The St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier closed May 13 and is expected to remain inaccessible through November 2026 as crews complete a major structural repair project designed to reinforce the pier’s pilings and improve long-term safety and stability. It’s a significant project, and the construction footprint is bigger than you might expect.
County officials said the construction project will temporarily impact several areas surrounding the pier, including the north beach access point, which is closed during construction. Access underneath the pier is also prohibited while repairs are underway.
Surfers, swimmers, and other beachgoers are being asked to remain at least 500 feet away from the pier throughout the project. The restriction is expected to affect a popular section of shoreline frequently used by local surfers and anglers during the busy summer and fall seasons.The good news? The gift shop is staying open, and permitted events at Ocean Pier Park are expected to continue as scheduled. So if you’ve got something on the calendar at the park, it shouldn’t be affected.
The extended closure comes during one of the busiest tourism periods of the year for St. Augustine Beach. The pier serves as a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, and recreational activities and is widely considered a community landmark for both residents and visitors.
It’s also worth understanding why this repair matters beyond the inconvenience. County officials said the repairs are necessary to address ongoing wear caused by saltwater exposure, storms, and coastal conditions that affect marine structures over time. Reinforcing the pilings now is intended to help preserve the pier for future public use and reduce the risk of more extensive damage in the future. The tradeoff is just that it’s happening during peak beach season.
If you’re planning a visit to St. Augustine Beach between now and November, it’s worth adjusting your expectations a bit. The beach itself is still wide open, parking and park facilities are available, and the coastline on either side of the closure zone is as beautiful as ever. You’ll just want to give the construction area plenty of space and plan your water activities accordingly.
For the most up-to-date information on the project timeline and any changes to access, St. Johns County is the official source — check www.sjcfl.us for updates as the project progresses.
