Where to Stay in St. Augustine Florida
Find the Best Areas to Stay in St. Augustine with Hotels for Every Budget
St. Augustine, located on Florida’s northeast coast, is known for its historic charm, walkable downtown, and easy access to Atlantic beaches. Choosing the right area to stay can significantly shape your experience, whether you want to be steps from historic landmarks, directly on the beach, or in a quieter, more local setting.
We break down where to stay in St. Augustine, along with carefully selected hotels that offer strong value, high guest satisfaction, and convenient locations. Whether you want St. Augustine hotels on the beach, or to be in the center of the Historic District, St. Augustine hotels offer a historical atmosphere that are uniquely Florida.
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Where to Stay in St. Augustine
| Historic District | Best for first time visitors and walkability |
| St. Augustine Beach | Best for a beach stay with easy access to downtown |
| Vilano Beach | Best for a quieter, more local coastal feel |
| Crescent Beach | Best for a peaceful, less developed beach experience |
| Near Downtown (San Sebastian) | Best for value and space close to attractions |
Find St. Augustine Hotels
Best Areas & Hotels in St. Augustine
Historic District
Best Overall Location
The best areas to stay in St. Augustine depend on the type of trip you’re seeking. The Historic District is the most popular area to stay in St. Augustine, and centered around major attractions. St. George Street and Castillo de San Marcos are a just a few nearby, making it ideal for visitors who want to explore on foot. The historic district is charming, by the water and a great place to stay.
Top Hotels in the Historic District
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront
$$ | Best for: Walkability & views
This waterfront hotel offers one of the most convenient locations in the city. Guests can walk to shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks without needing a car. It combines reliable service with an upscale atmosphere, making it a strong overall choice.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
$$$ | Best for: History Lovers & Grandeur
Set in the center of Downtown, this four star property is full of charm, an art gallery and a roof top pool. Luxe suites are available that range from 1 to 4 floors and are individually decorated. Some offer antiques, Jacuzzis, balconies, and stained glass windows.
The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens
$$$ | Best for: Couples
A boutique, adults focused property made up of restored historic buildings. This hotel stands out for its design, quieter setting, and more personalized experience compared to larger chain hotels.
St. Augustine Beach Hotels
Best for Beach & Convenience
Many people visit St. Augustine not only for the history, but for the beach as well. Located a short drive from downtown, St. Augustine Beach offers a wide, sandy shoreline and a more relaxed atmosphere. While still being close to the city’s main attractions, this is considered one of the best areas to stay in St. Augustine.
Top Hotels in St. Augustine Beach
Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort
$$$ | Best for: Families
The Embassy Suites St Augustine is an oceanfront property with direct beach access. All rooms are double suites, with balconies and ocean views available. There is a large resort style pool with cabanas, a hot tub, fitness center, splash park for the kids, and a courtyard with fire pits.
Castillo Real St. Augustine Beach Resort, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
$$ | Best for: Reliable comfort
A modest property with a more boutique feel. It has Mediterranean inspired architecture and is just steps from the ocean. The rooms are spacious and clean. Rooms with a balcony have a great view and a ocean breeze.
Vilano Beach
Quieter Alternative Near Downtown
Vilano Beach is located just north of the Historic District, across the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers a quieter environment with convenient access to both the beach and downtown. St. Augustine hotels on the beach, especially Vilano, are sought after for a more relaxing vibe compared to historic district St. Augustine hotels.
Top Hotels in Vilano Beach
Ocean Sands Beach Boutique Inn
$ | Best for: Value
A smaller, highly rated property that provides a more private and relaxed setting. Its proximity to the beach and lower density of visitors make it a strong choice for a quieter stay.
The Saint Augustine Beach House
$$$ | Best for: Beach lovers
An oceanfront option in Vilano Beach. Located within a national park, the sandy shoreline provides stunning ocean views and coastal charm. The property offers a perfect beach location with ample amenities and stunning views.
Downtown (Near San Sebastion)
Best Value
Not all hotels in St. Augustine are on the beach. In areas just west of the Historic District, Downtown offers a great balance between price and proximity to the sites. This location is typically a short drive from the main tourist districts and often provide larger rooms or suite style accommodations. For St. Augustine hotels that are more contemporary and minimal, hotels near San Sebastian are a great option on where to stay in St. Augustine.
Top Hotel Near Downtown
AC Hotel St. Augustine Downtown
$$ | Best for: Modern minimalists
A brand new, modern waterfront hotel along the San Sebastian River. It offers a sleek, European inspired alternative to the traditional bed and breakfasts found nearby. Many rooms feature private balconies with sunset views.
Crescent Beach
Best for a Quiet Coastal Stay
Crescent Beach is located south of St. Augustine Beach and is known for its less developed shoreline and lower crowds. It is best suited for travelers seeking a quieter, more residential style environment. Many locals who staycation in St. Augustine chose this area to stay in.
Where to Stay in Crescent Beach
Accommodations in Crescent Beach are primarily vacation rentals rather than large hotels. This makes it a good option for longer stays or travelers who prefer more space and a home like setting.
How to Choose the Right Area to Stay in St. Augustine
- Stay in the Historic District if you want to walk to major attractions and experience the city’s historic core
- Stay in St. Augustine Beach if your priority is direct beach access with convenient proximity to downtown
- Stay in Vilano Beach if you want a quieter coastal setting that is still close to the city
- Stay in San Sebastian if you want wine and culture near the River
- Stay near downtown if you want better value and more space without being far from key sites
St. Augustine offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different travel styles. From historic inns in the city center to oceanfront stays and quieter hotels on the beach. If it’s your first visit to St. Augustine, staying in the Historic District provides the most convenient and immersive experience. For return visitors, or true sunseekers, the beach areas offer a more relaxed alternative. Selecting the right area to stay in depends on how you plan to spend your time, whether exploring historic landmarks, enjoying the beach, or balancing both!