As the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited city—fresh from celebrating its 400th anniversary marking when Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés first landed in 1565—St. Augustine, Fla., offers more than its historic streets and sandy beaches. While cobblestone lanes, museums and striking architecture draw many visitors, the city also provides a variety of modern activities and experiences to enjoy.
For those eager to try the waves, consider signing up for Surf Camp at the Surf Station for private or group lessons. Frequently rated the area’s top surf school, the Surf Station’s experienced instructors teach fundamentals and share insider tips to help beginners and returning surfers alike improve their skills. Summer camps are led by members of the Station’s competitive surfing team, many of whom have surfed around the globe. Lessons include boards, wetsuits when required, and instruction from CPR-certified professionals.
After a morning in the surf, visit San Sebastian Winery on the edge of the historic district for a complimentary guided tour of its 18,000-square-foot production facility. Housed in one of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler’s former East Coast Railway buildings from 1923, the winery is the state’s second largest and can store up to 40,000 gallons of wine. Daily tours include tastings of sparkling, dessert and premium Florida wines crafted from native Muscadine grapes and Florida hybrid varieties. Grapes used in production include native Noble, bronze Carlos and Welder Muscadines, as well as hybrids such as Stover, Suwannee and Blanc Du Bois.
When the tour ends, head upstairs to The Cellar Upstairs Wine, Jazz & Blues Bar on the winery’s rooftop. The bar offers an inviting mix of fine wines, light bites, live music and panoramic views of the city—an ideal spot to relax and take in St. Augustine’s atmosphere.