Guest Advantage by Castaway Publishing, Inc.

F LO R I DA’ S H I S TO R I C F I R S T C OA S T SPRING/SUMMER 2015

MAKE THE MOST OF

YOUR VISIT!

Your In-Room Guide to the Best: Local Attractions • Restaurants & Dining • Shopping Vacation Rentals • Real Estate • Much More! GUESTAD.COM

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

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CONTENTS FIRST COAST

Welcome to Florida’s First Coast! We hope Guest Adavantage magazine helps you make the most of your stay and you enjoy the area we call home as much as we do.

2015 FEATURES 10 REGIONAL MAPS Know before you go

13 FLORIDA’S HISTORIC FIRST COAST Everything you need to know

18 SPORTS & RECREATION

Join the fun & witness the action live in person

20 HISTORICAL TIMELINE 450 years of history

25 RIVERWALK

See why Jacksonville is the River City

28 THE BEACHES AWAIT Fun in the Sun

43 THE OLDEST CITY

St. Augustine, rich in history...... and FUN

VISIT WWW.GUESTAD.COM

F lo r i d a’ s H i s t o r i c F i r s t c oa s t 2 0 1 5

Make the Most of

your visit!

Your In-Room Guide to the Best: Local Attractions • Restaurants & Dining • Shopping Vacation Rentals • Real Estate • Much More! GUESTAD.COM

On The Cover: Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine 4

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher. All material is compiled from sources believed to be reliable, published without responsibility for errors or omissions. Castaway Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photos.

Sails & Times Daily

Day Sails • Family Sails • Romantic Evening Sails

www.schoonerfreedom.com • 904.810.1010

76’ TALL SHIP

Schooner Freedom

Located at the St Augustine City Marina Next To the Bridge Of Lions!

Helpful Information for Tourists & Visitors

LOCAL INFORMATION (continued on page 10) Long Distance Operator/ International Directory Long Distance.................... “00” Directory Long Distance....... 1+(area code)+555+1212 Within Local Area Code...................................................411 EMERGENCY: Police/Fire/Medical...................... 911

AIRLINE INFORMATION Jacksonville International Airport............904-741-4902 St. Augustine/ St. Johns County Airport............................904-824-1995 AirTran................................................................800-247-8726 American Airlines...........................................800-433-7300 Continental Airlines.......................................800-231-0856 Delta Airlines....................................................800-221-1212 Frontier Airlines..............................................800-432-1359 JetBlue Airlines...............................................800-538-2583 Northwest Airlines.........................................800-225-2525 SouthWest Airlines........................................800-435-9792 United Airlines.................................................800-241-6522 US Airways........................................................800-428-4322 Craig Air Center..............................................800-818-5351

GRATUITIES & TIPPING As a general rule in the United States, a gratutiy is not included on your bill. To reward good service you definately should tip. Here are some guidelines: Restaurants & Lounges:..15 to 20% of check, before tax. Maid Service:.......................$1.00 per night for each guest. Taxi Drivers:.........................10 to 15% of total fair on meter. Baggage Handling:...........50¢ to 75¢ per bag. If doorman & bellman both carry bags, both should be tipped. Valet Parking:......................$1.00 per car minimum. Guest Advantage, published semi-annually, makes every effort to provide up-to-date telephone information for your convenience. 6

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AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Amelia Island TDC....................................................904-277-0717 Beaches Visitor Center.............................................904-249-3868 Clay County Chamber of Commerce.......................904-264-2651 Jacksonville & The Beaches CVB.............................904-798-9148 St. Johns County CVB...............................................904-829-1711 St. Augustine & St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce...........................................904-829-5681

GROUND TRANSPORTATION Jacksonville Amtrak......................................................................800-872-7245 Bob’s Limousine & Airport Service.........................800-849-4262 Carey Jacksonville....................................................904-645-5466 Checker Cab..............................................................904-345-3333 Greyhound/Trailways..............................................800-231-2222 Jacksonville Transportation Group.........................904-355-8294 Part Royale Limousine.............................................904-477-7241 Whitehouse Limousine...........................................904-827-1003

GROUND TRANSPORTATION St. Augustine Abraxi Taxi................................................................904-599-6666 Airport Shuttle of St. Augustine.............................904-825-0004 Checker Cab..............................................................904-345-3333 Eco-Ride Taxi............................................................904-827-7206 Greyhound/Trailways..............................................800-231-2222 Tropical Taxi..............................................................904-392-0294

USEFUL LOCAL WEBSITES staugustine.com oldcitylife.com floridashistoriccoast.com staugustine-450.com jacksonville.com visitjacksonville.com fbfl.us

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FLORIDA’S

450 YEARS OLD & COUNTING! Photo by Addison Fitzgerald 12

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HISTORIC FIRST COAST F

lorida’s First Coast is located in the

northeast corner of Florida, and is home to over one million people, with Jacksonville “Florida’s River City By-The-Sea” at its hub, and the beaches just minutes away. The modern high-rises of downtown Jacksonville show little evidence that this community was settled before the Pilgrims landed nearly 450 years ago. This modern community is proud of its past as it looks to the future. The Riverwalk’s Northbank expansion provides a mooring area for the cruise ships Jacksonville hopes will make the Riverwalk their home port in the near future. Jacksonville Naval Air Station, home of the original Blue Angels, has been a strong contributor to the local economy for nearly seventy years, and the Mayport Naval Station is fast becoming one of the busiest military ports in the country. The climate offers year-round sports and recreation. Mild winters with cool spring and fall temperatures enhance warm summers filled with sunshine. The climate is ideal for all indoor and outdoor activities. Spend the day exploring 12,000 years of Jacksonville history at the Museum of Science and History, one of the city’s most popular attractions. Take in a Broadway-style show. The FCCJ Artist Series brings a host of headline productions, or perhaps spend an evening at the symphony. The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra season begins each autumn and continues until spring.

Modern metropolis of Jacksonville, a stark contrast to the old history of St. Augustine

Jacksonville & Jacksonville Beach The Jacksonville Zoological Gardens, home to more than 800 birds, reptiles and mammals are the zoo’s attractions that range from a walk-through aviary to the new Great Apes enclosure. And don’t forget the petting zoo. Visit Fort Caroline National Memorial, a replica fort that commemorates the French Huguenot colony that was built in 1564 and settled by explorer Rene de Laudonierre. The riverfront park also

features hiking trails. Stroll through the galleries and beautiful riverfront gardens at the Cummer Gallery of Art and Gardens, or enjoy a picnic lunch under the limbs of the Treaty Oak in Jessie Ball DuPont Park. Friendship Fountain is nearby and the mile-long Southbank Riverwalk is just a few steps away, and offers a fantastic view of the downtown skyline. Also downtown and directly across the St. Johns River is the Jacksonville Landing, a festival marketplace packed with dozens of small boutiques and restaurants. Whether you’re a business person, fisherman, golfer, or a family looking GUESTAD.COM

for good clean fun, Jacksonville Beach is your place. Nationally recognized for our lifeguard training programs, our beaches are protected year-round. The Red Cross Life Saving station houses one of the country’s only remaining volunteer life saving organizations. With all the amenities of a beach resort community, Jacksonville Beach welcomes you with the hospitality of a small home town. Choose from our first class accommodations ranging from oceanfront hotels to small intimate motels and bed and breakfasts. Dine at oceanfront restaurants offering Florida’s finest seafood and local specialities or at unique restaurants and pubs throughout this exciting city.

Amelia Island & Fernandina Named for Princess Amelia, daughter of George II of Great Britain, Amelia Island is the only place in the United States to have been under the dominion of eight different flags. It’s been home to an array of cultures and colorful characters: Timucuan Indians, European explorers, pirates, bootleggers, Gilded Age millionaires, and shrimpers all make up the colorful tapestry of this treasured island’s rich history. They’ve left behind a legendary legacy (and much to

explore.) Amelia Island is home to enough biking and walking trails to give you a change of scenery each day. The island provides a number of options from rugged trails winding past century-old, moss-laden live oaks to smooth scenic coastal paths and even the beach at low tide. Bike rentals are available throughout the island. Looking for an on-the-water experience? Amelia River Cruises offer richly narrated tours from the historic waterfront along the wild beaches of Cumberland Island. The Amelia Boat Club will rent you a boat (and even arrange for a captain.) 904-261-9972 ameliarivercruises.com Be sure to visit Fort Clinch, 2601 Atlantic Avenue in Fernandina Beach, one of the best-preserved Civil War Era forts in the US set in an enchantingly wooded state park. On the first weekend of every month, re-enactors stage a “Union Garrison” event where you can experience what daily life at the Fort was like in 1864. Pirate Playground, 2500 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, is a shady playscape designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children and adults with a range of physical abilities. It borders on the entrance to Egan’s Creek greenway, a perfect spot for a walk (and for pictures.) Stroll, shop and eat in Historic

NE Florida has a rich history in the Shrimping industry that is celebrated at the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp festival Photo by Addison Fitzgerald 14 GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

Downtown Fernandina Beach. Down and around Centre Street, you’ll find a range of eclectic independent local businesses with genuine Southern charm. Visitors should also spend a Saturday enjoying the outdoor markets: the Fernandina Beach Market Place downtown and the Amelia Farmers Market at the Shops of Omni Amelia Island Plantation every Saturday from 9am-1pm. These markets offer delights ranging from fresh produce to sweet treats to flowering plants and artisanal wares. See fernandinabeachmarketplace.com or ameliafarmersmarket.com. There aren’t many places in the country where you can go horseback riding on the beach. Experience it on Amelia Island where professional guides (and well-trained horses) are waiting for you. ameliahorsebackriding.com If you’re on Amelia Island during the spring and summer, you can experience one of the most ancient and moving rites of spring. Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch volunteers monitor and flag nests and host nest excavations, many of which are open to the public. ameliaislandseaturtlewatch.com

St. Augustine-The Nation’s Oldest City As the saying goes “24 miles of beaches and the rest is history” Nearby St. Augustine exudes a playful charm created by a contradiction of Old and New World Influences. Mixed together they create a refreshing mixture of antiquated romance, youthful vibrance, and Southern sweetness. Evidence of the magic and mystery of St. Augustine is revealed in more than 60 historic sites and attractions. Many of these points of interest are tucked along canopied roads of moss-draped oaks. Streets are lined by signature coquina cottages topped with red clay roofs. Two National Monuments reflect the prevalent Spanish and Minorcan heritage: Ihe impenetrable

Castillo de San Marcos (1695), the nation’s oldest masonry fortress, and Fort Matanzas (1742) which can be reached only by boat. Since 1903, visitors have discovered St. Augustine’s past at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. Thought to be Ponce de Leon’s eternal spring, it is Florida’s oldest attraction. The Mission of Nombre de Dios (1565) is

the location that began Christianity in the United States. Visitors can also see the remains of the 1808 City Gate, that are now a grand archway of the oldest city. One of St. Augustine’s natural attractions are its state parks. FavorDykes State Park, on the southern tip of St. Augustine is a 752-acre forest that serves as a refuge for endangered bald eagles and wood storks.

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Photo by Ed Taylor 16

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Trails and camping areas are found along meandering marshes. Every day is eventful in St. Augustine. There are 45 spirited year-round celebrations of heritage and heroism. Reenactments range from the 18th century royal transfer of office to Drake’s Raid in 1586. Another popular event is the reenactment of the 1740’s torchlit Spanish Night Watch. St. Augustine and the surrounding area have an amazingly varied and rich fine arts environment. Working in every medium imaginable, art lovers can check out the work of more than 230 local artists in galleries and shops around the city. The antiques scene is no less sparkling. St. Augustine alone has more than 50 antiques dealers displaying their one-of-a-kind treasures. In 1513, when Ponce de Leon first saw Florida, near the mouth of the St. Johns River, the flowers were in full Easter bloom so he called it La Florida (the flowering). Although de Leon did not stay long, the name has never left us. The Spanish influence is everywhere in St. Augustine’s buildings. Many of its hotels, museums, churches, inns and public places have a distinct colonial flair. Spectacular archways, flying buttresses, stained glass windows and the magnificent lobbies of Henry M. Flagler’s grand hotels, all evoke a by-gone era. The historic Colonial Quarter is a living theater allowing visitors to see how early settlers went about their lives, how they repulsed invaders or were occupied by them. Festivals are staged during all seasons of the year and are fun and informative and provide a perfect way for a family to learn together. Anastasia Island, between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean is an 18 mile vacationer’s paradise perfect for all outdoor recreational activities. Here you’ll find beautiful, clean, sandy beaches, the county fishing pier and the Anastasia State Recreation Area, which offers camping, hiking, nature trails, birding, picnicking, fishing and volleyball. You’ll have an ample opportunity to view the spectacular abundance of native wildlife. The St. Augustine Amphitheater, ranked as one of the best outdoor concert venues in the United States serves up first class entertainment of every type. Aretha Franklin, Alan Jackson, Crosby Stills & Nash, Carlos Santana and more have graced this award winning stage. See staugamphitheatre. com for more information and a complete list of upcoming shows. Our coastal waters are home to dolphins, playful, intelligent creatures often spotted frolicking in the waves close to shore. The area also hosts a sizeable colony of manatees. Spotting one of these gentle creatures in the wild is a thrill you’ll not soon forget. Looking for American alligators is another favorite of visitors to Florida. The St. Augustine Alligator Farm on Anastasia Island opened in 1893 as the world’s first of its kind zoological park with the world’s only complete collection of crocodilians, not to mention snakes, monkeys, birds and educational wildlife shows. GUESTAD.COM

SPORTS

ON OUR

FIRST COAST

THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS On August 18, 1995, when the Jaguars played their first home preseason game in their new stadium, it marked the first time in sports history that an expansion team had played its first home game in its inaugural season in a new stadium or arena. Not only that, but it was built faster than any major-league stadium had ever been built in North America. Our Jaguars celebrate their 20th NFL Season in 2015. www.jaguars.com

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THE JACKSONVILLE SUNS In past years, over 60 former Suns have played in the Major Leagues. The Suns have drawn more than 4.2 million fans, roughly equivalent to the previous 45 seasons combined.The Suns are the Southern League’s most tenured member, playing in the league consecutively since 1970. Many Suns players have been inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. The Suns are the AA affiliate of the Miami Marlins. www.jaxsuns.com

THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP The TPC at Sawgrass which had its inaugural year in 1980, is the flagship of well over a dozen Tournament Players Clubs that exist nationwide. For more than 20 years after opening, the TPC still boasts two of the most recognized courses in golf-the Stadium Course and the Valley Course The stadium’s signature Island Green at the 17th hole captivates golfers worldwide. Each year, the best players in golf try to tame this Pete Dye course. The success of the TPC at Sawgrass

has spawned a network of Tournament Players Clubs in the United States. The 2015 PLAYERS is held at Sawgrass May 5-10. For more information call 904-273-3235, or see www.TPC.com.

THE JACKSONVILLE SHARKS The Sharks are a professional arena football team based in Jacksonville, playing their home games at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, a 15,000 seat multi-purpose arena known for sponsorship purposes as Sea Best Field. The Sharks are part of the South Division of the American Conference (AC) in the Arena Football League (AFL), and are most notable for being the only team in the history of all professional sports to have won the championship of their division in every season of their entire existence.  For tickets and other information see www.jaxsharks.com

JACKSONVILLE ARMADA FC Soccer fans in Jacksonville have a North American Soccer League team to cheer for as the 2015 Spring Season kicks off after the NASL Board of Governors unanimously approved their expansion bid. Now in its third season of play, the new North American Soccer League (NASL) was officially founded in November 2009, when a group of Second Division men’s professional soccer team owners banded together to form North American Soccer League, LLC for the purpose of creating a team-owned and operated professional soccer league in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. The Armada will play their home matches at Community First Park at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.Tickets are available at 1.844.2.Armada or www.armadafc.com

THE JACKSONVILLE GIANTS Our minor league basketball team is the 2012 and 2013 National Champion of the new American Basketball Association (ABA), which they joined as an expansion

team for the 2010–2011 season. They play most home games at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. In addition to their two national championships, the Giants have won regional titles in 2011, 2012, & 2013. In 2014 the team was recognized for their off the court achievements with the ABA National Charity Award for their work in the Jacksonville community. www.jacksonvillegiants.com

ATP TOUR The ATP’s accelerated growth and increased operational needs prompted the construction of a new 22,000 square foot building that now serves as the ATP’s corporate headquarters for North and Latin America. In 2015, ATP is now in its 27th year at Ponte Vedra Beach. The ATP oversees a circuit of events, which includes 65 tournaments in 31 countries on 6 continents. We invite you to visit the ATP’s International Headquarters and experience the dynamic excitement of “tennis that’s out of this world” For more information and dates see www.atpworldtour.com.

named the Gator Bowl, it has been held continuously since 1946, making it the sixth oldest college bowl, as well as the first one ever televised nationally. In addition, the annual game played by the University of Florida Gators and the University of Georgia Bulldogs is played in Jacksonville. This match-up between Southeastern Conference opponents is one of the most prominent rivalry games in college football, and since 1933 it has been held in Jacksonville, with only two exceptions, making it one of the few remaining neutral-site rivalries. The game attracts huge crowds to Jacksonville and the associated tailgating and other events earned it the nickname of the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party”.

THE AT&T GREATER JACKSONVILLE KINGFISH TOURNAMENT Each July, Jacksonville hosts the AT&T Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament, the largest of its kind in the United States. Held at Jim King Park & Boat Ramp on Sisters Creek on the Intracoastal Waterway, this event brings together professional and amateur anglers vying for cash prizes over the weeklong event. Festivities held during the week include a Junior Angler Tournament for fishing enthusiasts under the age of 16, a food festival, boat show and kids’ play area. www.kingfishtournament.com

COLLEGE FOOTBALL In January, Jacksonville hosts the annual TaxSlayer Bowl. Originally

MARTIN KAYMER AT THE 2014 PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP

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The Jacksonville Jaguars will celebrate their 20th NFL season in 2015. Photo by Addison Fitzgerald 20

GUEST ADVANTAGE â&#x20AC;˘ 2015

FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST

HISTORICAL

TIME LINE

his historical time line is colorcoded, so while it includes partial First Coast history, you will know the significance of each date as it pertains to the corresponding area. Jacksonville is Blue, St. Augustine is Green, & Florida as a whole is Red. Prior to 1513: The Northeast portion of Florida was occupied by the Timucuan Tribe. These Native Americans stood a good head and shoulder taller than the first European explorers. The average adult Timucuan height was 6 feet 6 inches; the average height of the Europeans? 4 feet 7 inches. March 27, 1513: Spanish explorer, Don Juan Ponce de Leon, first sighted the east coast of Florida while in search of gold and silver. Ponce de Leon claimed the land for Spain and named it La Florida, “the Flower”. 1562: French Huguenots, under Jean Ribault, founded a colony at Ft. Caroline on the St. Johns River. There is currently a National Memorial at this site. Early 1565: The French establish a fort and colony at the mouth of the St. Johns River, near what is currently the Mayport

Naval Station, soon to be the permanent home for the U. S. Navy’s nuclear aircraft carriers. Sept. 8, 1565: St. Augustine was founded by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles, Spain’s most experienced Admiral. Menendez named the settlement St. Augustine in honor of the Saint whose feast day it was when he first sighted the shore on August 28. Late 1565: As per the instruction of the King of Spain, Menendez vanquished the French garrisons on the St. Johns River. This was done to ensure the safety of Spain’s treasure fleet that sailed along Florida’s coastline. 1569: Fort Matanzas was built on Rattlesnake Island. This small fort served as a warning post to inform the city of invaders from the south. 1586: The English Pirate, Sir Francis Drake, attacked, pillaged and burned St. Augustine. During the next 100 years, St. Augustine enjoyed an uneventful, slow growth and rebuilding. The populace of about 700 only increased to 1,000 by 1688.

1672: Spanish start construction of a stone fortress on St. Augustine’s bayfront. 1702: The English Governor of Carolina conducted a 2 month siege against St. Augustine. Although every building of importance was destroyed, the English were unable to overtake the nearly completed fort. 1756: The Castillo de San Marcos is officially dedicated. 1821/1822: Cowford, a village on the north bank of the St. Johns River, lays plans to become the city of Jacksonville, named after General Andrew Jackson. 1832: Jacksonville is incorporated. William J. Mills is elected the first mayor of Jacksonville. 1836: The Seminole War of 1836 was a failed effort by the Seminole Tribe to retain control of Florida from the Americans. This dispute lasted about 18 months and ended just south of St. Augustine where two prominent Seminole leaders were captured.

St. Augustine Bayfront Photo: Tammy Harrow GUESTAD.COM

1845: Florida becomes the 27th State of the Union. Tallahassee was selected as the state capital. This decision was a compromise between St. Augustine and Pensacola, both of which were difficult to reach from most parts of the state. 1862: Civil War Union forces take control of the First Coast area. St. Augustine is held until the end of the war. Jacksonville is burned and destroyed after just one year of occupation. 1864: The Battle of Olustee occurs, the only major battle of the Civil War to be be fought in Florida. 1865: The end of the Civil War brought the beginning of tourism to the First Coast. Northern soldiers took home reports of Jacksonville’s mild clear winters, thus creating the first Florida tourism market. Prior to St. Augustine having any notable hotels, Jacksonville was a cosmopolitan tourist city. 1883: The Flagler Era Begins. During the 1883-84 winter, Henry M.Flagler, one of the founders of Standard Oil, visited St. Augustine. From this visit came the construction of the Ponce de Leon Hotel and the Alcazar Hotel. Currently Flagler College and the Lightner Museum respectively. These posh resorts lead St. Augustine to be known as the Riviera of the South. 1887-1914: FIRES! During this relatively short time period both St. Augustine and Jacksonville experienced disastrous city fires. In 1887, flames swept the St. Augustine Cathedral and destroyed much of the block north of the plaza. Jacksonville was totally rebuilt after the great fire of 1901.It returned as a modern city of brick and stone becoming Florida’s largest metropolis. The rebuilding continued in St. Augustine after a disastrous fire in 1914 wiped out many of the buildings in the older section of the city between the city gates and the plaza. After the Fire: The fires that devastated Jacksonville and St. Augustine created a clean slate upon which each community

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arose to be what is today a thriving business, cultural and historic region currently known as Florida’s First Coast.

television station, begins broadcasting. WJXT-TV (CBS) in Jacksonville was the second station, also began in this year.

1908: The first motion picture studios open in Jacksonville, helping it become the “world’s winter film capital”.

1963: Cape Canaveral is renamed Cape Kennedy by President Lyndon Johnson, who also established the Kennedy Space Center at the site, located in Brevard County. The name was changed back in 1973.

1920: Beginning of the Florida land boom 1920: Pablo Beach changes its name to Jacksonville Beach and incorporates and establishes a city commission form of government. The Mayor is W. E. Montgomery.

1965: 400th anniversary of St. Augustine celebrated.

1927: Bridge of Lions, North River Bridge and Matanzas Inlet Bridge open.

1971: Walt Disney World opens in Orlando & transforms Florida’s economy and surrounding Central Florida.

1927: Charles Lindbergh completes solo Atlantic crossing & vists Jacksonville 1938: Marineland opens as Marine Studios; over 30,000 guests show up on the first day.– The original vision for Marineland was an effort to duplicate the variety of marine life as it exists in nature for the purpose of filming scenes for motion pictures and newsreels. Marine Studios was the ideal location to meet Hollywood’s growing demand for underwater footage. Over the years, many film and television producers utilized the studio for filming. Popularly known as the “World’s First Oceanarium.” 1941: The Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, and on December 8 the United States entered the Second World War; Florida mobilizes. Florida is an important location for the training of American soldiers, sailors, and airmen. 1942: April 10, the tanker Gulfamerica on maiden voyage is torpedoed by a German submarine in the waters across from Jacksonville Beach during the Policeman’s Ball. 1942: Four German agents land on Ponte Vedra Beach, south of Jacksonville. Fishermen discover the agents, who were then captured by the FBI. 1949: WTVJ-TV (NBC), Florida’s first

1968: Flagler College opens in the former Ponce de Leon Hotel.

1995: Jacksonville Jaguars officially become an NFL franchise 2001: King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain visit St. Augustine. 2005: New England defeats Philadelphia in SuperBowl XXXIX played in Jacksonville FL. 2005-2011: Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine, originally constructed in 1927, is restored. 2013: The Beaches Museum & History Park celebrated the 500th Anniversary of the “Spanish in Florida” with an exhibit honoring the 1513 visit by Juan Ponce de León. His April 2nd, latitude reading of 30 degrees 8 minutes places his arrival in Florida on our island, commonly known as San Pablo Island. The location is in Ponte Vedra Beach, at approximately 1202 Highway A1A. Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) erected a 15 foot statue to commemorate the approximate location of the arrival of Juan Ponce de León. 2015: St. Augustine celebrates it’s 450 anniversary

Pedro Menendez De Aviles

Sir Francis Drake

Osceola

In 1565, Menendez was commissioned by King Philip II to equip an expedition to establish a colony in Florida. There were two objectives in the mission; the first was to establish fortified enclaves along the coastline that would protect Spanish treasure fleets returning to Spain by way of the Bahamas, and the second was to eliminate French Huguenot settlements in the Florida region. Menendez set sail from Spain on July 29, 1565 and on August 28 he entered a harbor on the coast of Florida. Our nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine, was founded 11 days later. He then attacked the French garrison at Fort Caroline at the mouth of the St. Johns River. The Spanish slaughtered everyone in the fort, including survivors from a French force that had set out earlier to attack him at sea but were shipwrecked in a hurricane. Menendez returned to Spain in 1567, was appointed Governor of Cuba in 1568 and perfected the convoy-escort strategy to protect the Spanish treasure ships from pirates and corsairs. In 1568 and 1570 he returned to America and sent exploratory parties up the Chesapeake Bay and the Rappahnnock River. Shortly before his death in 1574 he was recalled to Spain and was appointed Captain General of the Armada that was to invade England.

Drake inherited strong protestant views from his father which made his fight with Spain a matter of conscience as well as of material gain. The Drakes were related to the wealthy Hawkins at Plymouth. After an unpublicized voyage across the Atlantic, Drake was placed in his first command in the squadron of John Hawkins, which was active in the slave trade between Africa and the Spanish colonies in the West Indies. This voyage of 1566 to 1567 ended in disaster when the Spanish attacked English ships at San Juan de Ulua on the eastern coast of Mexico. Hawkins, as treasurer of the navy, and Drake, as a privateer, sought revenge for this event. Drake first drew the attention of the rest of the world to England as a rising sea power when he sailed around the world in the early 1580’s. The queen knighted him as the first captain to have circumnavigated the globe. (Magellan’s claim was disputed since he had died during the voyage of his ship the Vittoria from 1519-1522.) The year 1585 marked the beginning of open war with Spain. Drake was appointed to command an amphibious expedition to the West Indies. By this point in his career, Drake has mastered tactics of combined operations enabling him to capture Santo Domingo, Cartegena and St. Augustine, Florida. He also removed the settlers under Ralph Lane at Roanoke, Virginia at their own request. This ended Sir Walter Raleigh’s first American colony. Drake returned to England in 1586.

Shortly after the Creek Wars (1813 1814), Osceola and other Creeks retreated to Florida and banded with the Seminoles. During his twenties, Osceola became known as a successful hunter and a courageous war hero. He was awarded recognition that was normally reserved only for the Chiefs. In April of 1835, after one of many battles with the U.S. Troops, Osceola was briefly captured. Upon his escape he began to organize his warriors in an effort to stop an attempt by government troops to relocate his people to a reservation west of the Mississippi River. This marked the beginning of the second Seminole war. By December of that same year Osceola had ambushed and killed Wiley Thompson, the U.S. Indian agent. From the Everglades, Osceola engaged in guerrilla warfare tactics always avoiding a direct pitched battle. In October 1837, Osceola and his warriors were captured while under a flag of truce. General Thomas S. Jessup deceived Osceola and imprisoned him in St. Augustine’s fort. Osceola died (Jan. 30, 1838) at Fort Moultrie, S.C. Public outrage at Jessup’s trickery tarnished the army’s image. With respect for Osceola, several towns and counties in various states were named in his honor.

(1519-1574) Spanish mariner who founded St. Augustine, Florida in 1565.

(1540-1596) English admiral and explorer, the founder of the English naval tradition.

(1800-1838) Native American who became an influential Seminole leader.

GUESTAD.COM

DINING CUISINE BY SPECIALTY FIRST COAST

AN INSTANT REFERENCE TO AREA DINING.

FAMILY STYLE

ITALIAN

SPORTS BAR

AMICI AUNT KATE’S AVILES BEACH DINER COPELAND’S FRATELLI’S MARLIN MOON GRILLE METRO DINER O. C. WHITE’S RIVER CITY BREWING CO. RUTH CHRIS’ STEAKHOUSE SCARLETT O’HARA’S SEASONS 52 SLIDER’S TACOLU THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY THE REEF WINE CELLAR WORLD FAMOUS OASIS

AMICI FRATELLI’S

FIONN MACCOOL’S

SEASONS52 SCARLETT O’HARA’S TACOLU THE TREE STEAK HOUSE WORLD FAMOUS OASIS

MEXICAN

WATERSIDE VIEW

TACOLU

AUNT KATE’S BILLY’S BOAT HOUSE FIONN MACCOOL’S RIVER CITY BREWING CO. RUTH CHRIS’ RIVERWALK SALT LIFE SEAFOOD SHACK THE REEF

STEAK & BEEF AVILES CORNER BISTRO OMAHA STEAK HOUSE SCARLETT O’HARA’S SUN DOG TREE STEAKHOUSE VICKI DUGAN’S WINE CELLAR

IRISH

ASIAN/THAI BASIL THAI SUSHI BAR BENTO

SEAFOOD AVILES BILLY’S BOAT HOUSE COPELAND’S MARLIN MOON GRILLE O. C. WHITE’S RIVER CITY BREWING CO. SCARLETT O’HARA’S SLIDER’S

WHERE CAN WE DANCE? . . . OR JUST LISTEN? MARLIN MOON GRILLE TACOLU THE TREE STEAK HOUSE WORLD FAMOUS OASIS

SUNDAY BRUNCH

VARIED CUISINE

AMICI AVILES CORNER BISTRO FRATELLI’S

BEACH DINER METRO DINER SNEAKERS THE STEAKHOUSE/EMBASSY SUITES THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY WORLD FAMOUS OASIS

Photo by Tammy Harrow

2424

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

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RIVERWALK

DOWNTOWN JACKSONVILLE

RIVERWALK

FRIENDSHIP FOUNTAIN

JACKSONVILLE LANDING

Jacksonville’s Southbank and Northbank Riverwalk is a popular host of the city’s riverfront. The area features a boardwalk winding through restaurants, night life, shopping, marina and pavilions. It is a great way to relax, strolling and enjoying both sides of the magnificent St. Johns River. Running through the heart of Jacksonville, the St. Johns River is the nation’s longest north-flowing river. The river is flanked on the north and south banks in downtown by the Riverwalk, consisting of stretches of wooden boardwalks and paved paths. It extends for just over 2 miles along the north and 1 mile on the south and includes benches, lighting and restrooms, which are located under the Acosta Bridge. Seafood fests, parades, and craft festivals all take place on the Riverwalk. Stroll, shop, picnic, or just watch boats cruising by.

With its glorious display of color and energies, Friendship Fountain on the Southbank is located on the St. Johns River next to the Museum of Science & History (MOSH). Friendship Fountain was completed in 1965. The Fountain consists of three rings of jets extending 200 feet in diameter. The 63 nozzles comprising the fountain can shoot water as high as 120 feet in the air, higher than a ten story building. When lighted at night, the colorful lighting turns the splashing waters into a playful work of art. The park includes picnic tables, benches and parking spaces. This is a great place to relax after a visit to MOSH. Enjoy a picnic lunch while watching boats or dolphins in the river or just taking in the view of the beautiful city skyline. Admission is FREE.

This popular Northbank Riverbank marketplace boasts retail shops, restaurants and regularly scheduled live entertainment in the Jacksonville Courtyard. “The Landing” hosts more than 350 events each year and features live entertainment on the riverfront stage every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy all the waterfront views while dining in the relaxing atmosphere of a terrific assortment of restaurants sure to please the most discriminating palates. There are many select shops to carry home more than just great memories. The Landing is also home to Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center which showcases the maritime history of Jacksonville, Florida. Convenient parking is available. For more information, please call (904) 353-1188 or visit: www.jacksonvillelanding.com

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

RIVER CITY BREWING COMPANY Jacksonville’s premier riverfront restaurant located on the Southbank of downtown Jacksonville features a casually elegant 325 seat main dining room overlooking the beautiful St. John’s River and the skyline of downtown Jacksonville. The menu offers dishes created with global flavor and culinary expertise including fresh seafood, tender steaks creative pasta dishes and daily Chef ’s creations. The Brewhouse Lounge attached to the main dining room features live weekend entertainment, both inside and on the outdoor deck. River City Brewing Company also features an on-site brewery, glass-encased for viewing in the Brewhouse Lounge. Second floor private banquet rooms for all special events, social or corporate. Off-site catering services available.

835 MUSEUM CIRCLE 904-398-2299. WWW.RIVERCITYBREW.COM

BEACH DINER (SAN MARCO) New in the San Marco Square area near the downtown Riverwalk. Barry Adeeb’s Beach Diner has been a favorite in the Jacksonville area for many, many years and is now newly opened in SAN MARCO and is coming soon to Fernandina beach.

1965 SAN MARCO BLVD. 904-399-1306 WWW.BEACHDINER.COM

THE BEACH DINER IN SAN MARCO NOT FAR FROM THE DOWNTOWN RIVERWALK. GUESTAD.COM

THE WINE CELLAR

VETERAN’S MEMORIAL WALL

Offering wines aged to perfection and a culinary excellence that has become the trademark of the Wine Cellar menu. In 1974, under the tradition created by Vicki Dugan, The Wine Cellar opened its doors and has become consistently rated among the top 300 restaurants throughout the state of Florida by Florida Trend Magazine, and continues to win the coveted “Award of Excellence” from the Wine Spectator. Customers, both old and new appreciate the excellent food, attentive service and

The “Wall” is must see for all, especially veterans and their families. The Wall, with its eternal flame, honors veterans who have made the supreme sacrifice for America and Freedom. Honoring deceased veterans from World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. The Wall is over 100 feet long and 14 feet high, with the honored veterans categorized by the local high schools they attended. Located close to downtown Jacksonville east of the Veterans Arena and facing Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, home of the NFL Jaguars. On the beautiful St. Johns River.

warm ambience.

1314 PRUDENTIAL DR. 904-398-8989 WWW.WINECELLARJAX.COM

See our ad on page 27.

“TOP O’ THE MORNIN’ AND THE EVENIN’ TO YE” WITH IRISH DINING SELECTIONS GALORE.

FIONN MACCOOL’S IRISH PUB Gourmet and Casual Dining and an authentic Irish experience. Praised locally as a “Best New Restaurant” by Folio Weekly 2012 and “Best Irish Pub” by Jacksonville Magazine 2012. Fionn MacCool’s is an Irish pub that doesn’t skimp on the Irish. Outside patio dining with a beautiful view of the St. Johns River. Open everyday at 11am for lunch and dinner. in the Jacksonville Landing

WWW.FIONNMACS.COM 904-374−1547

BASIL THAI & SUSHI SERVES SUCH DELIGHTFUL THAI DELICACIES AS SUSHI PAD THAI.

THE WINE CELLAR IS CONSISTENTLY RATED AMONG THE TOP 300 RESTAURANTS IN FLORIDA.

JACKSONVILLE MARITIME HERITAGE CENTER The Heritage Center operates as both an educational and entertainment resource for the entire community and its visitors. Artifacts are of interest to all ages and all social, cultural and recreational groups. Workshops, special events and demonstrations are conducted. Open 11-5 T-F &1-5 Sat/Sun. 904-355-1101

JACKSONVILLE LANDING SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 29

BASIL THAI & SUSHI An authentic Thai restaurant offering traditional Thai dishes, a pleasant dining atmosphere, and friendly staff. Owner Melanie Goh, brings some of the most delicious and creative Thai dishes to be found in all of Jacksonville. Our all-Thai cuisine menu is a mix of traditional favorites and contemporary creations, hearty and very spicy. The recipes are prepared with only the freshest ingredients. We provide three choices for dining at Basil Thai, there is the intimate, properly lighted wine room dining area, the central dining area and the outdoor dining area of our spacious patio enabling you to take advantage of our beautiful weather. 1004 HENRICKS AVE. (904) 674-0190.

WWW.BASILTHAIJAX.COM

THE MARITIME HERITAGE CTR. DISPLAYS A HISTORY OF JACKSONVILLE THROUGH INTERESTING ARTIFACTS. 28

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

JACKSONVILLE’S VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL ENGRAVED WITH THE NAMES OF OVER 1600 DECEASED VETERANS FROM JACKSONVILLE.

METROPOLITAN PARK Located next to the site of EverBank Field, this riverfront park is home to the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and other outstanding performances. The park also features 800 feet of boat docking facilities, a children’s playground, picnic areas & a riverfront sidewalk. Just a short drive from downtown.

1410 E. ADAMS STREET

Affairs of San Marco Your PARTY Headquarters! Patrick & Carmela Hall Owner/Operator VISIT US AT: www.affairsofsanmarco.com • 1992 San Marco Blvd. •

904-683-7801

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE Enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner on the magnificent St. Johns River. An outstanding dining atmosphere, close to downtown, Jaguars’ EverBank Stadium, SouthBank attractions and located in the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Plenty of FREE parking provided to Ruth’s Chris guests. Open daily at 5pm.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

904-396-6200. WWW.RUTHSCHRIS.COM

Museum highlights include an Allosaurus dinosaur skeleton, wildlife and a small planetarium, as well as other permanent and traveling exhibits. Also an interactive children’s museum focusing on the science and history of Northeast Florida. Live animal and planetarium shows daily.

1025 MUSEUM CIRCLE, ADJACENT TO THE FOUNTAIN. 904-396-6674 WWW.THEMOSH.ORG

PLEASANT DINING OVERLOOKING THE ST. JOHNS RIVER WHERE SPECIAL EVENTS TAKE PLACE ALL YEAR LONG.

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VISITING SOUTHSIDE JACKSONVILLE A Great Name in Hospitality . . . and now A Great Name in Steakhouses! The Embassy Suites Serves Premium Beef Fresh Seafood • Soups Salads • Sandwiches Homemade Desserts

COPELAND’S NEW ORLEANS RESTAURANT & BAR “Let the good times roll” with the most spirited food in America, with a little bit of New Orleans in every bite. Open daily at 11am. Serving a wonderful Sunday Brunch. 4310 Southside Blvd. For info call: (904) 998-4414.

WWW.COPELANDSJACSONVILLE.COM See our ad page 9.

•

Served in an English Tavern setting

The Steakhouse at the Embassy Suites

9300 Baymeadows Road • 2 blocks east of I-95

739-6633

www.embassysuiteshotel.com

How about . . . Dinner & a Movie?

ENJOY A CULINARY DELIGHT AS YOUR SERVER CUTS YOUR EXACT SIZE FRESH RIB-EYE AT YOUR TABLE.

THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE EMBASSY SUITES offers a variety of great Jacksonville dining options for lunch and dinner. Grab a quick soup or salad. End your day with a nice glass of wine from our exclusive wine offerings. No matter what you have a taste for, you will find it at The Steakhouse in the Embassy Suites Hotel. Serving Monday -Sunday. Lunch: 11am to 4pm. Dinner: 4pm to 10pm. See our ad this page. (904) 739-

6633

OTHER FINE SHOPS & RESTAURANTS IN THE BAYMEADOWS AREA

Tinseltown~First Run Movies Dining Choices Galore! Just North of J. Turner Butler Boulevard & East of I-95 & Southpoint 30

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

5TH ELEMENT INDIAN RESTAURANT ABC LIQUORS ADAMEC HARLEY-DAVIDSON AL’S PIZZA AVENUES MALL CHA-CHA’S MEXICAN CHILI’S CVS PHARMACY DENNY’S LOS LOROS MEXICAN MEDITTERANIA GREEK-ITALIAN PUBLIX SUPERMARKET THE PAGODA WOODY’S BAR-B-Q

ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER • SAN MARCO ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER

St. Johns Town Center 4663 River City Drive Jacksonville, FL 32246 Phone Number (904) 642-8339

St. Johns Town Center is Jacksonville’s newest and most talked about shopping destination. Shop, dine, live and entertain in one beautifully designed life-style center. St. Johns Town Center offers 1.1 million square feet of unique shopping and dining including many new stores you won’t find anywhere else in Jacksonville. Relax and enjoy the Park Green, attend community events, or have dinner at one of our fine restaurants.

4663 RIVER CITY DRIVE JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246 PHONE NUMBER (904) 642-8339

St. Johns Town Center Highlights & Features

CARDS • BOOKS • GIFTS • STATIONERY CHILDREN’S FASHIONS • DEPT. STORES ENTERTAINMENT • FOOD-SPECIALTY h N HEALTH & BEAUTY • HOME DECOR HOME FURNISHINGS • JEWELRY LUGGAGE • MEDICAL MEN’S & WOMEN’S FASHIONS MUSIC/ELECTRONICS/VIDEO OPTICAL/EYEWEAR PHOTOGRAPHY • RESTAURANTS SERVICES • SHOES • SPECIALTY SHOPS SPORTING GOODS • TOYS & GAMES WOMEN’S SPECIALTY FASHIONS

DELIGHTFUL CULINARY CHOICES ABOUND AT SEASONS 52, AND FOR YOUR BEFORE OR AFTER DINNER SOIREES, VISIT THE RELAXING, AND BEAUTIFUL SEASONS 52 LOUNGE.

SEASONS 52 FRESH GRILL Enjoy a fresh dining experience that celebrates living well at Seasons 52, a fresh grill and wine bar located at St. Johns Town Center. With its seasonallyinspired dining choices, award-winning international wine list and casuallysophisticated ambiance, there’s always something new to discover…52 weeks a year. Every week of the year, we strive to feature the freshest ingredients at their peak of ripeness and maximum flavor profile, changing to take advantage of each season’s bounty and continually enticing guests to return and experience what’s new. St. Johns Town Center.

5096 BIG ISLAND DRIVE. 904-645-5252 WWW.SEASONS52.COM

31.indd 1

For details visit: www.simon.com/mall

St. Johns Town Center Highlights & Features

Cards•Books•Gifts•Stationery Children’s Fashions•Dept. Stores Entertainment•Food-Specialty Health & Beauty•Home Decor Home Furnishings•Jewelry Luggage•Medical Men’s & Women’s Fashions Music/Electronics/Video Optical/Eyewear •Photography•Restaurants Visit us at • Services•Shoes•Specialty Shops www.thecheesecakefactory.com Sporting Goods•Toys & Games Women’s Specialty Fashions

Open Daily at 11am-11pm Fri. & Sat. ‘til 12:30pm Sundays 10am-11pm

(904) 998-9511 For details visit www.simon.com/mall 10260 Midtown Parkway31 2/14/08 6:40:38 PM

A Fresh Dining Experience That Celebrates Living Well Seasons 52 is a fresh grill and wine bar that invites guests to discover the sensational flavors of a seasonally-inspired menu and award-winning international wine list in a casually-sophisticated ambiance. Live entertainment nightly.Group dining available. ^^^^

St. Johns Town Center

5096 Big Island Drive • (904) 645-5252

Visit us at: www.seasons52.com GUESTAD.COM

BAYMEADOWS • MANDARIN • TOWN CENTER AMIDST THE MANDARIN OAKS

Just a few steps off San Jose Boulevard . . . old State Road 13, and you’re enjoying one of Jacksonville’s most elegant neighborhoods, with a true Southern atmosphere. The Tree Steak House is set back on San Jose Boulevard at the corner of Mandarin Road. Proudly staffed by Paul Hanson and his family since 1969, the “Tree” features great music in the cozy, yet elegant piano bar, featuring local talent.

BEACH DINER Touted as the “Cozy little diner in Mandarin” this comfortable spot serves the city’s BEST breakfast! Not to say the lunches aren’t just as delectable, and homemade to suit any taste. Barry Adeeb also offers a cozy little diner in Atlantic Beach, Ponte verda beach and coming soon to Fernandina Beach as well. Same great food and service! ENJOY A CULINARY DELIGHT AS YOUR SERVER CUTS YOUR EXACT SIZE FRESH RIB-EYE AT YOUR TABLE.

You can watch your favorite events on the large plasma screens. Happy Hour drink specials every night 4:40-7pm.

11362 SAN JOSE BLVD. 904-262-0006. WWW.THETREESTEAKHOUSEJAX.COM

ENJOY DINING INSIDE OR OUTSIDE ON THE OPEN-AIR OF THE BEACH DINER PATIO. GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

11362 SAN JOSE BLVD, 904-683-0079 WWW.BEACHDINER.COM

BENTO ASIAN KITCHEN & SUSHI Described as Pan-Asian cuisine, Bento Asian Kitchen offers a creative mixture of Asian inspired dishes from wok stir-fry to fire-grilled items using the finest Asian spices and the freshest meats. Modeled after popular cafes found in urban Japan and Taiwan, Bento offers quick, casual Pan-Asian cuisine in a stylish and friendly atmosphere. Our highly qualified sushi and wok chefs create the best of Asian cuisine for Japanese inspired boxed meals. Located in Jacksonville’s newest shopping destination: St. John’s Town Center between Best Buy and Ulta, Bento offers its quick, casual concept to the shoppers of Town Center and the business professionals in the surrounding business offices.

4860 BIG ISLAND DRIVE 904-273-6545 9734 DEE LAKE COURT 904-503-3238 •SEE OUR COMPLETE MENU• WWW.BENTOCAFESUSHI.COM

METRO DINER “Where The Locals Eat”. Best of Jax 8 years in a row, according to Folio Magazine. The Metro Diner is located in San Marco, Jacksonville Beach, on the Westside at Roosevelt Mall and at 1000 S. Ponce de Leon Blvd in St. Augustine. All of The Metro Diner locations are open from 6:30am to 2:30pm every day of the week. Be sure to check our Daily specials! Metro Diner was recently hosted with Mark Davoli and TV host Guy Fieri from the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” Please visit our website “www. metrodiner.com”. Located in Mandarin at Julington Creek.

12807-5 SAN JOSE BLVD. (904) 638-6185. GUESTAD.COM

BEACHES

FIRST COAST

HISTORY’S QUIET SOLITUDE

haped by a mix of cultures ranging from early Spanish settlers in the 1500’s to invading golfers in the 1980’s, Our Historic First Coast beaches have a rich and unique history. Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer best known for his pursuit of the legendary “Fountain of Youth”, landed on what would later become Ponte Vedra Beach on April 2, 1513. Seeing no suitable harbor, he sailed south and landed where Don Pedro Menendez founded the nation’s oldest city of St. Augustine in 1565.

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

Seafood Grille & Oyster Bar

904-246-0881 218 1st Street Neptune Beach at the

Town Center (1 Block from the Ocean)

Serving The First Coast for 33 Years!

GUESTAD.COM

ATLANTIC BEACH

NEWLY REMODELED ONE OCEAN TUCKED AWAY OCEANSIDE AT ATLANTIC BEACH.

BEACH DINER Touted as the “Cozy little diner in Atlantic Beach” this comfortable and unusually comfortable spot is just a short distance from the ocean and serves the Beaches BEST breakfast! Not to say the lunches aren’t just as delectable, and homemade to suit any taste. Barry Adeeb has also opened a cozy little diner in Ponte Vedra Beach and on San Jose Blvd. in Mandarin as well. same great food and service!

501 ATLANTIC AVE, ATLANTIC BEACH. 904-249-6500. WWW.BEACHDINER.COM

NEPTUNE BEACH SLIDERS SEAFOOD GRILLE & OYSTER BAR offers delicious, SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK’S DECOR AND SEAFOOD DELIGHTS ARE SURE TO PLEASE THE MOST DISCRIMINATING TASTES.

SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK Eat, Drink & Be Salty! Salt Life Food Shack is a community driven restaurant that compliments the brand where “living the Salt Life” is a part of everyday life. Offering a carefully crafted eclectic menu to cater to all tastes and personalities. Enjoy a wide array of specialty menu items, some favorites we have picked up along the way including a Tuna Poke Bowl (straight from Wishbones in Costa Rica), Fresh Rolled Sushi, Ensenada Taco, Local Fried Shrimp and Beer Can Chicken, there are plenty of options to suit your many cravings.

1018 THIRD ST. N., JAX BEACH 321 A1A BEACH IN ST. AUGUSTINE WWW.SALTLIFESEAFOODSHACK.COM 36

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

freshly made cuisine with imagination & affordable prices. Kick back in your beach togs & share a tradition & sumptuous meal with old friends & neighbors. Great reviews on such traditional dishes such as; Shrimp Sausage, Artichoke Seafood Dip, Tiki Scallops, Fish Fingers, Crab Cake, Shrimp Dip, Smoked Fish Dip, Crab Roll, Seafood Gumbo. 218 1ST STREET, NEPTUNE

BEACH. 904-246-0881 WWW.SLIDERSSEAFOODGRILLE.COM

SLIDERS SEAFOOD GRILLE IS A DINING DELIGHT AT THE BEACHES FOR MANY SUCCESSFUL YEARS.

JACKSONVILLE BEACH

The Little

BLACK Bikini

The equivalent of the Little Black Dress

LARGEST SELECTION OF “MIX & MATCH” AND A SELECTION OF T-SHIRTS & HATS GALORE!

BEACHSIDE JACKSONVILLE BEACH It’s easy to look your best at the beach when you visit BEACHSIDE. Jacksonville Beach’s largest selection of all types of swimsuits, some for swimming and some just for lookin’ good! With service and personal attention, a specialty at BEACHSIDE, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Here you’ll find the latest in name brand beachwear, swimsuits and active sportswear. Mix n’ match bikinis. Huge selection of T-shirts for yourself, a friend or the whole family to wear here and take back home. Don’t forget to shop BEACHSIDE’s gift shop for the best in novelties, shells, unique jewelry, souvenirs and a great assortment of beach supplies. Open daily. Located one block from the ocean. in the heart of Jax Beach. 234 N. 1ST STREET

Florida’s Premier Swimwear Shop • Tops Ato F

904-246-0248. WWW.BEACHSIDESWIM.COM FANTASTIC COLLECTION OF QUALITY BEACHWEAR AT VERY SENSIBLE PRICES FOR PRE-TEENS AND CHILDREN AT BEACHSIDE.

ALONG THE WAY ON

vitamin

BEACHSIDE

1 Block from the Ocean 234 1st Street North • Jax Beach • 246-0248 GUESTAD.COM

Gift

Don’t forget a

Your #1 source for:

T-Shirts Sweat Shirts Flip-Flops Shells Souvenirs

NE Florida’s Premier Swimwear Shop

BEACHSIDE

234 1st Street North • 1 Block to the Ocean • Jax Beach • 246-0248

JACKSONVILLE BEACH BEACHSIDE GIFTS ”THE BEACH STOP” Overlook a beautiful marina and the intracoastal waterway in a picturesque setting in the shadow of the new Jacksonville Beach dual bridge, while enjoying Crabs Benedict, Surf & Turf or Boat House Pasta Primavera. Dinner 7 days at 4pm. Weekend Lunch & Brunch at 11 am. Live entertainment, call for times & schedule. 2321 BEACH BLVD., at the ICW, Jacksonville Beach next to Beach Marine.

904-241-9771.

BILL’YS BOATHOUSE GRILL Always serving fresh seafood daily from Mayport. We’re easy to get to in Jacksonville Beach by car or by boat. For lunch try a fresh oyster or shrimp ‘Po Boy or Crab Cake or Fresh Fish Sandwich. Dinner has something for everyone. Start with our Famous Shrimp dip or oysters or one of our homemade soups. For the seafood lover there’s the Boat House platter with a trawler load of fresh seafood. And we’ve also got steaks and chicken for the landlubbers. Nightly specials and live entertainment. Visit us at

2321 BEACH BLVD (UNDER THE BRIDGE) JUST EAST OF MARKER #32 ON THE ICW 904-241-9771 WWW.BILLYSBOATHOUSEGRILL.COM

MARLIN MOON GRILLE A favorite in Maryland has now graced Jacksonville Beach, specializing in Eastern Shore seafood, with teasers like Tuna Nachos, Back Fin Crab Dip and Dynamite Shrimp. Weed Lines such as Baby Spinach Salad or Pittsburgh Steak Salad. Want something really good? Try the Twin Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes or Grilled Pecan Crusted Mahi. Something a little lighter? There’s the Sandwiches & Stuff. Just minutes from the ocean. Visit us at

1183 BEACH BLVD. 904-372-4438 WWW.MARLINMOONGRILLE.COM See our ad on page 38 38

GUEST ADVANTAGE • 2015

THE METRO DINER “Where The Locals Eat” Best of Jax 8 years in a row, according to Folio Magazine. The Metro Diner is also located in San Marco, Mandarin at Julington Creek and on the Westside at Roosevelt Mall. All of The Metro Diner locations are open from 6:30am to 2:30pm every day of the week. Be sure to check our daily specials! Metro Diner was recently hosted with Mark Davoli and TV host Guy Fieri from the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives”. 1534 NORTH 3RD STREET,

See You At The NuLu! See You At The NuLu! • Delicious MexicanCuisine Cuisineand and Lu’s Lu’s Favorites •• • Delicious Mexican FavoritesTooToo

Visit

You At The NuLu! JAX BEACH 904-853-6817. WWW.METRODINER.COM

Mexican Cuisine and Lu’s Favorites Too • SNEAKERS AT THE BEACH Voted “Best Sports Bar in the USA” by ESPN and Sports Illustrated. Over 50 beers and full bar. Award winning food including the best chili and chowder you’ve ever tasted, made fresh daily from scratch with our own recipe. Patio with an ocean view, billiards & arcade and plenty of big screen TV’s to catch every college and pro sporting event.

111BEACH BLVD

DinnerJAX Tues. BEACH- Sunday from 11 a.m.

904-482-1000. our Daily in the TacoLu Bar

WWW.SNEAKERSSPORTSGRILLE.COM

ic Thurs. - Sat. in the TacoLu Bar

• Lunch & Dinner Tues. - Sunday from 11 a.m. • Happy Hour Daily in the TacoLu Bar • Live Music Thurs. - Sat. in the TacoLu Bar • Sunday Brunch from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. • Colorful & Comfortable Outdoor Patio Dining

Rus

FREE VALE • Private Rooms Available for Special Events T PARKING

1712 Beach Boulevard • Jacksonville Bea • Lunch & Dinner Tues.-Sunday from 11 a.m. Visit our website www.TacoLu.com Adjacent to TacoLu Adventure Landing in the • Happy•Hour Daily in the Bar • Live Music Thurs.-Sat. in theRelax TacoLu Bar in the • Sunday Brunch from 10:00TacoLu a.m.-2:00 p.m. Funbar • Colorful & Comfortable Outdoor Patio Dining • Private Rooms Available for Special Events

TACOLU , we a.m. make everything BrunchAT from 10:00 - 2:00 as p.m. fresh as we can, & try to be better than

& Comfortable Dining anywhere else.Outdoor We don’t wantPatio to change your mind about Mexican food, just

ooms open Available for Special Events it up a bit. There’s a lot more to it than ground beef & cheese sauce, my friends. Come in & give different, fresh & amazing a shot! We make everything but the cheese! Just enjoy it all inside our rustic atmosphere, or out on the colorful & comfortable patio. Next to Adventure Landing in the old Homestead.

Rustic Pinelog Setting

each Boulevard • Jacksonville Beach 249-TACO (8226) Relax• in theTacoLu Funbar Pinelog Setting in the old Homestead •Adjacent to Adventure Landing Rustic 1712 BEACH BLVD., JAX BEACH 904-249-TACO (8226). WWW.TACOLU.COM See our ad this page.

904-249-TACO (8226) 1712 Beach Boulevard • Jacksonville Beach

•Adjacent to Adventure Landing in the old Homestead• Visit our website www.TacoLu.com GUESTAD.COM

PONTE VEDRA GOLFER’S BEACH P A R A D I S E

haped by a mix of cultures ranging from early Spanish settlers in the 1500’s to invading golfers in the 1980’s, Ponte Vedra Beach has a rich and unique history. Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer best known for his pursuit of the legendary “Fountain of Youth”, landed on what would later become Ponte Vedra Beach on April 2, 1513. Seeing no suitable harbor, he sailed south and landed where Don Pedro Menendez founded the nation’s oldest city of St. Augustine in 1565. Ponte Vedra Beach is among the prettiest in Florida. Here seaside resorts and private escapes are crested in the twisted oaks and hammocks of wild palmettos. Miles of

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freshwater streams, creeks and lagoons course through the natural environs accentuating the natural beauty of the beaches. Just inland, some of the most prestigious and scenic golf courses in the world attract professional tournaments including the PGA TOUR’S fifth major, THE PLAYERS Championship, with a 6 million dollar purse. Ponte Vedra Beach, with its 135 professional caliber holes, is acclaimed as the Pebble Beach of the East Coast. Our signature course, acclaimed “the seventh best resort course in America by Golf Digest, is the 6,857-yard TPC at Sawgrass Stadium Course with its notoriously difficult island green, one of the “World’s Most Photographed Greens.

After having your fill of golf, grab your racquet and play a few sets at one of the 44 professional caliber tennis courts. The ATP headquarters tennis center has eleven courts emulating the surfaces of the Grand Slam tournaments, including red clay and fresh grass. Other activities available nearby include sailing, wind surfing and jet-ski rentals for the more active vacationers. On nature walks, the careful eye may glimpse a loggerhead turtle or one of the 177 species of birds. Of course, elegant shopping and fine dining are available throughout the area, after a day filled with excitement and appreciation for the natural wonders of Ponte Vedra Beach.

BEACH DINER

hether it’s a leisurely stroll through the many unique specialty shops, or a lakeside lunch or upscale fine dining, Sawgrass Village is sure to please as one of the First Coast’s most congenial spots. Simply a better place to shop . . . for unforgettable style! Sawgrass Village is a truly different dining & shopping experience in a oneof-a-kind residential/resort community. Located in posh Ponte Vedra Beach near the entrance to the Tournament Players Championship golf course, southeast of metropolitan Jacksonville and just north of St. Augustine, this area boasts an array of the nation’s finest golf courses.

Across from the Marriott at Sawgrass Authentic Italian Cuisine Caffe Andiamo and The Recupito family invites you to a deliciously intimate dining experience that features a menu of traditional Italian cuisine with a continental flair. The cutting-edge interior and modern cosmopolitan atmosphere includes outdoor patio seating and a large copper wood-burning oven.

Giovanni Recupito Owner/Executive Chef

500 Sawgrass Village

904.280.2299

www.caffeandiamo-pvb.com

Touted as the “Cozy little diner in Ponte Vedra Beach” this comfortable spot is just a short distance from the ocean and serves the Beaches BEST breakfast! Not to say the lunches aren’t just as delectable, and homemade to suit any taste. Barry Adeeb also offers a cozy little diner in Atlantic Beach and on San Jose Blvd. in Mandarin as well. Same great food and service!

880 A1A NORTH, PONTE VEDRA BEACH. 904-273-6545 WWW.BEACHDINER.COM

VILLAGE JEWELER Fine jewelry and unique gifts by master goldsmith and gemologist, Richard Felder. Specializing in skillfully crafted custom designs. Many popular brand names such as Steven Douglas, Seiko, Latonn Rembrandt Charms, Camelot Bridal, Colore By Simon Golub and Richard Krementz.

880 SAWGRASS VILLAGE, PONTE VEDRA BEACH. 904-285-4812 WWW.VILLAGEJEWELEROFPONTEVEDRA.COM

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WORLD GOLF VILLAGE Located in historic St. Augustine, just south of Jacksonville and 30 minutes from TPC Sawgrass, World Golf Village is the ultimate golf vacation destination. It’s home to the World Golf Hall

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of Fame, where the greatest players and contributors are honored, and includes more than 70,000 square feet of displays, trophies and personal and professional memorabilia of its more than 130 members. World Golf Village also has a number of championship golf courses created by Hall of Fame legends, including the King & Bear co-designed hole-by-hole by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and the Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen-inspired Slammer & Squire. For luxurious accommodations, there

is a selection of preferred partners such as the Renaissance Resort and Grande Villas, a Bluegreen Resort. No matter where you stay, World Golf Village offers a complete golf vacation for your family, friends or next group outing, and is the highlight of any golfer’s visit to Northeast Florida. At World Golf Village, it’s your unforgettable opportunity to stay and play like a champion.

www.pgagolfexperiences.com

GOLF FIRST COAST

Florida’s First Coast is synonymous with golf. This guide offers a sampling of some of our finest courses. What’s more, this is the home of the World Headquarters for the PGA TOUR, The TPC at Sawgrass, the exciting World Golf Village & the PGA Hall of Fame.

WHERE TO PLAY?

JACKSONVILLE & THE BEACHES Champions Club at Julington Creek 1111 Durbin Creek Blvd. • 904-287-4653 Jacksonville Beaches Golf Course 605 S. Penman Rd. •904-247-6184 Ponte Vedra Beach Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass 110 TPC Blvd. • 904-285-PUTT Palm Valley Golf Club 1075 Palm Valley Rd. • 904-285-8978 Windsor Parke Golf Club 4747 Hodges Bivd. • 904-223-4653

ST. AUGUSTINE Cimarrone Country Club 2690 Cimarrone Bird. • 904-287-2000

The Golf Club at North Hampton 22680 N. Hampton Way • 904-548-0000

AMELIA ISLAND Amelia Island Plantation Ocean Links 6800 1st Coast Hwy • 904-277-5907 Amelia River Golf Club 4477 Buccaneer Trail • 904-277-7370

GOLF PRACTICE RANGES Champions Club at Julington Creek 1111 Durbin Creek Blvd., Jax (904) 287-4653 Fiddlers Green Golf Course 13715 Lake Newman St., Jax Golf Club of Jacksonville 315 S. Hampton Club Way, St. Aug. St. Augustine Shores Golf Club US 1 (2 mi. N of 206) • 904-794-4653 Sunbeam Driving Range 4448 Sunbeam Rd., Mandarin University Golf Range 6240 Ft. Caroline Rd., Arlington

Royal St. Augustine Golf & Country Club 301 Royal St. Augustine Pkwy • 800-643-1852 St. Augustine Shores Golf Club US 1 (2 mi. N of 206) • 904-794-4653 St. Johns County Golf Club 4900 Cypress Links Blvd. • 904-825-4900 St. Johns Golf & Country Club 205 St. Johns Golf Drive • 904-940-3200 World Golf Village The Slammer & The Squire • 940-6100 The King & The Bear • 904-940-6200

FERNANDINA Fernandina Golf Club 2800 Bill Melton Rd • 904-310-3175

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Dining at O. C. White’s is a rare treasure you won’t want to miss! Located in the General Worth house built in 1791. Overlooking the City Yacht Marina & the Bridge of Lions, the atmosphere inside is just as relaxing. Serving lunch & dinner daily, early bird specials are served 4-6pm. Dine inside the historic Worth Mansion, which some say Mrs. Worth haunts to this day. Enjoy live acoustic guitar music nightly in our garden courtyard overlooking the waterfront, choose inside or balcony seating. Serving lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. 118 Avenida Menendez. On the St. Augustine Train route.

WWW.OCWHITESRESTAURANT.COM 904-824-0808. Is there a wedding in your future? The White Room is the elegant venue overlooking the Bayfront in St. Augustine.

904-824-9056

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ST. AUGUSTINE F

ounded in 1565 by the Spanish, St. Augustine is the oldest existing city in the United States. Come experience 450 years of history or just enjoy our 24 miles of beaches, and life on the water. St. Augustine, the Oldest City in the United States, features more than 60 historic sites and attractions, national monuments, architecturallyrich churches and unspoiled natural settings – all providing a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The area offers world-class golf and tennis facilities; award-winning spas; an abundance of boutique shopping; and the finest collection of recreational and social amenities available. With a wide navigable inlet, the city offers unmatched boating opportunities, offshore and inshore fishing, sailing, surfing and kayaking. St. Augustine is home to the World Golf Village and World Golf Hall of Fame. And, forty-two miles of unspoiled beaches make this northeast Florida area one of the Sunshine State’s most popular meeting and vacation destinations. Visitors to St. Augustine enjoy gentle ocean breezes and a year-round temperate climate The average daily temperatures in the area range from a low of 57 degrees Fahrenheit in January to a high of 81 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. The average year-round temperature is 70 degrees. Average rainfall ranges from a low of 2.4 inches in December to a high of 6.8 inches in September, our year- round average rainfall is 49 inches. Saint Augustine is a short 45-minute drive north from Daytona Beach, a one-hour and 40-minute drive from Orlando and a 35-minute drive south of Jacksonville, Florida.

.....MORE THAN JUST

OUR NATION’S

OLDEST CITY

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Whether you’re staying one day or one week, or you simply want answers to questions you have about America’s oldest city, begin your visit at the Visitor Information Center. The VIC is located at the start of any visit to St. Augustine’s famed historic district. It is less than a block from the old City Gate, which leads directly into St. George Street, a walking mall. It is also directly adjacent to the Castillo de San Marcos, the ancient Spanish stone fortress, a part of the U.S. National Park system.

DIRECTIONS: Take Interstate 95 from north or south to Exit #95. Turn east on State Road #16 to U.S. Hwy #1; then south about 2 miles to Castillo Drive; then east to the Visitor Information Center and parking.

BLACK RAVEN/PIRATES OF ST. AUGUSTINE Ahoy! Finally an entertainment and sightseeing cruise that caters to all ages. See Florida’s best live pirate show aboard a real pirate ship. Black Raven was designed and built for its purpose, to be a floating performance stage for live pirate shows. Our goal is to provide a wide variety of dynamic and interactive entertainment programs that will suit all ages. The crew’s ambition is to deliver the best Pirate Show in Florida regardless of the

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audiences age group. The performance is rehearsed, but not scripted, allowing the pirates to improvise with the crowd. And you never know what will happen while sailing across the mystic Matanzas Bay. Fully licensed bar onboard. St. Augustine Municipal Marina. 904-826-0000. www.PirateShipBlackRaven.com See our ad outside back cover.

CITYWALKS It’s true... We’re the company that actually pioneered the city’s very first tasting tours & culinary historic walking tours nearly a decade ago. The exclusive operator officially endorsed by Tour St. Augustine Inc., only an authentic City Walks tour ensures that you’re always greeted by new friends & smiling faces at every turn. Our team of over 50 dedicated guides, historians, and tour coordinators ensure a world-class experience, from start to finish! 4 Granada Street. 904-825-0087 www.StAugustneCityWalks.com See our ad on page 52.

THE CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS Built 1672-1695, served primarily as an outpost of the Spanish Empire, guarding St. Augustine, the first permanent European settlement in the continental U. S. and also protecting the sea route for treasure ships returning to Spain. Although the Castillo has served a number of nations throughout its history, it has never been taken by military force. During the 18th century, the Castillo went from Spanish control to British and back to the Spanish, all by treaty.

The Spanish remained in power in Florida until the area was purchased by the United States in 1821. The Castillo fortress itself with its attendant grounds, covers some 25 total acres.

COLONIAL QUARTER Living history museum set in a village of restored 18th-century homes and gardens, featuring craftsmen dressed in period clothing. Daily, 9am-4pm; St.George St. 904-825-6830 www. colonialquarter.com

FORT MATANZAS NATIONAL PARK Built in 1569 on Rattlesnake Island, the tower of Fort Matanzas served as a warning signal to inform the city of approaching invaders. South on A1A. Open daily. Ferry boat service.

GHOST TRAIN Ripley’s Ghost Train Adventure. The most interactive paranormal experience in St. Augustine. The Adventure begins at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. Call for tour times and reservations. 19 San marco Avenue 904-824-1606 www.Ripleys.com/StAugustine See our ad on page 44

GOVERNMENT HOUSE Your historic voyage continues with a visit to the Museum of Historic St. Augustine. “The Dream, The Challenge, The City” reflects five centuries of history from early native settlements to the twentieth century. Colorful and imaginative exhibits displaying over 300 artifacts from both archaeological digs

THERE’S MORE TO SEE & DO IN ST. AUGUSTINE & Spanish shipwrecks off the coast of Florida give insight into the history and multi-cultural heritage of St. Augustine and St. Johns County. Open daily 9am. to 5pm. 48 King Strreet 904-825-5033

LIGHTNER MUSEUM Originally built in 1888 as the Hotel Alcazar by Henry Flagler, the structure was later purchased to house Otto C. Lightner’s collection of art and artifacts. On display are 19th-century furniture, Tiffany glass, porcelain art and antique dolls. 75 King St. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org

MARINELAND The world’s first oceanarium, invites you to join us in creating lasting memories at our 1.3 million gallon series of dolphin habitats. Choose from a variety of interactive programs, which range from those for land-loving guests to enjoy dolphins up-close, to those that offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the dolphins’ aquatic world as you swim with our gentle residents. Book your program reservations in advance to ensure your own thrilling dolphin encounter! 9600 Oceanshore Blvd. 904-471-1111 www.marineland.net

OLDEST STORE MUSEUM A showcase of authentic memorabilia from the turn of the century. This museum contains more than 100,000

items including high-wheeled bicycles, Gibson Girl corsets, and other items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 4 Artillery Lane. 904-829-9729

OLDEST WOODEN SCHOOLHOUSE (U.S.) This Authentic building with added animation brings the schoolhouse alive. Inside are life-size figures of teacher and pupils clothed in colonial attire. Make a wish in the wishing well and be sure to ring the schoolbell when you leave. Open daily 9am to 5pm. 14 St. George St. inside the City Gates. 904-824-0192

PONCE DE LEON’S FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Join us for a fascinating, informative, entertaining tour of Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the original site of the Nation’s oldest city. Located in the area first explored by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513 and settled by Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565. Colonial America started right HERE, 55 years before the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, and 42 years before Jamestown! With a long, rich history spanning nearly 500 years, the Fountain of Youth Park will delight and amaze you. 11 Magnolia Ave., 904-829-3168 www.FountainOfYouthFlorida.com See our ad on page 56.

SCHOONER FEEDOM The Schooner Freedom has been sailing the waters of historic St. Augustine since

2001. We offer relaxing Day, Romantic Sunset, and Enchanting Moonlight Sails, as well as a variety of special events throughout the year. Our family invites your family to join us for an amazing sailing experience, a great way to unplug, unwind, and introduce the kids to the wonder of tall ship sailing. Help hoist the sails, watch for wildlife, learn some nautical nonsense, and enjoy a slice of a sailor’s life at sea. Reservations are highly recommended. Municipal Marina. 904810-1010. www.schoonerfreedom.com See our ad on page 5.

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! MUSEUM An adventure for the whole family. Mr. Ripley’s world famous collection of unique, unusual, rare, exotic, strange and even weird artifacts! Three floors full of entertainment. Open 365 days a year. 19 San Marco Ave. 904-824-1606 www/Ripleys.com/StAugustine

ST. AUGUSTINE ALLIGATOR FARM In a city full of “oldest” superlatives, St. Augustine Alligator Farm opened in 1893 to score as the world’s first of its kind. During its 122 years, the park has grown from a farm staging gator wrestling to a zoological park with the world’s only complete collection of crocodilians, not to mention snakes, monkeys, birds and educational wildlife shows. 999 Anastasia Blvd. 904-824-3337 www.AlligatorFarm.com

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The Cross of the Mission De Nombre Dios is part of the iconic skyline of the city of St. Augustine. Photo by Addison Fitzgerald 48

GUEST ADVANTAGE â&#x20AC;˘ 2015

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4th of July celebrations in St. Augustine bring thousands of visitors each year as the annual “Fireworks over Matanzas“ lights up the night. Photo by Ed Taylor 50

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e A fun, casual dining experienc d dinner seven casual experience lunch an akfast,dining g bre vinfun, serA l service bar on aturing a fullunch week. Febreakfast, days aserving & Nightly. our upstairs deck. Live Music

dinner seven days a week. Featuring a Tfull bar B LE V A IL A U Aservice TA K EonO our upper deck OR PATIO • 41 TVs DO O•UT Live music nightly • 24 Ice Cold Drafts

Voted BEST of St. Augustine 15 Years Running Open 6am Daily • Take Out Available Happy Hour 3-6:47pm Mon. - Fri. 44 TV’s • Outdoor Patio Visit our T-shirt Shack

Complimentary Sunsets Daily

3 girls inside w/Hawiian outfits

Same pic as Adv. 2010 Santa Claus w/Oasis sign in background Scan this

For Discounts & Coupons TEXT “OASIS” TO 51660

Rd. 40 t n aura Rest St. Augustine Beach Deck Access achSouth Restaurant 4000 Be A1A & Ocean Traceis. Road com 4 OR Email00 OASIS@WORLDFAMOUSOASIS.COM A1A South & Ocean Trace

-342 471 471-3424

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w/your smart phone to receive emails for discounts & coupons

Deck 471-2451

w.world wwAccess Beach • St. Augustine Beach 471-2451

Visit us at:www.worldfamousoasis.com GUESTAD.COM

ST. AUGUSTINE DINING AVILES Featuring elegant dining overlooking the Bay of Matanzas on St. Augustine’s picturesque bayfront. Offering affordable continental cuisine in an exquisite setting that is certain to satisfy the most critical of palates. Breakfast, lunch or dinner is served. Here you have a full bar, fines wines, domestic and imported beer.

32 AVENIDA MENENDEZ 904-829-9727.

AMICI Hosted by Vito Arena & family.. Serving authentic Italian specialties Shrimp Sebastian, Shrimp & Scallops Bianco, Steak Alla Pizzaiola, Capellini di Mare. Special baked dishes. Enjoy your favorite cocktail, imported or domestic beer in our comfortable lounge. Open daily at 11:30am. Indoor and outdoor seating.

1915B A1A SOUTH 904-461-0102

AUNT KATE’S Continuing over 100 years of serving the finest in local seafood, Aunt Kate’s pleasures both the eye and the pallet. Sited in a grove of live oaks on the bank of the Tolomoto River. We offer outstanding family dining, whether you’re looking for steamed oysters, peel ‘n eat shrimp, fresh salad, great soups, a terrific steak or blackened chicken. Something for everyone.

612 EUCLID AVENUE 904-829-1105 WWW.AUNT-KATES.COM

FRATELLIS The quintessential neighborhood Italian restaurant with cozy atmosphere and all your favorite Italian-American specialties. Chef-owner Drew McCormick serves traditional Meat Lasagna, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, and Shrimp Scampi, along with daily chef ’s specials and house specialties along with a wide selection of wine and beer and delicious homemade desserts. 415 ANASTASIA BLVD

904-819-1760

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On A1A between St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach on the Intracoastal 2 blocks south of the castle in North Beach

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THE ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE A Spanish watchtower, built in the late 1500’s was the predecessor of the present St. Augustine Lighthouse. St. Augustine is the site of the oldest, permanent aid to navigation in North America. The Lighthouse is St. Augustine’s oldest surviving brick structure, and today the site is restored to colors and materials used the year 1888. The St. Augustine Lighthouse rises 165 feet above sea level and contains 219 steps that are climbed by visitors. At the top, the original, first order Fresnel lens still serves the beacon, but today is lit by a 1000 watt bulb, and maintained by the museum and volunteers. 81 Lighthouse Avenue www.StAugustineLighthouse.org

THE ST. AUGUSTINE DISTILLERY Take a free tour of our distillery and watch as we mix, mash, cook and distill small batch vodka, rum, gin and whiskey in a historically renovated ice manufacturing plant from 1917. You will learn about the history of ice and distilling in Florida, see our products being made, and then taste our small batch spirits for yourself in our tasting room. There’s no charge and tours are every 30 minutes. Y’all come on by! 112 Riberia Street 904-825-4963 www.StAugustineDistillery.com

VILLA ZORAYDA MUSEUM Explore a 19th century architectural masterpiece and its astounding art and antique collection while learning of the Villa’s 130 year history. Originally built as a private home by Franklin W. Smith in 1883, it is a 1/10th scale replica of a portion of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. View hand carved exquisite inlaid furniture, hand pierced brass lamps and the magnificent architectural details from the Alhambra. Continuous audio tours in English, Spanish and French. 83 King Street. 904-8299887 www.villazorayda.com

ATTRACTIONS CONTINUED THE OLD CITY GATE Part of St. Augustine’s original defenses, the old gate was constructed of coquina blocks in the early 1800’s. A wall built of palm tree logs was laid from the base of the Castillo de San Marcos to the San Sebastian River. Located in the historic area, corner of St. George and Orange Streets, downtown.

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THE OLD JAIL Completed in 1891, The Old Jail housed prisoners for over 60 years. This massive Queen Anne style stucco on brick building is on the National Registry of Historic Places. It is one of the very few surviving 19th century incarceration facilities in the state and is the oldest government building in St. Johns County. Guests can visit the cells, maximum security area, the gallows which ended the lives of numerous criminals, and a large collection of guns. 167 San Marco Ave. 904-829-3800 www.trolleytours.com

XIMENEZ-FATIO HOUSE MUSEUM Recognized as one of the best preserved historic buildings in the city, this dwelling was renowned as an inn throughout the 19th century (c. 1798). The site features the area’s only original detached kitchen structure and a 19th- century garden. This unique house museum is a dynamic learning project. As historical research, archaeological exploration and advanced structural analysis continue, it continues to provide new information about St. Augustine’s first tourism boom. 20 Aviles Street 904-829-3575 www.ximenezfatiohouse.org

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OASIS If you’re staying in St. Augustine Beach, The “World Famous” Oasis Deck & Restaurant is your best bet for a fun, casual dining experience serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week from 6am ‘til midnight. We feature blackboard specials everyday. In addition to great steaks, seafood, chicken, ribs, wraps, burgers & dogs, the menu will include a variety of fresh cooked vegetables, potatoes & salads, all served in large portions. All of the menu items are made in-house for freshness. Voted best in St. Augustine 10 years running. Best Happy Hour M-F 3-7pm, It’s always fun at the “O” no matter what time of day it is!!! • Complimentary Sunsets Daily •

4000 A1A SOUTH 904-471-3424. WWW.WORLDFAMOUSOASIS.COM

SALT LIFE SEAFOOD SHACK Where “living the Salt Life” is a part of everyday life. Offering a carefully crafted eclectic menu to cater to all tastes and personalities. Enjoy a wide array of specialty menu items, some favorites we have picked up along the way including a Tuna Poke Bowl (straight from Wishbones in Costa Rica), Fresh Rolled Sushi, Ensenada Taco, Local Fried Shrimp and Beer Can Chicken, there are plenty of options to suit you.

321 A1A BEACH IN ST. AUGUSTINE 904-217-3256 WWW.SALTLIFESEAFOODSHACK.COM

THE REEF There are few remaining true Oceanfront restaurants in Northeast Florida, and of those The Reef commands the most spectacular views. Sit at any table inside and the view is dynamic to say the least, or enjoy the recently expanded deck where you not only look out at The Ocean, you listen to it too as the waves break and the birds cry. Chef Bob Henle has created a menu primarily of fish and seafood balanced with beef, poultry pasta and creative specials, always fresh and sourced locally whenever possible.

4100 COASTAL HWY 904-824-8008 WWW.THEREEFSTAUGUSTINE.COM 56

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INTERACTIVE REFERENCE GUIDE TO ATTRACTIONS • Black Raven Pirate Cruise • Whether you’re an adult or a child, you may sing along with the pirates, participate in instrumental acts, be part of pirate skits & games, listen to true pirate stories, trivia, songs, jokes & face painting. www.pirateshipblackraven (904) 826-0000.

• Ripley’s Ghost Train Adventure • Ripley’s Ghost Train Adventure. The most interactive paranormal experience in St. Augustine. The Adventure begins at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. Voted best Ghost Tour. www.ghosttrainadventure.com (904) 824-1606.

• St. Augustine Scenic Cruise • Enjoy a 1 hour and 15 minute cruise along the waterfront & Matanzas Bay. A unique view of St. Augustine available only from the water, with narration provided by 3rd & 4th generation captains Usina family. www.scenic-cruise.com (904) 824-1806.

• Lightner Museum •

Originally built in 1888 as the Hotel Alcazar by Henry Flagler, the structure was later purchased to house Otto C. Lightner’s collection of art and artifacts. On display are 19th-century furniture & more. www.lightnermuseum.org (904) 824-2874.

• Schooner Freedom 72’ Tall Ship • Sail aboard the “Schooner Freedom” a 72’ tallship with romantic evening sails, or if you prefer, a day sail with three sails daily and even a ‘Ghost Cruise. Departs daily from St. Augustine’s Marina. www.schoonerfreedom.com (904) 810-1010.

• Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse • Authentic building with added animation brings the schoolhouse alive. Life-size figures of teacher & pupils clothed in colonial attire. Make a wish in the wishing well & ring the schoolbell on leaving. www.oldestwoodenschoolhouse.com (904) 824-0192.

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Black Raven will battle it out with the Queen Anne’s Revenge over Blackbeard’s Treasure Chest. Prior to the Sea Battle, children will learn to sword fight, cannon fire will be exchanged between the ships, however, the Black Raven will conquer all, and the booty will be shared by the children. This is the most unique and exciting Treasure Hunt you will ever experience.

Treasure Hunt Trip!

Rum Runners!

Food is included in the ticket price.

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