Casa Monica Hotel

Casa Monica Hotel Review

Hand-stenciled Moorish columns and arches, handcrafted chandeliers, and gilded iron tables decorate the lobby of this late-1800s Flagler-era masterpiece. A retreat for the nation's wealthiest until the Great Depression put it out of business, after decades as the county courthouse it returned to its perch as St. Augustine's grande dame in 1999. The turrets, towers, and wrought-iron balconies offer a hint of what's inside. Rooms—dressed in blues, greens, and whites—include wrought-iron two- and four-poster beds and mahogany writing desks and nightstands. The downtown location is within walking distance of many attractions. For an additional $25 per day, you have access to the Serenata Beach Club in Ponte Vedra (7 mi away), which has three pools, a private beach access, and beach-equipment rentals.