Missing!
Search Beach Community Real Estate
Beach Communities Near St. Augustine, Florida
The beach communities south of St. Augustine offer some of the most desirable coastal real estate in Northeast Florida. Popular areas including St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, The Hammock, and Flagler Beach provide oceanfront homes, beach cottages, waterfront properties, and relaxed coastal living along the Atlantic Ocean. Buyers are drawn to these communities for their beautiful beaches, boating access, and convenient location within easy driving distance of historic St. Augustine and the greater Jacksonville region.

Beach Communities FAQ
What beach communities are located near St. Augustine?
Some of the most popular beach communities in Northeast Florida include:
St. Augustine Beach – a vibrant coastal community just minutes from historic downtown St. Augustine
Crescent Beach – known for quiet residential areas and wide natural beaches
The Hammock – a scenic coastal area between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean near Palm Coast
Flagler Beach – a relaxed small-town beach community south of St. Augustine
Each location offers a slightly different lifestyle, from active beach tourism to quiet residential coastal living.
What types of homes are available in St. Augustine area beach communities?
Beach communities offer a variety of property types including:
Oceanfront homes
Beach cottages and coastal-style houses
Waterfront homes along the Intracoastal Waterway
Condominiums with ocean views
Townhomes and vacation properties
Many properties are within walking distance of the beach, while others offer private docks, marsh views, or access to boating and fishing.
Are beach homes near St. Augustine good investment properties?
Beach properties can be attractive investments because of strong tourism demand and limited coastal land availability.
Many owners use beach homes as:
Primary residences
Vacation homes
Seasonal rentals
Long-term investment properties
However, short-term rental regulations vary by community, so buyers should always verify local rules before purchasing.
Do beach homes require flood insurance?
Properties near the Atlantic Ocean or Intracoastal Waterway may fall within FEMA-designated flood zones.
Depending on the property's elevation and flood zone classification:
Flood insurance may be required for financed purchases
Insurance premiums may vary significantly
Buyers should review flood maps and obtain insurance quotes early when purchasing coastal property.
Are there environmental restrictions for building oceanfront homes in Northeast Florida?
Yes. Many oceanfront properties along Florida’s Atlantic coast fall within the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) zone. The CCCL program is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and is designed to protect Florida’s beaches and dunes from erosion, storm damage, and environmental impacts.
If a property is located seaward of the CCCL, special permits may be required for:
Building a new home
Major renovations or additions
Construction of pools, decks, or dune walkovers
Coastal armoring or shoreline stabilization
The permitting process helps ensure coastal construction protects natural dune systems and maintains shoreline stability.
Buyers considering beachfront property should always verify whether a parcel is within the CCCL zone and review any applicable building restrictions before purchasing.
You can learn more about Florida’s coastal construction regulations here:
Florida Coastal Construction Control Line Program
What is the lifestyle like in Northeast Florida beach communities?
Beach communities near St. Augustine are known for a relaxed coastal lifestyle that includes:
Surfing, fishing, and boating
Walking and biking along scenic coastal roads
Waterfront restaurants and local seafood
Nature preserves and state parks
Residents enjoy ocean breezes, mild winters, and easy access to the historic culture and restaurants of St. Augustine.
How far are these beach communities from St. Augustine and Jacksonville?
Approximate driving times:
St. Augustine Beach: about 10–15 minutes to historic downtown St. Augustine
Crescent Beach: about 20 minutes to downtown St. Augustine
The Hammock / Palm Coast: about 30 minutes to St. Augustine
Flagler Beach: about 40–45 minutes south of St. Augustine
Jacksonville International Airport is generally about 60–90 minutes north depending on traffic.