When many people from other states think of Florida, the first thing that comes to mind is a major theme park. When we think of the Sunshine State, however, we think of history, nature, and adventure. This island on Florida’s Atlantic coast is the perfect example. We think summer is a great time to visit in order to beat the crowds, but it’s truly worth a trip any time of year.

Anastasia Island is 14-mile-long barrier island that sits just east of St. Augustine. The island is home to Anastasia State Park, which is one of our favorite camping spots in the region.
Flickr/janhatesmarcia
Spending the night at this park is a great way to be close to all of St. Augustine's sights but removed from the busy touristy spots. In fact, you'll be surrounded by low-reaching limbs and a short walk from a beautiful, building-free beach, which is pretty hard to beat.
Flickr/Rich Luhr
The iconic black and white St. Augustine Lighthouse is also located on Anastasia Island. The lighthouse and the surrounding homes date back to the late 1800s.
Flickr/Moultrie Creek

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Visitors have the opportunity to learn all about the history of the lighthouse at its on-site museum and can even climb to the top for an amazing view. From there, you can see the tidal lagoon that visitors can explore with canoes, kayaks, and sailboats rented in the park.
Flickr/Gary J. Wood
Fort Matanzas is located on Anastasia Island. There is a trail here that will lead you to the quarry where the coquina was sourced for St. Augustine's most famous fort, Castillo de San Marcos.
Flickr/Evangelio Gonzalez
Cross the picturesque Bridge of Lions, and you'll be right in the middle of downtown St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city. Whether you want to visit historic landmarks or try out new shops and restaurants, you will never run out of things to do here.
Flickr/Evangelio Gonzalez

Have you ever visited Anastasia Island and/or Anastasia State Park? What’s your favorite way to explore the First Coast?

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