St Augustine Shared Golf Cart Tour

Our review of the St. Augustine Shared Golf Cart Tour offers an inside look at one of the most popular ways to get a quick yet enriching overview of this historic city. Designed to give visitors a taste of St. Augustine’s landmarks, culture, and ghost stories—all from the comfort of a golf cart—this tour blends sightseeing with storytelling in a way that appeals to many travelers.

We love the compact, one-hour format that makes it easy to fit into a busy day, along with the knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their city’s secrets. The affordable price point of $32 per person makes it accessible, especially considering the extensive list of sites you’ll see. On the flip side, the shared nature of the tour means space can be tight, and if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more private experience, it might not be ideal. This tour suits those who want a friendly, informative introduction without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• The tour offers a quick, rundown of St. Augustine’s most iconic sites.
• It features engaging commentary from a certified, knowledgeable guide.
• The small-group setting enhances interaction and comfort.
• The price includes complimentary photos, adding value.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility.
• The tour is especially valued for its scenic stops and historical insights.

Why Choose the Golf Cart Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of St. Augustine. The golf cart’s open-air design offers a relaxed way to view the city’s charming streets and landmarks, while the guided narration ensures you won’t miss out on the stories behind the sites. It’s a great choice for first-timers eager for a broad introduction, or for visitors with limited mobility who might find walking tours impractical.

The shared aspect, with a maximum of 10 travelers, fosters a friendly atmosphere. As many reviews praise, “our guide was very knowledgeable”, and the small group meant everyone could ask questions comfortably. The price, at just $32 per person, offers excellent value for such a condensed experience—especially with included photos you can cherish later.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Introduction

The tour kicks off at 38 Cathedral Place with a brief introduction, setting the stage for what’s ahead. This first segment emphasizes St. Augustine’s early exploration and conquest history, giving context to the city’s foundation. It’s a good way to orient yourself before heading into the heart of the city’s attractions.

The Hotel District and Historic Landmarks

Next, the guide takes you into the Hotel District, a neighborhood dotted with historic buildings. You’ll drive past the Governor’s House, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, and the Constitution Monument. These sites reveal the city’s colonial roots and its ongoing significance. The guide’s commentary about the Conquest and Exploration era adds depth, making these landmarks come alive.

The Old Parish and Oldest Street

A quick stop across from the oldest parish in the U.S. offers a glimpse into the city’s religious and architectural history. Nearby, you’ll pass the street known as the military hospital street—home to museums and cafes—giving you a sense of the lively, lived-in cityscape.

The Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos

The iconic Bridge of Lions, decorated by four lion sculptures, is a photo-worthy highlight that signifies entering the historic core. Then, the tour veers toward the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., dating from 1695. It remains remarkably well-preserved, with the guide sharing stories about its original purpose and strategic importance. Many visitors find it fascinating to see such an ancient structure still standing and still conveying its military history.

The Holy Site and Magnolia Street

Driving past the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, the birthplace of the nation’s spiritual heritage, offers a moment of reflection. Your guide will share stories about this sacred site, which is also a national shrine.

Magnolia Street, considered one of the most beautiful streets in the country, provides a picturesque drive-by spot, perfect for photos. Nearby, the Fountain of Youth is another identifiable landmark—though not part of the tour’s stops—adding to the scenic charm.

The Old Jail and Haunted Cemeteries

The tour then visits the Old Jail, relocated away from the hotel district at the request of Henry Flagler. Its imposing exterior hints at the city’s darker past. You’ll also drive by the protestant cemetery—if you’re attentive, you might even catch a glimpse of a ghost, as some reviews suggest this is one of the most haunted locations in town. The tour’s storytelling about haunted sites is often a crowd favorite, especially for those interested in ghost stories.

Ponce de Leon Hotel and the Lightner Museum

The former Ponce de Leon Hotel, once the city’s most luxurious hotel with Tiffany stained glass, is another highlight. You’ll also visit the Lightner Museum, housed in a former hotel with the largest indoor swimming pool of its time. The guide explains its transformation into a museum, which now showcases unusual artifacts and offers an intriguing glimpse into Gilded Age luxury.

Civil Rights and Religious Landmarks

The tour also passes through Lincolnville, a historically significant neighborhood for civil rights, with stories of notable civil rights movement moments. The Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church, built in less than a year as a memorial to Henry Flagler’s daughter, stands as a testament to the city’s religious and architectural history.

Final Stops and Reflections

As the tour winds down, you’ll pass by the St. Augustine Distillery, a repurposed ice plant turned craft spirits producer, and return to the starting point. The entire experience lasts about an hour, packed with sights and stories, making it a perfect primer for further exploration.

What Travelers Say

The majority of reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with comments like, “Robert was very knowledgeable with the history of St. Augustine” and “Our guide was fantastic.” Many appreciate the small group size, which allows for more personal interaction and questions.

Several reviewers praise the scenic views and the included photos, calling it a “fun” and “informative” way to see the city. One reviewer notes that the tour was a little crowded, but the response from the provider indicates they’re working on increasing comfort with new seating arrangements.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At $32 per person, this tour offers a valuable introduction to the city’s highlights, especially considering the included photos. The duration of about 60 minutes makes it manageable for most schedules without feeling rushed. The mobile ticketing feature adds convenience, and the tour’s small size means it’s suitable for travelers with mobility concerns—most people can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Keep in mind, you’re sharing the golf cart with up to 10 other people, so if you prefer a more private or quieter experience, this might feel a tad crowded. The tour is booked on average 11 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

The Sum Up

The St. Augustine Shared Golf Cart Tour offers a lively, accessible way to get acquainted with the city’s most noteworthy sights. With a friendly guide, scenic stops, and engaging stories—plus the bonus of complimentary photos—you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who wants an overview without a heavy time commitment or steep price.

If you’re looking to see the city’s highlights and learn some intriguing stories along the way, this tour delivers. Its blend of history, architecture, and ghost tales makes it a memorable start—or a fun refresher—on your trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Travelers pressed for time or on a budget will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided storytelling, scenic drives, and a small-group setting. History buffs and ghost story enthusiasts will also appreciate the depth of stories shared by the guides. Conversely, if you prefer a more private experience or have specific accessibility needs, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick and efficient way to see many of St. Augustine’s highlights.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee of $32 includes a guided narration, a certified guide, and complimentary photos for participants.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a good option for families, seniors, or anyone looking for an easy, informative outing.

What are the meeting details?
The tour starts at 38 Cathedral Place in St. Augustine. You will receive your mobile ticket, and it’s recommended to book about 11 days in advance due to popularity.

Are there any extra costs?
Admissions to sites like the Lightner Museum and Castillo de San Marcos are free during the tour, but other attractions or souvenirs might cost extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This golf cart tour offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to St. Augustine, blending history, scenic views, and stories that will stick with you long after your visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a family on a day trip, or someone simply eager to get a quick feel for the city, it’s a solid choice.