2025 Nights of Lights

Question

Planning a trip to St Augustine in December (12-15) for the Nights of Lights? We have never been to St Augustine is Friday-Monday a good amount of time to spend in the area. We will fly into Jacksonville and rent a car. My husband is researching accommodations and looking for recommendations we prefer Hilton brand hotels to use points. Any and all opinions appreciated. Thank you! ☺️

Answer

Visiting St. Augustine for the Nights of Lights from December 12-15 is a great plan! Four days (Friday to Monday) gives you enough time to explore the historic district, enjoy the light displays, and even take a few excursions outside the city.

Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

Nights of Lights: The display is spectacular and runs nightly. Walking through the historic streets of downtown is ideal, especially around St. George Street, the Bridge of Lions, and the waterfront area. Bring comfortable shoes and dress warmly for December evenings.
Historic Attractions: Plan time for Castillo de San Marcos, Lightner Museum, and Flagler College. Even though the lights are the main attraction, the historic architecture is also a highlight.
Day Trips: With a rental car from Jacksonville, you can also explore nearby beaches like Vilano Beach or Crescent Beach during the day.

Accommodations: Since you prefer Hilton properties and want to use points, options near downtown St. Augustine include:

Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Beach – good for easy beach access and short drive to downtown.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District – closer to the historic district, convenient for walking to the lights.
Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Augustine – if you prefer suites with kitchen facilities and a bit more space.

Tips:

Book accommodations as early as possible, since the Nights of Lights draw crowds in December.
Parking downtown can be limited, so staying within walking distance or using your hotel shuttle (if available) is helpful.
Evening light tours by trolley or boat are popular and offer a unique perspective on the lights.

Overall, four days is a comfortable amount of time to enjoy both the lights and St. Augustine’s history, with some room for beach or nearby exploration. With Hilton properties, you’ll also get the comfort and points you’re looking for.