According to forum posts, St. Augustine is rich in historical attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Matanzas, and the historic district's numerous museums such as the Lightner Museum and the Pirate & Treasure Museum. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is also frequently mentioned for its panoramic views.

Travelers have called out the beaches around St. Augustine as must-visit locations, particularly the beaches at Anastasia State Park and Matanzas Inlet. Washington Oaks State Park is noted for its picturesque scenery and recreational opportunities.

For unique local experiences, some travelers suggest visiting the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoo Park, which offers more than just alligators, and the Whetstone Chocolate Factory for its engaging tours and tasty samples. The St. Augustine Distillery is also a popular spot for those interested in spirits.

For families, posts highlight the interactive fun at the Pirate Museum and the educational value of the various historical reenactments. The hop-on, hop-off trolley tours are recommended for a comprehensive and convenient way to explore the city, especially for those with limited time.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend staying in the Historic District of St. Augustine for easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and bars. The St. Francis Inn is highlighted for being slightly away from the busiest tourist areas, providing a quieter experience while still being close to major sites.

Some travelers said that staying in the beach area could be a good option for those looking for a more relaxed environment. The Castillo Real and Hampton Inn are mentioned as good choices, both located within walking distance to local restaurants and bars.

For families, the Pirate Haus Inn is repeatedly recommended. It offers a hostel-like experience with a central location in the Historic District, and amenities like a pancake breakfast are included, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers with children.

Travelers have called out the Bayfront Westcott House as a top B&B choice, especially for those interested in avoiding haunted locations but still wanting to stay within the Historic District close to the Night of Lights event.

According to forum posts, public transportation options in St. Augustine include the Sunshine Bus and JTA buses, which connect various points including malls and other central locations. Travelers mentioned that local buses mainly serve residents for essential services like grocery shopping or doctor's appointments, which may not be very convenient for tourists looking to explore more widely.

Some travelers discussed using car services from Jacksonville airport to St. Augustine, with options such as shuttles and taxis available. For those looking for a direct ride from the airport, renting a car was suggested as a more budget-friendly and flexible option compared to taxis or Ubers, particularly for longer stays or visits outside the central historic district.

Travelers have called out trolley services as a popular way to navigate St. Augustine, particularly the hop-on hop-off trolleys that cover major tourist attractions. This option is favored for its convenience in covering significant landmarks without the hassle of finding parking downtown.

Additionally, biking and walking are mentioned as feasible ways to explore St. Augustine, especially within the historic district. The area is noted for being walkable, and biking offers a leisurely way to cover more ground while enjoying the scenic views.

According to forum posts, St. Augustine offers a variety of boat tours suitable for different interests. Travelers have called out several tour operators such as Red Boat Tours, Schooner Freedom, and Florida Water Tours, each providing distinct experiences like wildlife viewing, sunset cruises, and scenic sails.

For those interested in sunset experiences, the Schooner Freedom sunset sail comes highly recommended by some users, noting that it offers an exceptional experience and advising them to book in advance. Additionally, Florida Water Tours and Scenic Cruise St. Augustine are suggested for their scenic and wildlife tours, with URLs provided for direct booking and information.

Some travelers mentioned looking for deals on platforms like Groupon for Red Boat Tours, indicating opportunities to enjoy these experiences at reduced prices.

According to forum posts, the Schooner Freedom offers a sunset sail which can be paired with dinner afterwards, providing a scenic nighttime experience. Another boat tour option mentioned is the Nights of Lights Boat Cruise, which might offer a unique vantage point of the lights from the water.

Some travelers have recommended Ripley's Red Train Tour over the Old Town Jolly Trolley for the Nights of Lights, highlighting that Ripley's offers a more enjoyable route and activities like a fire pit with roasted marshmallows, which could be appealing for children.

For a more personalized experience, forum participants suggest opting for carriage tours. These tours are noted for their charm and can offer a closer view of the lights. The Tasting Tours offer group or private carriage rides with wine, making it a fun option for adults.

Travelers have expressed that the Nights of Lights can be enjoyed by simply walking around the historic downtown, making it a flexible and free option to experience the festive lights.