St. Augustine has always been important simply because of its natural wonders.
Before Menendez landed, or Flagler "discovered" St. Augustine, and long before there was a Castillo de San Marcos, Alligator Farm, or amphitheatre, this area was prized for the waterways, shoreline, woodlands, and marshes. It still is. There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors in St. Johns County including spending time on the water in a boat, kayak, or canoe; walking, running, or biking the trails; swimming, surfing, or fishing on the beach; golfing; or enjoying the many parks.