Nights of Lights, by Land or by Sea, Safe and Spectacular

Time to start making plans! Nights of Lights is one of the most popular events of the holiday season. Visitors have come from all over to see millions of tiny white lights decorate historic buildings, inns and shops from the rooftops to the landscaping. And this year is no exception.

Nights of Lights 2023

This year, the lights will be on display from Saturday, November 18, 2023 through Wednesday, January 31, 2024. Of course, there are many ways to take in the lights with a leisurely stroll along the bayfront and the historic district. But you won’t want to miss the holiday cheer and fun, not to mention stunning views of the lights, with a variety of special holiday tours this year. Here are just a few of our favorite ways to experience Nights of Lights.

Downtown Saint Augustine Nights of Lights Photography Tours

Downtown St. Augustine's Nights of Lights features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere and great photo opportunities. Join Patricia Bean photographer and tour guide at prime locations with photo tips and instruction to learn holiday light photography. Bring your camera/cellphones and come away with bright, sharp, beautiful photographs.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Old Town Trolleys' Nights of Lights Tour is one of the classic ways to see the lights in St. Augustine. Seats will be sold by the entire row (up to 4 people) and by advance reservation, eliminating waiting in lines or walk-up sales. The price for a full row is $69.99. Reservations and ticket-purchasing options are available online. 10 W. Castillo Dr., St. Augustine. 904-829-3800

Red Express Tours

Take an enchanting trip through St. Augustine’s spectacular Nights of Lights aboard one of Ripley’s festive red trains, free magic-viewing glasses included. Santa’s Red Express Train Tours depart from Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium each evening at 6 p.m. Reserve your row for $65.99 each, rows can accommodate up to four (4) people. Reservations and ticket-purchasing options are available online. 19 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. 904-824-1606

St. Augustine Scenic Cruise

If you’ve never seen the lights from the water, here’s your chance to be dazzled. Hop aboard the Victory III and take in the magical lights as you view the downtown displays while you cruise along the Matanzas Bay. Tours run nightly from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $26.95 per person. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. 904-824-1806 x210

Schooner Freedom Charters

Enjoy the sunset and a spectacular display of historic downtown St. Augustine aboard the Schooner Freedom. This popular sail is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with your loved ones. As the twinkling lights glow over the sunsetting sky, this evening sail is surely an adventure not to be forgotten. Reservations are highly recommended. Sails 7 days a week and departs the St. Augustine Municipal Marina at 4:15 p.m. Tickets are $70 per person. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. 904-810-1010

Florida Water Tours

A guided Nights of Lights cruise along the historic bayfront is just what you’ve been wishing for, especially when it includes complimentary 3D glasses and hot chocolate. The 5:15 p.m. Florida Water Tours sunset cruise is 90 minutes and suitable for all ages. The 7 and 8:30 p.m. cruises are 75 minute cruises and accommodate adults and children over the age of 7. Please note that children under 7 are not permitted on the evening cruises. Tours are $39-$49. 107 Yacht Club Dr., St. Augustine. 904-827-7728

The Tasting Tours

If you’re a foodie, there’s no better way to indulge in the holiday spirit during Nights of Lights than The Tasting Tours. Wine & Carriage Rides are available for Groups or Private reservations. And they are in the holiday spirit with other tour offerings including: Nights of Lights 'Bah Humbug' Ride with Scrooge, and the Nights of Lights Grinchmas Ride.

St. Augustine Boat Tours

The view of the Historic District and all its dazzling displays from the water should not be missed. St. Augustine Boat Tours offers a Nights of Lights excursion every evening at 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m. Tickets are $34 for adults and $15 children for under 8. 57 Comares Ave., St. Augustine. 904-687-8297

Pineapple Ride & Tour

Get in on the fun with Pineapple Ride and Tour's Seasonal Nights of Lights Tour! Enjoy a one-hour excursion through downtown St. Augustine on an electric vehicle that seats up to 10 people. Tours run daily from 6-10 p.m. These private tours are $180 for up to 10 people.

St. Augustine Land & Sea Tours

St. Augustine Land & Sea Tours are exclusively private tours on a limo golf cart offering a guided tour of the ancient city landmarks and historic architecture in English and Spanish. Tickets are $35 per person. Tours depart from 6-10 p.m. each night from Trinity Parish Gift Shop, 2 Artillery Lane, St. Augustine. 904-679-9880

Red Boat Tours

Step aboard the Pellicano and view the lights from the water. Tours leave from the Vilano Beach Pier at 5:45 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (no children under 10). Tours are $40 for adults, $12 for children ages 10-12. 260 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. 904-436-3566

St. Augustine Sailing

See the best views of Nights of Lights on this one-hour shared charter experience. St. Augustine Sailing's tours leave from Camachee Cove Marina, 3076 Harbor Dr., St. Augustine. 904-829-0648

St. Augustine Eco Tours

Join St. Augustine Eco Tours for intimate boat excursions offering the best river views of the Nights of Lights celebration. Nightly tours depart from the Municipal Marina in the heart of the historic district. Choose from the Night of Lights Boat Excursion, Nights of Lights Sunset Catamaran Sail or the Marine Wildlife & History Sunset Nights of Lights Tour. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. 904-377-7245

See more Nights of Lights special events here.