Outdoor Activities in St. Johns County, Florida: Your Complete Adventure Guide
By Inna Moskalyk
Mar 15, 2025
Moving to Northeast Florida? You’re in for a treat. St. Johns County isn’t just about gorgeous beaches and top-rated schools-it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise with year-round adventures waiting right outside your door.
From kayaking with dolphins at Salt Run to hiking through ancient maritime hammocks at Anastasia State Park, this guide covers everything you need to know to get outside and explore your new backyard.
Why St. Johns County is Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Northeast Florida offers something most places can’t: 365 days of outdoor potential. While your friends up north are shoveling snow, you’ll be paddleboarding past manatees or biking along the scenic A1A.
The region features remarkably diverse ecosystems all within a short drive:
- Pristine Atlantic beaches along Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine
- Tidal marshes and estuaries teeming with wildlife
- The mighty St. Johns River for fishing and paddling
- Maritime hammock forests with shaded hiking trails
- State parks with world-class amenities
Let’s explore the best outdoor activities St. Johns County has to offer.
Hiking & Nature Trails
Anastasia State Park: The Crown Jewel
If you only visit one park in St. Johns County, make it Anastasia State Park. This 1,600-acre paradise sits just across the Bridge of Lions from downtown St. Augustine and offers an incredible variety of trails.
Ancient Dunes Nature Trail
Don’t let the “dunes” name fool you-this isn’t a beach walk. The Ancient Dunes trail winds through a shaded maritime hammock with surprising elevation changes, staircases, and inclines that’ll actually give you a workout. The trail is moderately rugged, perfect for families wanting more than a flat boardwalk.
Marsh Trail
For something more relaxed, the Marsh Trail hugs the edge of Salt Run lagoon. You’ll pass through wetlands and mangrove fringes while watching herons, egrets, and sometimes dolphins cruising the shallows. Early morning is magical here.
Pro Tip: Friends of Anastasia State Park hosts guided hikes throughout the year, including the popular First Day Hike on January 1st. Check their schedule to join a ranger-led exploration.
More Great Hiking Spots
Faver-Dykes State Park
Just south of St. Augustine, Faver-Dykes feels like stepping back into “Old Florida.” The Pine Loop Trail offers easy walking through pine flatwoods with views of Pellicer Creek. It’s rarely crowded-a hidden gem for locals who want peace and quiet.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
This park delivers two experiences in one: formal gardens with fountains and winding paths, plus a beach with unique coquina rock formations. The Bella Vista Trail is a pleasant 1.8-mile loop through the gardens and coastal scrub.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
History meets nature at this free national monument. Take the park ferry (included!) to the historic fort on Rattlesnake Island, then explore the nature trails along the Matanzas River. Kids love the adventure of the boat ride.
GTM Research Reserve
Serious nature lovers should check out the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Research Reserve. This 60,000-acre estuary offers multiple trail options and some of the best wildlife viewing in the region. Bring binoculars-you might spot bald eagles, wood storks, or roseate spoonbills.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Salt Run: Perfect for Beginners
Salt Run at Anastasia State Park is hands-down the best spot for first-time paddlers in St. Johns County. This tidal lagoon sits protected behind the dunes, offering calm, flat water even when the ocean is rough.
What makes Salt Run special:
- Wildlife everywhere: Dolphins regularly swim through, manatees visit in cooler months, and sea turtles grace lucky paddlers with appearances
- Stunning views: Paddle toward the St. Augustine Lighthouse for that perfect photo opportunity
- Easy rentals: Anastasia Watersports operates right inside the park with single kayaks, double kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards
Guided Tour Options:
- Lighthouse Paddle Tour (great for photos and local history)
- Bioluminescence tours on summer nights (absolutely magical!)
- Sunrise and sunset paddles for quieter experiences
Pellicer Creek: Old Florida Vibes
For a true “Old Florida” paddling experience, head to Pellicer Creek at Faver-Dykes State Park. This Florida Designated Paddling Trail winds through pristine marshes where you might be the only boat for miles. The creek leads all the way to the Matanzas River if you’re feeling ambitious.
St. Johns River: The Wide Water
The St. Johns River offers a completely different paddling experience-wide, powerful, and full of life. Launch from Deep Creek Conservation Area for access to one of North America’s few north-flowing rivers. Check conditions before going; this river demands respect.
Beach Activities
St. Johns County beaches are consistently ranked among Florida’s best. Here are your options:
St. Augustine Beach
The most developed option with restaurants, shops, and beach chair rentals nearby. The pier is great for fishing or just watching the sunset. This is where you’ll find the most amenities and lifeguards.
Vilano Beach
This is the locals’ pick. Less crowded than St. Augustine Beach with a laid-back vibe, Vilano offers great shelling at low tide and fewer tourists year-round.
Mickler’s Landing (Ponte Vedra)
Tucked away in Ponte Vedra Beach, Mickler’s Landing feels like a hidden escape. Limited parking keeps crowds small, and the natural dunes create a pristine backdrop.
All three beaches offer surfing opportunities when conditions cooperate. The Vilano Pier area tends to have the most consistent breaks.
Fishing
Northeast Florida offers some of the best fishing on the Atlantic coast:
- Inshore: The St. Augustine Inlet produces redfish, flounder, and trout year-round
- Freshwater: The St. Johns River is famous for largemouth bass
- Pier fishing: Try the St. Augustine Beach Pier for a mix of species
- Offshore charters: Numerous operators run trips for everything from king mackerel to mahi-mahi
Biking
The cycling scene in St. Johns County continues to grow:
A1A Scenic Byway
This designated scenic highway offers ocean views and relatively light traffic (outside peak season). The stretch through Ponte Vedra is particularly beautiful.
Community Trail Systems
Master-planned communities like Nocatee, Julington Creek, and Durbin Crossing feature extensive paved trail networks connecting neighborhoods to schools, parks, and amenities. These trails are perfect for family rides.
Palatka-to-St. Augustine State Trail
For long-distance riders, this 19-mile paved rail-trail connects St. Augustine to Elkton along a former railway corridor. It’s mostly flat and shaded-ideal for training rides or family outings.
Seasonal Guide: When to Do What
Spring (March-May)
Prime time for outdoor activities. Temperatures hover in the 70s-80s, wildflowers bloom along trails, and crowds are manageable. Perfect hiking and paddling weather.
Summer (June-August)
Go early! Beat the heat by hitting trails or water before 10 AM, or plan sunset activities. Summer brings bioluminescence tours at night and warm water for swimming. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall (September-November)
Arguably the best hiking season-comfortable temps with minimal bugs. Crowds thin after Labor Day. Water temperatures remain swimmable through October.
Winter (December-February)
Wildlife viewing peaks as migratory birds arrive. Kayaking stays comfortable on calm days. Trails are quietest. Manatees gather in warmer waters-excellent viewing opportunities.
County Programs: Explore SJC
Here’s an insider tip: St. Johns County Parks & Recreation runs the “Explore SJC” program offering guided paddlesports experiences with equipment rentals included. It’s an affordable way to try kayaking or paddleboarding with expert instruction.
Family-Friendly Picks
Visiting with young kids? These spots work great:
- Anastasia State Park beach: Calm lagoon side is safer than ocean waves
- Salt Run kayaking: Put little ones in a double kayak for their first paddle
- Fort Matanzas: The ferry ride alone is an adventure for kids
- Community trails: Stroller-friendly paths through Nocatee and Shearwater
Gear & Rentals
You don’t need to own equipment to enjoy the outdoors here:
- Anastasia Watersports: Kayaks, SUPs, and guided tours inside Anastasia State Park
- St. Augustine Eco Tours: Pontoon and kayak tours around the Intracoastal
- Local outfitters: Several shops in St. Augustine rent bikes and beach gear
Plan Your Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re relocating to St. Johns County or already here, the outdoor opportunities are endless. The best part? Most of these activities are free or low-cost once you’ve got basic gear.
Thinking about making St. Johns County home? Communities like Nocatee, Julington Creek, and Durbin Crossing offer miles of trails right outside your door-plus easy access to all the adventures described above.
FAQ
What’s the best trail for beginners in St. Johns County?
The Ancient Dunes Trail at Anastasia State Park offers a perfect introduction-shaded, well-maintained, and about a mile long. For something easier, the Bella Vista Trail at Washington Oaks is nearly flat.
Are dogs allowed on trails and beaches?
Many conservation area trails allow leashed dogs. St. Augustine Beach permits dogs in certain areas during specific hours (typically before 9 AM and after 5 PM). Check specific park rules before visiting.
What outdoor activities are free?
Conservation areas like GTM Research Reserve have no entry fee. Beach access is free (parking may have fees). Many community trails are open to the public.
Ready to explore your new outdoor playground? Contact me-I’d love to help you find a home near your favorite trails, beaches, and waterways.
Inna Moskalyk is a local real estate expert serving St. Johns County, Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, and St. Augustine.