Vilano Beach – Old Florida, Close to Home

If you travel the coastal road to get from the Jacksonville Beaches to St. Augustine, you have been to Vilano Beach. It’s a cute Florida beach town offering plenty to do, both natural and otherwise, or nothing to do if you are looking for a lazy beach day away from the crowds. AND it’s a great place to call home on the First Coast. Let’s explore Vilano Beach together in this month’s blog.

The Beach and Surrounding Nature

Like much of our area, Vilano Beach is known for its unique coquina sand, a mix of tiny shell fragments, which gives the shoreline a distinctive golden color. It’s perfect for a day of bodysurfing, sunbathing, or surf fishing. And many people find shark’s teeth on this beach too. Because it is positioned between busy St. Augustine and sporty Ponte Vedra, Vilano Beach can feel like the quiet respite we all need sometimes.

But Vilano has more to offer than sun and surfing. The Tolomato River is beautiful and a great place for kayaking and boating. You will catch gorgeous views of the Intracoastal Waterway from there. And nearby is the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. If you haven’t been, put this one high on your list for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring Florida’s diverse ecosystems. A day spent walking your dog in the Reserve followed by a casual dinner by the water (read on for recommendations of places to eat!) is a day well spent. And if you love to fish, check out Vilano’s cool pier or any of the many spots along the river or the beach.

Dining and Entertainment

Vilano Beach has become a dining destination. For water views, there are two places you must try. Caps on the Water is a local gem that you can drive or boat to on the Intracoastal Waterway. Gorgeous fresh seafood, a fun atmosphere, and a lively bar. Even if there is a wait for a table, you’ll agree it is worth it. Similarly, The Reef is a restaurant right on the beach that offers views AND local seafood. This place is always hopping and it’s easy to see why.

But if you are looking for something more casual, consider one of the “seafood joints” by the beach like Beaches where you’ll find great happy hour deals, live music and a fun and friendly staff right by the beach.

We also really like the Kingfish Grill by the docks of Camachee Island Marina. Great waterfront views, fun outdoor seating, and fresh seafood. And your dog is welcome outside too.

Local Fun Fact

The Magic Beach Motel was the site of a new Netflix series yet to be released. This is exciting as the film industry largely pulled out of Florida once the tax incentive situation changed – more filming now happens north of us in Georgia, unfortunately.

Real Estate and Living in Vilano Beach

For those considering making Vilano Beach their home, the area offers a mix of charming beach cottages, modern waterfront properties, and luxury homes with panoramic ocean views. With its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to St. Augustine’s cultural attractions, Vilano Beach is an attractive option for most everyone.

Whether you are ready to look at property in this quiet Florida beach town or just looking for a fun day out, be sure to put Vilano Beach in the mix. And, as always, if you’d like help checking out this fun town as a permanent or vacation residence, please give me a call