The park contains historic coquina quarries where stone was mined in the 17th century to build St. Augustine's colonial fortifications.
The beach is composed of quartz sand, which is distinct from the shell-fragment beaches found further south in Florida.
The park is a certified Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail site.
Archaeological evidence in the park suggests occupation by indigenous peoples and later 18th-century Spanish settlers.
The maritime hammock habitat provides a critical ecosystem for gopher tortoises and various migratory birds.
Anastasia State Park encompasses 1,600 acres of pristine beach, tidal marshes, and maritime hammocks on a barrier island in St. Augustine. The park features four miles of white quartz sand beaches protected by extensive sand dunes. Visitors have access to a network of nature trails for hiking and birdwatching through varied coastal ecosystems. The park includes 139 campsites nestled within the shaded maritime hammock forest, each equipped with water and electricity. Recreational equipment rentals are available, including kayaks, canoes, sailboards, and bicycles. The Ancient Dunes Nature Trail provides an elevated view of the unique scrub habitat found along the Florida coastline. Coquina quarries located within the park were historically significant, providing stone for the construction of the nearby Castillo de San Marcos. The tidal salt marshes provide essential habitat for diverse bird species, including osprey, eagles, and painted buntings.
The elevated viewing deck on the Ancient Dunes Nature Trail overlooking the marsh.
Bring a bicycle to traverse the four miles of beach and paved park roads efficiently.
Arrive early on weekends and holidays, as the park reaches capacity and may temporarily close vehicle entry.
Pack insect repellent, as the marshy areas and wooded trails can have high mosquito activity.
Do not attempt to walk through the dunes, as they are protected habitats; use only the marked boardwalks for beach access.
Practice leave-no-trace principles, keep pets on a six-foot leash at all times, and remain on designated trails to protect fragile dune vegetation.
