By Graci Flaherty
Just when you think you have a place all figured out, it finds a way to surprise you.
Ponte Vedra’s most historically significant neighbor, St. Augustine brings to mind less sneakers and races, and more museums and forts. But look close enough and you’ll find a thriving running community, from the Flagler Cross Country team to the Ancient City Road Runners. Growing up in St. Johns County, I thought I knew the area like the back of my hand, but after spending the past 2 years falling in love with running, I can attest to the fact that St. Augustine feels entirely different when you experience it on foot So, download Strava, grab your Garmin watch, and start chasing pavements!
ROUTES
From Bridge to Bridge and Back (6.5 miles)
Start your run at the Vilano Bridge and reach all the way to the Bridge of Lions to get the full St. Augustine Intercoastal experience!
Though currently under construction, a boardwalk usually connects the Vilano bridge to the Publix at the Town Center, offering a perfect place to park. Not only does this route take you past the famous Castillo de San Marcos and right by the St. Augustine bayfront, but it also leads down Magnolia Avenue, one of the most photographed streets in the United States. Nothing beats escaping the Florida heat under a picturesque canopy of oak and Spanish moss.
More importantly (as every runner can attest to), bathrooms are located at the west end of the Bridge of Lions, right in the middle of your run. It’s an authentic drawbridge that goes up every half hour, though, so make sure to time your run so you don’t get stuck!
Down the Beach (7 miles)
They say that when one door closes, another opens. That was certainly true for me after construction on the St. Johns County pier made it impossible to run under. Now, I’m thankful that my former route got lost to the tides- it led me to discover this new one!
Park at the end of Pope Road and follow the St. Augustine beach North to where it ends in a rocky barrier (known to locals as “The Point”) that forms a large tide pool perfect for dipping your feet into. For those brave enough, climb the rocks to look out on the water and spot sea turtles galore! I’ve seen at least five Loggerheads (Florida’s most common turtle) every time I’ve been. The marked off areas you might see running up the beach are their nests, protected by lifeguards and park rangers.
While the sand is mostly hard-packed, beach running is always more challenging than it looks, so bring lots of water and prepare for a tough run. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the forecast- this run works best at low tide!
Treaty Park Loop (1 mile)
Planning a workout but want scenery other than a track? This mile-long course is the answer to your prayers. Start at the fence line by the park entrance and follow the semi-shaded trail around the park perimeter. The path offers a softer surface while still being mostly root-free, unlike many other hiking trails, making it perfect for faster tempo or threshold runs.
My favorite workout to do here is four-mile repeats at threshold pace with a 60-second rest in between- the perfect challenge to improve your 5k or mile time!
Easy parking, bathroom, and water fountain access are another major plus of this route.
RACES
Santa Suits on the Loose 5k
This Christmas 5k is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit (or burn off the holiday calories)! Order a race shirt or a Santa suit with your ticket and show up to the St. Johns County Pier ready to run. All money raised goes to support the St. Augustine Youth Services, so you can feel good about running for a noble cause.
Some parking at the pier is available, but much of it is closed for the race and spots fill up fast, so parking down Pope Road or 16th Street are good backups.
Because the race starts away from and ends facing the beach, you’ll usually have the sea breeze at your back on the way out and fighting against you on the way in. Make sure to conserve some energy for the final stretch! Medal in your age and gender division to receive an ornament commemorating the race.
Along with your running, you can enjoy music by the St. Augustine High School orchestra, who perform by the finish line every year.
Matanzas 5000
Known as the fastest 5K in Florida, the Matanzas 5000 attracts the best of the best from all over the state. From former Olympians to local legends, you won’t find a stronger running community than here!
Park at the Historic Downtown Parking Facility before 7 am for a free spot. This route takes runners from the parking garage through the heart of downtown St. Augustine’s historic district, past ancient Spanish-style buildings and the Maria Sanchez Lake. Not that you’ll have time to stop and enjoy the view: if you’re looking for a race to hit a new PR (personal record), this is the one to do it!
Sponsored by the Ancient City Road Runners, proceeds from this race go to support running programs at middle and high schools throughout St. Johns County, including the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.
The Mickler Mile
Looking to run something shorter than the usual 5K? This race is the one for you! Starting at the end of Pope and following the Mickler straightaway, this race offers a smaller, more casual experience (while still being plenty competitive).
For parking, your best bet is the Ron Parker Park, less than half a mile away, where bathrooms and water fountains are also available.
About The Author
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Graci Flaherty, the 2025 Ponte Vedra Focus Blog Scholarship winner, is the Valedictorian of St. Augustine High School’s Class of 2025 and a recipient of the Cambridge Scholar Award with Distinction. As president of both the Interact Club and the STEM Club, which she founded, Graci has made a lasting impact through volunteerism and educational advocacy. She’s a Girls State Delegate, an avid cat lover and longtime volunteer with Small Lives Matter, and a dedicated athlete ranked 9th in her district for cross country. Graci will attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as a data science major with a focus on machine learning, where she plans to pursue her dream of launching a think tank.
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