History comes alive in Northeast Florida, aptly known as "The First Coast." The Spanish founded the nation's first European settlement in St. Augustine in the 1560s. The Spaniards came to seek their fortunes here and to protect their treasure ships which traveled the east coast of what is today the United States.

Florida's Northeast region is a diverse destination. Here, the land is divided by the meandering waters of the St. Johns River, one of only a few north-running rivers in the world.

Cool mineral springs, shimmering lakes and verdant forests offer enchanting natural beauty even today. City lovers will enjoy the cosmopolitan activities offered by Jacksonville and Gainesville. On the coast, small beach towns decorate a string of barrier islands where sun-lovers flock.