9150 Mellon Ct Saint Augustine, FL 32080

This 1.06-acre waterfront property and 5000+sq ft. home embodies the heart of historic Summer Haven. Nestled between A1A and the Atlantic Ocean, this special residence was built in the 1890s as an inn & later expanded in the 1920's by the Mellon family of Pittsburgh to host their many guests. The dwelling now has 6 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, and a massive kitchen. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a magnificent piece of “Old Florida”, located just minutes from the richly historic downtown St.
Augustine. Coquina pillars welcome you down the drive to this captivating 5000+ square foot waterfront home in the quiet township of Summer Haven. Nestled between the intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, this 1.06 acre property fronts prominently on the Matanzas River, east of A1A. The rustic charm of the residence belies its amazing history. Originally built in the 1890's and operated as the Cove Tavern Inn, it served the early tourists to this coastal retreat. Later, the property was purchased by the Mellon family of Pittsburgh, PA., and served as a hotel for their many guests. Many celebrities were guests, even FLOTUS, Eleanor Roosevelt, is said to have lunched here. Through out the decades, innumerable groups of friends and family have been joyfully hosted in the spacious indoor and outdoor living areas of the home. A refreshing dip in the ocean is only a short stroll away. The area is well known for surfing, kite surfing, fishing and birdwatching. Paddle boarding or kayaking on the river are also great pass times. The rambling dwelling offers serene, easy living with generous flexible space, The north side, flanked by a long shady front porch, and a window filled sunroom to the south, provide a relaxing setting for your morning coffee no matter the season. One hundred year old heart pine floors and pecky cypress walls adorn the large gathering room, crowned by a stunning coquina fireplace. The massive kitchen, anchored by an 8' x 4' center island, has a large butler's pantry for extra storage, and flows easily into the hotel's original 18' x 18' dining room. Conveniently located downstairs is a spacious half bath, with a large vanity and lovely octagonal stained-glass window. For easy clean up after sandy beach strolls, a mud room with laundry and an adjoining full bath are just inside the west end entrance. The home enjoys two interior staircases for easy access to the spacious upstairs sleeping quarters. The master suite is brightly flooded with light from the 16 windows that provide for stunning views to the east, south and west. Rare for this era, a large, cedar-lined walk-in closet and a full bath are enjoyed in the master suite. Two of the three remaining bedrooms offer ensuite baths, and views of the ocean. A large library/office located upstairs on the west side, enjoys stunning sunset views of the river. A fully functioning guest apartment or mother-in-law suite is accessible from the upstairs hallway as well as from a private outdoor staircase. The separate apartment is equipped with one room for sleeping, one for lounging or play, a full bath, and a full eat-in kitchen. Entertaining your friends and family is extended outdoors to the 900 square foot riverfront deck. The remarkable history of the property is apparent from the 100 year old coquina terraces that usher you down to the water's edge while beautifully protecting the property from erosion, to the massive cistern which provided freshwater to the community long before the public supply lines were laid. Providing more than ample storage for all your road-worthy treasures, there is a detached 5 car garage on the property. A well services the 3 zone sprinkler system. This is truly a peaceful, enchanting piece of paradise that rarely comes available. Whether you prefer a private estate that's awaiting your family's loving updates or reviving the former Inn to an unforgettable bed & breakfast, the possibilities are endless. Make it yours today.