CRESCENT BEACH

Where

A1A, just south of St. Augustine Beach. 6930 A1A South, Crescent Beach, FL 32080

Vibe

Old Florida, mostly residential, and family-friendly -- don’t blink when you drive though Crescent Beach and or you might miss this it. This is the place to be if you want to escape the tourist attractions, high rises and crowds. The sights are idyllic and centered around nature. Dogs trot along the shoreline, tails wagging as they enjoy a grand escapade with their favorite human; while surfers ride the waves, fishermen try their luck casting in the waves; and toddlers construct sand castles.

See, feel

Named for the sweeping coastline that curves into a ‘C’ where it borders the Atlantic, Crescent Beach is framed by rolling dunes speckled with sea oats.
Near the water, the latte-hued sand is smooth and hard-packed, promising an ideal surface for a jog or a paddle on a beach cruiser. It’s the Atlantic, so expect some waves, which will vary depending on tides, the wind, and offshore systems.

On or near the beach

Biking, surf fishing and kicking back on the shore are popular, as are swimming, surfing, skimboarding, and playing in the waves. Refuel at Safe Harbor Seafood, serving up a barefoot, beachy vibe and favorites like tortilla chips with blackened Shrimp drizzled in Queso cheese and Datil Pepper Sauce.

Accessibility

You can drive on the beach, so it’s easy to get your gear out to the shore. To reserve a free beach wheelchair from St. John’s County to use for up to seven days, call (904) 209-0331 several days in advance and they’ll deliver a chair for you. The wheelchairs are popular, so plan ahead.

Facilities

Picnic gazebos, dune crossovers, restrooms.  Horseback riding with a special permit is allowed. Sited in nearby Butler Beach, Endless Summer Surf School offers E-bike, bicycle, surf board and paddle board rentals.

Lifeguards

Seasonal

Parking

145 off-beach parking spots are available. Beach access is offered at the Crescent Beach Ramp on Cubbedge Road.

Places to Remember