Finding the Perfect Place to Live in Northeast Florida
Every step down the cobblestoned streets of St. Augustine, Florida is steeped in history and charm. Past the museums and art galleries, you’ll quickly discover the diverse neighborhoods that make the Oldest City in America a place everyone wants to call home.
From the colorful and eclectic Lincolnville to the laid-back and relaxing waterfront of Davis Shores and the breathtaking views of Vilano and St. Augustine Beach, there is a spot perfect for every lifestyle. Grab your bike or hop on your golf cart and let’s explore a few of the most delightful neighborhoods St. Augustine has to offer!
Lincolnville
Steps from downtown lies Lincolnville, a historic neighborhood that dates back to the late 19th century. The neighborhood was founded by freed slaves and served as a hub for African American culture and commerce during the segregation era. Many of the homes and buildings in Lincolnville were constructed by African American builders and craftsmen, making the neighborhood a testament to the resilience and creativity of the black community during a difficult time in American history. Today, Lincolnville is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that retains much of its historic charm and character. Many of the buildings and homes are designated historic landmarks, and the area remains an important cultural and social hub for the St. Augustine community.
You’ll love being surrounded by the Victorian-era homes in this up and coming neighborhood. What sets Lincolnville apart is it is perhaps the most walkable neighborhood in St. Augustine, if not all of northeast Florida. There are plenty of great restaurants, like the Blue Hen Café, with their unbelievable biscuits and gravy and signature watermelon lime mimosas, and Preserved Restaurant, known for its upscale atmosphere and cuisine. Locals enjoy watering holes like The Well at The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens, Dog Rose Brewing Company, and the Ice Plant Bar—housed in, what else, an ice plant built in 1927. History buffs will want to visit the Lightner Museum, originally built as the Alcazar Hotel by Henry Flagler. And if you’re looking to truly live the Florida lifestyle, make sure to rent a slip at the Oasis Boatyard and Marina where you’ll be out on the water within minutes.
Davis Shores
Davis Shores covers the waterfront neighborhood on Anastasia Island across the Intracoastal from downtown St. Augustine. The neighborhood was developed in the 1920s by D.P. Davis, who had a vision of creating a “Venice of America” in St. Augustine. He constructed a system of canals and bridges throughout the neighborhood, which gave many of the homes direct access to the water. During World War II, the neighborhood was used as a training ground for the Navy, and many of the homes were occupied by military personnel. In the years following, Davis Shores experienced a period of growth and development, with many new homes and businesses being constructed in the area. The Bridge of Lions, which connects Anastasia Island to the mainland, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area.
It would almost be quicker to tell you which restaurants you shouldn’t go to, because everything in Davis Shores is incredible. Our personal favorite for a slice of Florida life is the Conch House Hotel, Restaurant and Marina. Catch us hanging out here with friends every week catching live music at the tiki bar! Come hungry and make sure you have room for the Dynamite Salmon at Blackfly Restaurant, gourmet grilled cheeses at Sarbez!, and modern twists on classics tacos at Osprey Tacos. There’s plenty of other local gems on the main boulevard like Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge and Bar, Grower’s Alliance coffee shop, and Chop Shop, the best butcher in St. Augustine.
Oh, and don’t let us forget: Llama Restaurant, a locally owned and operated Peruvian restaurant that is consistently rated the best restaurant in St. Augustine. Call ahead and make a reservation, this is one meal you definitely don’t want to miss.
Vilano Beach
The area known as Vilano Beach is a coastal neighborhood located just north of St. Augustine, Florida. Timucuan Indians inhabited this beautiful peninsula for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. In the late 1800s, the area began to be developed as a tourist destination, with the construction of a hotel and a railway line to transport visitors to the area. In the early 1900s, the neighborhood became a popular spot for beachgoers, and many homes and businesses flourished. Despite a downtown due to the Florida Land Bust and World War II, Vilano Beach continued to grow and be known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. Today, the neighborhood is synonymous with sandy beaches, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere.
It is easy to get lost in nature in Vilano Beach. Kids of all ages will enjoy spotting dolphins from the fishing pier against breathtaking views of St. Augustine. Or, wander along the boardwalk through the wetlands and get a unique view of the local wildlife and mosaic art.
If you’re looking to tie up your boat for some dockside dining, you’ll find it in Vilano Beach. Cap’s On The Water has some of the best cocktails, seafood, and oysters – not to mention the best sunsets around. Get there early, they don’t take reservations and it is always busy. Kingfish Grill, Beaches at Vilano, and Aunt Kate’s all have water access from the intracoastal, and are also delicious options in the area. Now, if the ocean is more your speed, directly across from Aunt Kate’s is The Reef, the only oceanfront restaurant in St. Augustine. Come for the views, stay for the bottomless mimosas during brunch (or the other way around, no judgment here)!
St. Augustine Beach
While St. Augustine Beach has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived on these sunkissed shores, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the oceanside of Anastasia Island exploded into the popular tourist destination and thriving residential community it is today. In the early 1900s, the area was mostly undeveloped and was used primarily for farming and ranching. As the automobile became more popular, people began to discover the beauty of the beaches just a few minutes from downtown.
The area experienced its most significant period of growth during the 1950s with the construction of numerous homes, businesses, hotels and amenities, including the St. Augustine Pier, which was built in 1958.
Today, St. Augustine Beach is a vibrant mix of locals and vacationers drawn by the beautiful beaches and charming small-town atmosphere. You don’t have to be a local to know about or take advantage of Mayday Ice Cream, A1A Burrito Works Taco Shop or The Kookaburra Coffee, all located on scenic A1A Beach Boulevard. There’s always an excuse to be outside, whether it’s a sunset stroll down the beach, a pickup volleyball game near the pier or a round of mini golf.
Many local businesses have offices in St. Augustine Beach—like The Newcomer Group! If you’re ever in the neighborhood don’t hesitate to swing by and say “Hi!”
Welcome Home to St. Augustine
Whether you’ve just started thinking about life in St. Augustine, or if you’ve lived in the Ancient City your entire life, there is always something more to discover. Feel free to check out our up-to-date real estate listings or give us a call at (904) 599-5633.