SOME OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO STAY AND SEE THE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, where over three million twinkling lights adorn the historic streets of St. Augustine, Florida. The magic of the charming city is illuminated, with lights dripping from rooftops and historic buildings, the Bridge of Lions and Plaza de la Constitución, and hotels and inns. Rated one of The Top 10 Holiday Light Displays in the World by National Geographic, we invite you to stay awhile – sail aboard one of our luxury yachts, wander the streets a-glow, grab a bite and get cozy at one of our favorite accommodations.
Bayfront Marin House
Located in the heart of the historic district, Bayfront Marin House is the number one rated waterfront hotel in St. Augustine and was named one of the ‘Top 10 Bed and Breakfasts for Enjoying the Holidays.’ It’s no surprise, as the inn sits directly across from the Matanzas River and boasts magnificent views of the Bridge of Lions and St. Augustine Lighthouse. Plus, their own decorations are delightful, merry and bright – including scheduled snowstorms on the patio. This elegant, comfortable sanctuary has plentiful bayfront spots for lounging as well as complimentary Southern-style breakfast, delivered right to your room, and happy hour in the courtyard.
The Local Inn
Stay like a local at the boutique, independent inn that was voted the #1 Motel in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best. Offering unique charm and hospitality, this 20-room property is located on Anastasia island just one mile over the Bridge of Lions. Thoughtfully-decorated with a nostalgic nod to retro Florida, this family-owned hotel prides itself on providing an authentic experience in the Oldest City. After exploring the holiday magic, retreat to the pool or patio or rent one of their Drifters’ bicycles to take a leisurely ride to Salt Run or St. Augustine Beach.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa
With a unique and storied past, this Bohemian, 4-star hotel was originally built in 1888 and restored to its original namesake and beauty in 1999. Designed in a distinctive Moroccan-style, the hotel features custom-made chandeliers and hand-painted beams and arches. Its location is unrivaled, nestled just one block from the grand light display in the Plaza de la Constitución, and just across from Flagler College and Lightner Museum. Upon check-in you’ll be greeted with a glass of champagne, where you can then decide to hit the heated pool, onsite bar or restaurant or wellness center or spa. They also have a Starbucks in-house to grab something warm before hitting the historic streets.
The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens
This multi-award winning, luxury hotel is nestled on the edge of St. Augustine’s Old Town, just steps away from iconic historic attractions. As an adults-only inn (guests must be ages 16+), you’ll be immersed in romance. Lush gardens give way to centuries-old brick pathways, and luxe rooms exude Southern charm with coquina walls, a fireplace and silk and linen textiles. Unwind in the 100-year-old garage-turned-bar, featuring seasonal craft cocktails made with herbs fresh from the inn’s garden. A special Nights of Lights experience includes tickets to the Lightner Museum’s “Triumph Of Nature” exhibition; a Collector Christmas ornament, blanket and thermos; and nightly hot chocolate and cookies.
Marker 8 Hotel & Marina
With magnificent views of the lights, bay and downtown skyline all in one, Marker 8 Hotel & Marina and the Edgewater Inn are sister hotels located at the foot of the Bridge of Lions. Just a short walk over the bridge takes you to all the dazzling holiday excitement downtown, or meander island-side up Anastasia Boulevard to shops, bars and restaurants for a more “locals” night out. Each hotel offers exceptional service, outdoor pools, breakfast and comfortable lounging. Have a boat of your own? Marker 8 has 24 slips and can accommodate up to 103-foot yachts. Offering the best of both sides of St. Augustine, you’ll be guaranteed an intimate and relaxing experience at either location.
St. Francis Inn
Located on a quiet and serene corner, just south of bustling St. George Street, St. Francis Inn is an Old World bed and breakfast dating back to 1791 – making it St. Augustine’s oldest inn. This cozy B&B oozes the city’s history, offering endless stories of an intriguing past. Enjoy their delicious gourmet breakfasts in the peaceful courtyard garden, decadent homemade desserts for evening social hour and the perfect swim in the temperature-controlled pool. For the holiday season, all guests staying two consecutive weeknights will also enjoy an Old Town Trolley evening tour, including magical glasses that make the lights even more spectacular, cider and cookies.
Hilton – St Augustine Historic Bayfront
Located on a quiet and serene corner, just south of bustling St. George Street, St. Francis Inn is an Old World bed and breakfast dating back to 1791 – making it St. Augustine’s oldest inn. This cozy B&B oozes the city’s history, offering endless stories of an intriguing past. Enjoy their delicious gourmet breakfasts in the peaceful courtyard garden, decadent homemade desserts for evening social hour and the perfect swim in the temperature-controlled pool. For the holiday season, all guests staying two consecutive weeknights will also enjoy an Old Town Trolley evening tour, including magical glasses that make the lights even more spectacular, cider and cookies.
