The Casablanca Inn on the Bay
Overview
The Casablanca Inn on the Bay is a landmark bed and breakfast on Avenida Menendez — Saint Augustine's Bayfront strip — with sweeping views of the Matanzas River and a 5-minute walk to Castillo de San Marcos. Built in 1914, the inn has been welcoming guests for over a century and consistently ranks as the best value hotel in the city.
What sets it apart from other Historic District options is the combination of free full breakfast, complimentary parking, and prime bayfront location — three things that most hotels in this area charge separately for. For an adults-only stay focused on the Historic District, it's hard to beat.
Distances to Key Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Walk Time |
|---|---|---|
| Castillo de San Marcos | 0.3 miles | 5 min walk |
| St. George Street | 0.4 miles | 7 min walk |
| Flagler College | 0.6 miles | 12 min walk |
| Columbia Restaurant | 0.4 miles | 8 min walk |
| Ghost Tour Departure | 0.3 miles | 5 min walk |
| Boat Tour Docks | 0.2 miles | 3 min walk |
| Lightner Museum | 0.7 miles | 13 min walk |
| Saint Augustine Beach | 4.2 miles | 10 min drive |
| Saint Augustine Lighthouse | 4.8 miles | 12 min drive |
Amenities & Inclusions
Who It's Best For
The Casablanca Inn is ideal for couples and solo travelers who want to be in the heart of Saint Augustine's Historic District without paying resort prices. The adults-only policy keeps the atmosphere calm and relaxed. The free breakfast and parking remove two significant daily costs from your budget.
It's not a good fit for families with children, anyone needing a pool, or guests who want modern hotel-style amenities — the inn's charm is in its historic character, not its facilities. For a beach-first trip, consider a hotel on Anastasia Island instead.
What Guests Say
With a 4.9/5 average across 312 verified reviews, the Casablanca Inn is the highest-rated hotel in Saint Augustine by guest score. The most common praise: unbeatable location, generous breakfast, excellent hosts, and the bayfront views. The only consistent complaint is that parking can occasionally be tight on busy weekends.
Booking Tips
- Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for weekend stays — the inn sells out regularly
- December weekends during Nights of Lights sell out 2–3 months in advance
- Request a bay-view room when booking — not all rooms face the water
- Free parking is in the lot directly behind the inn — first come, first served
- Check-in is 3pm; early check-in can sometimes be arranged if the room is ready