A Weekend Itinerary for Vilano Beach

Many history lovers flock to Florida’s northeast coast to partake in the history of St. Augustine. Considered to be the nation’s oldest city, there is plenty to see and do—so much so that it can sometimes be easy to forget that there are some really great beaches in this area, too. In this corner of the state, you can have it all though. The St. Augustine area boasts over 40 miles of sandy shores and there are plenty of spots to enjoy a day (or weekend) at the beach. 

One of my favorite spots in this part of the state is Vilano Beach. While you do have a few shops and restaurants here, I love that this area isn’t too busy and still has a casual vibe. You have easy access to everything you could possibly need, but it’s still a relaxing and chill spot that doesn’t feel crowded. If you want to partake in some of the region’s history, you can easily do that, too. As a beach bum though, I like to have my homebase on the beach. There’s just something about waking up to the crashing waves of the Atlantic and seeing one of the epic sunrises that Vilano Beach is known for. If you’re wanting to plan a weekend in one of Florida’s most charming beach towns, put Vilano Beach at the top of your list. Here is my personal itinerary for the perfect weekend getaway there. 

When headed out to enjoy a beach vacation, I always feel like the best way to do it is by staying right on the beach. The fewer steps it takes me to have my toes in the sand, the better. In Vilano Beach, your best option for this is The St. Augustine Beach House. If you don’t believe me, check out the ocean views from the beach cam—the views speak for themselves. There are a few other places to stay in the area, but this pet-friendly, boutique hotel is right on the beach and has very spacious rooms that include a kitchenette, king-size bed, and an additional daybed. Even better, it’s built in a way that allows every single room to have an ocean view. It’s so relaxing to sit outside on the balcony each morning with a cup of coffee as the sun rises. You’ll see surfers, anglers, and lots of birds fishing for their breakfast. 

Once you’re there, you are right by the beach, but still in a spot where you can walk to restaurants, shops, and the Vilano Beach Pier. When you get ready to explore the heart of downtown St. Augustine, you’ll find it easy to get there—it’s only about four miles away. In order to avoid searching for a parking spot or paying for parking though, you can take the free shuttle offered by St. Augustine Beach House (I think that’s probably one of my favorite amenities there). However, the complimentary home-cooked breakfast each morning is a nice treat, too. You just place your order, message them when you’re ready to eat each morning, and they cook it fresh. 

Once you check in at St. Augustine Beach House, don’t waste any time. The beach is right there, so throw your things in your room, grab a towel and some sunscreen, pick up one of the hotel’s free beach chairs, and spend some time enjoying the beach. Take a walk along the shoreline to the southern end known as Porpoise Point—you’ll be amazed by the scenery. 

After enjoying the beach, take a walk to the Vilano Beach Pier that’s located just down the road. If you bring along your fishing gear, this is a great spot to drop a line in the water. The pier is located on the river side of the Matanzas Inlet, and is a hot spot for anglers. Even if you aren’t fishing though, take a stroll on the pier for some epic waterfront views. While you’re there, you can grab a selfie with the Vilano Beach bluebird of happiness statue. 

Right beside the pier you’ll find a local restaurant called Beaches. It is situated right along the water and has indoor and outdoor seating. The menu offers several Caribbean-themed options, but has some local selections as well. If you’ve come to Florida and haven’t tried alligator yet, this is your place to do it. (Don’t worry, there’s plenty of other delicious menu items to choose from if that’s not your thing.) They also have a variety of fruity drinks that pair perfectly with some relaxing time by the water. 

If you come to Vilano Beach, you have to at least take a day and explore historic downtown St. Augustine. There are so many cool things to see there, but even though it’s a short drive from Vilano Beach, you’ll have to pay to park once you get there. When you stay at The St. Augustine Beach House, though, you don’t have to worry about that. Their free shuttles will drop you off in downtown St. Augustine, and pick you up later when you’re ready to come back to the beach. This is a huge amenity and saves you money on parking. 

Plan to spend the day exploring the historic area, as there is a lot to see and do. One of your must-visit spots for your first trip to St. Augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos—a Spanish fort that dates back to the 1600s. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine dates back even further. It was America’s first parish and was built in 1565. You can also visit Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth and take a drink from the spring. I can’t guarantee that it will make you look or feel youthful, but whether you take a sip or not, it is a super cool place to visit and has some interesting exhibits. As you’re meandering through the historic streets of St. Augustine, you’ll also find lots of shops, restaurants, and other attractions along the way. 

I also think it’s fun to get out on the water there because you get to see the city from an entirely different view. I’ve sailed on the Schooner Freedom and really enjoyed it. The expedition can vary each day depending on the wind, and the last time I went on a sunset tour with them, we sailed around Vilano Beach. It was fun to see Porpoise Point and the Vilano Beach Pier from the water. We also saw dolphins playing alongside the boat, and it was a nice way to end the day. They offer daytime boat tours as well, but no matter what time you choose to go, I suggest making reservations for this excursion in advance. 

When the hotel shuttle picks you up and drops you off in Vilano Beach, take a walk down the road and check out Surfside Kitchen. It is very close to St. Augustine Beach House and has delicious food. My go-to is the Tropic Taco Trio, but they have a variety of other options as well, including brick oven pizzas. 

Vilano Beach is located in the northeast corner of Florida along the Atlantic Coast. From where I live just outside of Orlando, I can get there in about two hours. If you’re flying in, you can fly to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and get to Vilano Beach in about an hour and fifteen minutes. One of the routes takes you alongside the scenic State Road A1A. I suggest that one because I think it’s a prettier drive. The drive from Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is about the same distance, but you’ll drive north, instead of south. 

If you’re having too much fun in Vilano Beach and decide to stay an extra day, you won’t be bored (or hungry). Here are a few more things to add to your list if you have a little extra time.