For many moms, the dream vacation isn’t about packing more in—it’s about taking the pressure off. Less driving. Less waiting. Fewer “what are we doing next?” moments. That’s exactly what makes Hammock Beach such a retreat for families in St. Augustine. Just 30 minutes away, it feels like you’ve crossed an ocean to a tucked-away island resort without the stress of slights, long car rides, or overpacked itineraries. From the moment your car pulls into the valet, there is an ease to it all, with amenities and activities at your fingertips.
The Fantasy Pool Complex alone offers a plethora of activities and places to unwind. Kids can make their way to the lower deck, where a whole world of fun awaits. They can experience the thrill of twisting down the waterslide, splash into the zero-entry pool, use their creativity to build their own sandcastles in the poolside sand areas, or drift down the lazy river. Between adventures, the food and beverage service, colorful landscaping, and mix of sun and shade lounge areas make it easy to settle in for the day.
Meanwhile, Mom and Dad can relax in the adults-only pool, overlooking the Ocean Golf Course. With plenty of options for sun and shaded areas, it’s a perfect setting for a tranquil day of lounging, swimming, and sipping a drink with poolside service in reach all day. When Dad heads off to the golf course to get in a few swings, Mom can slip away to the full-service spa for facials, massages, and other rejuvenating treatments. For those who like to sweat out their stress, there are saunas and steam rooms, while those fitness lovers can get some movement in at one of the spin, yoga, aerobics, or Pilates classes.
This is far from a landlocked stay. Just steps beyond the property, guests are met with a stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, salty ocean air, and the rhythmic crash of the waves harmonizing with the calls of seagulls. Morning walks on the sand, kids chasing waves, and afternoons under an umbrella with the sound of the surf create that unmistakable “we’re on vacation” feeling.
With more than 1,000 acres, there’s so much more to experience beyond the water for the kids, adults, and the family all together–like putt-putt course, volleyball and pickleball/tennis courts, an arcade, and a kids crew program. Guests can also cruise through the resort and explore on one of the complimentary bikes. If you are looking to venture beyond the property, there are plenty of nearby shops to browse and scenic beachfront paths perfect for riding along the coast.
Beyond the waters and these activities, the experience continues with dining that feels more like a collection of restaurants than a single resort lineup. With eight distinct options on property, everything from elevated fine dining to quick, easy bites is covered, so every mood and every family member is taken care of without ever leaving.
Beach Brew is the perfect quick breakfast stop, serving pastries, handheld breakfast favorites, and light morning staples alongside a full coffee menu ranging from drip coffee to cappuccinos and lattes. At Hammock House, families can enjoy a casual breakfast or lunch with spectacular ocean views overlooking the 9th green. For a more elevated breakfast, lunch, or dinner experience, Atlantic Grille specializes in fresh “shore-to-table” seafood paired with seasonal ingredients and sweeping oceanfront views. On the upper level of the Fantasy Pool Complex, Ocean Bar Café offers a menu of classic American favorites, including salads, sandwiches, burgers, shareable appetizers, refreshing cocktails, and a dedicated kids’ menu. Pizza & Gelato serves rustic thin-crust pizzas by the slice or pie, along with authentic house-made gelato that’s perfect for an afternoon treat. For those looking to kick back with a beer or cocktail, Loggerheads Sports Pub is the ideal place to enjoy elevated pub fare, watch the game, and play a round of billiards.Guests looking for an upscale dinner experience can head to Delfinos Italian Chophouse, where certified Black Angus steaks, regional Italian specialties, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. And for a different take on seafood, Stix Authentic Sushi features sushi-grade fish, sashimi, and colorful specialty rolls that bring a vibrant finish to the resort’s dining scene.
