One of our absolute favorite things to do when we’re at Saltwater + Sunsets is rent a boat from Camachee Cove Marina— and trust me, it never gets old. Whether it’s just the two of us or a full crew with nieces, nephews, and beach bags in tow, it’s one of the best ways to explore the waterways around Vilano Beach and St. Augustine.

And here’s the best part: the marina is just a 4-minute drive from the house. You can go from sipping coffee on the patio to boarding your boat with Publix subs in hand in no time.

🧺 Insider Tip: Publix Boat Picnic Hack

If you’re boating with a group (especially kids), food is key. (Is it just me, or does it seem like the kids are ALWAYS hungry?!)  We always stop at the Vilano Beach Publix before heading to the marina. Their subs are ready fast, totally customizable (great for the picky eaters in the crowd), and super easy to pack. Add some chips, fruit, and some drinks or adult beverages, and you’ve got yourself the perfect low-effort, no-mess boat lunch.

Pro tip: Order ahead online or using the app so it’s ready when you arrive. Less time shopping, more time cruising.  

Another tip: If you forgot any of the boating necessities, the Vilano Beach Publix usually has a decent selection of St. Augustine/Vilano branded beach towels, flip flops, caps, and sun shirts. They also have floats and water toys.

🐬 Dolphins, Tubing & Sandbar Adventures

We usually head out with one goal: find dolphins — and we almost always do! It’s not unusual to see 10 to 30 dolphins in one trip. They’ll swim alongside the boat or jump in the distance, and it’s absolutely magical. With your own boat, you can follow at a respectful distance and watch them play without feeling rushed. Our mini goldendoodle, Jax, is obsessed with the dolphins. Every time he sees them close to the boat, he nearly jumps in the water with them. 

Got kids with you? Bring a rope and towable tube, along with life jackets. Uncle Derek’s mission is always the same: try to toss the kids off (they love it, and yes, they’re in life jackets). It’s such a fun memory-maker, and the laughter is nonstop. Uncle D always says, “Once again, I’ve proven that the human body can indeed skip.” 

There’s also a perfect little sandbar we love to anchor at. The kids hunt for seashells and splash around, and the grown-ups stretch out in the sun with a drink in hand. It’s simple and laid-back — exactly what vacation should feel like.

🍽 Dock & Dine

Feeling hungry but don’t want to leave the water? Let’s be honest, part of a vacay treat is not having to cook or clean. We love that there are several waterfront restaurants with docks. Two of our top picks:

• Cap’s on the Water – Incredible views, fresh seafood, and that dreamy Old Florida feel.

• Aunt Kate’s – Casual, family-friendly, and right on the river. Great for lunch or sunset.

Another fun stop is the St. Augustine Municipal Marina downtown. For about $5/hour, you can dock, stretch your legs, and walk over to Kilwins for ice cream (a must-do). We often poke into a few boutiques or grab a drink before heading back out on the water. It’s the best mix of adventure and leisure.

🏝 Your Laid-Back Coastal Launchpad

Whether you’re dolphin-chasing, tubing with the kids, or dock-and-dining your way through St. Augustine, boating is one of the best ways to experience the area — and Saltwater + Sunsets puts you right next to it all.

Ready to chart your own course? Book your stay at Saltwater + Sunsets and get ready for lazy sandbar afternoons, dolphin sightings, and unforgettable memories on the water.