Just north of historic St. Augustine and minutes from the heart of downtown, Vilano Beach is one of Northeast Florida’s most distinctive waterfront communities. It blends old-Florida charm with striking natural beauty and desirable real estate. With a laid-back, coastal atmosphere and increasing demand for oceanfront homes, Vilano Beach has evolved into a coveted destination. It attracts boaters, beach lovers, and investors alike.
Oceanfront & Waterfront Living
Vilano Beach is one of the rare pockets along Florida’s east coast where buyers can choose between direct oceanfront estates and deep water Intracoastal homes. Whether drawn to the sound of waves crashing just beyond your back door or prefer to keep your boat on a private dock, Vilano offers both lifestyles with ease.
Oceanfront properties along Coastal Highway offer unparalleled sunrise views, private beach access, and luxury potential. Meanwhile, homes along the Tolomato River (Intracoastal Waterway) provide deep water access for larger vessels — a rare feature close to downtown St. Augustine. Many waterfront lots can accommodate docks with lifts. This makes them especially appealing for avid boaters and fishermen.
A Storied Coastal Enclave
Vilano Beach isn’t just beautiful—it’s historic. Once a thriving beachside resort in the early 20th century, Vilano was the destination for St. Augustine’s elite. They traveled across the old trolley bridge to vacation at grand beach clubs and art deco hotels. Remnants of that history remain today, from the mid-century modern architecture sprinkled throughout the community to the vintage pier that still stretches over the Intracoastal.
Even as Vilano Beach has modernized—with new oceanfront construction and revitalization efforts—it’s held tight to its identity. It remains a close-knit, slightly nostalgic seaside village.
Dining with a View
The culinary scene in Vilano Beach continues to grow. It offers residents and visitors quality dining in an unpretentious setting. The beloved Cap’s on the Water is a local institution. It’s known for its unbeatable sunset views and fresh seafood served under ancient oaks. Nearby, The Reef Restaurant offers fine dining on the oceanfront. Meanwhile, Beaches at Vilano keeps things casual with toes-in-the-sand beach bar vibes and live music.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or grabbing lunch after a beach walk, Vilano’s dining scene reflects the coastal lifestyle. It is scenic, relaxed, and locally driven.
Why Buyers Love Vilano Beach
- Location: Just minutes from historic St. Augustine and a short drive to Jacksonville.
- Boating Lifestyle: Deep water access on the Intracoastal, proximity to St. Augustine Inlet.
- Beachfront Living: Quiet stretches of sand and protected dune lines make for private, pristine experiences.
- Historic Appeal: A unique community feel that blends the past with contemporary luxury.
- Growth Potential: Limited inventory, active revitalization, and rising property values make this an excellent investment.
Whether you’re searching for a second home, a primary residence, or a legacy property on the water, Vilano Beach delivers a rare blend of coastal serenity. It includes historical charm and boating convenience. With deep roots and deep water access, it’s one of Florida’s last true beach towns. Its future is just as exciting as its past.
Kim Martin-Fisher and Jennifer Martin Faulkner lead Northeast Florida’s luxury real estate market as Douglas Elliman’s premier team. With four decades of experience and over $1 billion in career sales, they specialize in creating extraordinary outcomes for discerning clients. Their expertise covers Vilano Beach, Jacksonville, and surrounding communities.
