Hastings

Fresh produce, friendly faces, & hometown pride.

Tucked into the southwest corner of St. Johns County, Hastings was once dubbed, “The Potato Capital of Florida.” This quiet rural community continues to honor its agricultural history while welcoming visitors to explore its historic streets, family-run bakeries, scenic trails, and fresh produce — just 18 miles from downtown St. Augustine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hastings is renowned as the "Potato Capital of Florida" due to its extensive potato farming history. The town also cultivates cabbage, onions, eggplant, and ornamental horticulture. ​

Hastings offers a suburban-rural mix, with many of its residents owning their homes. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, community focus, and proximity to both the St. Johns River and Atlantic beaches. However, amenities like grocery stores and pharmacies are located about 10 miles away.

Visitors often visit the St. Johns Botanical Garden, enjoy local eateries like Norma D's, and participate in community events such as farmers markets and seasonal festivals.

Hastings is approximately 18 miles southwest of St. Augustine and about 60 miles south of Jacksonville, making it accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

Downtown Hastings, Florida around 1920

From Rail Town

Founded in 1890 by Thomas Horace Hastings to supply vegetables for Henry Flagler’s hotels, the town soon became a key stop along the Florida East Coast Railway. By the 1920s, Hastings was home to banks, bakeries, a thriving farm economy, and the Hastings Motor Company—later known as Stanton Motors.

Aerial view of the Boulevard Car Show in Hastings

To Hometown

Hastings continues to radiate small-town spirit and community pride. On Main Street, local favorites like ChocoLattes serve scratch-made pastries and morning coffee with a friendly smile. Throughout the year, you’ll find auto shows, farmers markets, and seasonal events that bring neighbors and visitors together in true hometown fashion.

 

Hastings Highlights

Fun things to do.

A lone flower in one section of the St. Johns County Botanical Garden

St. Johns Botanical Garden

Let nature surprise you.

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Lake views at 4 Lakes Campground in Hastings, Florida

4 Lakes Campground

Unplug beneath the pines and stay awhile.

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Hang Out in Hastings

Find everything there is to see, do, and experience.

(904) 692-3762

9855 CR 13 S

Visitors can enjoy lake views and nature in Hastings, Florida.

(386) 385-8225

308 North Main Street

This scratch bakery has moved to Main Street in Hastings.

(904) 692-9400

9260 S.R. 207

Opening November 21, 2024 to sell their fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables.

(904) 692-4786

8290 Smith Road

A local farm market where visitors and locals can shop and also meet the farm animals.

(904) 692-1420

6195 S. Main Street

Home of municipal services for Hastings, Florida.

(904) 809-9858

125 N. Main St.

This Italian eatery is made for both dining in and on the road.

(904) 692-1191

224 N. Main Street

Homemade southern country cooking serving the Hastings area.

Upcoming Events in Hastings

The prize table full of baskets and an assortment of knick-knacks
Saturday
Apr 26

Cabbage, Potato, & Bacon Festival

Saturday - Sunday, Apr. 26 - 27, 2025 | Times Vary

Celebrate historic Hastings and its agriculture during this two-day event.