A hard-working, young couple, flanked with two bright-eyed children, hops into the car for a much-needed weekend retreat.  “Where are we going?” the children ask.  The wise parents just wink and reply, “We’re going back in time…to search for treasure.”  For the weary parents, this nostalgic journey will offer rejuvenation, peace, and simplicity in an idyllic place that preserves the beauty of nature and captures the essence of an unhurried, Old Florida lifestyle.  The trials of the demanding workweek will soon disappear into the endless horizon as easily as the sandcastles melt into the Atlantic Ocean’s high tide.  For the children, treasures will be revealed in the exploration of pristine sand and sea and observing native species in undisturbed habitats.  They will unveil unexpected adventures and relive history through the eyes of a Native American, Spanish explorer, and early American settler.  It doesn’t take long for the “are we there yets” to begin.  Their excitement is hard to contain and for good reason; A1A is a treasure box overflowing with jewels for all to enjoy. 

             An elderly gentleman gathers up his fishing gear and heads out his back door for a leisurely stroll alongside SR A1A to the local pier.  Stepping outside, he inhales a slow deep breath taking in the uninterrupted view of an azure blue sky, the aroma of fresh wildflowers, and the delightful squeals of children responding to each crashing wave.  On his way, he drops by his favorite local diner to have a cup of coffee and see if the fish are biting.  Afterword, he says his goodbyes and heads on over to the pier, waving to several friends he sees along the way.  As he finds his usual spot and settles in, he smiles at the parade of joggers and bicyclists along the shoreline and the scattering of kayaks, eco-tour boats, and deep sea fishing excursions on the water.  He realizes that he is surrounded by one of the last remaining coastal vestiges where the community unifies in the spirit of Old Florida.  Yep, after all these years, A1A is still a little slice of heaven. 

             Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, it is easy to see that the sun rises and sets on the preservation of A1A’s unique resources.   The river to sea journey along A1A becomes the destination allowing anyone to enjoy a slow walk through St. Augustine’s Historic District, long bike-rides through the majestic oak-covered Hammock, climbing on the coquina outcroppings at the Rocks, and floating down the Matanzas River for an exciting eco-adventure. State and local parks, such as Washington Oaks Gardens, Bings Landing, Mala Compra, and the Flagler Beach Pier tell the A1A story and allow visitors to experience the varied A1A culture. The coastal ecosystems throughout the A1A corridor provide lush habitat for salt-tolerant plants such as sea oats, beach daisies, and prickly pear cactus.  Seasonally, protected species, such as the least tern and sea turtles make the A1A beaches their home.  Likewise, the estuaries and aquatic preserves, such as the Guana River Marsh and the Tomoka Marsh Aquatic Preserves, are filled with osprey, bald eagles, pelicans, owls, fiddler crabs, and raccoons.  History, archaeology, nature, scenic views, culture, and recreation…these are our treasured jewels.

            Throughout the Byway corridor, all of the local governments have adopted the Corridor Overlay District into their comprehensive plans as a means of offering special protection of these resources.  There are no overhead utilities or unsightly billboards to impede the scenic splendor.  Business owners and developers are attracted to the beauty and charm of A1A and prepare plans that complement the natural surroundings and enhance the Old Florida atmosphere. Developers submit plans to the Friends of A1A regularly to ensure smart, low-impact development and context sensitive solutions. 

             Residents of the area take great pride in their treasured scenic and historic corridor are united in efforts to protect A1A’s magnificently colored beaches from erosion, to implement recycling programs throughout the corridor, and to keep the corridor safe and inviting. The entire community works diligently to keep A1A well maintained in terms of litter control and landscaping.  There is a distinct Old Florida flavor in the few remaining signs that tell the Byway story.  The built and natural environments exist harmoniously in the Old Florida ambiance.

            This is truly the treasured Florida coast as Ponce de Leon discovered it.  It is an unpaved, non-condo Florida adorned with bountiful oak canopies, miles of ocean perched on multi-colored sandy beaches, and acres of pristine wildlife sanctuaries.  History and nature are unveiled in a community that has held true to its roots despite the rapid development of the rest of the state.  Step back in time to a place where Old Florida meets new Florida and tradition is still our most valued resource.