Nights of Lights in St. Augustine can be one of the most romantic or nightmarish experiences this 2025 holiday season. Either way, it will be memorable. We want to make sure it is one of your most romantic and pleasantly memorable adventures this holiday, so follow our personal guide and top local tips for a truly magical Nights of Lights experience.
The flow of your visit can make or break your experience and I am not exaggerating when I say arrive at the very least two hours before sunset or your event. Being late is very stressful and will impact how you experience the rest of your visit in St. Augustine. Being early provides peace of mind and the opportunity to come upon something wonderfully unexpected. Parking downtown fills quickly during Nights of Lights, but coming early lets you find a parking spot, arrive to your event or reservation on time, and to really enjoy the incredible display of lights throughout downtown St. Augustine.
Where to Park:
The Historic Downtown Parking Garage near the Visitor Center also convenient.
For a quieter start, park along San Marco Avenue or in Lincolnville, then stroll hand in hand toward the historic district.
Public parking behind Lightner Museum is also a great choice.
Locals know there are limited public restroom units in downtown and knowing where they are located is one of the most useful tips we can share. Be aware that during Nights of Lights most restroom wait times are typically between 15-30 minutes, so give yourself plenty of ahead time to visit the facilities.
Restroom Facilities:
10 Castillo Drive – At the Visitor Information Center
4 St. George Street – Next to Bin 39 Wine Bar
42 1/2 St. George Street – Next to The Spanish Bakery and Café
81 St. George Street – Behind The Florida Cracker Cafe
55 Hypolita Street – In the southeast corner next to Bear Mountain Outfitters
As a local, St. George Street is one of our favorite walks along the cobble stone streets anytime of year, and during Nights of Lights it is even more spectacular. Visit boutique shops while listening to live music, and be sure to stop in at the Christmas Market, tucked inside the heart of St. George St. Save the best view for last and walk along the bayfront for an incredible and quieter display of the lights as you listen to the ocean waves against the coquina walls.
Local Tip: Slip down Aviles Street, the oldest street in the country. Its quiet charm, art galleries, and hanging lanterns make it one of the most romantic corners of St. Augustine.
Being directly on the water is a whole other experience for seeing the Nights of Lights and is very romantic. Go all out and charter a private sail or book a Nights of Lights cruise — champagne in hand.
We personally love St. Augustine Sailing and Sabrage for an intimate experience to see the pink and purple sunset before the lights come alive.
Whenever we have guests visiting we always rent a moke and I have to say, riding throughout downtown and back streets during nights of lights is invigorating and exciting. Not only does the town put on an amazing display of lights, but local residents go all out and it is a very romantic and special experience seeing these hidden lit up gems.
Pro tip: Bring a blanket and cuddle up.
We have been on the Trolley Tour 3 times for a reason. We get to see all of downtown – main streets and back streets, and the tour is filled with loads of interesting history and stories. It is a great way to cuddle up and relax. During Nights of Lights they play holiday music and you get super fun glasses that make every light magical.
Big Tip: Do this tour on a weeknight for best flow of humans and vehicle traffic.
At Magic Hideaway, we’ve created a truly magical intimate experience in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, hidden inside the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. We have been awarded Trip Advisor’s unique Traveler’s Choice Award and are St. Augustine’s #1 of 193 Things To Do.
Every Saturday night, the lights outside fade — and the magic between you shines brighter as world renown performer Bill Abbott blows your mind with close-up sleight of hand magic and a hilarious improvisational performance. Complete your romantic Nights of Lights evening with a memorable dinner at Casa Monica’s in house restaurant Cordova Chophouse.
Planning ahead ensures a romantic Nights of Lights St. Augustine experience this 2025 Holiday Season. We hope to see you soon.
We’re Bill and Rebecca Abbott, and we’re excited to share our personal favorite St. Augustine discoveries – from unforgettable dining and entertainment to the hidden gems that make this city magical.
