Entire home

Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill

Photo gallery for Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill

Exterior
Dining
Living area
Terrace/patio
Beach

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12211.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
  • Place, Usina Beach
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Castle Otttis
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Vilano Beach
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Jacksonville, FL (CRG-Jacksonville Executive at Craig)
    ‪46 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Queen Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden

About this property

Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill

Summary:

The perfect beach getaway!

* Wake up to coffee and a stunning sunrise.

* Spend all day lounging on the beach and cooling off in the ocean.

* Wind down with a gourmet dinner overlooking the water.

Embrace the essence of coastal living in this modern 4 br home. Directly on the beach, this home features spectacular views and plenty of space to make lasting memories.



The Space:

Every great beach vacation begins with “Once Upon a Tide”! Nestled on a dune looking over the Atlantic Ocean, Once Upon a Tide is a 4 bedroom, 3 bath oceanfront home that was completely remodeled in early 2024. The house can sleep up to 12 guests (ideally only 8 adults). The main living area is on the 2nd floor, which offers beautiful views of the beach. The spacious kitchen is open to the living and dining areas, making it easy for everyone to gather. The fully stocked kitchen features stainless appliances, granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space. There is bar stool seating for four at the breakfast island. The dining table seats ten. The living room has a large leather sectional sofa which wraps around the fireplace and TV. The views of the blue horizon are amazing from the house.



There are two bedrooms on the main level of the house, one on each end of the home. The primary bedroom has a comfy king bed and views of the ocean. There is a wall-mounted TV, plenty of dressers, and a walk-in closet. The primary bathroom has a large walk-in shower. The 2nd bedroom also has a king bed, TV, and ample storage space for your clothes. This bedroom also has a private, full bathroom with a walk-in shower. Just outside the 2nd bedroom is an office with a desk for those who must do a little computer work during their stay. There is also a queen size murphy bed in the office. The third bathroom is off of the living room on the 2nd floor and has a walk-in shower. This bathroom would serve the guests staying in either of the bedrooms on the 3rd floor. Upstairs are two more bedrooms. One has a queen bed and the other has a large queen-over-queen bunk bed with a trundle underneath. Both bedrooms have dressers and TVs. Please note, there is not a bathroom on the third floor.



The 2nd floor balcony spans the width of the house and provides an amazing outdoor gathering space. There is plenty of furniture on the balcony, including a dining table with seating for eight. On the ground level is a huge deck with comfy chairs around a fire pit, several lounge chairs for tanning, and your own private hot tub! There is a grilling area on the deck with a gas grill (we provide the propane). Just before you walk down the stairs to the beach, you’ll find two built-in benches on the deck. This is a great place to enjoy the sunrise in the morning with a cup of coffee. The beach is just steps away from the deck.



Experience the beauty of sandy shores where you can swim, sunbathe, surf, paddleboard, and fish. Take leisurely walks along the beach to discover treasures like shark teeth, sand dollars, and sea glass.



Explore Anastasia State Park for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking in a stunning coastal setting.



Discover the rich history of Historic St. Augustine by visiting landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.



Stroll down St. George Street, a pedestrian only thoroughfare in the heart of the historic district, lined with charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and historic sites.



Immerse yourself in the Gilded Age at the Lightner Museum, housed in a historic hotel, showcasing a diverse collection of art, antiques, and artifacts.



Experience the thrill of getting up close to alligators, crocodiles, and exotic animals at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, which also offers educational shows, zip lines, and exhibits of native Florida wildlife.



Take a scenic short ferry ride to Fort Matanzas National Monument, a historic Spanish fort located on Rattlesnake Island. Learn about its role in protecting St. Augustine during the colonial period while enjoying views of the surrounding marshlands.



Indulge in delicious cuisine at the many restaurants in St. Augustine, cafes, and eateries. From fresh seafood to international fare, there is something to satisfy every palate, including popular spots like 180 Vilano Grill and Pizza, Briskys BBQ, and Beaches at Vilano.



*Maximum occupancy is strictly enforced. Per County regulation, this house can accommodate 10 "occupants," excluding children 12 years of age or under. However, the house sleeps a total of 12.



Please note, that all guests staying at a Portoro home are required to sign a rental agreement and provide a valid form of ID. The primary reservation holder must provide a Government-Issued ID that matches the name on the rental agreement. This is a requirement from St. Johns County. All guest's names (first and last) must be provided. The ages of any minors are required to be listed. This is for emergency and insurance purposes.



Guest Access:

We offer convenient keyless door codes for self-check-in. Wren Beach Rentals by Portoro uses smart locks with check-in details provided 48 hours prior to arrival by email and text message.



• Early check-ins or late check-outs: If the property happens to be ready earlier than the standard 4 pm check-in time on the day of your arrival, in most cases an early arrival option may be available when confirmed with the main office. Late check-outs must be confirmed with main office staff prior to the date of departure.



Getting Around:

Immerse yourself in the blend of adventure and activity by renting a bicycle. Lose yourself in enchanting streets, uncover hidden treasures, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Take in a leisurely pace with beachfront strolls, explore shops, and savor local cuisine on foot.



Enhance your experience with a sunset cruise, offering breathtaking views and the chance to spot playful dolphins. For the adventurous, rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft to explore our beautiful estuaries and waterways.



Local favorites include Brewer Beach Rentals, St. Augustine City Tours, and Adventure Boat Tours.



Please note that beach driving is not permitted. Beach access points can be found on Coastal Hwy at even-numbered properties and on the 3000 block on S. Ponte Vedra, specifically odd-numbered properties.



Other Things to Note:

Please pay close attention to following the house rules. Non compliance could result in sizable fines.

- All guests staying at one of our Wren Beach Rentals by Portoro homes are required to sign (esignature) a rental agreement and complete identity registration.

- Age restrictions apply. Reservation holder must be 25 years of age.

- All guests must be included on the guest list and not exceed the maximum number stated on the listing.

- Upon arrival, we aim to ensure your safety, proper access to the home, and guest features. ALL guests are required to read the house manual upon arrival. Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Wren Beach Rentals by Portoro.

- Known damages incurred during your stay must be reported to the property manager immediately.

- Before check in, we will send you detailed directions to ensure a seamless arrival.

- Check-in time is 4:00 p.m. Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

- We cannot guarantee early check ins or late checkouts. When it is possible to check in early or check out late, there will be a fee for anything outside of a one hour window within our standard times. If your need for an early check in or late check out is great, your best option is to book an additional night.

- Some homes offer pools/hot tubs. There is no guard around the water features when available. Use at your own risk.

- Some homes have cameras for external monitoring only.

- Stays over 29 days – please inquire separately for terms and conditions.

- HOTEL TAX COLLECTION: Both St. Johns County and the State of Florida require all hotel and vacation rental hosts to collect hotel tax. We collect these two taxes within the booking transaction. The state requires 6.5% and the county requires 5%.

- LONG-TERM STAYS: (Snowbird, long-term rental). Contact Wren Beach Rentals by Portoro to discuss if a long-term stay discount applies to this listing. Stays over six months are waived from paying the State and Local Hotel Tax. However, there are additional fees we need to collect for damage coverage and housekeeping. In compliance with our policies for long-term stays, we need to collect an additional cleaning fee for guests staying longer than 3 weeks. Your Guest Ambassador will coordinate the cleaning schedule for a minimum of once every 2 weeks. You can request cleanings more frequently if desired. Additional cleaning charges will be sent using a payment request or resolution request, immediately following the cleaning. Your guest ambassador will reply shortly and be available to assist you where needed.

- This is a No Smoking property. Penalty fees for violations will apply and you may be asked to vacate the premises with no refund at the discretion of the Host.

- For the safety of guests and the home, there are noise monitoring devices. These devices only measure the decibel level and do NOT record any audio.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed, service animals permitted
Charge may apply
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Ponte Vedra Beach

Located on the beach, this holiday home is in South Ponte Vedra Beach, a neighbourhood in Ponte Vedra Beach. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a notable landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Vilano Beach and St. Augustine Beach. World Golf Village and St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum are also worth visiting. Fishing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.
Map
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

What's nearby

  • Usina Beach - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Castle Otttis - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Vilano Beach - 2 min drive - 2.8 km
  • St. George Street - 12 min drive - 12.5 km
  • St. Augustine Beach - 21 min drive - 20.5 km

Getting around

  • St. Augustine, FL (UST-Northeast Florida Regional) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Whobley Whale Public House - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Spot - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪V Pizza - Flask & Cannon - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪The Reef - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill?

As of 26 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill on 10 Aug 2026 start from AU$1,116, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Once Upon a Tide: Hot Tub, Fire Pit and Grill located?

Nestled on the beach, this South Ponte Vedra Beach holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Usina Beach and Castle Otttis. Vilano Beach and Tolomato River are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 32 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

L A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very relaxing long weekend. The beach was right at our doorstep. Loved the fire pit table downstairs. Kitchen was well stocked and everything was clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yes there was some shopping
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Mar 2026
Thank you for the lovely review! Glad there was convenient shopping nearby. We hope you enjoyed your stay and would love to welcome you back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kenro K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful view
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jan 2026
Thank you for the review. Glad you enjoyed the beautiful view. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we'd be happy to welcome you back.
Verified

8/10 Good

Scott R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Setting: 10/10Kitchen: 9/10Unfortunate galeforce winds and rain for 5/7 days: 0/10Couple things for owner to note:Upstairs bedrooms were difficult to keep cool.3/4 bath on main floor had a backed up shower drain, creating standing water when showering. Dryer had issues that required maintenance to come to fix.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Apr 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re glad you enjoyed the setting and kitchen, and sorry the weather cut into your trip. We appreciate the notes about the upstairs bedrooms staying warm, the backed-up shower drain on the main floor, and the dryer needing attention. We’ve shared these with our maintenance team — the dryer was serviced, the shower drain is being cleared, and we’ll inspect the upstairs cooling and look for ways to improve airflow. Thank you for the feedback, and we’d welcome the chance to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was very welcoming. Home is full of amenities!! One of the best VRBO’s we have rented. The Ocean View! The home was decorated for Christmas, including a beautifully lit tree. Very clean and comfortable.
Thebeach house.
On the beach front
An Old Fashion Christmas.
The beautiful living space.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
Thank you for the review. We're glad you felt welcomed and enjoyed the many amenities, the ocean view, and the festive Christmas decorations — especially the beautifully lit tree. It's great the home was clean and comfortable. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we'd be happy to welcome you back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

michelle m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved this house. We were in town for a celebration of life and treated ourselves to this beachfront home. Everything was fresh, new, well thought out & well appointed. We had plenty of room, made a huge dinner in the nice, stocked kitchen, slept so well in the comfortable beds & had great walks & body surfing right out the back door. We’ll recommend & be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct 2025
Thank you for the review. We’re glad you loved the beachfront home and that everything felt fresh, new, and well appointed. Happy the space had plenty of room, the kitchen was stocked for your dinner, and the beds were comfortable. Glad you enjoyed the walks and body surfing right out the back door. Thanks for recommending us—hope to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was wonderful! The layout fit our families needs perfectly and I have never stayed in a house with so many extras. From the kitchen with everything you might need, beach chairs and sand toys, and a generous supply of beach towels. And the real highlight is the exterior spaces. We enjoyed the large table, the fire pit, the hot tub and all the games. We picked up delicious food from nearby restaurants each night. We’ll definitely be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct 2025
Thank you for the review. We’re glad the layout fit your family’s needs and that the extras—from the fully equipped kitchen to beach chairs, sand toys, and generous beach towels—were helpful. Happy the outdoor spaces, large table, fire pit, hot tub, and games made your stay enjoyable. Hope to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

devin williams b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was amazing. Our party fluctuated between 9-12 guests and the sleeping accommodations and ere amazing. Check in and out was very simple. When we entered the home there was relaxing music playing and it smelled so clean and fresh. The kitchen and pantry were stocked better than any home we’ve ever rented before. Instant Pot Slow cooker Rice cooker Good blender Large pots for big families Plenty of pots and pans as well as dishes and silverwareThe storage closet on the bottom level had everything someone traveling could need- sand toys, floats, boogie boards, beach chairs, sun umbrellas, games… Unfortunately, the weather was chilly and super windy while we were there for our visit but the kids loved being able to run down to the icy cold water to boogie board and body surf and run run back up to rinse off in the outdoor shower before warming up in the hot tub before playing chess and pool downstairs. We did have a hiccup with the grill, which ended up being user and weather error, but the property manager was incredibly responsive and was at the home to fix any possible issues very quickly. We were so thankful and pleased with the quick response. 10/10 would recommend and stay again.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2026
Thank you for the lovely review! Glad the house suited your group and that check‑in/out was simple. Wonderful to hear the music and fresh scent on arrival, and that the kitchen, pantry, and storage closet had everything your group needed. Sorry the weather was chilly and about the grill hiccup—glad our manager could resolve it quickly. It was a pleasure hosting you; we’d love to welcome you back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margaret E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic beach house

Wonderful house and great locations! So many thoughtful touches. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 June 2024
Thank you for your review! We're thrilled you enjoyed our house and its thoughtful touches. We look forward to hosting you again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Once Upon A Tide did not disappoint! Plenty of room for a group of 12. The views are stunning, the beach is just steps from the deck and the kitchen has EVERYTHING you could need. Soft sheets and towels! The propert management was very quick to respond to the few questions we had. The worst part was that the sliding glass door handle is broken but we got the hang of how to open the slider pretty quick. Highly recommend staying here!
Morning view from the primary room.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Oct 2025
Thank you for the great review! We’re so glad Once Upon A Tide had plenty of room for your group, the views and beach access were highlights, and the kitchen and linens met your needs. We appreciate the note about the sliding glass door handle — we’ll have that repaired. We’d love to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

70th Birthday Party

This house has everything you need. We really did not want to leave it was excellent!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Apr 2025
Thank you, Holly, for your five-star review! It's great to hear that the house had everything you needed for a wonderful stay. We hope to welcome you back for another visit soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for our family

Very comfortable stay. Very well stocked in every way (except toilet paper ;)
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Apr 2024
Glad you enjoyed your stay. Looking forward to hosting you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Vacation

I highly reccomend this property to anyone with decent sized family. It has everything you need for a great beach vacation anf you can't possibly get any closer to the beach. My family and I had a great week and we plan to visit again.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Apr 2024
Thank you for your glowing recommendation! We're thrilled you and your family had a great beach vacation at our property. We look forward to hosting you again for another wonderful week by the beach!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our Stay

Great place and well stocked. Little things that were missing aren’t worth mentioning. Amazing beach.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Beach & location

Truly enjoyed the beach right outside our door. The layout of the house was perfect for our family. The house was loaded with supplies, beach items, towels, and kitchen items. The property manager was very responsive to a few minor needs we inquired about. The location is great. Essential stores within 5 minutes.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2025
Thank you for your feedback, Jim! We're glad you enjoyed the beach access and the layout of the house for your family. It's great to hear that you found the supplies helpful and appreciated our responsiveness. We hope to welcome you back in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lana G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Home on the Beach!

We had a great time and rarely left the house! There were so many games and toys even our teenagers were kept occupied and happy! The kitchen is well stocked, the beds were super comfortable and the outside deck was wonderful. We will definitely book this home again, it was perfect!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2024
Thank you for the great review! We're glad everyone enjoyed the stay and can't wait to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great family Thanksgiving vacation

The home is beautiful, comfortable and well stocked. The ocean and sunrise views are outstanding from inside and out on the decks and seating. The kids had a great time playing outdoor ping pong, chess/checkers, pool and on the beach. We received quick responses to our outreach to the host. I highly recommend this property.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Dec 2024
Thank you, Christine, for your wonderful review! It's great to hear that your family enjoyed the amenities like ping pong and the beach, and that you appreciated the stunning views from the home. We strive to provide prompt communication and a comfortable experience for our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was hands down the best beach house I’ve ever stayed in! The owners clearly take pride in this property — every detail has been thought of, and it shows. The kitchen and pantry were fully stocked with anything you could need, the views were stunning, and the entire house was spotless from top to bottom. The hot tub was perfectly maintained throughout our stay, and the cleaning and maintenance teams were excellent.We noticed that any issues mentioned in previous reviews had already been addressed, which says a lot about how well this home is cared for. There was so much to do — from the life-size chess board and pool table to the ping pong table and all the beach gear provided. And I have to mention, the jetted shower head was such a bonus after a long day! It truly felt like a home away from home. We didn’t want to leave and can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct 2025
Thank you for the review. We’re glad this was the best beach house you’ve stayed in and that the attention to detail stood out. Happy the well-stocked kitchen and pantry, stunning views, spotless condition, hot tub, jetted shower, and all the games and beach gear made your stay enjoyable — and that previous issues had already been addressed. Hope to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place to Stay!

We had a wonderful time! We did encounter a few issues, but the Porter Team was very responsive and made sure all our needs were met. We saw dolphins nearly every day and a turtle nest hatched! The kitchen has EVERTHING! I have never seen such an abundance of pots, pans, and small appliances! Best yet, the extras for the kids were incredible..ping pong, pool table, outdoor connect four, and so many beach toys. The house offers beautiful views and easy steps to the beach! We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 July 2025
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're glad the team was able to assist promptly and that you enjoyed the abundant kitchen amenities and fun extras for the kids. It's wonderful you caught sightings of dolphins and the turtle hatch—truly special moments. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vinod D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous beach views and property

We were here to celebrate my birthday and “Once Upon a Tide” did not disappoint. The property was completely renovated and beautifully done. Everything was labeled and organized. My family had the best time….best time part was the view!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helga D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was great - BIG living/dining/kitchen area. Very well equipped kitchen. Lots of each towels and fun stuff to use on the beach. Wren Rentals was very responsive when we had a problem with the A/C - got it fixed the same day. For our group, we had to put 2 adults and 2 kids in the bunk room (Two queen beds) and that was a bit tight. Only thing from preventing us from going back.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2025
Thank you for your review, Helga! We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the spacious living area and well-equipped kitchen, as well as our prompt response to the A/C issue. We understand the bunk room setup can be a bit tight for larger groups, and we appreciate your feedback. We hope to have the opportunity to host you again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Garrick L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ultimate Beachfront and Kitchen

Beachfront house is right on the water, had an excellent two-level deck with hot tub, beach chairs, outdoor games & water craft/toys. This rental had the best equipped kitchen we’ve ever had with every kitchen tool and appliance you need and more. The cleanliness was superb. We also really appreciated the plentiful dedicated beach towels.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Feb 2026
Thank you for the lovely review. We’re glad you had a relaxing long weekend and enjoyed having the beach right at your doorstep and the fire pit table downstairs. It’s great to hear the kitchen had what you needed and everything was clean. It was a pleasure hosting you — you’re welcome back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

melissa m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the layout of the house. The front decks off the main living area and the downstairs area were great in the afternoons. The furniture was perfect. We ate lunch and dinner outside every day. Outdoor showers were very convenient. Kitchen was well stocked. A few comments: dishtowels in the kitchen would be nice. The air conditioning was not consistent throughout the house. Some bedrooms were hot; one was freezing. But we have already booked for next year so that should say it all!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We're so glad to hear that you loved the layout of the house and made the most of those amazing front decks—outdoor meals with a view sound like the perfect way to spend the day. It's also great to know the furniture, kitchen, and outdoor showers worked well for you and your group! We really appreciate your helpful notes as well—dishtowels are a great suggestion, and we'll definitely make sure the team takes a closer look at the air conditioning to help balance things out better for everyone. The fact that you’ve already booked for next year truly means a lot to us. We're looking forward to welcoming you back for another great stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sensational 70th Shindig

Four high school (and earlier) friends vacation to celebrate our 70th birthdays in 2024. We had lots of fun and laughter and thoroughly enjoyed staying at Once Upon a Tide. Views were wonderful to enjoy over coffee and cocktails. The kitchen was really well stocked with everything to meet our needs. Lots of games and other amenities. Plenty of room and clean. Linens and beds were great.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Robin R.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So Happy!

This house exceeded our expectation. Everything was clean and more perfect than the pictures showed. We have rented many beach houses and we have never had one that was better equipped in the kitchen..it had everything we needed. Regarding the outside...the space was over the top amazing. Upper and lower decks were spacious and had the perfect furniture for all our family. The beach equipment room/half bath was even so so nice. So organized and so many toys and chairs for the beach. This house is a 15 out of 10, we loved our 1st stay in St Augustine at Once Upon a Tide!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Portoro Wren Beach Rentals

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Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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