Lighthouse and Beach: How to Get There

The main trolley loop does not serve the lighthouse or beach. But your trolley ticket includes the free Beach Bus, a separate shuttle that runs to the St. Augustine Lighthouse and St. Augustine Beach. Board at any trolley stop; it is a 15–20 minute ride south.

Beach Bus routeFrom downtown to St. Augustine Lighthouse & Beach

Beach Bus costFree (included with trolley ticket)

Travel time15–20 minutes from downtown

LighthouseBuilt 1874, working light, museum & tower climb (separate admission)

Tower climb219 steps to top; views of Anastasia Island, barrier island

BeachSmaller, quieter than Daytona or Miami; good for walks

ParkingLimited parking at lighthouse; beach bus is the move

Best timeLate afternoon (3–5 p.m.) for golden light & fewer crowds

The free Beach Bus: do not skip this

Included in your $40 trolley ticket is the free Beach Bus, a separate shuttle operated by Old Town Trolley. It boards at any of the 22 stops (or at the Welcome Center). The ride is 15–20 minutes south down Anastasia Boulevard to the lighthouse and beach area. No new ticket. No extra cost. Just show your trolley ticket and board.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse (built 1874)

The lighthouse sits at the tip of Anastasia Island. It is a working, active light, and it is open to visitors. Entry to the museum and tower charges its own admission. The tower has 219 steps; the view from the top shows Anastasia Island, the inlet, and the barrier islands. On a clear day, you can see where the ocean and the inlet meet. Climb on a calm afternoon for the best light.

St. Augustine Beach

The beach is smaller and quieter than what you find in Daytona or Miami. No high-rises, no crowded beach bars. The sand is there, the water is there, and it is real. Walk the shoreline, collect shells, wade in the water, or sit on the sand and watch. It is not a resort beach; it is a beach. Most trolley visitors walk for 30 minutes to an hour, then catch the Beach Bus back downtown.

Best time: late afternoon

Visit the lighthouse and beach after 3 p.m. The light turns golden, the crowds thin, and you have time before dinner. Catch the 3 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. Beach Bus from downtown, spend an hour at the lighthouse and beach, and catch the bus back by 5 p.m. You are back at the Welcome Center by 5:30 p.m., ready for dinner on St. George Street.

Board the Beach Bus from any trolley stop

Free for trolley ticket holders. 15–20 minute ride to the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Beach. Go after 3 p.m. for golden light and fewer crowds.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the lighthouse?

Free Beach Bus included with your trolley ticket. Board at any of the 22 trolley stops or the Welcome Center. 15–20 minute ride to the St. Augustine Lighthouse. No new ticket needed.

Is there a beach near downtown?

The main loop does not serve the beach, but the free Beach Bus does (same ticket). St. Augustine Beach is smaller and quieter than resort beaches. Walk the sand, collect shells, or just sit and watch the water.

Can I climb the lighthouse tower?

Yes. The museum and tower climb charge their own admission. 219 steps to the top. The view is worth it on a clear day. Go after 3 p.m. for the best light.