Owner Laurel Baker makes jewelry worthy of any hip, urban dweller's closet. Her metal working mixes contemporary style with a vintage sensibility. One of her hallmarks is using the "sunshine stone," also known as the Florida State Stone, which is glossy, fossilized coral. Baker sets the stone into arts necklaces, rings and bracelets. Other jewelry creations are necklaces made with layers of dainty chains and cuffs with stone accents. The boutique also has a love for vintage and homemade with belts, bags and sunglasses that have been carefully curated. The original artwork for sale on the walls mirrors Baker's eclectic aesthetic.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: This hip boutique has amazing artisan jewelry that could easily be found in places like Brooklyn or Los Feliz.
Shelley's expert tip: After visiting Anchor, stop for pastry and a café au lait at Les Petits Pleasures, a nearby French bakery.
The Red Pineapple is a swoon-worthy boutique with a Parisian vibe. Besides floaty skirts and lady-like dresses there are cute housewares, cards, jewelry, soaps and perfumes. Browsing here is a pleasure since the merchandize is always artfully arranged and encourage shoppers to take a closer look. Popular items include real books cut into alphabet letter shapes that make for a cool gift, whimsical dish towels and picture frames. The girly vibe is hard to resist and most can't leave here without a new piece of jewelry, vintage-looking shoes or a leather handbag destined to become your go-to favorite.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: The Red Pineapple stands out in a sea of more touristy shops in downtown St. Augustine with its pretty frocks, jewelry and gifts.
Shelley's expert tip: This boutique is a hit with the resident Flagler College women, so you know you're getting the insider purchase here.
Near downtown St. Augustine, the Butterfield Garage Art Gallery is an artist-run gallery that takes creativity and the artist-patron relationship to the next level. A re-purposed parking garage, the space showcases the traditional and contemporary work of talented local artists. The gallery often hosts special events or talks where the public can meet the artists and ask them about their work. Exhibitions change frequently and the knowledgeable and friendly staff are always happy to answer questions and help you find the kind art that speaks to you. Owner Jan Miller is not only an artist herself but the current president of the Art Galleries of St. Augustine, a group that promotes the city's artists and art spaces.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: This is one of St. Augustine's largest and most successful galleries featuring high-quality work from the region's artists.
Shelley's expert tip: The gallery hosts often hosts special exhibitions, featured speakers and even the occasional restorative yoga class. Always something going on here.
St. George Street, St. Augustine's most popular shopping district, wends its way through several brick-lined blocks of the city's center. Along this car-free thoroughfare you'll discover independent retailers offering home accents, jewelry, books, pottery, clothing and more. St. George Street affords a great way to soak up the old city's historic ambiance as many interesting colonial houses and attractions are located in the area. You can spend the entire day here poking around the various stores tucked into courtyards or in shaded arcades. Be it a burger, beer or an ice cream cone, nearly every block will tempt you to come in and linger over a meal while you do some good people watching.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: For old-timey fun, kitchy souvenirs and truly good shopping, St. George Street is a must.
Shelley's expert tip: On a hot day, be sure to stop by The Hyppo at 70 Saint George Street for a gourmet ice pop.
This edgy design boutique, started by a couple from San Francisco, is a shrine to minimalism. You won't find their wares crammed into the space but things such as 3D-printed/gold cast rings, coffee presses, copper light fixtures and gorgeous totes are artfully and sparingly arranged in order to fully appreciate their craftsmanship. The store is packed with their own handmade goods, as well as those of other local makers.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: This is a great example of some of the trendier, more modern offerings made and sold in St. Augustine.
Shelley's expert tip: They pour candles in the store and host candle workshops.
Located in the heart of St. Augustine's historic pedestrian-only district and apart from noisy traffic and neon lights, brick-lined Aviles Street offers a splendid mix of shopping by way of interesting stores, boutiques, art galleries and souvenir shops. In addition, Aviles Street is dotted with pleasant cafes and historic homes with some structures dating over 200 years old. One of the best ways to see the gallery scene is by attending the First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 9 p.m. every first Friday of the month, rain or shine. You can meet artists, enjoy refreshments and have a fun night out.
Recommended for Best Shopping because: This is the oldest street in the U.S. and full of great shopping.
Shelley's expert tip: Though you will definitely look like a tourist, taking one of the ticketed trolleys is a good way to see the old city. You can hop on and off as much as you like.
