Finding something new in America’s oldest city seems like a tall task, but what about one of Florida’s undiscovered beach towns, a stone’s throw away?
St. Augustine falls to the wayside for many Florida visitors, with that one amusement park with smiling giant rodents and Miami’s vibrant nightlife attracting partygoers like moths to a flame.
Of course, there are numerous other hotspots too for beach vacations, such as Destin and Panama City, but rarely do you hear a peep about Vilano Beach, a place that instantly makes you do Italian hands just by saying it (you know you did!).
Nope — the relaxing town of Vilano Beach is not in Italy, but just outside St. Augustine and boasts a sparkling mix of white and coquina-sand shores along vivid blue water with far fewer crowds than any notable Florida getaway.
Oh, and an awesome castle. What other U.S. beach town can claim that?!
Something New In “Old Florida”
I’ve been to Florida numerous times and have yet to discover what’s often described by locals as “Old Florida”.
Apparently, I’ve been doing it wrong by hitting up the cluster of Southwest Florida’s famous paradises, along with Orlando’s world-renowned attractions, and Miami’s ritz and glitz.
That’s where Vilano Beach comes in, capturing the essence of Old Florida and not just because it neighbors America’s oldest city.
We’re talking retro motels and classic beach cottages, small town charm, and laid-back beachy bars where everyone will know your name.
How Vilano Beach has slipped through the cracks this long is anyone’s guess.
If I take a crack at it, I’d say that people become so mesmerized by the timeless heritage of St. Augustine that they don’t make it far enough outside the city limits.
Those in the know absolutely love it, though! One recent summer beachgoer claimed it’s their’ favorite beach in St. Augustine’ due to clear water, big surf, and ease of access being just a 10-minute drive from the city.
A Florida Unicorn: Pristine Beach Town With No Crowds
It seems Florida’s selection of hidden gems shrinks year after year. Every time we at Travel Off Path feel we’ve covered them all, more continue to pop up.
Vilano Beach is a rarity. Even though there are definitely some lesser-known shores to sprawl out on, Florida’s iconic shores, not many have prime real estate like that of Vilano.
Being so close to a major Florida destination makes visiting here a no-brainer. While it’s perfectly suitable to kick back and relax, you will notice a decent amount of surfers due to heavy drop-offs creating bigger waves.
And surfers won’t you your only company. Vilano Beach is known for wildlife spotting and fishing (if you can snatch them before the pelicans do)
Most notably, visitors rave about dolphin sightings. Locals do too and bring their guests to the Vilano Beach Pie to spot them, or you can book a sightseeing tour with Red Boat Tours to increase your odds.
You’ll find some beaches more postcard-worthy than others. Much of Vilano’s shores are lined with crushed shells, so proper footwear is a must unless you wanna feel like I do when I stepped on my nephew’s Legos (not recommended).
Though, there have been sand re-nourishment projects provided by the government to prevent such experiences and offer prettier aesthetics.
Castle Otttis: Florida’s Unsuspecting Seaside Surprise
On the off chance you’re in the middle of putting finishing touches on a trip to Ireland, maybe put those on hold for now and fulfill your fairytale dreams by paying a visit to what is quite possibly Florida’s most underrated attraction.
Overshadowed by St. Augustine’s European vibes, Castle Otttis (yes, with 3 T’s) doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
The few who’ve found it rave about it, though. While it claims not to be a proper castle, preferring to be wrangled into the art world as a ‘landscape-sculpture’, it certainly passes the eye test as a bona fide castle in my book.
Though their very old-school website claims it’s an ‘impression of an Irish castle’ — fair enough, I suppose.
The mastermind behind the project is Ottis Sadler, who must’ve pitied the fool at some point and added an extra T to his name.
The project was meticulously built over a 4-year period as an ode to Jesus Christ, with a 1,000-year-old Irish abbey-style interior and intricate woodwork, making for superb photo-ops.
Mr. Sadler has since passed away, but his spirit lives on through his masterful work, as the castle is still family-owned and open for tours and weddings. One recent guests from July claimed, “There are 3 levels if you count the rooftop, where you will see gorgeous panoramic views of the ocean.”
Adding, “This is a castle based on 1000 year old Irish castles. The tour is free but donations will be greatly appreciated. A must see if you are in St. Augustine. It is a magical experience.”
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