Ripley's Red Train on a Nights of Lights tour

Nights of Lights Tours 2024 - 2025

Name: Nights of Lights Tours 2024 - 2025
Start: 2024-11-23T18:00:00-05:00
End: 2024-11-23T21:00:00-05:00
Location: Nights of Lights Tours 2024 - 2025

Festive Nights of Lights tours by land, sea, and sky.

Nightly, Nov. 23, 2024 - Jan. 26, 2025 | After Dark

During the holiday season, the City of St. Augustine becomes a festival of twinkling white lights as it hosts the annual Nights of Lights display. The festivities start at Light Up Night on Saturday, November 23, 2024, and continue through January 26, 2025.

The wonderland of lights begins at the Plaza de la Constitución, with its holiday tree in the center and every live oak strung with hundreds of white lights. St. Augustine's Historic District — bed and breakfasts, museums, restaurants, historic sites, and shops all sparkle with millions of twinkling white lights. Rachael Ray Magazine named St. Augustine's Nights of Lights as one of the nation's "twinkliest," and National Geographic Magazine listed it as one of the "Top 10 Cities in the World for Holiday Lighting Displays."

There are many ways to view the Nights of Lights, including walking in Historic Downtown and visiting pubs, restaurants, and ice cream shops. For those who want a different perspective on the lights, numerous tours are available throughout the season, some every night and some just on select nights. Visitors can walk one day and take a tour (or two) on another, experiencing the lights and the festive atmosphere with song, ice cream, a skilled train or trolley conductor, in an open carriage, or with the Grinch.

Ways to view the Nights of Lights:

By Land
By Sea
- Large sail and power vessels
- Smaller, more intimate sail and power vessels
By Air or Sky
- Take a helicopter ride
- Climb the Lighthouse steps

Nights of Lights celebration in St. Augustine, FL — *The fountain in front of the Lightner Museum, and a view of Flagler College.*

By Land

Ride a Train or Trolley

Old Town Trolley's Famous Nights of Lights Tour

What: A 30 to 45-minute ride through Historic Downtown aboard an Old Town Trolley; includes magic glasses, an entertaining driver, and seasonal songs on the speakers, plus cider and a cookie after the ride.
Admission: Tickets are sold by rows and start at $72.99 for a row with up to four people. Prices may be higher for high-traffic evenings. Children aged three and under may sit on an adult's lap and ride at no charge.
When: From November 24, 2024, through January 26, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Departing from the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.
Contact: Call (904) 829-3800 or go here for more information and to reserve seats.

Nights of Lights Tours by Ripley's

What: A 30-minute "lightseeing" tour throughout Historic Downtown; includes magic glasses and the opportunity to sing holiday songs along the way.
Admission: $69.99 for a row with up to four people.
When: From November 24, 2024, through January 25, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Christmas Day.
Where: Departing from Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, 19 San Marco Avenue.
Contact: Tickets are on sale beginning the last week of August.
Special Information: Nights of Lights Tour guests may also attend a free holiday movie of the week at 6:00 p.m. each evening.

Old Town Trolleys Famous Nights of Lights Tour offers guests an exciting way to see the holiday lights in St. Augustine. — *Old Town Trolley has the holiday spirit with their Nights of Lights tours.*

Take a Tour in an Electric Vehicle

Gold Tours Private Nights of Lights Tours

What: A private tour for one to six people includes city history information and light viewing.
Admission: $150.00 for a private tour. Reservations are required.
When: On Sunday through Thursday, from November 25, 2024, through January 26, 2025. Tours can be booked for 6:00 and 7:15 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, December 9, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Where: Departing from the parking lot behind the Lightner Museum at 75 King Street.
Contact: Call (904) 325-0547

GhostAugustine Nights of Lights Tours

What: A 40-minute tour in an electric vehicle, for up to seven people. You can book individual seats or the entire vehicle. Each guest receives a free pair of special glasses to view lights.
Admission: Booked in advance: $39.00 per person. Booked on the same day: $49.00 per person. Book the full cart in advance: $225.00. Book the full cart on the same day: $275.00.
When: Daily, at 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025.
Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Where: Meet at Beerhammer's Haunted Spirits Store, 162 St. George Street, Suite 19. If Heritage Walk is closed, meet at the entrance at 162 St. George Street.
Contact: Call (904) 687-1118 to book tickets.

Panda Tours Nights of Lights

What: a 45-minute private electric vehicle tour for up to five passengers.
Admission: $175.00 per tour.
When: Daily, from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025. Tours leave on the hour beginning at 7:00 p.m. The last tour begins at 11:00 p.m.
Exceptions: No tours on Christmas.
Where: The tour starts at Ancient City Brunch Bar, 210 St. George Street.
Contact: Call (904) 687-7113 or visit Panda's website to book tickets.

Pineapple Tours Nights of Lights

What: A one-hour ride through town in an electric vehicle or pedicab.
Admission: $34 per person/ $95.00 per row (three seats), and $220.00 for a private tour for up to nine people. The pedicab ride is $90.00 for up to 3 people.
When: Daily, from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, and 10:00 p.m.
Exceptions: No tours on Christmas Day.
Where: At 134 Riberia Street, with free parking, or at several convenient pick-up spots in town.
Contact: Call (904) 615-5515

Explore Tours Nights of Lights Tours

What: A 45-minute ride in an open-air cart, with no set route, can be booked for a private group of up to 10 people or a row of three people. The guide offers insights into Nights of Lights and St. Augustine's history. 3-D glasses are included, and the driver plays holiday music on the sound system. Dogs are welcome.
Admission: $75.00 for a row of three. $200.00 for a private tour for up to 10 people.
When: Nightly, on the hour, between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m., from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025.
Exceptions: No tours on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
Where: At 143 Cordova, in the lot behind the Lightner Museum. Parking is not included and may not be available in the lot.
Contact: Call (904) 853-1500

A family aboard the Gold Tours Nights of Lights tour in St. Augustine — *A family aboard a Gold Tours cart for the Nights of Lights Tour.*

St. Augustine Land and Sea Nights of Lights Tours

What: A private and shared 45-minute electric cart tour.
Admission: $35.00 per passenger. It is possible to rent the entire vehicle.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, every half hour between 6:00 and 10:30 p.m.
Where: 225 St. George Street
Contact: Call (904) 679-9880

Pinkmas Nights of Lights

What: A 45-minute shared ride in a pink electric vehicle that exudes "pink-themed joy."
Admission: $42.00 per person
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, on the hour between 5:00 and 10:00 p.m.
Where: Tours leave from 88 Riberia Street
Contact: (407)361-9969 or email [email protected]

Specialty Tours: Carriage Rides, Photography, and Guided Walking Tours

Nights of Lights Photography Tour in a MOKE

What: Drive a MOKE electric convertible through Historic Downtown, guided by a photographer from Seaside Adventures, and pause for memorable family photos.
Admission: $175.00 for up to four people. $225.00 for up to six people.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025.
Exceptions: No tours on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Where: 606 N Ponce De Leon Blvd.
Contact: 904-923-1010

Two women with two MOKE electric vehicles enjoying Nights of LIghts

VIP Nights of Lights Historic Walking Tour - FREE

What: A one-hour walking tour, focused on the lights and history of St. Augustine
Admission: This tour is free to all. Reservations are required.
When: 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from November 26, 2024, through January 26, 2025
Exceptions: No tour will be conducted on Christmas Eve.
Contact: Call (904) 825-0087 to reserve a spot.

Country Carriages

What: A 45-minute tour of downtown.
Admission: $200.00 for up to four people.
When: November 23, 2024, through January 5, 2025, from 5:00 to 10:15 p.m.
Where: Departing from the bayfront, between the Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos, and returning to the same location.
Contact: (904) 669-8619

A photo taken by Mark Krancer of a horse and carriage in front a row of buildings with holiday lights

Old City Carriages

What: A private 45-minute carriage ride through St. Augustine's Historic Downtown.
Admission: $200.00 for up to five people, for a reserved private Nights of Lights tour.
When: Departs from 9:00 a.m. through 9:00 p.m., seven days a week. (Lights are visible once the sun sets.)
Where: Old City Carriages departs from Avenida Menendez, across from Meehan's Irish Pub.
Contact: Call (904) 788-9229

Tasting Tours Carriage and Wine Rides

What: A private 35- to 45-minute tour of downtown by a horse-driven carriage for two or four people.
Admission: $185.00 for two people for the private ride; two more people can be added at $25 per person. Wine is not included, a wine package can be added to the tour.
When: Departs at 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 p.m. on weekdays, with additional departures at 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
Contact: Call (904) 325-3911

Tasting Tours Electric Vehicle Rides with the Grinch

What: A 35- to 45-minute un-merry ride through town with the Grinch, for a fun and unmerry Christmas.
Admission: $40.00 per person for ages two and older. $320.00 for private tours for up to nine people.
When: Grinch tours operate from November 23 through December 31, 2024. They depart during the day at 11:00 a.m., noon, and 2:00 p.m., and in the evenings between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day.
Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
Contact: Call (904) 325-3911

The Schooner Freedom meets the Tiny Tug Tours during Nights of Lights — *The Schooner Freedom and Tiny Tug Tours cross in the evening during the Nights of Lights season in St. Augustine.*

By Sea

Large Sail and Power Vessels

Scenic Cruise Nights of Lights Tours

What: This one-hour tour aboard the Victory III offers covered seating on the first level and open-air seating on the top level. Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies are included. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Admission: $30.83 per adult and $15.44 for children aged 4 - 12.
When: 6:30 p.m. each evening, from November 23, 2024, through December 31, 2024. After Christmas, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through January 25, 2025.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving and Christmas and Mondays through Thursdays after December 31.
Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. There is only metered parking in the area, and it fills quickly.
Contact: Call (800) 542-8316 or go here to learn more and to order tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the marina office.
Regatta of Lights: The Victory III will take passengers on the Regatta of Lights on December 9. Go here for tickets.

Nights of Lights on the Black Raven

What: This two-hour boat tour offers a spectacular view of the holiday lights during sunset. Experience life on a pirate ship, sing Christmas carols, grab a drink from the bar, and dance with the crew.
Admission: $53.95 per person for those 13 and older, $49.95 for those aged three through 12, and $19.95 for those younger than three.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, starting precisely at 4:15 p.m. and ending at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. There is only limited metered parking in the area, so allow time for parking elsewhere. The boat leaves the dock at 4:15 p.m.
Contact: Call (904) 826-0000 or go here to purchase tickets and learn more. Tickets can also be purchased at their ship's store at the marina.
Regatta of Lights: The Black Raven will take passengers on the Regatta of Lights on the second Saturday in December. Call (904) 826-0000 to book a cruise during the Regatta of Lights.

Florida Water Tours Nights of Lights Tour

What: Offering Nights of Lights tours on multi-passenger vessels — the 45-foot Osprey has a bar on board, and the 35-foot Island Breeze is a BYOB boat that's family-friendly. There are two types of cruises: The first, the 90-minute Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise has two options, a family-friendly cruise that starts at 5:00 p.m. and an adults-only cruise starting at 5:15 p.m. Later in the evening, the 75-minute Nights of Lights Cruises departs at 6:45, 7:00, 8:15, 8:30, and 9:45 p.m. These guided trips include 3-D glasses, a cup of hot cocoa, and holiday music.
Admission: Depending on the cruise, admission ranges from $39.00 to $49.00 per adult. On family cruises, children aged 3 to 12 cost $19.00, and infants through two years old cost $6.00.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025. Tours leave the dock at 5:00, 7:30, and 9:30 p.m. The 5:00 p.m. tour enables you to see the sunset and the lights. After January 5, 2025, tours will operate only on Thursdays through Sundays.
Exceptions: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Where: Departing from Docks A-23 & A-24 at the Camachee Yacht Harbor, 107 Yacht Club Drive.
Contact: Call (904) 827-7728 or go here to learn more and book tickets.
Regatta of Lights: Florida Water Tours offers a special two-hour cruise for the Regatta of Lights. Go here for tickets.

St. Augustine Boat Tours Nights of Lights Tours

What: This one-hour boat tour aboard an open platform boat that holds 20 people starts in Salt Run and cruises along the waterfront for great views of the lights and goes under the Bridge of Lions for additional views. This smaller boat has a shallow draft and can get close to shore.
Admission: $35.00 for adults and $15.00 for children younger than eight years old.
When: At 6:00 and 7:30 p.m., from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, or on December 14.
Where: Departing from the Conch House Marina, where there is free parking.
Contact: Call (904) 687-8297 or go here to learn more and to book a cruise.

Red Boat Tours

What: BYOB tours aboard the Pellicano. The 7:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. tours last 75 minutes. No children younger than eight are allowed on the 7:30 tour, and the 9:15 tour is for adults only. The Red Boat Tours serves hot chocolate, cookies, and candies. All tours are BYOB.
Admission: The 90-minute Sun Down/Lights Up Cruise starts at 5:15 p.m. and is family-friendly. Tickets are $49.00 for adults, $22.00 for those aged 3 - 12, and $8.00 for infants up to two-year-olds. The 7:30 and 9:15 tours are BYOB. No children younger than eight are allowed on the 7:30 tour, and the 9:15 tour is for adults only. Tickets on the 7:30 tour range from $12.00 to $40.00. Tickets for the adults-only 9:15 tour are $40.00.
When: Nightly from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, at 5:15, 7:30, and 9:15 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Where: Meet the Red Boat at the Vilano Fishing Pier, 260 Vilano Road.
Contact: Call (904) 436-3566 or go here to learn more and book a cruise.

Fury Water Adventures

What: A 2-hour Nights of Lights cruise aboard a 65-foot sailing cat, with live music, appetizers, beer, wine, and soft drink options.
Admission: $64.95 for adults, $29.95 for children three and older, free for kids younger than three.
When: Nightly from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving.
Where: At the Beaches Marina, 250 Vilano Road.
Contact: Call (844) 831-5397 or go here to learn more and book a cruise.

A view of the Nights of Lights from the deck of Sabrage in St. Augustine. — *Nights of Lights as seen from the water.*

Old Town Party Boat - "Holly Jolly Yachty"

What: This 90-minute Nights of Lights water tour for those 18 and older, is aboard a party boat featuring festive music, a lounge in the bow, and a dance floor.
Admission: $42.00 per person plus tax. $885.00 for private parties.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025, at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
Where: Departing from the Beaches Marina at 250 Vilano Road. The Beaches Marina shares a parking lot with Beaches Restaurant.
Contact: Call (904) 599-9492

Schooner Freedom Nights of Lights Sails

What: This two-hour Nights of Lights cruise takes place on a 41-passenger schooner, decorated from stem to stern with lights.
Admission: $75.00 per person plus tax
When: The Sunset Nights of Lights cruise leaves the dock at 4:15 p.m. from November 23, 2024, through January 12, 2025. Their normal Moonlight Sail with live music begins at 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays throughout the year.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. And December 7 and 14 are also blocked.
Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. There is only metered parking in the area, and it fills quickly.
Contact: Call (904) 810-1010, send an email to [email protected], or go to their ticket office at the marina.

Sabrage Nights of Lights Tours

What: 90-minute tour aboard Sabrage, a 63' catamaran with a capacity of 80 guests. The boat has a bar and restrooms.
Admission: $50.00 per person.
When: November 23, 2024, through December 31, 2024, at 5:00 and 7:30 p.m.
Exceptions: Christmas Day
Where: 117 Dockside Drive, on the dock at St. Augustine Shipyard.
Contact: (904) 310-4999

A couple enjoying a private Nights of Lights cruise aboard a sailboat from St. Augustine Sailing. — *A couple on the bow of a St. Augustine Sailing luxury sailboat enjoying the view from the water.*

Smaller, More Intimate Sail and Power Vessels

St. Augustine Sailing Nights of Lights Charters

What: Private or shared charter cruises on a luxury sailboat. Cruises can include meals, desserts, and wine.
Admission by One of Four Packages: Glitter Package — A three-hour exclusive cruise for up to six passengers, with a four-course meal, starts at $425.00 per person. Sparkle Package — A two-hour cruise for up to 10 passengers, with a curated selection of sweet and savory bites and a glass of sparkling wine, starts at $129.00 per person. Twinkle Package — A 75-minute cruise with a dessert and festive beverage, beginning at $99.00 per person. Shared Nights of Lights Cruise — A 75-minute cruise, with beverages and snacks available for purchase before departure, begins at $89.00 per person.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025. Schedules vary.
Where: At Camachee Yacht Harbor, 3076 Harbor Drive.
Contact: Call (904) 829-0648 or go here for more information.

Eco Tours Nights of Lights Boat Tour

What: Intimate boat excursions for 6 - 12 passengers, depending on the vessel: a 6-passenger sailing catamaran and a 12-passenger power boat. Both boats are open-air vessels with no cover. Multiple tours are offered each night beginning at 4:15 p.m. Tours leave the dock at 4:15, 5:00, 6:30, and 8:00 p.m. and last from one to two hours, depending on the cruise.
Admission: Adult prices range from $40.00 to $65.00; children's tickets range from $30.00 to $35.00. Private tours are available from $250.00 to $500.00.
When: From November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025. Multiple tours are offered each night beginning at 4:15 p.m. Tours leave the dock at 4:15, 5:00, 6:30, and 8:00 p.m. and last from one to two hours, depending on the cruise.
Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. There is only metered parking in the area, and it fills quickly.
Contact: Call (904) 377-7245 or go here for more information.

River Lion Excursions Nights of Lights Tour

What: A one-hour private tour for up to six passengers, aboard a 26-foot power cruiser with a cabin for cold nights. Tours can be booked for 6:30, 7:45, or 9:00 p.m.
Admission: The private charter costs $385.00 for up to six passengers.
When: On Saturdays through Tuesdays, from December 14, 2024, through January 26, 2025.
Contact: Call (904) 456-3473, or visit the website for River Lion Excursions.
Shared Tour Option: When available, a seat or two may be booked with another party. The cost is $49.00 per person, call (904) 456-3473 to book.

Cruisin' Tikis St. Augustine

What: A BYOB one-hour cruise along the bayfront on a floating tiki bar for up to six passengers
Admission: $65.00 per person
When: From November 23, 2024, through December 31, 2024, at 6:15 and 7:30 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day.
Where: Departing from Beaches Marina, 250 Vilano Road. The Beaches Marina shares a parking lot with Beaches Restaurant.
Contact: Call (904) 980-8454

Tiny Tug Nights of Lights Tours

What: Two tours, a two-hour Sunset/Nights of Lights cruise, and a 90-minute Nights of Lights cruise — both are private tours for up to six people.
Admission: $70.00 for the sunset tour and $60.00 for the Nights of Lights Tour. Each booking has a three-person minimum. BYOB is allowed.
When: Nightly from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025. The Sunset/Nights of Lights cruise is 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. The Nights of Lights cruise leaves the dock at 7:00 and 8:45 p.m.
Exceptions: There are no cruises on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day.
Where: Hop on the boat at the Vilano Pier, on the floating dock at 260 Vilano Road, in Vilano Beach.
Contact: Call (904) 901-9665 to schedule a trip.

Bluewater Adventure Nights of Light Tours

What: Cycle boat tours during Nights of Lights
Admission: We will provide this when it is available to us.
When: Nightly from November 23, 2024, through January 26, 2025
Where: Leaves from English Landing Marina, 509 S. Ponce De Leon Boulevard.
Contact: Call (904) 460-4004

A view from First City Helicopter flying over St. Augustine during Nights of Lights — *A view of Nights of Lights from First City Helicopter.*

By Air or Sky

From the Top of the Lighthouse

What: A 90-minute tour of the grounds that are decorated with lights, garlands, and 20 uniquely trimmed trees, ending with a climb to the top of the lighthouse.
Admission: $24.95 for all adults and teens. $22.95 for children 12 and younger. Only those who are at least 44 inches tall may climb the lighthouse.
When: Most Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from November 27, 2024, through January 11, 2025.
Exceptions: There will be exceptions and additions to those dates.
Where: The St. Augustine Lighthouse, 100 Red Cox Road.
Contact: (904) 829-0745 or go here for more information and tickets.

About Nights of Lights

St. Augustine's Nights of Lights festival traces its origin to the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas holidays. The tradition continues in 2024, with more than three million white lights twinkling on the historic buildings and landmarks along the bayfront and throughout the city's brick streets.

The City of St. Augustine offers a Free Park and Ride Shuttle Service for Nights of Lights from November 23 to December 30, 2024. For information about operating times and pick-up and drop-off locations, visit here.