An unexpected surprise is that Northern Florida is actually home to dozens of castles. Whether you want to feel like a prince or princess for a day or just explore Florida’s architectural history, here are our top three recommendations in St. Augustine, Florida, particularly near Wander Ponte Vedra.

Castle Otttis 

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 1.7 miles 

• Location: 103 3rd St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

• Website: http://castleotttis.com/index-2.html 

Castle Otttis is a landscape-sculpture, meaning that it was built to embrace its surrounding environment, and was modeled after Irish castles from 1,000 years ago. Today, the castle remains privately owned and has no formal connection with any religious group or organization.

To book a private tour (72 hour advance notice required) or inquire about a ceremony at the venue, contact rusty@castleotttis.com. 

Tip: The castle is not accessible for individuals with mobility issues as stairs are common throughout the property. 

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Photo courtesy of the National Park Service 

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 7.2 miles 

• Location: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

• Hours: 9AM-5PM daily 

• Phone: (904) 829-6506

• Website: https://www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm 

Get a taste of American history by visiting this gem! Built in the 17th Century, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest and largest Masonry fortress within the continental United States.

A bit of history: the fort was originally constructed by the Spanish Empire to protect the early settlement of St. Augustine. It was later purchased by the United States in the 1820s and used by the U.S. Army until 1899.

Today, you can tour the fort and grounds year-round to witness colonial history. Entry fees are $15 per adult over the age of 16 and free for children 15 and under as long as they are accompanied by an adult. 

Tip: You preview your visit with a virtual tour and a virtual map. You may park in front of the castle for $2.50 per hour or at the covered parking garage a block away. If you visit on the weekend, be sure to check out the cannon firings and weaponry demonstrations that take place several times throughout the day. 

Lightner Museum

Photo courtesy of The Lightner Museum 

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 8 miles 

• Location: 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

• Hours: 9AM-5PM daily 

• Phone: (904) 824-2874

• Website: https://lightnermuseum.org/ 

This museum dating back to 1948 is located inside the former 19th century Alcazar Hotel. The castle was completed in 1888 and reflects a magnificent ode to Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture.

Today, Victorian-era artifacts, mechanical musical instruments, and elegant home decor are showcased throughout the property for guests to enjoy. Tickets are priced at $17 per adult and free for children 11 and under.

Group guided tours led by a trained docent are available too. Advance notice is required so be sure to check in with them beforehand.

Tip: The museum is also a great place to host weddings and special events. There's a cafe inside the property open from 11AM to 3PM daily with light bites and lunch fare available.

Need more personalized recommendations around Ponte Vedra? Our concierge desk is available around the clock to answer your questions about the property and give you travel tips. Just text 737-377-3205!