Florida

Amelia Island and St. Augustine: Coastal Treasures in Florida

Program No. 21268RJ
Discover what makes Amelia Island and St. Augustine such cultural and historic gems, learning about Native American history, Civil War strategy, grand architecture and renowned cuisine.

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At a Glance

From the Spanish Renaissance architecture and world-class cuisine of St. Augustine, to Amelia Island’s sun-soaked Southern charm — this learning adventure in Northeastern Florida will reveal the state’s coastal treasures. Take trolley rides back in time as you hear stories of lawless pirates, Spanish explorers, tycoons and the Native Timucuan tribespeople. Explore the historic architecture of St. Augustine, the oldest European settlement in the U.S. — including the 1672 Castillo de San Marcos and The Ponce, built by oil tycoon Henry Flagler in 1888.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Moderate walking, some uneven terrain; standing for some field trip lectures, boarding pontoon boat. Stairs in some historical buildings and homes.

What You'll Learn

  • Encounter rare birds, watch for manatees and learn about the shrimping industry as you boat the backwaters of Amelia Island.
  • Join an expert in period dress to learn about Minnorcan settlers of St. Augustine, who arrived here after nine years of enslavement at a nearby indigo plantation.
  • On a field trip to Flagler’s College, learn about Henry Flagler’s contributions to the development of Florida’s Atlantic Coast and hear stories about the Flagler family.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Tom Murray
Tom Murray is a graduate of San Jose State University but is a Southerner by choice, having spent more than 45 years in the South absorbing the culture, customs and history of the region. Tom specializes in coastal history with an emphasis on the sea islands of Georgia. Few people know and love beautiful Cumberland and Amelia islands better than Tom. He has spent 25 years lecturing and leading Road Scholar groups to sites from the mountains to the sea.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Tom Murray
Tom Murray View biography
Tom Murray is a graduate of San Jose State University but is a Southerner by choice, having spent more than 45 years in the South absorbing the culture, customs and history of the region. Tom specializes in coastal history with an emphasis on the sea islands of Georgia. Few people know and love beautiful Cumberland and Amelia islands better than Tom. He has spent 25 years lecturing and leading Road Scholar groups to sites from the mountains to the sea.
Profile Image of Kevin McCarthy
Kevin McCarthy View biography
Kevin grew up in Gloucester, Mass. and settled in Fernandina Beach in 1968. He spent 41 years sailing the waters of northeast Fla. and southeast Georgia. He holds a 100 ton master’s license and developed his knowledge of the wildlife and history exploring the waters that surround Amelia Island, Cumberland Island and St. Mary's, Ga. Generations of Kevin’s family have been shrimpers, and he shares with participants his knowledge of shrimp farming and the future of the shrimp industry in the U.S.
Profile Image of Ron Kurtz
Ron Kurtz View biography
Ron has been an Amelia Island resident for more than 30 years. After attending Hiram College, he graduated from New York University with a degree in educational theater. He served as the director of the Amelia Island Museum of History and wrote a highly regarded history of the island, now in its sixth printing, as well as a series of children's books. Ron has lectured on the history and architecture of the first coast for the Historic Preservation Trust as well as the Smithsonian Institution.
Profile Image of Anne Peery
Anne Peery View biography
Anne Peery has traveled extensively in the Southeastern United States. She has served in various leadership roles including the Executive Director of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. Anne holds a B.S. in education from Mississippi State University. She has worked with a volunteer group making medical-grade PPE for first responders in the Big Bend region of Florida.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
11 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
3 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
  • Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
  • Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 18, 2024 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Oct 27, 2024 - Nov 01, 2024 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 10, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Jan 26, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Mar 23, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
  • Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025 (Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Augustine, FL)
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.
3 nights
Fernandina Beach
Near Atlantic Ocean beach - three tenths of a mile - easy 5 minute walk Evening Reception Swimming Pool Full Kitchen (full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffeemaker, two-burner stove) Interior Corridors Local restaurants within easy walking distance Barb que and/or picnic area
2 nights
St. Augustine
Enjoy a warm welcome at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District and savor our delicious chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Ideally located in historic Uptown, our inviting hotel is within walking distance to the Spanish Quarter, providing easy access to many popular attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth and Flagler College. Spend a day with the family exploring Ripley's Believe It or Not, which is also near our St. Augustine, FL hotel. Unwind in a stylish guest room and enjoy modern conveniences in a historic setting. Each guest room at this DoubleTree hotel in St. Augustine, FL, boasts a well-lit workspace with an ergonomic chair, a 42-inch HDTV with premium HD channels and a sumptuous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree bed. Maintain your workout routine in the 24-hour fitness center or simply relax by the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Dine on tasty American classics in the Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxed and informal setting. If you prefer the convenience of dining in your guest room, we offer a daily room service menu and an on-site gift shop and market, open 24 hours.





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