn carriages travel along the same paths people have used for centuries. Shops and cafes line St. George Street, where you can browse handmade jewelry, local art, and shelves filled with old-fashioned candy. This was once the center of the original walled city, and many buildings still show their age in the worn stone and wooden beams. Music drifts from open doors, and the smell of coffee and fresh bread comes from bakeries tucked into side streets. Spanish Colonial architecture is easy to spot, with arched doorways, wrought-iron balconies, and shaded courtyards that are perfect for taking a break.
Which Museums and Galleries Are Perfect for Two?
Some of St. Augustine’s most interesting museums are right in the historic district, so you can visit them as part of the same walk. Potter’s Wax Museum, the first wax museum in the United States, has more than 160 life-size figures of presidents, explorers, and well-known cultural figures. The details in each one are easy to notice up close, from the way the clothing hangs to the expressions on their faces. You and your partner can pose with the various figures and enjoy the art form.
The Lightner Museum is just a short walk away. It’s inside the former Alcazar Hotel, built in 1888 by Henry Flagler, and has rooms filled with Victorian-era art, stained glass, antique furniture, and unusual items like mechanical instruments. You can even stand in what used to be the hotel’s indoor swimming pool, now used for events.
Villa Zorayda Museum brings a different style, with Moorish Revival architecture inspired by Spain’s Alhambra palace and a collection of artifacts from places like Egypt and the Middle East. Small local galleries are scattered through the district, often in historic storefronts, and display paintings, sculptures, and photography by artists from the area. Taking your time to explore these spaces is one of the most rewarding things to do in St. Augustine for couples, with something new to see and talk about at each stop.
Where Can Couples Find the Best Sunset and Scenic Spots in St. Augustine?
The end of the day is one of the most beautiful times to see St. Augustine. A sunset cruise on Matanzas Bay lets you watch the sky shift through shades of gold, pink, and deep orange while the city’s historic skyline comes into view. The water stays calm in the evening, and dolphins are often spotted playing near the boats. From the deck, you might also see the Bridge of Lions glowing in the twilight and the rooftops of centuries-old buildings silhouetted against the fading light. Climbing the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum leads to sweeping views of the coastline, the city, and the open water as the sun dips low. At golden hour, the coquina walls of the 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos reflect warm light, giving the fortress a dramatic presence against the sky.
Couples can also enjoy a relaxed walk along the Riverwalk or a beachside boardwalk, where the ocean breeze, the scent of salt air, and the soft light create a setting made for quiet moments together. Watching the sunset is one of the most rewarding things to do in St. Augustine for couples, with plenty of scenic spots to choose from.
What Beach Walks and Outdoor Adventures Are Perfect for Couples?
St. Augustine’s natural spaces offer both quiet escapes and active adventures. Anastasia State Park has miles of sandy shoreline bordered by dunes and native plants, along with trails where you might spot gopher tortoises or herons wading in the shallows. Couples can rent kayaks to explore the tidal salt marshes, paddle through calm waters surrounded by coastal grasses, or bring binoculars for bird-watching in the early morning light. Vilano Beach is known for its wide stretches of sand and laid-back feel, offering space to walk for miles or set up a picnic with nothing but the sound of waves in the background. Scenic boat rides give a fresh view of the city from the water, and many tours include the chance to see dolphins and seabirds up close. Eco-tours highlight the area’s coastal environment, with guides sharing stories about the plants and wildlife that thrive here.
Horseback riding along the beach pairs ocean views with the slow rhythm of the ride, turning an ordinary afternoon into an experience you’ll both talk about long after. Couples seeking more excitement can head to Fury Water Adventures St. Augustine for Jet Skiing, paddleboarding, or parasailing, each offering its own way to enjoy the waves. Exploring the outdoors together is one of the most enjoyable things to do in St. Augustine for couples, and the variety means the day can be as peaceful or as adventurous as you want it to be.
Where Can Couples Find the Best Date Night Dining and Drinks in St. Augustine?
In St. Augustine, an evening out often comes with a side of history. The Columbia Restaurant, open since 1983 in the heart of the historic district, serves Spanish-Cuban dishes in a dining room filled with hand-painted tiles, colorful murals, and warm wood accents. Signature plates like the “1905” salad, prepared tableside, and rich seafood paella have become local favorites. San Sebastian Winery offers guided tastings during the day and live music in the evening at The Cellar Upstairs, its rooftop restaurant and jazz bar. Here, couples can share small plates, try local wines, and watch the skyline take on the soft colors of sunset. The Ice Plant Bar creates an entirely different atmosphere inside its restored 1927 ice factory. Reclaimed wood, vintage fixtures, and warm lighting frame a menu of cocktails made with house-pressed juices, craft spirits, and seasonal garnishes. Blue crab beignets and fried green tomatoes are popular choices for sharing, and the relaxed pace encourages conversation. An evening spent exploring these restaurants offers a true taste of the city and adds another layer to experiencing the many things to do in St. Augustine for couples.
What Unique Couple Experiences Create Lasting Memories in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine’s date ideas often blend history, entertainment, and hands-on fun. The Ghosts & Gravestones® Tour takes couples through the city’s streets after dark aboard the Trolley of the Doomed. Guides share ghost stories tied to real events, bringing the city’s darker history to life with every turn. The glow of lantern light, the creak of the trolley, and the sound of wheels set the stage for encounters with tales of restless spirits and strange happenings. Guests step into places where eerie legends are said to linger and hear accounts that blend fact with the unexplained.
The Old Jail After Dark experience offers an even more immersive option. Participants use professional ghost hunting equipment to explore the cells and corridors while learning about the jail’s most infamous inmates. You may encounter noises or sounds that have you jumping into your partner’s arms.
Away from the supernatural, historic inns across the city provide spa packages that include massages, private lounges, and quiet gardens where couples can unwind. The city’s art walks and seasonal festivals add another layer to a romantic trip, offering opportunities to browse galleries, meet local artists, and enjoy live music in outdoor settings. Experiencing these activities together not only adds variety to a trip but also connects couples more deeply with the character and history of the nation’s oldest city, making them stand out among the many things to do in St. Augustine for couples.
Seasonally, Old Town Trolley Tours® has a romantic and magical tour during Nights of Lights in St. Augustine. It’s the perfect way to snuggle up aboard and enjoy the seasonal festivities together.
Where Should You Stay and How Can You Plan the Perfect Romantic Weekend in St. Augustine?
Choosing where to stay can shape the tone of your getaway. Historic inns in the heart of the city offer charm and easy access to landmarks, while waterfront hotels provide relaxing views of Matanzas Bay. Many couples prefer to book accommodations within walking distance of popular attractions, making it simple to explore without worrying about parking. Getting around is easy with Old Town Trolley Tours®, where friendly and knowledgeable guides bring St. Augustine’s history to life through live narration. The hop-on, hop-off format lets you move between sites at your own pace, giving you the freedom to balance sightseeing with downtime. When planning your trip, consider visiting during a festival or special event for added excitement. Spring and fall offer mild weather, while the winter holiday season transforms the city into a glowing wonderland. Packing comfortable shoes is a must, as many of the city’s most charming streets are best experienced on foot.
Why Does St. Augustine Make the Perfect Romantic Escape?
A trip to St. Augustine gives couples the chance to combine history, coastal beauty, and shared adventures. You can spend the day exploring centuries-old streets, visiting museums, and enjoying fresh seafood by the water. Evenings might be spent on a sunset cruise or listening to live music in a cozy courtyard. The city’s size makes it easy to explore without feeling rushed, and its mix of attractions keeps every day interesting. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, you’ll leave with stories, photos, and moments that feel personal to your trip.
FAQs
Yes, it is one of the best destinations in Florida for couples. The city’s Spanish Colonial architecture, scenic waterfront, and walkable streets create a naturally intimate setting. You will find plenty of things to do in St. Augustine for couples, including browsing local art galleries, visiting historic sites, and attending seasonal events such as Nights of Lights or the St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival. Many visitors enjoy how the city offers both lively experiences and quiet escapes, allowing couples to shape their trip to match their own style.
The Lightner Museum is a favorite for its peaceful atmosphere and collection of fine art, antiques, and stained glass, all housed in the former Alcazar Hotel. Potter’s Wax Museum offers a fun and quirky experience with lifelike historical and pop culture figures, while Villa Zorayda Museum provides a fascinating look at Moorish-inspired architecture and rare artifacts collected over more than a century. Visiting these museums is one of the most engaging things to do in St. Augustine for couples who appreciate history, design, and unique collections.
Absolutely. Couples can join a Ghosts & Gravestones® Tour for an evening of eerie storytelling aboard the Trolley of the Doomed, where costumed guides share chilling tales of the city’s haunted past. Other options include kayaking through peaceful salt marshes at sunrise, horseback riding along the shoreline of a quiet beach, or enjoying a chef’s tasting menu at a locally owned fine dining restaurant. Each of these experiences offers a different way to connect and create lasting memories together.
Vilano Beach provides a peaceful, sandy setting to watch the sun dip below the horizon, while the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline and city skyline. Couples can also take in the warm colors of dusk from a waterfront restaurant terrace or aboard a scenic evening cruise that glides past historic landmarks. Watching the sunset together is one of the most timeless and romantic things to do in St. Augustine, no matter the season.
