Welcome to the Florida State Road A1A Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey along Florida’s A1A Scenic Highway with this self-guided driving tour. You’ll start in Jacksonville Beach and end at Fort Matanzas, just south of Saint Augustine. Along the way, get ready for expansive white sand beaches, historic architecture, and so much more. As you drive, you’ll hear fascinating audio stories about flora, fauna, and Florida’s history, from its days as the Winter Film Capital to a devastating fire that nearly destroyed Saint Augustine. This driving tour of A1A is the best way to make the most of your scenic drive!
About the Tour
Your journey begins in Jacksonville Beach, near 7 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach. As you drive south, you’ll hear all about Jacksonville’s history, from its founding to its days as the Winter Film Capital of the world.
Then you’ll have the chance to visit Mickler’s Landing Beach, renowned for its unique pink sands and tranquil seaside views. Then you’ll cruise out along a narrow spit of land through the Guana Reserve, home to some seriously fascinating wildlife.
As you drive, you’ll pass a trio of perfect white sand beaches, which you can choose to skip or visit for as long as you like!
Next, you’ll spot an unusual local landmark before crossing a bridge into historic Saint Augustine, the oldest city in the United States! Here, you’ll see historic architecture like the Old Jail and have a chance to visit the Castillo de San Marcos, an imposing castle built to ward off attacks by the English.
After that, you’ll learn all about gators and crocs, then come to a couple of optional detours to visit the picture-perfect Saint Augustine Lighthouse and yet another gorgeous beach!
Finally, you’ll end up at Fort Matanzas, once an important strategic fortification along Florida’s coast. Your tour concludes here.
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Highway A1A Florida Map
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: Jacksonville Beaches Visitor Center, Florida, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Jacksonville Beach
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Early Days
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Cow Crossing
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Camp Cuba Libre
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The Intracoastal Waterway
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Winter Film Capital of the World
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World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party
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Mickler's Landing & Beach
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Coconut Conundrum
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North Beach
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Hurricane Dora
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Middle Beach
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Gopher Tortoise & Guana Reserve
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Sea Oats & Beachside Flora
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Breton, the Artistic Shark
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Bottlenose Dolphins
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The Timucua
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The Sacking of St. Augustine
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North Beach Park
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The Bluebird of Happiness
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Birdwatching
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St. Augustine Fire of 1914
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The Old Jail
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Castillo de San Marcos
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Bridge of Lions
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St. Augustine Lighthouse
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Anastasia State Park & Beach
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Gator Country
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Wade-Ins
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The St. Augustine Four
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Crescent Beach Park
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Save the Manatees
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Matanzas River
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Fort Matanzas National Monument
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Conclusion
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views, beautiful beaches, and iconic landmarks along the scenic route.
It typically takes 2-3 hours to drive the entire route without stopping.
Yes, many parks, beaches, and outdoor attractions along the route welcome pets, but it’s always best to check individual rules and regulations beforehand.
The best time is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the stunning coastal views in optimal lighting conditions.
Visitors should bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and any snacks or picnic supplies they may need.
Yes, there are plenty of dining options available in towns and beachside communities along the route, offering a variety of cuisine to choose from.
Visitors are welcome to take photographs for personal use, but commercial photography may require permits in certain areas.
Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various stops along the route, including parks, beaches, and rest areas.
Yes, keep an eye out for local events and festivals happening in beachside communities and towns along the route, as they may affect traffic and accommodations availability.
Yes, there are several scenic overlooks, parks, and beaches along the route that offer stunning photo opportunities of the coastline and natural beauty of Florida.
Yes, there are plenty of dining options available in towns and beachside communities along the route, offering a variety of cuisine to choose from.
Late fall to early spring is ideal for a self-guided drive tour along Florida State Road A1A, as the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists crowding the route.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
