NewTo News for St Augustine / Florida for May 18, 2026

Welcome to the Newto News for May of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Initially serving as a strategic military outpost to protect Spanish interests in the New World, the city quickly grew into a thriving port town known for its rich history and cultural influence. Throughout the centuries, St. Augustine has witnessed numerous battles for control between the Spanish, British, and eventually the United States. Its distinctive Spanish colonial architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and ancient fortresses provide a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Today, St. Augustine is a popular tourist destination with its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, and the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel. St. Augustine continues to preserve its heritage while embracing modern amenities and attractions for residents and tourists alike.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

Healthcare
Technology
Education
Hospitality
Finance
Manufacturing
Retail
Construction
Government
Transportation

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

Hiking
Biking
Skiing
Fishing
Golfing
Boating
Wine Tasting
Camping
Shopping
Sightseeing

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 50°F
High: 75°F

4. Average precipitation for the month: 2 inches 5. Elevation: 3,000 feet 6. Average home price: $300,000 7. Average household income: $60,000 8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

National Park
Historic Downtown
Botanical Garden
Local Museum
Waterfall
Zoo
Theme Park
Winery
Historical Landmark
Scenic Overlook

The top 10 restaurants:

The Floridian

Downtown St. Augustine

This cozy spot focuses on fresh, locally sourced Southern fare with a modern twist, offering a variety of vegetarian-friendly options.

Collage

Old City

A romantic fine dining restaurant known for its globally inspired dishes and an extensive wine list, perfect for special occasions.

Catch 27

Historic Downtown

Specializing in fresh, locally caught seafood, this restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and innovative coastal cuisine.

Preserved Restaurant

Lincolnville

In a historic setting, Preserved offers modern Southern cuisine with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients and traditional flavors.

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille

Historic District

A lively spot that serves New Orleans-style seafood and classic Creole dishes in a charming courtyard setting.

The Ice Plant

San Sebastian

Housed in a historic building, this unique restaurant and bar focus on locally sourced meats and produce, with a vintage-inspired cocktail menu.

O’Steen’s Restaurant

Anastasia Island

A local favorite famous for its fried shrimp, serving no-frills, hearty Southern-style dishes in a casual setting.

Columbia Restaurant

Historic District

This iconic eatery offers traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine in an upscale, historic setting, perfect for a cultural dining experience.

Cafe Alcazar

Lightner Museum

Located in a historic setting, this elegant cafe offers unique dishes with Mediterranean and American influences, served in a charming atmosphere.

The Blue Hen Cafe

Downtown St. Augustine

A quaint breakfast and brunch spot known for its Southern comfort food and cozy atmosphere, featuring local ingredients.