Curated by your hosts at Pink Hen House
People are always surprised that the beach is so close. Anastasia State Park is 2.5 miles from the cottage — five minutes by car across the Bridge of Lions, or an easy bike ride if you brought wheels.
And you don't have to go anywhere to get water. The historic bayfront on the Matanzas River is four blocks from the front door, and Lake Maria Sanchez is one block away.
2.5 miles
The beach we go to
Anastasia State Park sits on the island just across the Bridge of Lions. It is the beach we point people at because it is wide, sandy and right there — with dunes and trails when you want a walk instead of a towel.
No. 12.5 miles from the cottage
Anastasia State Park
Beach, dunes and trails across the Bridge of Lions.
Pack from the shed, not the store
The shed at the cottage holds beach equipment, coolers and extra supplies, so you can leave the bulky gear at home and walk out with a towel and sunscreen.
4 blocks
The river, four blocks away
If you would rather have water without the drive, the bayfront on the Matanzas River is four blocks out, and the Bridge of Lions is a 13-minute walk. It is a calm, tidal river — good for a slow evening stroll rather than swimming.
On the water
The back bays and the Matanzas are flat and calm enough to paddle most of the year, and the state park is the usual place to start. We have not published a rental vendor we use — tell us which one you like and we will add it.
Same trip
Two more on the island
No. 2
Fort Matanzas National Monument
A small Spanish watchtower from the 1740s on the Matanzas River, part of the national park system. The visitor center is on the south side of Anastasia Island and the tower is reached by a short boat ride.
Heads up: Ferry schedule and admission are not published on our site — check the National Park Service page before you go.
No. 3
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
The working lighthouse on Anastasia Island, with a museum and a climb to the top of the tower.
Heads up: Tickets and hours are not published on our site — check the lighthouse's own site.
Good to know
- The shed has beach equipment and coolers — pack light.
- Bikes are a good way to do the island; local rentals are available in town.
- Come home sandy and get in the hot tub.
Businesses change — check hours and reservations before you go.