Romantic Getaway Guide to St. Augustine & Vilano Beach

We said our vows to one another on a beautiful summer evening overlooking the coastline of downtown St. Augustine and its iconic Bridge of Lions. It’s no wonder the St. Augustine and Vilano Beach area has held such a dear place in our hearts over the years.

This corner of Florida is full of romantic hole-in-the-wall spots for sharing a great meal or a delicious cocktail. Its old brick streets and historic alleys are home to coastal charm, unique boutiques, local art, and irresistible treats. What we love most is the slower pace of life here. Time seems to pause with the salt air and sunset glow. Life feels simpler with beach breezes and sand between your toes. It’s the perfect place to reset, reconnect, and re-romance with the one you love.

Most would say Tab and I are well-traveled. We’ve found joy and adventure across the globe. But something about the waters and walkways of St. Augustine and Vilano Beach keeps calling us back. Recently, we hosted friends from the UK, seasoned travelers who’ve spent time in the Mediterranean, Spain, Italy, and Dubai. They, too, called it “something uniquely special.”

Maybe it’s the dolphins you can spot from shore or the magic in the sunsets, but their agreement confirmed it for me: this peaceful stretch of coastline is a hidden treasure. Romantic, luxurious, and home of Luxe Couples Retreat (Vilano Beach).

If you’re planning a visit, here are just a few of our favorite local experiences:

1. Dinner About Town

They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. If that’s true, then Cap’s on the Water is a place to fall in love. A staple of Vilano Beach since 1980, Cap’s is often ranked among America’s most beautiful restaurants.

There’s not a bad seat in the house, but if you can, get a waterfront table at sunset. You’ll witness a masterpiece of pinks, oranges, and yellows against a brilliant blue sky, all while shaded under ancient water oaks. The view alone is worth the visit, but the menu seals the deal. Cap’s features fresh local seafood and southern-inspired dishes. Our favorite? The herb-crusted Catch of the Day with mashed potatoes, asparagus, and a Lemon Caper Beurre Blanc sauce that’s nothing short of divine.

Pair it with a wine of your choice, and you’re in for an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re out for romance, laughter, or a special night with friends, Cap’s always delivers.

2. Porpoise Point

The name says it all. Our absolute favorite thing to do in St. Augustine is head out by boat to watch bottlenose dolphins around Porpoise Point. I have never, truly never, spent a day on the water here without seeing multiple dolphin pods. They’re graceful, playful, and mesmerizing.

There are plenty of dolphin cruises available, but we recommend renting a boat for a more personal experience. Pack a picnic, bring a camera, and let nature’s show unfold all around you.

3. Beach Drives

One of the best features of St. Augustine’s beaches? You can drive on them with the right vehicle. If you’ve got a four-wheel drive, beach access becomes a whole new experience. Skip the long walk and bring everything you need: chairs, coolers, umbrellas, picnic baskets, and more.

Just make sure you’re driving a capable vehicle. Getting stuck in the sand is a surefire way to ruin a sunset date.

4. Retail Therapy

Shopping might not be the key to relationship bliss, but it sure doesn’t hurt. St. Augustine is filled with charming boutiques and outlets perfect for a little retail therapy. Whether you’re looking for fashion, art, jewelry, or gourmet food, you’ll find something special.

Tab loves boutique shopping, and I always enjoy a visit to The Ancient Olive Gourmet. If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll love sampling their award-winning oils, vinegars, and culinary delights.

5. Location, Location, Location

Saltwater and sunsets are what first drew us to Vilano Beach. Just two miles from downtown St. Augustine, it’s perfectly situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Tolomato River.

On one side, you’ll find white sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or long walks. On the other, you’ll catch breathtaking sunsets and dolphin sightings along the riverbanks.

Bring a four-wheel drive and cruise out to Porpoise Point, or take a short walk for unbeatable sunset views of downtown St. Augustine. You might spot tall ships sailing by or dolphins playing in the surf as you hunt for shells and shark teeth.

Prefer to be on the water? Rent a boat from the nearby marina and chart your own course. Dock at riverside restaurants for dinner with a view, or pull into the St. Augustine Municipal Marina for the best parking downtown. From there, enjoy shopping, live music, and endless options for great cocktails and local fun.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to an old favorite, St. Augustine and Vilano Beach offer something rare: a place where luxury meets simplicity, and romance is always in the air. It’s more than a destination. It’s a feeling. One we’re honored to share with you at Luxe Couples Retreat (Vilano Beach).