Nestled in the heart of America’s oldest city, Casa Monica Resort & Spa in St. Augustine, Florida, is more than just a luxurious getaway—it’s a portal to the past and, some say, the paranormal. With its Moorish Revival architecture, high-ceilinged rooms, ornate chandeliers, and vintage charm, the resort beckons guests who seek elegance, history, and a touch of intrigue. But beyond its plush suites and world-class spa lies a riveting tale of abandonment, rebirth, and spectral whispers that echo through its historic halls. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost hunter, or an adventurous soul with an eye for the unique, Casa Monica offers more than meets the eye. So grab your EMF reader and let’s explore what makes this resort one of the most haunted and historic stays in Florida.
The History
A Gilded Beginning (1888)
Casa Monica Resort & Spa originally opened on New Year’s Day in 1888, the brainchild of visionary architect Franklin W. Smith. Smith, a fan of Moorish Revival architecture, designed the building with elaborate ornamentation and bold arches that still captivate visitors today. He named it the “Casa Monica,” giving it a romantic and exotic flair that echoed his architectural ambitions.
Unfortunately, the hotel didn’t immediately thrive under Smith’s management. Within just a few months, it was purchased by Henry Flagler, Florida’s railroad mogul and resort developer, for a mere $325,000. Flagler was already transforming St. Augustine into a winter haven for the wealthy elite through his Florida East Coast Railway and upscale accommodations like the nearby Ponce de León Hotel (now Flagler College).
Flagler’s Touch and Renaming
Flagler didn’t waste any time. He rebranded the hotel as “Hotel Cordova,” adding luxurious touches and integrating it into his growing hospitality empire. The property flourished under Flagler’s direction, welcoming affluent guests during the golden age of American tourism. Guests arrived via private trains and carriages, ready to experience the warmth of Florida in a setting unlike any other.
Decline and Closure
But like many grand hotels of the Gilded Age, the Cordova began to decline during the Great Depression. Tourism waned, and by 1932, the building ceased operating as a hotel. It was eventually used for various governmental and civic purposes, including serving as a courthouse throughout the mid-20th century. Its architectural integrity, though somewhat altered, remained intact, bearing silent witness to the passage of time.
Restoration and Renaissance
Fast forward to the late 20th century, the now-abandoned structure caught the eye of hotelier Richard C. Kessler. Renowned for breathing new life into historic hotels, Kessler undertook a monumental renovation project. In 1999, the building was re-opened—under its original name, Casa Monica—as a luxurious resort managed by The Kessler Collection and affiliated with Marriott’s Autograph Collection.
The reborn Casa Monica Resort & Spa blends old-world charm with modern comfort, honoring its origins while inviting a new generation of travelers—and paranormal investigators—to explore its grandeur.
The Haunt
Glistening chandeliers, Renaissance-era artwork, and plush linens may dominate your first impressions of Casa Monica Resort & Spa, but rest assured—beneath the surface lies a story of chilling apparitions and lingering spirits. In a city as ancient as St. Augustine, with its cobblestone streets and tumultuous past, ghostly activity is practically a local specialty—and Casa Monica fits right in.
The Lady in White
Numerous guests and staff have reported sighting a mysterious woman in a long, flowing white gown wandering the hallways—particularly on the fourth floor. Often described as appearing disoriented or serene (depending on the account), she vanishes into thin air when approached. Paranormal investigators believe she could be a remnant from the hotel’s original era, possibly a young bride or a guest who met a tragic end within its walls.
Unexplained Voices and Sounds
Both visitors and employees have noted hearing disembodied voices echoing through the grand lobby and stairwells. Some even claim to hear orchestral music playing faintly in the early hours of the morning—a nod, perhaps, to the gilded parties of the 19th century. Staff frequently report footsteps pacing the hallways, only to find no one there upon inspection.
Room 411
If you’re feeling particularly brave, book a night in Room 411. Said to be one of the most active rooms in the hotel, guests have reported faucets turning on by themselves, lights flickering for no reason, and a chilling presence watching from the corners of the room. One guest claimed they woke up to find a dusty old perfume bottle on the nightstand—an object that hadn’t been in the room the night before and matched no modern amenities provided by the hotel.
Ghost Tours and Paranormal Investigations
Casa Monica frequently appears on St. Augustine’s popular ghost tours. Though there are currently no official overnight paranormal investigation packages available, several well-known investigators have conducted private research here with reportedly fruitful results. It’s not uncommon to see ghost hunting enthusiasts with EMF meters, spirit boxes, and infrared cameras outside the building at dusk, hoping to catch a glimpse of the hotel’s otherworldly residents.
Reported Activity in the Courthouse Era
The building’s time as a courthouse was not without its share of spooky happenings. Custodians and clerical workers sometimes reported malfunctioning equipment, cold spots, and files mysteriously disorganized overnight. Could these experiences be explained by disgruntled former hotel guests, disturbed by their beloved resort turned courthouse? Paranormal experts suggest that residual energy from high-emotion events—like court trials—could leave energetic imprints, adding layers to the haunted ambiance within the walls of Casa Monica.
Conclusion: A Haunting Invitation
Casa Monica Resort & Spa is more than just a luxury destination in the heart of historic St. Augustine—it’s an immersive journey through time and spirit. Whether you’re there for a rejuvenating spa weekend, an architectural marvel, or the thrill of the unknown, Casa Monica offers a truly multifaceted experience. As night falls and the breeze whispers through rigged shutters, the soul of the old hotel awakens.
Ghost hunters, paranormal enthusiasts, and seekers of the strange and sublime—if you’ve ever wanted to spend a night somewhere beautiful yet brimming with ghostly possibilities, Casa Monica welcomes you. Bring your camera, your courage, and maybe a dash of salt—just in case. After all, who said luxury and the paranormal can’t share the same room?