This Florida Keys All-American Road Is the Ultimate US Road Trip
Laced between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, Florida's A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway is the road trip of a lifetime. Stretching 72 miles along the east coast of North Central Florida, the byway is stunning from every angle. Accordingly, the journey is the true prize of this drive, spotlighting a tapestry of coastal views in lieu of a single destination.
Even so, this Florida road has some remarkable stops along the way. Its beaches, state parks, and historic landmarks are some of the best in North America, from Caribbean-blue waterfronts to the "Nation's Oldest City.” Better yet, explorers can sculpt the road trip of their dreams, choosing where to stop and for how long. Whether driving straight through, pausing for spontaneous pitstops, or planning for overnight stays, this All-American Road is the ultimate US road trip, promising a bucket list-worthy adventure.
Things To Know Before You Go
The A1A is a fun-packed road trip route, so if you want your trip to be the best it can be, there are a few points to consider. Ponte Vedra is the road’s northern starting point, with the whole ride ending south in Flagler Beach. The 72-mile stretch can be completed in anywhere from 90 minutes to a week, all depending on which stops you take and how long you wander.
Unlike some of America’s scenic mountain byways, the A1A is generally open year-round due to Florida’s steady weather. Still, the best time of year to take the drive depends on what you want most out of your trip. Spring, fall, and winter promise thinner crowds and mellowed temperatures, while summer is considered peak season. These warmer months feature beaches in full swing, more lifeguards on duty, and a higher chance to spot certain wildlife, such as manatees and dolphins.
Since the A1A is a public highway, the route is free to drive so long as you avoid connecting toll roads and bridges. But keep in mind that certain beaches, parking lots, excursions, and attractions along the route require their own fees. Make sure to have several forms of payment on hand, and plan accordingly if you have your heart set on a certain attraction or experience.
Top Stops Along The A1A
Bird Island Park
A popular first stop on the A1A, Bird Island Park is a serene and scenic spot to experience Florida's Northeast ecosystems. Situated next to the Ponte Vedra Beach Library, this free-admission park immerses guests in a beautiful Florida wetland and upland hammock. Centered around a picturesque tree-bordered pond, this prominent bird migration site is a fabulous showcase of Florida’s wild side.
Encircling the water with educational signage, the boardwalk spotlights native flora and fauna. The stroll may also include wildlife encounters, such as the long-necked anhinga and heron. Afterward, kiddos can enjoy the hedged sea turtle maze and play equipment, and there are also plenty of picnic tables and benches to enjoy a packed lunch or snack.
Mickler’s Landing
Continuing south along the A1A, Mickler’s Landing is the first public beach on your journey, famous for its pale pink sands. Just 2 blocks east of the byway, the beach is tucked behind twenty-foot dunes. Although it is free to visit, it’s also easy to miss if you don’t know where to look, making it a treasure for those who find it. After parking, a wooden ADA walkway leads through the towering dunes to an unspoiled shore. A peaceful place to swim, hunt for shark teeth, and spot a sea turtle or two, this pink coquina sand beach is a unique slice of Florida.
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
For a wider range of beautiful beaches and recreation, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas (GTM) National Estuarine Research Reserve is a stunning next stop. This 73,000-acre nature haven is bounded by the Atlantic, encompassing the Guana River, wetlands, estuarine lagoons, and upland habitats. Whether you want a relaxing beach day or an active outdoor adventure, the reserve has something exciting for all who pass through.
Guana’s beach lots and nature trails can be explored year-round, priced at $3 per vehicle of up to 8 people, or $1 per pedestrian and extra passengers. Its Atlantic-facing sands stretch for miles, with plenty of room to sunbathe, swim, and hunt for seashells. For kayaking, the North Guana Outpost offers rentals and guided tours, including their riveting Kayak Eco Tours and Sunset Bioluminescence Kayak Tours. Back on land, hikes range from the 0.3-mile Sensory Trail to the 5.8-mile Red Trail, winding through the reserve’s dynamic ecosystems.
GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center
Road trippers with youngsters may prefer the GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center, a family-friendly way to explore the reserve. The attraction welcomes groups of 5 and under for just $3, while children under 12 visit for free. Open year-round, the center features aquariums, a full-scale model whale, and other exciting interpretive exhibits. Guided eco tours, kayak launches, and 9 miles of nature trails are also available outside, spotlighting sites like the GTMNERR Native Plant Garden. The center is also just steps away from the Guana River, Guana River Dam, and public Ponte Vedra Beach Access.
Town of St. Augustine
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is a must-see stop along the A1A, boasting some of Florida’s greatest historic sites and one-of-a-kind attractions. As the "Nation’s Oldest City,” St. Augustine is home to some of the country’s oldest surviving landmarks, including the grand Castillo de San Marcos. Constructed from 1672 to 1695, this striking fortress overlooks the Matanzas Bay, pairing history with jaw-dropping views.
St. Augustine’s Historic Downtown is another epic road trip addition. The district is teeming with sights and experiences, such as the 19th-century Old Jail Museum, 90-minute long Old Town Trolley Tours, and strolls through the pedestrian-only St. George Street. This European-inspired strip can be explored entirely on foot, whether grabbing a bite at the Prohibition Kitchen or touring the 18th-century Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse museum.
Anastasia State Park
After exploring Downtown St. Augustine, the iconic Bridge of Lions will connect you to Anastasia Island and its namesake state park. Spanning more than 1,600 acres, Anastasia State Park is a spectacular quilt of tidal marshes, beachfronts, sand dunes, and maritime hammocks. The Ancient Dunes Nature Trail is its most popular hiking route, while paddlers can cruise the Salt Run, an estuarine tidal marsh. As for fun in the sand, Anastasia’s 4-mile beach is a stunning place to fish, surf, and hunt for shells at low tide. Swimming is also available year-round, with a lifeguard on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
A centerpiece of Palm Coast, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is an enchanting road trip addition. Snug between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, this 425-acre paradise is a serene spot to picnic or stretch your legs. Its formal gardens are the highlight attraction, featuring picturesque reflection ponds, walking paths, and a range of colorful flora. December through early March is the best time to see the Camellias bloom, while azaleas pop from late February through April. As for year-round scenic scenes, other highlights include a coquina rock beach and Matanzas River views from the park’s oak-shaded picnic area.
Gamble Rogers State Park
Ending our A1A journey in Flagler Beach, Gamble Rogers State Park is the ultimate road trip finale. A full-circle stop, much like Mickler’s Landing, the park is known for its soft coquina sands. The barrier island park is also positioned between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering the best of both worlds. On the ocean side, surfing, swimming, sand sculpting, and sunbathing are just some of the ways to enjoy Gamble’s beaches. Conversely, the Intracoastal Waterway side is preferred for kayaking, hiking the Joe Kenner Nature Trail, and wildlife spotting. During warm spring and summer months, manatees and dolphins can frequently be spotted from kayaks or from shore.
Exploring Florida On The A1A
Whether driving the A1A with a packed itinerary or going in with no plan, this Florida All-American Road is the ultimate way to see the best of Florida. Home to some of the Sunshine State’s coolest historic, commercial, and natural attractions, the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway grants access to immeasurable splendor in one postcard stretch. From hidden gems like Mickler’s Landing to full-of-life locales like St. Augustine, your trip down the A1A can be whatever you want it to be, with no dull moments in sight.
