Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026 Each winter, the Nation’s Oldest City transforms into a glowing wonderland of twinkling white lights. The St. Augustine Nights of Lights celebration has earned national recognition as one of the best holiday light displays in the world — and for good reason. For nearly two months, millions of tiny white bulbs illuminate every corner of the historic district, creating a festive, storybook atmosphere that draws visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family weekend, or a night out with friends, this guide will help you experience Nights of Lights like a local — with insider tips, timing tricks, and a few hidden gems most visitors miss. 💡 Light-Up Night: November 15, 2025 If you’re planning to attend Light-Up Night , mark your calendar — and pack your patience. Think Times Square on New Year’s Eve vibes. Streets will close, crowds will fill the Plaza de la Constitución and Bayfront , and the excitement is electric. For the best viewing, grab a spot early along the Bayfront or town square. Public restrooms are limited, so plan ahead. Local Tip: Arrive early, grab dinner, and claim your viewing spot before the switch flips! 🚗 Traffic, Parking & Sanity-Saving Tips Here’s the truth: traffic gets wild on Saturdays, especially the ones leading up to Christmas. Congestion usually starts an hour before sundown, peaking between 7–8 PM. Your best bet? Park in the City Parking Garage for convenience — but know that it fills up fast on peak weekends. Local Tip: If you don’t mind a short 10–15 minute walk, Seaside Adventures often has easy parking right off US-1 for a fraction of the price. Bonus: getting in and out is a breeze, without the gridlock of downtown. You can call ahead to see if spaces are still available at 904-923-1010 🌙 How to Avoid the Crowds Want the lights all to yourself? Come on a Tuesday or Wednesday if you can. Midweek magic = fewer crowds, easy parking, and the same sparkle. Or here’s the real insider secret: come late. Most visitors do dinner, then stroll the lights. But around 10 or 11 PM , St. Augustine goes quiet. The streets empty out, and suddenly you’ve got the whole twinkling city to yourself. 💍 Thinking about popping the question? Late-night proposals here are unforgettable — extra points if you book a professional photographer. Trust us, it’s pure romance. 👩‍👧 Mom Hack: Glow Gear & Pajama Power Parents, this one’s for you! Your kids will want those glowing necklaces and bubble wands sold by street vendors… for a small fortune. Save yourself (and your wallet) by hitting up Dollar Tree or Five Below before you go. Bring your own glow stash, and you’ll be the hero of the night. And hey, matching family pajamas ? Totally acceptable — encouraged, even! They make adorable photos, especially if you’re taking a Seaside Adventures Moke tour through the lights. 🧤 Weather: Yes, Florida Gets Cold! Don’t be fooled by our palm trees — it can get chilly, especially along the breezy bayfront. Evening temperatures often dip into the 40s or 50s. Dress in layers , and bring beanies and gloves just in case. You’ll thank yourself when that coastal wind kicks in. 🏨 Where to Stay If you want to stay right in the heart of the festivities, the Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel offers an ideal blend of charm and modern comfort. It’s beautifully decorated for the holidays and within easy walking distance of the lights. For a quieter escape, head over the bridge to Vilano Beach. The Hyatt Place Vilano Beach provides a modern coastal vibe, ocean views, and a short drive into downtown — perfect for those who want the best of both worlds. 🍽️ Dining During Nights of Lights Dining in St. Augustine during Nights of Lights can be an experience all on its own — if you plan ahead. Many restaurants switch to walk-up wait list only on weekends, and wait times can easily stretch 1.5 - 2 hours. But with good timing (and a little patience), you’ll find incredible local flavors worth the wait. Here are a few favorites that pair perfectly with an evening under the lights: Casa Reina – Modern Mexican cuisine served with a rooftop view of the Bayfront. Expect creative tacos, sizzling fajitas, and signature margaritas in a lively, colorful atmosphere. ($$) River & Fort – A Southern coastal restaurant known for fresh seafood, steaks, and small plates. Its elegant rooftop terrace overlooks the Plaza and waterfront — one of the best dinner views in the city. ($$–$$$) Saint Italian Restaurant – This stylish spot blends Italian-inspired cuisine with craft cocktails in a chic, moody setting. Think handmade pasta, fine wines, and a romantic ambiance that’s perfect for date night. ($$$-$$$$) Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille – A St. Augustine classic featuring New Orleans–inspired Cajun and Creole fare. From shrimp po’boys to jambalaya, it’s a crowd-pleaser with courtyard dining under the lights. ($$) Forgotten Tonic – A hidden gem on Aviles Street serving seasonal, chef-driven dishes with a cozy, festive vibe. Their Christmas pop-up décor is a favorite local secret — and yes, they take reservations! ($$$) For before- or after-dinner drinks, stop by the Tini Martini Bar at the Bayfront. With an extensive martini menu, glowing views of the waterfront, and a cozy outdoor patio, it’s a can’t-miss holiday stop. Just know it’s one of the most popular spots in town during Nights of Lights — expect a line to get in, and plan ahead if you want that perfect seat with a view. If you’d rather escape the downtown crowds , three local favorites nearby offer fantastic food and a relaxed atmosphere: V’s Pizza – Just minutes from the historic district, V’s serves up authentic brick-oven pizzas, wings, and Italian comfort food in a laid-back, family-friendly setting. The large outdoor patio (with games like gaga ball) is perfect for kids to move around while parents enjoy a drink under the string lights. Parking is plentiful and stress-free — a rarity this time of year. ($$) Brisky’s BBQ – Don’t let the simple exterior fool you — this is some of the best barbecue in St. Augustine and a go-to spot for locals. Brisky’s smokes their meats in-house, offering tender pulled pork, brisket, and ribs that melt in your mouth. They close early, so plan to go for lunch or an early dinner. ($) Black Molly Grill – A charming American bistro with fresh seafood and seasonal dishes tucked away just outside the hustle of downtown. The outdoor seating is perfect for a relaxed evening, and their creative cocktails and local craft beers make it a great stop for both families and couples looking for a quieter dining experience. ($$–$$$) 📸 Best Photo Spots St. Augustine is full of magical photo opportunities during Nights of Lights, but a few standouts are absolute must-sees: Hilton Bayfront – This hotel consistently wins for best light display in the city. Don’t miss the famous Nights of Lights sign on their wall — it’s a perfect backdrop for a holiday photo. Renaissance St. Augustine – Beautifully decorated and less crowded, the Renaissance offers a more relaxed setting for stunning photos without the hustle of the main streets. Town Square – The historic heart of St. Augustine is beautifully decorated and hosts the city’s Christmas tree, making it a natural gathering spot for photos. This is also where many magical proposals happen, so keep your eyes open for some extra holiday romance! Bridge of Lions – Home to the city’s famous marble lions, this iconic bridge may not be decorated, but the views from this spot are stunning. Snap a photo with the lights in the background to capture the perfect mix of history and holiday sparkle. Lightner Museum – This historic building is elegantly lit during the season, offering a classic, sophisticated backdrop for your photos. 360 photo pop-ups – These interactive installations pop up throughout the historic district each year and are perfect for fun family or couple shots. Local secret: Hidden among the millions of white lights in the Plaza, you’ll find one red bulb and one green bulb — a longtime local tradition that few visitors know about. Challenge yourself to spot them! 🌴 The Best Way to See the Lights Looking for a fun, festive, and completely stress-free way to experience Nights of Lights? Hop on one of our private guided Moke tours and let the magic of St. Augustine unfold around you. These open-air electric Mokes are full of holiday cheer and guaranteed to turn heads as you cruise through the historic district. Your personal guide shares local stories, hidden gems, and insider tips, making the experience as entertaining as it is memorable. The best part? Digital photos of your whole group are included , so you can focus on enjoying the lights without worrying about selfies or missing anyone in the shot. Plus, free, easy parking is included , making this one of the simplest and most stress-free ways to explore the holiday magic. Whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic night out, or a late-night festive cruise, this private Moke tour is the ultimate way to see St. Augustine sparkle. ♿ Accessibility & Family-Friendly Rentals Exploring St. Augustine during Nights of Lights is magical, but walking the historic streets for hours can be tiring — especially for little ones or anyone with mobility needs. Luckily, strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, and wagons are easy to rent right in the historic district. Mr. Brent’s Ticket Booth , conveniently located in front of Anne O’Malley’s, has you covered with a variety of rentals to make your evening comfortable and stress-free. This means you can focus on enjoying the lights, taking photos, and soaking in the holiday spirit, without worrying about navigating cobblestones or carrying little ones for miles. Whether you’re visiting with kids, grandparents, or anyone who benefits from a little extra mobility support, this makes exploring the city easy, accessible, and fun for everyone. 🎁 Don’t Miss the Colonial Quarter Christmas Market While you’re exploring downtown, be sure to wander through the Colonial Quarter Christmas Market — one of St. Augustine’s most festive hidden gems. This open-air market is filled with local vendors, handmade gifts, holiday décor, and seasonal treats that perfectly capture the charm of the city. It’s a great place to sip hot cocoa, listen to live music, and pick up unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind ornaments or locally made candles, you’ll find plenty of ways to take a little piece of St. Augustine’s holiday spirit home with you. 🎄 Final Tips from Your Local Friends Nights of Lights is more than just a holiday display — it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the people who make St. Augustine so special. The locals pour their hearts into this magical event, and every twinkling light supports historic businesses, artisans, and families who have made this a beloved holiday tradition for generations. We’re so thankful to everyone who comes to experience it and make it part of their own family memories. A few quick tips to make your visit as magical as possible: Plan ahead — especially for weekends, dinner times, and Light-Up Night. Dress warm — layers, cozy hats, and gloves make a big difference on chilly evenings. Comfy shoes are a must — the historic streets are beautiful, but cobblestones can be tricky. Patience = happiness — the city shines brightest when you slow down, savor the lights, and soak in the holiday spirit. From all of us at Seaside Adventures , we hope your Nights of Lights 2025 experience is magical, memorable, and full of joy . Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand through the Plaza, enjoying a festive dinner, or cruising in one of our private Mokes, this is truly the most wonderful time of the year in St. Augustine. We proudly welcome you to our beautiful city of St. Augustine — enjoy every twinkle and every smile!

St. Augustine, Florida — widely regarded as one of the most haunted cities in the nation — has no shortage of ghostly tales and chilling encounters. With a rich history dating back to 1565, the nation's oldest city has seen centuries of tragedy, war, and untimely deaths, leaving behind restless spirits and a plethora of haunted locations. Now, Seaside Adventures is thrilled to offer a brand-new ghost tour that allows you to experience the city's haunted past in a completely unique and immersive way. What sets our ghost tour apart from the rest? Glad you asked! Here's why you should hop aboard our open-air electric Moke for a chilling adventure like no other. A Private Experience Just for You Unlike traditional walking ghost tours that are open to large groups of strangers, our ghost tour is completely private — meaning it's just you and your group of up to five people. This allows for a more personalized and intimate experience where you can ask questions, share your own ghost stories, or simply take in the eerie atmosphere without distraction. Comfort and Convenience One of the biggest advantages of our ghost tour is that it's a driving tour, which means no long walks in the Florida heat or struggling to keep up with a large group. Your tour guide will chauffeur you from one haunted location to the next in our all-electric open-air Moke, ensuring you stay comfortable while covering more haunted territory in less time. This is especially perfect for guests with mobility concerns or those who simply want a more laid-back ghost-hunting experience. Immersive Experience with Two-Way Headsets To make sure you don’t miss a single spooky detail, we provide all of our guests with two-way headset communicators. This allows you to easily hear your guide as they share bone-chilling tales about each location — no straining to hear or missing any part of the story. Better yet, it also allows you to interact with your guide, ask questions, make comments, or even share your own paranormal experiences along the way. Hands-On Ghost Hunting with EMF Meters Ever wondered if you'd be able to detect paranormal activity yourself? We’ve got you covered! During the tour, we’ll provide each group with EMF (Electromagnetic Field) meters, the same type of equipment that paranormal investigators use to detect spiritual energy. As you approach some of the city's most haunted sites, keep an eye on the meter — you never know when you might have an uninvited guest nearby. The Ultimate Ghost Tour Route Unlike walking tours where you often have to choose just a few haunted spots to visit, our driving tour covers all the major haunted hotspots in St. Augustine. Along the way, you'll visit: Huguenot Cemetery – Final resting place of yellow fever victims and restless spirits. Tolomato Cemetery – One of the oldest cemeteries in the city with countless ghost sightings. Flagler College – Formerly the Ponce de Leon Hotel, where ghostly apparitions of former guests still roam. Spanish Military Hospital – A site filled with stories of lingering spirits and mysterious occurrences. St. Augustine Lighthouse – Famous for its ghostly history and tragic tales. Castillo de San Marcos – The iconic fort that still houses the spirits of soldiers and prisoners. The Old City Gates – Many visitors claim to have encountered ghostly figures here at night. While our tour does not go inside any buildings, you’ll have the opportunity to step onto haunted grounds and feel the energy for yourself. You never know when a spirit might decide to make itself known! Pet-Friendly Tours Have a well-behaved pup that wants in on the fun? No problem! Our tours are pet-friendly, so your four-legged friend is welcome to join in on the ghostly adventure. After all, who knows — they might just pick up on a presence that we can't see. Local Guides with Personal Stories What makes this tour even more special is that our guides aren't just reading from a script — they grew up in the area and have heard these chilling tales passed down for generations. In fact, many of our guides have their own first-hand paranormal experiences from around St. Augustine, and they’re happy to share their own eerie encounters along the way. Ready for a Frightfully Fun Night? If you're looking for a private, immersive, and unforgettable ghost tour experience in St. Augustine, this is the one for you. Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast, a curious skeptic, or just looking for a thrilling evening, Seaside Adventures will deliver a night you'll never forget. Don’t wait — spots for our private ghost tours fill up quickly! Book your haunting adventure today and get ready to come face-to-face with the spirits of St. Augustine.

Seaside Adventures is pleased to announce today that it has been recognized in Tripadivsor’s® Travelers’ Choice® Awards for 2024. The award honors businesses that consistently earn great reviews, placing them among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor. As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12- month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of great places to visit. This recognition means the world to us as a family-owned and operated business. Crystal shared, "We are so proud and excited to receive this honor. It's a celebration not just for Tommy and me, but also with our children who are a big part of our journey." Tommy added, "We couldn't have done it without the amazing support of our customers. Your loyalty and enthusiasm fuel our passion, and we are deeply grateful for each and every one of you. Thank you for being a part of our Seaside Adventures family!" “Congratulations to Seaside Adventures on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2024,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “Travelers’ Choice honors businesses that consistently demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence. This means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took the time to go online and leave a great review about their experience. People rely on Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice seal to help them navigate the myriad of things to see, eat and do across the globe. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2024 and beyond.” Check out all the reviews and discover more about Seaside Adventures here: Seaside Adventures Tripadvisor About Seaside Adventures Seaside Adventures, originally named Seaside Slingshots, was founded by husband-and-wife team Tommy and Crystal Horton and is a TripAdvisor 2024 Traveler’s Choice Award winner. They offer fun and unique transportation rentals in historic St. Augustine, including golf carts, Polaris Slingshots, Arcimoto electric vehicles, Sand Surfer Electric Skateboards, and Mokes. Located at 606 North Ponce de Leon Drive in St. Augustine, the store is open Monday - Saturday 9am-9pm and Sundays 10am - 9pm. Learn more at seasideadventures.com and follow along on social media @seasideadventuresfl About Tripadvisor Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guidance platform*, helps millions of people each month** become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and contributions, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby.

St. Augustine, Florida, known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and coastal beauty, comes alive every July 4th with patriotic fervor. This year, immerse yourself in the festivities with a truly unique experience: renting a Moke from Seaside Adventures , decorated in vibrant red, white, and blue! Here's how to make the most of your Independence Day in this picturesque city. Start Your Day with a Festive Moke Ride Imagine cruising through St. Augustine's historic district in a retro-inspired Moke , adorned with patriotic colors and flair. Seaside Adventures offers these stylish, open-air electric vehicles that are perfect for navigating the narrow streets and scenic coastal roads. Decked out for July 4th, your Moke will be a mobile celebration of America's independence! What to Expect: Pick-Up: Head to Seaside Adventures to collect your Moke. Arrive early to beat the crowds and get a jumpstart on your day. Parking is easy and free at Seaside while you enjoy your Moke adventure Decorated Ride: Enjoy a Moke festooned with stars and stripes, flags, and festive decorations that will make heads turn as you drive by. Explore: Use the Moke to visit St. Augustine’s iconic sites like the Castillo de San Marcos , the Lightner Museum , and the quaint shops along St. George Street. Savor Local Flavors: Top Dining Spots As you tour the city, make sure to stop at some of St. Augustine’s beloved eateries. Here are a few recommendations to refuel during your adventures: Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille - Located on the bayfront, Harry’s offers a delightful blend of Southern and Creole flavors. Try their signature Jambalaya or a refreshing Key Lime Pie. Columbia Restaurant - A staple in Florida since 1905, this Spanish-Cuban restaurant is perfect for a lunch break. Their famous “1905” Salad and Cuban Sandwich are must-tries. Salt Life Food Shack - For a more laid-back vibe, head to Salt Life. Enjoy fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and stunning ocean views from their rooftop bar. Pre-Firework Festivities: Enjoy a Free Concert in the Plaza Before the fireworks light up the night sky, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with a free concert in the Plaza de la Constitución starting at 6 PM . As part of St. Augustine's Independence Day celebrations, the concert features live performances from local bands, playing a mix of patriotic tunes and popular hits. Bring a blanket, relax under the ancient oak trees, and let the music set the perfect tone for the evening. It’s a wonderful way to gather with friends and family, enjoying the warm summer evening and vibrant community spirit. Prime Viewing for the Fireworks Spectacular No July 4th celebration is complete without a dazzling fireworks display. St. Augustine’s Fireworks Over the Matanzas lights up the sky above the bayfront at 9:30pm , offering breathtaking views. Best Viewing Spots: The Castillo de San Marcos Lawn: Arrive early and bring a blanket or lawn chair to secure a prime spot on the grassy area in front of the historic fort. Bridge of Lions: The bridge itself provides a fantastic vantage point, but it’s also a popular spot, so plan to get there early. Vilano Beach: For a quieter setting, head to Vilano Beach where you can watch the fireworks reflect off the water. Pro Tip: Bring snacks, drinks, and maybe a portable speaker for some music as you wait for the show to begin. Stay a Bit Longer to Beat the Traffic After the fireworks, many visitors rush to leave, leading to significant traffic congestion and long waits. Instead, consider these tips to enjoy the evening and avoid the rush: Post-Fireworks Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the bayfront or explore the lit-up streets of downtown St. Augustine. Grab a Late-Night Treat: Head to Mayday for some delicious ice cream or visit The Hyppo for one of their gourmet popsicles. Live Music: Check out local bars and restaurants for live music performances to keep the celebration going. Important Reminders Road Closures: Expect several road closures in the evening, particularly around the bayfront and near the Castillo. These typically start around 8 PM. Keep an eye on local news or city websites for specific closure details. Bridge Closures: The Bridge of Lions will close to vehicular traffic around 8:30 PM and will reopen after the fireworks, usually by 11 PM. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holiday, renting a festive Moke from Seaside Adventures and enjoying the day’s events will make your July 4th in St. Augustine unforgettable. Embrace the celebration, enjoy the views, and savor the local flavors in this historic and beautiful city. Happy Independence Day! Ready to start your adventure? Book your Moke rental today at Seaside Adventures and gear up for a July 4th celebration like no other in St. Augustine!

Crystal Horton, owner of Seaside Adventures, is interviewed by Robbie and John's The Big Show on 99.1 WQIK for winning the 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award.