Casablanca Inn on the Bay

Casablanca Inn on the Bay traces its roots to 1914, when the building was constructed as a private residence overlooking Matanzas Bay, and it has since been converted into a boutique waterfront inn that remains independently owned and operated rather than part of any national hotel chain. The inn now spans three distinct buildings, the Main House, the Coach House, and the Secret Garden, together offering twenty one individually styled rooms, each decorated with its own character rather than a standardized corporate look. Its location on Avenida Menendez places guests directly across from the bayfront, within an easy walk of the Bridge of Lions, the Plaza de la Constitucion, and the shops and restaurants of the historic downtown core. As of August 2026 the property operates as an adults only retreat for guests twenty one and older, positioning it as a quieter, more intimate option for couples and groups seeking a romantic getaway rather than a family vacation stay. Guests who book directly receive a daily breakfast for two at the inn’s own waterfront cafe, Nero’s, along with drink vouchers redeemable at the on site Tini Martini Bar, a distinctive amenity that most small inns in the area do not offer. The combination of a full service breakfast cafe and an evening cocktail bar under one roof gives Casablanca Inn a more resort like feel than a typical bed and breakfast, while still retaining the intimate scale and personal service associated with independent inns. The waterfront setting means many rooms enjoy views of the bay and passing boat traffic, and the inn’s rooftop and garden spaces are popular for guests looking to relax outdoors during their stay. Because the property has been continuously used as a hospitality business for over a century, the current owners have preserved much of its original architectural charm, including period details in several rooms, while updating mechanical systems and amenities to modern standards. The inn has earned recognition on major travel review platforms for its combination of location, character, and service, and its independence from corporate hotel ownership means guests interact directly with local staff and management throughout their stay rather than a franchise structure removed from daily operations. The mix of historic architecture, waterfront setting, and adults only atmosphere has made Casablanca Inn a frequently recommended stop for couples planning a St. Augustine getaway who want more than a standard hotel room can offer.