Aside from a single paragraph tucked into most grade school history books, Florida’s St. Augustine flies under the radar of most travelers. Perhaps nearby Daytona Beach (60 miles south) and fairly close Walt Disney World (120 miles southwest) have siphoned off tourist traffic, but with 37 inns to choose from St. Augustine is a definite destination for anyone who’s passionate about bed and breakfasts.
In clapboard homes, coquina shell houses, and historic residences dating as far back as the 1700s, innkeepers are welcoming guests to one the most enchanting historic districts in America.
Among my personal favorites in one of my favorite American cities are these five inns – each of which offers a winning combination of personality, service, location, and romance.
1. Casablanca Inn Bed & Breakfast on the Bay
This restored 1914 Mediterranean-revival stucco-and-stone house remains one of the most popular inns in the historic district. One reason? A porch that offers scenic views of Matanzas Bay and the historic Bridge of Lions, rooms with sitting rooms and/or whirlpool tubs, breakfast on the patio or in the sunny dining room, free parking, complimentary snacks, a 5:30 social hour, and a $15 credit at the inn’s bar, Tini Martini.
2. Casa de Solana
On the oldest street in the oldest European-settled city in America guest rooms in this 1820s-era inn made of coquina and handmade bricks have, thankfully, been modernized with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, balconies and – in some cases -- their own ghost. Join others for morning breakfast or, for an extra fee, have breakfast delivered to your door – a service that extends to picnic baskets and floral arrangements as well.
3. Inn on Charlotte Bed & Breakfast
On a quaint brick street in the Historic District, a ground-level porch is perfect for sipping complimentary lemonade or wine and enjoying a favorite pastime of people-watching – especially during the 5 pm social hour. It’s like staying with family – provided your family prepares a gourmet breakfast every morning and offers cozy rooms with whirlpool tubs. www.innoncharlotte.com
4. Old City House Inn & Restaurant
Save international airfare and enjoy a hint of Paris, Venice, and India at this small two-story inn. Tucked behind coquina walls and shaded by lush foliage, there’s a cosmopolitan flair here. Enjoy engaging conversations during the Friday night wine-and-cheese parties. Each room has its own entrance and from a second-floor deck take in the picture-perfect sunsets.
5. Alexander Homestead
Bonnie Alexander is a gracious hostess and her cozy six-room inn epitomizes the best of bed and breakfasts. Filled with warmth and character, the inn has a picture perfect front yard complete with brick walkway, miniature roses, a front porch swing and beautiful bedrooms -- each of which will set the mood for romance (check out the ‘Hideway’). A gourmet breakfast awaits each morning, free drinks are offered throughout the day and after dinner cordials are a must. The lovemeister says check it out.
Related Features
- • If you enjoy St. Augustine inns, during the summer and fall you’ll love Massachusetts inns just as much! Check out the About feature A Few Massachusetts Inns.
