St. Augustine’s guided tours showcase America’s oldest city with efficiency and historical substance. The most worthwhile experiences include the classic walking tours through the colonial quarter, which let you dodge the crowds while learning from local experts. For nature enthusiasts, the airboat safaris along the coast offer close encounters with wildlife and superb photo opportunities. The evening ghost tours by golf cart stand out for combining historical facts with spooky stories – perfect for families and history buffs alike.

What makes these tours special is their authenticity: knowledgeable guides who skip the tourist traps and focus on genuine local history, from Spanish colonial times to the Civil Rights era. The small group sizes ensure personal attention and better access to historic sites.

Let’s examine the top-rated tours that best capture St. Augustine’s essence.

Key Points

  • The Guided History Walking Tour (4.6/5 rating) provides a 1.5-hour exploration of St. Augustine’s historic district, the oldest in the USA, with knowledgeable guides.
  • The City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise (priced from $194 per person) offers a 4-hour experience that includes a scenic boat cruise and visits to iconic landmarks.
  • The St. Johns River Airboat Safari (4.9/5 rating) provides a 1.5-hour high-powered airboat experience with opportunities to spot wildlife like alligators and birds.
  • The Hauntings and Ghosts Guided Tour by Golf Cart (4.6/5 rating) explores haunted landmarks in St. Augustine’s historic district via an electric golf cart.
  • The Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour (5/5 rating) focuses on educational and entertaining ghost stories, suitable for both adults and children.

St. Augustine: Guided History Walking Tour

St. Augustine: Guided History Walking Tour

For those eager to uncover the rich history of St. Augustine, the Guided History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience. Spanning 1.5 hours, this tour takes participants through the city’s historic district, the oldest in the USA, with a history stretching over 450 years.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour showcases key landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the US. Guests will learn about the city’s evolution under three separate empires and receive insider recommendations for dining and nightlife.

The tour accommodates up to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at €31.49 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible booking options, including a reserve now, pay later option.

With a 4.6/5 rating based on 12 reviews, the tour receives high praise for its informative guides, such as Russell, Steven, and Amy, who provide exceptional historical insights and local recommendations.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: Guided History Walking Tour Review
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St. Augustine: Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise

St. Augustine: Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise

The St. Augustine Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise provides a comprehensive look at the historic city. Priced from $194 per person, this 4-hour tour has a group size limited to 7 participants and is conducted in English.

Wheelchair accessibility is available, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a guided exploration of St. Augustine’s landmarks, such as the Old Senator Tree, Cathedral Basilica, and Eddie Vickers Park. Visitors will also tour the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and enjoy a scenic boat cruise with panoramic coastal views.

Additional stops include the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.

Included in the tour are a local guide, free pickup and drop-off, admission fees, and a driving tour of St. Augustine. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, and guests should dress appropriately for the weather.

Food, drinks, and tips aren’t included.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise Review
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St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari With a Guide

St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari With a Guide

Adventurous travelers visiting St. Augustine won’t want to miss the thrilling St. Johns River Airboat Safari. Priced at $79.95 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour whisks participants through the scenic Florida wetlands on a high-powered airboat.

During the ride, guests can spot alligators, turtles, snakes, and a variety of birds in their natural habitats. A knowledgeable guide provides historical insights about the St. Johns River and its tributaries. The tour includes headsets for clear audio, ensuring no one misses a word.

With an impressive 4.9/5 overall rating based on 54 reviews, this airboat safari delivers excellent value. Customers praise the guide’s expertise and the thrilling, well-organized experience. The tour is suitable for all ages, though unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

Departing from Trout Creek Marina, this tour runs rain or shine, but is subject to weather conditions. Booking in advance is recommended, as tours often sell out, especially during peak seasons.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: St. Johns River Airboat Safari With a Guide Review
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St. Augustine: Hauntings and Ghosts Guided Tour by Golf Cart

St. Augustine: Hauntings and Ghosts Guided Tour by Golf Cart

Travelers visiting St. Augustine can explore the city’s haunted past on the “St. Augustine: Hauntings and Ghosts Guided Tour by Golf Cart.” This 75-minute tour takes participants in a comfortable electric golf cart to some of the most haunted landmarks in the city, including the Alcazar Hotel, Tolomato Cemetery, Castillo de San Marcos, and Huguenot Cemetery.

Led by knowledgeable guides, such as Bob and Robert, the tour brings the city’s ghostly history to life through spooky stories. Participants can expect to hear tales of the paranormal while seeing the ambiance of St. Augustine’s narrow cobblestone streets.

The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience. With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 19 reviews, the tour is praised for its polite, funny, and amazing storytellers.

Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a risk-free way to discover the haunted side of one of the most haunted cities in the United States.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: Hauntings and Ghosts Guided Tour by Golf Cart Review
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St. Augustine: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour With a Guide

St. Augustine: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour With a Guide

One of the must-try guided tours in St. Augustine is the Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour. This 2.5-hour evening experience takes visitors on a journey through the city’s eerie watering holes, exploring their ghostly backstories.

Led by an engaging and informative guide, the tour promises a memorable night out with friends. Participants will discover St. Augustine’s haunted pubs, enjoying drinks at each location and learning about the spooky history behind them.

The tour also includes a short stroll through the Historic District, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich past. While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals under 21 or those with mobility impairments, it offers a unique way to experience the paranormal side of St. Augustine.

With an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, the Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour is a popular choice for those seeking a fun and informative evening. Guests can expect an energetic storytelling experience and a cozy, enjoyable atmosphere in the visited pubs.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour With a Guide Review
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St. Augustine: Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour

St. Augustine: Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour

For families seeking a more family-friendly ghost tour experience in St. Augustine, the “Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour” is an excellent option.

This 1.5-hour walking tour takes visitors through the historic city’s haunted locations, including the Castillo de San Marcos, Huguenot Cemetery, and Tolomato Cemetery. Led by an expert guide, the tour provides an engaging and educational experience, sharing true stories from four centuries of St. Augustine’s history, such as tales of pirates, bandits, and the city’s founding phantoms.

At just $24.99 per person, the tour offers great value, with a small group size limited to 9 participants. The tour is also wheelchair accessible and runs rain or shine, making it a convenient and inclusive option for families.

With a 5/5 rating based on traveler reviews, this ghost tour is an ideal way for families to explore the eerie side of St. Augustine’s rich history.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour Review
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St. Augustine Beach: Sand Surfing and Guided Beach Ride

St. Augustine Beach: Sand Surfing and Guided Beach Ride

At St. Augustine Beach, visitors can enjoy an exhilarating sand surfing experience led by knowledgeable guides. The activity lasts for 1 hour and costs $125 per person, with a maximum group size of 6 participants.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all. Booking is flexible, as guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The guided tour is family-friendly, with an English-speaking guide leading participants along the scenic Atlantic coastline. The tour schedule is adjusted based on the tide, ensuring the most suitable conditions.

Highlights include gliding on electric sandboards, with the option to stand or sit, and enjoying breathtaking views of the beach and ocean. Guests will receive complimentary video footage of their ride, and the activity is recommended during sunrise or sunset for enhanced scenery.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen, as the tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 300 lbs.

Read our full review: St. Augustine Beach: Sand Surfing and Guided Beach Ride Review
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St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl

St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl

Visitors to St. Augustine can explore the dark side of the city’s history on the True Crime Guided Pub Crawl. Priced at $35 per person, this 2-hour small-group tour (limited to 9 participants) allows you to uncover the area’s unsolved murders and serial killer stories while sipping on locally brewed drinks.

The tour visits historic bars like Forgotten Tonic, Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila, and Prohibition Kitchen, where you’ll hear tales of killers like William Darrell Lindsey and the murder of Father Rene Robert.

You’ll also explore the Aviles Street murder from 1800 and the unsolved case of Lieutenant Guillermo Delaney.

The tour departs from the Pizalleys Chianti Room and covers 0.9 miles. While video recording isn’t allowed, you’ll need to bring a valid ID.

With an overall rating of 4/5 from 21 reviews, the True Crime Guided Pub Crawl offers an engaging and informative look at St. Augustine’s darker past.

Read our full review: St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?

Yes, visitors can typically bring their own food and drinks on guided tours. Many tour companies encourage this to enhance the overall experience and allow guests to enjoy the sights at their own pace.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Guided Tours?

Most guided tours in St. Augustine don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for all participants.

Do the Tours Accommodate Wheelchair or Mobility-Impaired Guests?

Most guided tours in St. Augustine accommodate wheelchair and mobility-impaired guests. They provide access to historic sites and allow visitors to fully experience the city’s rich history. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility options when booking a tour.

Are Pets Allowed to Join the Guided Tours?

Most guided tours don’t allow pets, as they’re primarily designed for human participants. However, some tours may accommodate service animals. It’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to inquire about their pet policy.

Can I Take Photographs During the Guided Tours?

Most guided tours in St. Augustine allow taking photographs, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or guidelines to ensure all guests can enjoy the experience without disruption.

The Sum Up

St. Augustine offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and haunted past. From walking tours and scenic cruises to airboat safaris and pub crawls, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in learning about the city’s colonial heritage or uncovering its paranormal side, these guided tours provide an engaging and immersive experience.