St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra, FL

Florida’s Historic Coast features over 450 years of history, immaculate beaches and world-class dining and entertainment. With all of this, it’s obvious St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra is the ideal family reunion getaway

"The Visitor and Convention Bureau exceeded my family's expectation. I am glad that we chose to visit St. Augustine, Florida. Florida’s Historic Coast offered the perfect setting to reflect our family’s legacy of making memories and providing opportunities for our growing generation.”

– Mr. Michael B. Campbell McPherson-Campbell Family Reunion

The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine boasts centuries of history and tradition. St. Augustine also has a thriving, modern arts and entertainment scene, delectable contemporary cuisine cooked up by top chefs and a range of outdoor activities to enjoy. Needless to say, family reunions will never be dull in this centuries-old Florida city. Established in 1565, St. Augustine is home to more than 60 historic sites and attractions.

Families can explore the bricked lanes and historic sites around downtown and visit the Oldest Wooden School House, a National Historic Landmark that dates back to the early 1700s. This historic museum is touted as the oldest wooden school building in the country. Another site not to be missed is Castillo de San Marcos. A National Monument said to be the oldest masonry fort in the United States and the only standing 17th century military construction, this large Spanish stone fortress was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World. At more than 315 years old, the monument is the oldest structure in St. Augustine.

For families that thrive on outdoor adventure, the 1600-acre Anastasia State Park offers virgin beaches, tidal marshes, and sand dunes in addition to a variety of wildlife and bird and plant species. A favorite spot for camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking, within the park is the Old Spanish Coquina Quarries archeological site.

New Memories Await

Everyone in the family will love a visit to Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the original 1565 site of St. Augustine. Here, guests can learn how explorers navigated in the 1500s at the Navigators’ Planetarium, take a sip from the Spring of Eternal Hope or climb up the Spanish watchtowers overlooking the ocean. No trip to St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra would be complete without a visit to one of the many stunning beaches along the shore. Ponte Vedra Beach and Vilano Beach are just two options, but there are many others to enjoy as well.

Other fun-filled activities in St. Augustine include swimming with dolphins at Marineland and ecological boat tours through the Ancient City waterways. Enjoy wildlife shows and ziplining at St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Have some family fun on the beachfront. St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra provides a unique mix of culture, history, and charm that you can’t find anywhere else. With 42 miles of pristine coastline, local cuisine and plenty of activities, there’s something for everyone. Guaranteed to elevate your next reunion, St. Augustine I Ponte Vedra provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable event sure to leave a lasting impression. From ballrooms to beaches, make your next reunion unforgettable.

CONTACT:

Dr. Jaya Dillard, Sales and Services Manager St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau 800-418-7529 ext. 2009 JDillard@FloridasHistoricCoast.com www.FHCReunions.com

NORTH CAROLINA’S CRYSTAL COAST: WHY REUNITE HERE

• 85 miles of coastline with pristine beaches

• Great deals on oceanfront hotels and condos, camping and RV parks, and beachfront cottages

• Exciting outdoor activities like birding, fishing, boating, and kayaking

• Vibrant restaurant and entertainment scene