St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., is packed with charm and history, with a European feel. It’s no wonder there are so many Instagrammable places in St. Augustine!
Whether you love historic sites, cobblestone streets, or scenic waterfront views, St. Augustine has so many stunning photo spots for every photographer.
From ivy-covered buildings to picturesque bridges, you’ll find plenty of places to capture the city’s unique beauty.
If you’re visiting for the first time or looking for fresh photo locations, this guide covers the most Instagrammable spots in St. Augustine. I’ve included historical details, entrance fees, and tips to help you make the most of your visit!
Let’s dive into the best places to take photos in St. Augustine!
1. Our Lady de La Leche
If you’re looking for a peaceful, photogenic spot in St. Augustine, check out the ivy-covered chapel at Mission Nombre de Dios, one of the oldest Catholic missions in the U.S.! And it’s home to the oldest shrine in the US: Our Lady de La Leche.
The greenery gives it a beautiful, old-world feel. For the best lighting, visit in the morning or late afternoon. (I came in the morning for these shots!)
While you’re there, explore the mission grounds—you’ll find a giant cross, lovely gardens, and plenty of quiet spots to enjoy!
Entry is free though donations are welcome.
2. Magnolia Ave
This is one of my favorite Instagrammable places in St. Augustine! Magnolia Avenue is a stunning street lined with towering century-old live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Often called one of the most beautiful streets in America, it’s right by the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. You can park on one of the side streets for free and capture the tree canopy arching over the road. I actually parked right at the end of Magnolia Avenue and positioned my camera in front so that my car wasn’t visible.
For the best photos, aim for the morning when traffic is light. I also recommend going before the trolley tours begin (usually around 9am) or you’ll have to wait for them every so often when they pass by. (I’m speaking from my own experience – one trolley operator even made his whole car wave at me haha!)
3. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
As the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., Castillo de San Marcos offers a mix of history and stunning waterfront views. The coquina stone walls and cannons make for unique photo backdrops, and the top provides scenic views of Matanzas Bay and the Bridge of Lions.
It’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in St. Augustine as one of the city’s most iconic spots! Sunset is an ideal time to visit when the golden light enhances the fort’s textures!
While it’s worth it to go into the fort, you don’t need a ticket to access the outer perimeter. So in the photos above, you can access the first photo spot without a ticket, while you’ll need a ticket to capture the second shot.
Entry Cost: $15 for adults, free for kids under 16
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., last admission at 5:00 p.m.
4. St. George Street
This pedestrian-only street is one of the liveliest spots in St. Augustine. With historic buildings, charming shops, and street musicians, there’s no shortage of things to capture. Some of the best photo spots include the wooden balconies, old brick walls, and hidden courtyards. The street gets crowded, so visiting in the morning or evening can help you avoid crowds in your shots.
I recommend taking a photo with the Panama Hat Co behind you! It has one of the most charming exteriors on St. George Street, with its flower-covered balcony and many flags. Did you know that the flags each represent different time periods/ruling nations in St. Augustine history?
(Another fun fact: Despite the name, Panama hats actually originated in Ecuador and became famous during the construction of the Panama Canal!)
5. Scenic A1A
The stretch of A1A between St. Augustine and Jacksonville is a photographer’s dream. Beautiful ocean views with crashing waves and windswept dunes offer great photo opportunities. While sunrise and sunset make the best times for photos here, daytime photos are still definitely worth it!
You’ll find the cute roped posts in the first photos right outside of The Reef Restaurant. Grab a meal here then get some shots – I love a good focal point with leading lines in a photo!
I got the second photo at North Beach Guana River Preserve; you can park at “GTM Beach Access” on Google Maps at 101-131 Old Ponte Vedra Dr and walk across A1A to access the boardwalk. At the end of the boardwalk, keep an eye out for sea turtles nesting in the dunes!
6. The St. George Inn
Dating back to the 18th century, the St. George Inn adds a touch of history to this serene spot. This hidden gem is tucked away near the main street and offers a peaceful, European-inspired setting. The brick pathways, wrought-iron tables, and lush greenery create a charming atmosphere inside its courtyard.
7. Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Did you know that this cathedral is home to the oldest Catholic parish in the United States? And the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is an Instagram-worthy spot due to its stunning Spanish Colonial architecture. While the exterior is beautiful with its detailed carvings and bell tower, don’t forget to go inside to see its soaring ceilings and ornate altar.
It’s free to enter, though donations are welcome! (Cameras are allowed inside without flash; tripods are not allowed inside.)
8. Memorial Presbyterian Church
Built by Henry Flagler in memory of his daughter, this church is another one of the most beautiful and Instagrammable photo spots in St. Augustine. The Venetian-style dome and intricate details make it stand out. It’s open to visitors, and the inside is just as stunning with stained-glass windows and grand architecture. While many people only capture the front façade from across the street, here’s a tip: don’t miss the gardens in/around it!
You can also take a self-guided tour of the interior. They had closed the tour when I went, but I’ve heard that it gives you a chance to really soak in the beautiful interiors at your own pace.
9. Bridge of Lions
Connecting downtown St. Augustine to Anastasia Island, the Bridge of Lions is a stunning spot for waterfront views. The lion statues at the entrance add a regal touch, while the bridge itself offers great views of the Matanzas River. Sunset is the best time for photos when the sky reflects on the water – I had the most incredible sunset this day! If you have time, walk across for different angles.
10. Aviles Street
Aviles Street in St. Augustine is a total gem for history lovers and photographers alike. Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafes make it the perfect spot for a quick stroll and some Insta-worthy snaps.
Did you know that besides being one of the most Instagrammable places in St. Augustine, it’s also the oldest street in the U.S.? It’s named after Juan de Avilés, a key figure in Florida’s early history.
I had no idea of its history when Aviles Street first caught my eye – it was fun learning that I’d been walking on cobblestones that have seen centuries of history!
11. Charlotte Street
The intersection at Charlotte Street and King Street is another beautiful St. Augustine photo location. The pastel-colored buildings, colonial architecture, and old-fashioned street lamps create a postcard-worthy scene.
The spot where Charlotte Street meets King Street is not just visually appealing—it’s steeped in history too! King Street, once a major commercial hub in the 16th century, was where Spanish merchants would sell their goods. Today, it still holds onto that European charm!
12. St. Augustine Lighthouse
Standing 165 feet tall, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is a must-see for anyone looking for that perfect Instagram shot with incredible views! Its black-and-white striped exterior is iconic, and the view from the top is even better—climb the 219 steps for a stunning aerial perspective of St. Augustine and the coastline. (I did it very pregnant, so trust me, it’s doable! Your legs might be burning when you reach the top though… mine sure were!)
Also, did you know that this lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1874 and is said to be haunted? It’s perfect for some spooky vibes if you’re into that!
Entry Cost: $14.95 for adults, $12.95 for kids and seniors
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
13. Fishing Pier St. Augustine
If you want another view of the lighthouse or a pretty pier to watch the sunset, this spot is for you! It’s labeled on Google Maps as Fishing Pier St. Augustine.
I actually found it by accident as I was heading to my hotel; as I was driving, I noticed that the sunset was getting prettier and prettier! I didn’t know where to go for photos, but saw the lighthouse. So I drove in that direction, hoping to find a nearby pier! Et voila!
You’ll want to bring a zoom lens with you if you want to capture a lighthouse shot similar to mine above; I used my 24-120mm lens.
14. Flagler College
Flagler College is a must-see in St. Augustine for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture and rich history. Once the Ponce de León Hotel, it’s filled with ornate details, including a breathtaking courtyard and beautiful ceilings that make it perfect for your next Instagram shot.
Fun fact: It was one of the first buildings in the U.S. to have electricity! If you love history and beautiful design, this spot is a must.
Entry Cost: $17 for a guided tour, but free to explore the grounds.
Hours: Tours run from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM but the grounds are open beyond those hours.
15. Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum, in the former Alcazar Hotel, blends rich history with stunning architecture. From its beautiful courtyard fountain to the iconic arched walkways, it’s a perfect spot for photos—especially in the early morning light.
Inside, you’ll find impressive collections of 19th-century art and antiques. It’s a must-visit for both history lovers and anyone looking to snap some Instagram-worthy pics! Don’t miss the beautiful café view from the third floor!
Entry Cost: $19 for adults, $16 for seniors, students, and military members, $12 for St. Johns County residents and youth aged 12-17, and free for children 11 and under.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
16. St. Augustine Beach Pier
For a dreamy coastal shot, the St. Augustine Beach Pier is a must! The iconic wooden pier stretches far out into the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views and unique perspectives, especially at sunrise or sunset. Capture the beauty of crashing waves, fishermen in action, or panoramic beach scenes.
The pier originally opened in 1939 and has been rebuilt several times due to hurricanes—once in 1964, again in 1984, and most recently in 2022. (It’s also a great spot to spot dolphins and sea turtles in the early morning!)
If you’re able to make it here for sunrise, you’ll get the best sunrise views in St. Augustine! Fortunately, since I was staying steps away at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach, I basically rolled out of bed, threw a dress on, and captured the sunrise. It was spectacular! Don’t miss out on capturing the sun rays through the pier beams!
Entry Cost: $2 for pier access (but taking photos under the pier is free!)
17. Charming Coffee Shops and Bakeries
St. Augustine has no shortage of cozy coffee shops and bakeries with charming décor and delicious treats.
One of the cutest, in my opinion, is Coffee House Realty Café. Located in a historic building, it offers both aesthetic interior shots and beautifully presented coffee drinks and pastries. The blend of vintage charm and modern vibes makes it the perfect spot for coffee lovers!
Bonus: Nights of Lights (Winter Only)
If you’re visiting from late November to January, the historic district becomes a glowing wonderland for Nights of Lights. Over three million white lights decorate the buildings, trees, and streets, making it one of the most stunning holiday displays in the country!
The Plaza de la Constitución and the Lightner Museum courtyard are great places for photos. And you won’t want to miss out on the many hotels that go all out for Nights of Lights. Trolley tours offer different views of the lights and National Geographic has named it one of the best holiday light displays in the world!
Instagrammable Places in St. Augustine: Conclusion
These Instagrammable spots capture the best of St. Augustine’s historic charm, coastal beauty, and hidden gems.
Whether you’re exploring centuries-old streets, admiring Spanish architecture, or catching a sunrise at the beach, there’s no shortage of photo-worthy moments.
Have you been to any of these places? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments!
And if you’re exploring more of Florida, here are a few more articles you might enjoy:
- Things to Do at Rosemary Beach, FL
- The Most Instagrammable Places in Miami
- Key West’s Most Photo Worthy Spots
Happy exploring!
Jasmine
