Created: 2/12/2007 8:20:43 AM 
By Phil Amato First Coast News
ST AUGUSTINE, FL -- When you think of romantic getaways not far from Jacksonville the town of St. Augustine may be the first place that comes to mind. The nation's oldest city lures hundreds of thousands of folks every year to experience its great restaurants, bed and breakfasts and its history.
Most of us have strolled down St. George Street or maybe taken a horse and buggy ride but one local knows the best-kept secret romantic places in this town.
Jim Melfi wrote the book on it, literally. He authored "The Most Romantic Places and Things to Do in St. Augustine."
Jim says the first thing on his list for people to do is stroll Vilano Beach. The best time to walk the beach or pier is during sunrise or sunset. The beach is never crowded and you can drive on certain areas. Also, make sure to check out Fiddler's Green restaurant. It's right on the beach.
"My second pick would be the Mission Nombre de Dios. People know it as the great cross. You'll find beautiful, placid, quiet and serene gardens," says Melfi. There's no charge to walk the mission grounds but donations are accepted. "Then I would say stroll the neighborhoods south of St. George Street and Charlotte Street." Small brink lined streets and old gothic churches may remind you of a small European village. Melfi says his book is available for purchase on line. He says a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Putnam Habitat for Humanity where he is Executive Director. If you want to grab a bite in a lush tropical setting, the Conch House isn't too far away. You can have a special Valentine's meal in a tiki hut set on stilts. "We will serve prime rib for two that's shaped like a heart. We also have mahi-mahi cooked in a bag which is also shaped like a heart, " says Conch House Executive Chef Bob Brodeur. If you're in the mood for a more formal dinner, 95 Cordova in the Casa Monica Hotel is featuring chocolate fondu for two to cap off a five course Valentine's dinner. "We're highlighting all the aphrodisiac foods that you might enjoy especially for a romantic getaway," says 95 Cordova Executive Chef Thomas O'Quinn. The rooms at the Casa Monica are first class and champagne is included in the Valentine's special. Melfi suggests driving 21 miles south to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park if you're in for a field trip. You'll be impressed by the public gardens, winding paths and lush landscape. Even in the winter the roses are in bloom. Just across A1A you don't want to miss the coquina beach, an unusual site in Florida and the perfect setting for taking pictures.
You don't have to go far to find paradise in and around St. Augustine. It's the perfect one tank trip for your Valentine's getaway.
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