Finding something new in the oldest city in America seems like a long task, but what about one of the undiscovered beach cities of Florida, a stone throw away?
St. Augustine falls for many visitors in Florida, with that one amusement park with smiling giant rodents and the lively nightlife of Miami who attract partygoers such as moths to a flame.
Of course there are also many other hotspots for beach holidays, such as Destin and Panama City, but you rarely hear a look at Vilano Beach, a place that you immediately do Italian hands by saying it (you know you did it!).
No – the relaxing city of Vilano Beach Is not in Italy, but just outside St. Augustine and has a sparkling mix of white and coquina-sandy coasts along lively blue water with much less crowds than any remarkable outing in Florida.
Oh, and a great castle. Which other American beach city can claim that?!
Something new in “Old Florida”
I have been to Florida many times and I still have to discover what the locals often describe as “old florida”.
Apparently I did it wrong by touching the cluster of the famous paradises of Southwest-Florida, together with the world famous attractions of Orlando, and Miami’s Ritz and Glitz.
That is where Vilano Beach comes in, capture the essence of the old Florida and not just because it is the oldest city in America neighborhood.
We are talking about retro motels and classic beach houses, charm in small city and relaxed beach -like bars where everyone will know your name.
How Vilano Beach has slipped through the cracks for so long is the gamble.
If I take a crack, I would say that people are so mesmerized by the timeless heritage of St. Augustine that they don’t get it far enough outside the city limits.
However, those in knowing absolutely love it! A recent Summer Beach Gurer claimed that it is their ‘favorite beach in St. Augustine’ because of clear water, large surfing and ease of access just a 10 -minute drive from the city.
A unicorn in Florida: unspoilt beach city without bustle
It seems that Florida’s selection of hidden gems is shrinking year after year. Every time we have the feeling that we have covered them all at Travel Off Path, more keep popping up.
Vilano Beach is a rarity. Although there are definitely some lesser -known coasts to chase, the iconic coasts of Florida, do not have much a prime real estate such as that of Vilano.
Being so close to a large destination in Florida makes visiting a no-brainer here. Although it is completely suitable for leaning back and relaxing, you will notice a considerable amount of surfers because of heavy drop-offs that create larger waves.
And surfers will not be your only company. Vilano Beach is known for spotting and fishing animals in the wild (if you can grab them before the pelicans do)
The most striking is that visitors are enthusiastic about observations of dolphins. The locals do that too and take their guests to the Vilano Beach cake to spot them, or you can book a sightseeing tour with Red Boat Tours To increase your chances.
You will find some beaches more postcard observed than others. Many of the coasts of Vilano are covered with ground shells, so the right shoes is a must unless you want the feeling that I do that when I stepped on the legos of my cousin (not recommended).
But there has been sand Re -projects Provided by the government to prevent such experiences and to offer more beautiful aesthetics.
Castle Otttis: Florida’s unsuspecting star Surprise
At the chance that you are in the middle of finishing a trip to Ireland, you may be on hold for the time being and you will fulfill your fairy -tale dreams by visiting what is perhaps the most underrated attraction of Florida.
Overshadowed by the European vibes of St. Augustinus, Castle Otttis (yes, with 3 Ts) does not get the attention it deserves.
The few who, however, found it enthusiastically about it. Although it claims not to be a good castle and would rather be hit in the art world as a ‘landscape sculpture’, it certainly succeeds as a bona fide castle in my book.
Although their very old school website claims that it is an ‘impression of an Irish castle’ – honest enough, I think.
The brain behind the project is Ottis Sadler, who at some point should have had the fool and added an extra t to his name.
The project was carefully built up for a period of 4 years as an ode to Jesus Christ, with a 1000-year-old Irish abbey style interior and complicated woodwork, which ensures excellent photo-sells.
Sadler has died since then, but his spirit lives on because of his masterful work, because the castle is still in the family and is open to tours and weddings. A recent guests from July claimed: “There are 3 levels if you count the roof, where you see a beautiful panoramic view of the ocean.”
Add: “This is a castle based on 1000 -year -old Irish castles. The tour is free, but donations will be greatly appreciated. A must to see if you are in St. Augustine. It’s a magical experience.”
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