“Out with the old and in with the new” is a mantra to which many subscribe. But that certainly doesn’t apply to St. Augustine, Fla., the nation’s oldest city. It’s a community of storied history, and a Florida vacation hot spot where you can turn back time while touring the sites of its Spanish colonial heritage yet still experience the best of modern vacation amenities. Nowhere in town is this greater illustrated than at the Bayfront Marin House, one of St. Augustine’s newest luxury inns that sits right across Mantanzas Bay in a building that was purchased in the 1780’s by its namesake, Francisco Marin.
The rear section of the Bayfront Marin House, which is the original cocina-constructed colonial house, shows the effects of royal architectural edicts issued by the King of Spain in 1573. Though the exact age of the old structure is unknown, one thing is certain: while staying here, you’ll feel like royalty yourself.
Located far enough away from the traffic of the tourist district, yet still close enough to walk to several places, the Marin House offers a calm, tranquil setting perfect for a weekend getaway. You are immediately greeted by the warmth of its bright yellow trim and signature yellow umbrellas in the courtyard, and swept away by spectacular views of sailboats that dot the water’s surface and the St. Augustine Lighthouse across the bay. Horse-drawn carriages routinely stroll down Avenida Menendez, and dolphins and manatees often swim right up to the sea’s edge, accentuating the surroundings even more.
Its 15 unique, spacious rooms, each named after significant figures, are filled with elaborate turn-of-the-century antique furnishings, yet also jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, free Wi-Fi and cable TV. They also each open to the outside, giving direct access to those unforgettable views. Patio swings and balcony furniture offer the opportunity to take in a sunset and the cool ocean breeze as the lighthouse’s beacon begins pouring a shimmering pathway across the water while you enjoy the inn’s happy hour offerings of appetizers and drinks, or desserts such as a chocolate coconut rum cake.
While the “bed” part of this B&B is hard to top compared to any other historic place you may have stayed, the Bayfront Marin House’s breakfast offerings are simply outstanding, both in taste and setting. A delicious assortment of fruits, eggs, pastries, cereals and more are offered daily and served either in your room, the inside dining area, the gazebo or beneath the yellow umbrellas at a courtyard table. Wake up early enough and a First Coast sunrise can be on the menu as well.
Then there is the exceptionally gracious host, Janice Graubard, and her diverse staff hailing from England, Germany, Hungary, Portugal and Russia, who each make every guest feel as though they are the only ones staying at the inn. Oh, and if you’re lucky, the building’s original owner may entertain you as well. The spirit of Franciso Mann has been known to occasionally throw midnight parties in unoccupied rooms that can be overheard, and mess with the electricity every now and then.
Aside from a dearly departed occupant, other famous guests of the Marin House have included Katherine Hepburn and John Travolta. Even pets are welcome, though they are restricted to certain rooms for allergy reasons and asked to keep quiet. Open year-round, the inn also hosts parties and weddings.
If you’re looking for that perfect romantic getaway, some pampered business travel, a family vacation, or want to take advantage of the inn’s Girlfriends Escape Package or other specials, then check out the Bayfront Marin House and get ready to check in to an unforgettable stay. Like Francisco Marin, you won’t ever want to leave.
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My husband and I are so enchanted by this place, we plan to spend our 40th anniversary there next March.