The oldest European-founded city in the US, St. Augustine has retained much of its historic charm with the addition of plenty of contemporary attractions – including several renowned resort hotels.
(Photo: La Fiesta Ocean Inn & Suites / Courtesy Booking.com)
The city’s urban landscape is dotted with Spanish colonial architecture, lending it an eminently historical feel. This well-preserved sense of its own past combined with almost year-round sunshine helps draw large numbers of visitors to St Augustine, with a wide choice of accommodation available to those who come here. If you like the idea of staying in a resort with plenty of amenities, we’ve picked out three of the best that St. Augustine has to offer.
La Fiesta Ocean Inn & Suites
Just a minute’s walk from the beach, this resort puts you within touching distance of the watersports opportunities, surf shops and bike rental outlets that line the promenade. A ten-minute drive, meanwhile, brings you to the pedestrianised Historic District of St. Augustine, with the resort providing a daily bus service to the charming area. After exploring the city, guests can enjoy the resort’s tropical gardens and heated outdoor pool. If your muscles are tired from trekking around, an in-room massage might be in order. Each morning, a cooked breakfast – delivered daily to your door if desired – will set you up for a day of adventure. From $116 per night.
Embassy Suites by Hilton
(Photo: Embassy Suites by Hilton / Courtesy Booking.com)
Set on St. Augustine Beach, between Anastasia State Park and St. Johns County Fishing Pier and Recreation area, this upscale resort offers guests a range of enticing amenities including an outdoor swimming pool with a poolside bar and a gymnasium. There’s also a swanky lobby lounge and terrace that are ideal for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps, Warmly decorated guest suites come with a flat-screen TV, wet bars, minifridges, microwaves and living areas, and upgraded suites also feature a balcony with ocean views. The many landmarks and attractions of historic downtown St. Augustine are about a ten-minute drive away. From $399 per night.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa
(Photo: Casa Monica Resort & Spa / Courtesy Booking.com)
Located in St. Augustine’s Historic District, the warm opulence of this pet-friendly resort – which brims with golden light, chandeliers and stately furniture— is best characterised by its eye-catching Moorish architecture. On-site amenities include a full-service spa offering a range of indulgent treatments and, for more pressing nourishment, breakfast, lunch or dinner can be enjoyed at the resort’s restaurant. Need a mid-day pick-me-up? There’s a café serving Starbucks favourites, including coffee and pastries, all day. Nearby attractions including Old St. Augustine Village, the Spanish Quarter and the Fountain of Youth are all easy to reach on foot. From $274 per night.