Old Spanish Coquina Quarries
Discover the historic coquina quarries, where stone was mined for St. Augustine's forts, now a wild, overgrown 'fairy forest'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and bugs
Old Spanish Coquina Quarries
Best Time
Beat the heat and bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the historic coquina quarries, where stone was mined for St. Augustine's forts, now a wild, overgrown 'fairy forest'.
"A neat little trail with so much history, worth checking out this little hidden gem!"
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent!
Essential for enjoying the trails. Don't get carried away by the bugs!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be overgrown and sometimes flooded. Be prepared for an adventure!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Quarry's Edge
Main quarry area
Discover the remnants of where coquina blocks were quarried for historic forts. A true glimpse into Florida's past.
Overgrown 'Fairy Forest'
Trails
Wander through lush, wild vegetation that creates a magical, almost 'fairy forest' atmosphere .
Historical Significance
Near Castillo de San Marcos
Learn how this site provided the coquina for iconic structures like the Castillo de San Marcos .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Overgrowth
While this makes it feel wild and historic, it also means trails can be a bit muddy or flooded.Mosquito Alert!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent!
Essential for enjoying the trails. Don't get carried away by the bugs!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be overgrown and sometimes flooded. Be prepared for an adventure!
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and the heat in St. Augustine. Make it a multi-stop day!
🌳 Explore the Trails
Even if overgrown, the trails offer a unique adventure and historical insight.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent!
Essential for enjoying the trails. Don't get carried away by the bugs!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be overgrown and sometimes flooded. Be prepared for an adventure!
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and the heat in St. Augustine. Make it a multi-stop day!
🌳 Explore the Trails
Even if overgrown, the trails offer a unique adventure and historical insight.
📸 Capture the Magic
The 'fairy forest' vibe is perfect for nature photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Old Spanish Coquina Quarries to be a fascinating historical site with a unique, overgrown 'fairy forest' charm. While the history is compelling and the natural beauty is appreciated, the significant presence of mosquitoes and the sometimes challenging, overgrown trails are common drawbacks.
"It’s a neat little trail at the opening of Anastasia State Park. It has a trail that goes to the other side of the amphitheater, with a few neat bunny trails. The trails are a little bit overgrown, but absolutely beautiful and with them being overgrown it makes it a little bit of an adventure. It is just a short hike, but worth your time. It is very important that you bring some type of mosquito repellent, the mosquitoes are all over the place and will carry you off to their den to eat you alive!!"
Jon Wise
"Super awesome piece of history right here! If you blink, you'd miss it! Definitely worth checking out this little hidden gem. The trail was flooded so we didn't get to walk the whole thing, but what we saw was very interesting!"
Timmy McCann
"Well, like you might expect after 300 years, it's overgrown with vegetation. A small open area with bushes and trees on a little ridge. Sorta little a small meteorite crater. They would have to do some major bush hogging to clear the area to actually see the remnants of the old quarry. The history of it is interesting, and it's just a short walk off the road. Mikey, not really Likey."
mike c
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Spanish Coquina Quarries are located within Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine, Florida. You'll typically pay an entrance fee for the park. Once inside, follow signs for the quarry trails. Some visitors mention it's a short walk off the road.
Parking is available within Anastasia State Park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
The quarries are situated within Anastasia State Park, so an entrance fee is generally required to access the area and its trails.
While the trails are sometimes overgrown, they are generally short. Using a park map or following marked paths is advised. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
Public transport options directly to the quarries are limited. Driving or ride-sharing services to Anastasia State Park are the most common methods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Anastasia State Park to access the Old Spanish Coquina Quarries. Check the park's official website for current fees.
The quarries are accessible during the operating hours of Anastasia State Park. These typically run from early morning until sunset. Always verify park hours before your visit.
No, the fee is for entry into Anastasia State Park, which includes access to the coquina quarries and other park amenities.
While park entry fees are usually paid upon arrival, it's always a good idea to check the Anastasia State Park website for any online ticketing options or recommendations, especially during busy periods.
Discounts may be available for Florida residents, seniors, or military personnel. Inquire at the park entrance or check the Anastasia State Park website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the remnants of the quarry where coquina stone was extracted for historic buildings like the Castillo de San Marcos. The overgrown trails create a unique, wild atmosphere.
The trails are generally short but can be overgrown and sometimes flooded, making them a bit of an adventure. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Absolutely! The 'fairy forest' vibe and historical elements make it a picturesque spot for nature and historical photography.
Most visitors find it to be a short hike, often taking less than an hour to explore the main quarry area and surrounding trails.
Yes, there are usually informational signs that explain the history of the coquina quarry and its importance to St. Augustine's construction.
🎫 🦟 Pests & Safety
Yes, many visitors report a significant mosquito presence, especially in the overgrown areas. It's crucial to bring strong insect repellent.
Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain, bring insect repellent, and stay aware of your surroundings. Inform someone of your plans if hiking alone.
The trails are short, but the overgrowth and potential for mud or water can make them a bit challenging for very young children. Adult supervision is recommended.
While not common, be aware of local wildlife. Maintain a safe distance and do not feed any animals. The primary concern here is insects.
The Old Spanish Coquina Quarries are not a swimming area. They are a historical site with natural trails. For swimming, head to the nearby beaches within Anastasia State Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
can spark imagination, and the idea of finding stones used to build old forts is exciting. However, be prepared for the overgrown trails and the very real threat of mosquitoes.🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
📸 Nature Photographers
setting, perfect for capturing atmospheric shots. Combine this with the historical elements of the quarry remnants, and you have a compelling subject. The golden hour light can be particularly stunning here, so consider visiting in the late afternoon.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Coquina
Today, the quarries are largely overgrown, giving them a wild and mysterious feel. Visitors can still see the remnants of the quarrying process, imagining the labor involved in extracting these massive blocks centuries ago. The trails wind through lush vegetation, creating an immersive experience that transports you back in time. It’s a tangible connection to the early colonial era of Florida, offering a unique perspective on how the city was shaped literally from the ground up.
Many visitors describe the area as a 'fairy forest',
with the dense foliage creating a magical ambiance. This natural reclamation adds to the charm, making the exploration feel like a true discovery. It’s a reminder of how nature reclaims historical sites, blending human history with the enduring power of the natural world. The historical significance combined with the natural beauty makes this a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.Navigating the Trails and Nature
This natural state contributes to the site's adventurous appeal, often described as a 'fairy forest'. However, it also means you should be prepared for uneven terrain, potential mud, and sometimes flooded sections, especially after rain.A significant piece of advice from visitors is to bring ample mosquito repellent.
While the trails are generally short, the overgrown nature can make them feel like a mini-adventure. It’s a great opportunity for nature photography,
with the lush greenery and historical remnants providing a unique backdrop. Remember to respect the natural environment and stay on marked paths where possible to minimize your impact.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit