On August 28, the Feast Day of Saint Augustine, Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles first sighted the coast of Florida. Twelve days later, on September 8, he stepped ashore, planted the Spanish flag into the sandy soil and, with soldiers and settlers who had traveled with him and Timicuans who greeted his arrival watching, Menendez founded a new city and named it St. Augustine. The year was 1565.

From that day until today, the City of St. Augustine has continued to survive and thrive, making it the longest continually inhabited European founded city in the United States, or more commonly called the “Nation’s Oldest City.” To read an extended history of the City, go to the Nation’s Oldest City.

This Florida East Coast beach destination has a water activity for everyone in tow whether they enjoy fishing, boating, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking or watching dolphins frolic in the Intracoastal Waterway. The Daytona Beach area’s sparkling beaches, relaxing rivers and meandering creeks offer endless opportunities for both fun family adventures and solo excursions for those seeking solace in our natural surroundings.