St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide

If you’re looking for a thrilling way to explore the waters near St. Augustine, Florida, a guided airboat tour on the St. Johns River is a perfect choice. This non-tidal freshwater creek offers scenic views of the Florida wetlands and a chance to see some of the local wildlife, such as alligators, turtles, snakes, and manatees, up close.

Choosing Your Tour

There are a number of tour companies that offer airboat tours of the St. Johns River, but one particularly popular option is the St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide. This tour, which can be booked online at GetYourGuide.com, lasts for approximately an hour and a half and includes a knowledgeable guide, headsets so that you can hear the guide clearly, and of course, the exhilarating airboat ride itself.

Preparing for Your Tour

Before you set out on your airboat ride, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. You’ll be zipping up and down the St. Johns River, so depending on when you take your tour, you may need to bring a light jacket, hat, or sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera or phone along to capture some of the stunning scenery and wildlife you’ll see along the way. Finally, be sure to arrive at your tour’s designated meeting point in plenty of time to check in with your guide and get set up with your headsets.

On the Tour

Once you’re all set up, it’s time to climb aboard your airboat and feel the thrill of skimming across the water. As you zoom through shallow waterways and take in the natural beauty of the Florida Wetlands, your guide will share fascinating facts about the St. Johns River and the surrounding area. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, snakes, and a range of birds, which are all frequently spotted along the route. And don’t worry about being able to keep up with your guide’s commentary – the headsets ensure that you’ll be able to hear every word, no matter how fast the airboat is traveling.

What’s Included in the Tour

When you book the St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide, you’ll receive everything you need for an unforgettable experience. In addition to the airboat ride itself, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share information about the area’s history, geography, and wildlife. You’ll also receive headsets to ensure that you can hear the guide’s commentary clearly, no matter how loudly the airboat’s motor is running.

Tips for a Great Experience

To make the most of your airboat tour, keep these tips in mind:

– Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a camera or phone along to capture the stunning views and wildlife you’ll encounter.
– Arrive at the designated meeting point in plenty of time to check in with your guide and get set up with your headsets.
– Don’t be afraid to ask your guide questions about the area or the wildlife you see along the way – they’re there to help you enjoy your experience to the fullest!
– Finally, sit back, relax, and enjoy the thrill of skimming across the water in an airboat. It’s a unique and unforgettable way to explore the St. Johns River and the wilds of Florida.

Conclusion

An airboat tour of the St. Johns River is an experience you won’t soon forget. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide and the thrill of skimming across the water, you’ll have a unique and exciting perspective on the region’s history, geography, and wildlife. To book your St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide, simply visit GetYourGuide.com and secure your spot today!

An Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine: Discovering the Hidden Gems

St. Augustine is a charming coastal town in Florida, known for its Spanish colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and historical significance. While visiting the popular tourist spots is a must, the city’s hidden gems offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Here is our insider’s guide to St. Augustine’s hidden treasures.

Local Attractions: The Hidden Gems

Stroll down the narrow cobblestone streets, and you might stumble upon the city’s hidden gems. The Lightner Museum is a must-visit spot that feels like a time capsule from the Gilded Age. Its elegant ballroom, sweeping staircases, and extensive art collection will leave you in awe. The nearby Villa Zorayda Museum is another under-the-radar destination, featuring a stunning collection of Moorish architecture, art, and artifacts.

If you’re up for an adventure, hike to the Matanzas Inlet, where you can snorkel in the crystal clear waters and spot marine life such as dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.

Dining Spots: Where to Savor the Local Cuisine

St. Augustine is famous for its seafood, with fresh catches coming from the surrounding Atlantic, Matanzas, and Tolomato rivers. While visiting the popular restaurants is a must, there are several hidden gems that offer authentic local flavors. The Blue Hen Cafe is a cozy brunch spot that serves farm-to-table dishes with a Southern twist. The Floridian is another local favorite, offering a contemporary take on traditional Southern cooking. And when you’re in the mood for authentic Cuban cuisine, head to the Habana Restaurant, where you can indulge in some of the best Cuban sandwiches, coffee, and pastries.

Cultural Experiences: The Traditions and Customs

St. Augustine is known for its annual festivals and celebrations. Every year, the city hosts the Celtic Festival, the Greek Festival, and the Cathedral Festival, where visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional music, and mouthwatering food.

The city is also home to the St. Augustine Art Association, an organization that has been promoting local artists and art education for over 100 years. The association showcases a diverse range of styles, from abstract paintings to traditional landscapes.

Local History: Captivating Stories from the Past

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. The Castillo de San Marcos, a towering fortress built by the Spanish to protect the city from invaders, is a must-visit for history buffs. The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, built-in 1716, stands as a testament to the city’s long-standing commitment to education.

And if you want to learn about the city’s unique African-American heritage, visit the Fort Mose Historic State Park, the site of the first legally sanctioned free African-American community in the United States.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to explore the city from a different perspective, take a hot air balloon ride and admire the stunning coastline and the city’s landmarks from above. Or rent a kayak and paddle through the winding Matanzas River, where you can observe the local wildlife up close.

For an offbeat adventure, book a ghost tour to explore the city’s haunted past and hear spine-chilling stories about its historical buildings and landmarks.

Conclusion:

St. Augustine’s hidden gems offer a unique and unforgettable experience to visitors. From the Lightner Museum to the hot air balloon rides, the city’s off-the-beaten-path attractions will leave you with lasting memories. St. Augustine’s rich cultural and historical heritage offer a glimpse into the past while showcasing the city’s vibrant present. Take a stroll down the narrow streets, indulge in the local cuisine, and discover the hidden treasures of St. Augustine.