Ten Non-Touristy Things To Do in St. Augustine for Couples

Ten Non-Touristy Things To Do in St Augustine for Couples

Whether you’re a couple visiting the ancient city of St. Augustine, FL for the first time or planning a romantic date night as locals, this refined travel guide reveals the city’s charm, soul, and more authentic side—for couples seeking fun beyond the typical tourist path. .

If you’re only in St. Augustine for one day, we’ve also included a bespoke curated itinerary to help you experience the spirit of St.Augustine during your brief visit.

10 romantic non-touristy things to do in St Augustine FL

Seal Your Love with a Lock at Vilano Beach. Sharpie your names on a lock and affix it to the Vilano beach walkover near North Beach Park.
Cruise the Historic Streets in Vintage Style. Rent a make or slingshot from Seaside Adventures or a vintage scooter from Saint City Scooters and explore the city’s historic streets with a sense of old-world flair. Time your ride with First Friday Art Walk for a cultural infusion of galleries, wine, and live music.
Indulge in a Trio of Tranquility: Eastern Wellness Meets Luxury Spa
Begin with a traditional Chinese herbal foot and reflexology massage on Hypolita Street, then transition into a Himalayan salt cave for a detoxifying 60-minute escape at Salt Spa. Finish your rejuvenation journey with an aromatic massage at Poseidon Spa for the ultimate couple’s wellness experience.
Reserve a Whimsical Encounter at the Capybara Café. Spend a half hour in cozy bliss petting exotic and cuddly creatures, and meet Latte and Mocha the resident Capybaras at this hidden gem. If you are a cat lover, be sure to visit Witty Wiskers and Frisky Cat Cafes. Perfect for animal-loving couples – reservations highly recommended.
Sip, Savor, and Play at Spinster Abbott’s. Tucked away from the crowds, this Florida vibe place offers Prosecco, board games, comfortable couches, with a Hawaiin food truck call Hot Box, and attached bodega with artisanal finds and farm-fresh goods, with a great vintage shop called Snakebird Vintage where we find many treasures.
Treasure Hunt Along San Marco’s Curated Boutiques. Wander off the beaten path, hand-in-hand, through uptown along San Marco Street’s elegant collection of vintage, antique, and designer shops. Highlights include: Cool and Collected: Mid-century modern treasures. Coastal Traders: Globally-sourced imports with character. 360 Boutique: Sophisticated fashion with a European sensibility
Canoe the Inlets of Anastasia State Park. Paddle together through the shallow, sparkling waters of the Salt Run inlet—where most of the journey is waist-deep—while taking in a postcard-worthy view of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Cap it off with a sun-soaked hour on the beach.
Toast the Twilight on a Romantic Sunset Sail Board a luxury sailboat with St. Augustine Sailing for an exclusive sunset cruise. Opt for a package that includes champagne and artisanal charcuterie, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and playful dolphins at dusk.
Master the Art of Travel Photography and learn how to capture striking, professional-quality photos—using just your phone, with Patricia at St. Augustine Photo Tours. Join local photography expert Patricia for an intimate, hands-on tour designed especially for couples. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, history, and romance, with each frame telling the story of your journey together.
Share Sunset Views and Love Letters at Freedom Park. Experience a peaceful stroll along the paved path at Freedom Park, where wide-open marsh views and glowing sunsets set the stage for an intimate moment. Settle onto a bench with your partner and browse the whimsical love letter mailbox, filled with heartfelt notes from others who’ve passed through. Use the provided pen and paper to write your own love letter—a poetic keepsake of your time together in St. Augustine.
Bonus: Step Into a Hidden World of Magic at Casa Monica
On Saturday nights, the historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa becomes home to one of St. Augustine’s most exclusive secrets—Magic Hideaway, an intimate speakeasy-style performance by world-renowned magician Bill Abbott. Tucked inside a private room, this immersive show combines close-up magic, mind reading, and elegant showmanship for a truly unforgettable evening. Sophisticated, surprising, and utterly enchanting—you’ll leave believing in magic.

Here for One Day? How to Experience the Magic of St. Augustine in 24 Hours

Only have a day in St. Augustine? You can still soak in the city’s rich history and romantic charm with our personally curated itinerary.
For the ultimate experience, stay at the iconic Casa Monica Resort & Spa—a luxurious landmark perfectly situated in the heart of the historic district.

8:00 AM – Start your day with artisan coffee at Relampago—a hidden gem known for its relaxed vibe and quality brews. It is always a great cup.  Take a peaceful short walk to the Bridge of Lions Marina as the city awakens and so do the egrets, pelicans, dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles that may come by to greet you.\
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Roosevelt Room . Indulge in a refined breakfast featuring daily mimosas, fresh pressed juices, Hipster Toast – Toasted Cornbread, Avocado Spread, Tomato,
Goat Cheese, Chopped Bacon, Toasted Pecans, Arugula,
Poached Local Eggs, in an airy, elegant setting. We love to sit at the bar.
10:00 AM – Explore on Wheels & Lock in Your Love at Vilano Bridge . Rent a Moke, slingshot, or scooter and cruise through the cobblestone streets in style, or stop buy Ace Hardware to pick up a lock and Sharpie your names on it and affix it to the Vilano beach walkover near North Beach Park to leave your romantic mark. On the way back, stroll Vilano Beach and keep an eye out for shark teeth treasures.
11:30 AM –  Head to uptown along North San Marco Avenue and browse the street’s off the beaten path unique vintage and artisan shops. Prefer something hands-on? Book a photography lesson tour with Patricia and learn to capture St. Augustine’s architecture using only your phone.
1:00 PM – For casual bites and local brews, head to Osprey Tacos and enjoy a cold beer at Old Coast Ales next door. Prefer a cozy, sit-down vibe? Try Buena Onda for elevated brunch favorites and amazing coffees. Be sure to try the Frittata Sandwich and Rose Latte.
2:30 PM – Choose your path to bliss: A traditional Chinese reflexology massage, a detoxifying salt cave session at Salt Spa St. Augustine, a luxurious aromatherapy treatment at Poseidon Spa in the Casa Monica.
4:00 PM – Rest & Refresh Head back to the resort for a quick nap or refreshing dip in the pool. Recharge before your enchanting evening begins.
5:00 PM – Savor an elegant dinner at The Cordova Coastal Chophouse, where prime cuts, fine wine, and impeccable ambiance await.
6:00 PM – Step into Magic Hideaway, an intimate speakeasy-style magic show by world-renowned illusionist Bill Abbott. A sophisticated, mind-bending experience you’ll never forget.
8:00 PM –Enjoy a craft cocktail at Cordova Lounge, or take a romantic walk to Forgotten Tonic for a cozy, hidden-bar vibe. Other favorites on Charlotte Street include Drunken Horse and Senora Xerez—both perfect for a stylish nightcap.

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