Photo credit: J Mosley Photography
It’s no secret that St. Augustine has become one of the most popular locations in Florida to host a wedding.
Locals and destination couples alike have fallen in love with St. Augustine for its romantic Old World charm, classic Southern hospitality, and the plentiful number of things to see and do before and after a wedding celebration.
With the help of FloridasHistoricCoast.com, we’re counting down The Top 10 Reasons to Get Married in St. Augustine!
10. Top-Notch Accommodations
Historic hotels, charming inns, seaside resorts, vacation homes—these are just a few of the lodging choices available in St. Augustine and the surrounding areas. And with more than 5,800 guest rooms, the area has plenty of options to suit the needs of every wedding guest.
Whether your guests are looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a coastal vacay, or a full-on family reunion, St. Augustine has room for everyone.
Photo via Prohibition Kitchen
9. Warm Welcome
Since 1821, the hospitable residents of Florida’s Historic Coast have offered a warm welcome to guests from all over the world. And for many locals, making guests feel at home is a family tradition.
Hospitality has been a part of life here for generations. When the city was first founded, hosts would pull out all the stops to make their guests feel welcome. They offered the best accommodations, the finest entertainment, and the rarest foods…the rarest of which became a longtime symbol of Southern hospitality: the pineapple.
Nowadays, visitors to St. Augustine can see the pineapple motif echoed by dozens of local vendors as a way to welcome them to the Oldest City.
8. Easy Airport Access
Florida’s Historic Coast is served by Jacksonville International Airport (JIA), which is a 50-minute drive from downtown St. Augustine. Nearby, the Northeast Florida Regional Airport in St. Augustine is a full-service aviation facility that can accommodate private aircraft of all sizes.
To the south, Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) provides service to more than 150 destinations worldwide.
Many guests to St Augustine like to make the most of their trip by also taking advantage of the Orlando area attractions by flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).
7. Legendary Outdoor Recreation
As one of the world’s great golf destinations, Florida’s Historic Coast has plenty to offer in the way of recreation.
TPC Sawgrass (home to THE PLAYERS Championship), the World Golf Hall of Fame, and two championship courses at World Golf Village are just a few of the golf courses available for pre- or post-wedding outings.
Those seeking other outdoor adventures can choose between beaches with inspiring sunrises and sunsets, secluded islands, guided kayak tours, sailing expeditions, and even horseback riding at the edge of the sea.
Photo by Stout Photography
6. Fabulous Weather
In other states, “wedding season” might have a very narrow window, but in Northeast Florida, it’s year-round!
Average daily temperatures range from a low of 57° F in January to a high of 86° F in August. In fact, the cooling ocean breeze means that St. Augustine’s summers are among the coolest you can find in the Sunshine State.
And speaking of sunshine, St. Augustine sees an average of 223 sunny days every year. Nothing says “romance” quite like sunshine and gentle breezes.
5. Seaside Splendor
With 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches, Florida’s Historic Coast is an ideal location to have some fun in the sun.
Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, and Crescent Beach offer seaside grace and elegance that is rated among the best in the world. Anastasia State Park has tons to do—such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and camping—plus convenient beach access.
With tons of exceptional seaside resorts, restaurants, and parks only miles away from downtown, your guests have plenty of opportunities to take in that Vitamin D.
Photo credit: Bri Cebene Photography
4. Culinary Delights
St. Augustine is a foodie’s paradise! The best of Spain and the Mediterranean combine with traditional Southern dishes to create a smorgasbord of tantalizing dishes.
The freshest seafood, locally grown produce and culinary traditions refined over the centuries are featured at our many restaurants, ranging from fine-dining venues, sidewalk bistros, rustic waterfront grills, and seaside eateries.
Here at The Treasury on the Plaza, we’ve curated a list of the top local caterers that can help you create the perfect menu for your big day.
Photo by Stout Photography
3. Historic Backdrops
Founded in 1565, the Nation’s Oldest City is steeped in history and dripping with authentic Old World charm. From soaring hotels to historic monuments, there’s a picturesque view at every turn.
Where else can you have your wedding photos set against the backdrop of St. Augustine’s famous fort, the historic Castillo de San Marcos, or the majestic Bridge of Lions?
St. Augustine Wedding
2. Outstanding Wedding Vendors
St. Augustine has become one of the most popular destination wedding locations in America. As a result, the area’s wedding and event industry has attracted some of the best wedding professionals to fill the needs of engaged couples.
Here, you’ll find all of the services you need for a successful event, including wedding planners, florists, entertainment, dining, and numerous other businesses.
Check out our vendor list for some of our favorite wedding professionals that can assist you with creating the perfect celebration at The Treasury on the Plaza, or our sister property, The Lightner Museum.
Photo by Leah Langley Photography
Photo credit: Asaad Images
1. Unique Wedding Venues
The key to a truly memorable event comes down to three things: location, location, location. And St. Augustine is full of unique venues.
The European influence and intricate detailing of St. Augustine’s historic buildings evoke a sense of timelessness that few cities can match.
Celebrate Your Everlasting Love in the Oldest City
For unique weddings that capture the spirit of nostalgia and romance, there’s no better place than St. Augustine!
With a history that’s rooted in classic Southern hospitality and draped in Old World charm, the Nation’s Oldest City has everything you could want in a destination wedding location.
If you are looking for the perfect venue in the midst of all this history and culture, combined with all of the modern sophistication and conveniences you would want to host an incredible celebration, look no further than The Treasury on the Plaza or Lightner Museum! Contact our team today to learn more about how we can assist you with your upcoming wedding.
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A version of this article was first published on Florida’s Historic Coast blog.
