Imagine sitting in a cozy lounge while the world’s largest rodent waddles over, nudges your hand, and practically begs for a belly rub. That’s exactly what awaits you at The Capybara Café in St. Augustine, Florida — America’s only Capybara Café. The café opened on October 12, 2024, at 105 S. Ponce De Leon Blvd., and it has been turning heads ever since. Owner Stephanie Martin, who also runs the Noah’s Ark Sanctuary in Hastings, wanted a place to share her love for capybaras, and the result is something truly unlike anything else in the state.
The Capybara Café is affiliated with the nonprofit organization Noah’s Ark Sanctuary, meaning all profits directly contribute to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need. It’s a place where a great time and a great cause go hand in hand — and where capybaras named Mocha and Latte are very much the stars of the show.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your experience centers around a guided encounter with well-cared-for capybaras in a calm, comfortable setting designed with their needs in mind, focused on respect, observation, and positive engagement. Guests are provided with approved food to offer the capybaras under the supervision of trained staff. They give you plenty of food to share with the capybaras so they warm up to you right away. Get skilled enough with the scratches and they may even fall over and let you rub their belly.
One of the most refreshing aspects of the café is that there is no forced interaction — the animals choose whether or not to come to “work” every day, so there isn’t a petting zoo vibe at all. All interactions are based on the animals’ comfort and willingness to participate; they are never forced or restrained, and always have the freedom to rest or step away. This makes the experience feel all the more genuine and special when a capybara does choose to hang out with you.
Many visitors walk away with a new appreciation for capybaras and a lot of information they didn’t know before. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts about these South American natives throughout the encounter, making it as educational as it is adorable. Capybaras are among the gentlest and most easy-going creatures on the planet, and they do seem to tolerate or even enjoy — and sometimes crave — human affection, especially if raised by humans.
More Animals Than You’d Expect
While capybaras are the headliners, the fun doesn’t stop there. Other exotic residents include skunks, coatimundis, raccoons, wallabies, ferrets, tortoises, snakes, hedgehogs, and more. Visitors have been able to hold an armadillo and spend time with a skunk and a lemur — all during a single session. It’s a surprisingly diverse cast of critters for what might seem like a niche concept at first glance.
There are also unique events available, including private tours, birthday events, yoga sessions, and sip-and-paint events. Whether you’re planning a quirky date night, a memorable birthday celebration, or just a wildly different afternoon activity, the café has an option that fits.
Atmosphere & Setting
The cozy, nature-inspired space is designed for ultimate relaxation — whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or enjoy a peaceful moment with friends, the Capybara Café offers a tranquil haven that feels like a peaceful escape. The environment is intentionally calm and unhurried, matching the laid-back energy of the capybaras themselves.
The space is notably very clean, and it’s clear that the people here genuinely love their animals. There is also a little gift shop with capybara-themed merchandise — perfect for picking up a souvenir or a plushie to remember your new favorite giant rodent by. While it’s called a café, no food is sold here — likely a health department mandate — though you can buy Capybara Café swag.
Other Considerations
How much does it cost? The capybara encounter is $49 per person and includes food to feed the animals. There is also an exotic animal encounter that includes multiple animals, priced at $99 per person. Given how unique and memorable the experience is, most visitors find it well worth it — though it’s fair to note that the sessions are relatively short, and some guests feel the time goes by quickly for the price.
Do I need to book in advance? The café opened and was instantly sold out, and tickets must be purchased up to a few months in advance. Times fill up months ahead of time, so schedule early or hope for a cancellation as you get closer to your travel date. Don’t wait until you’re already in St. Augustine to try to book — plan ahead!
Is it good for families and kids? Meeting capybaras and other amazing wildlife through hands-on experiences is perfect for all ages, making animal education fun, easy, and memorable for the whole family. Kids in particular tend to be absolutely enchanted, and many families leave already asking when they can come back.
Are there other Florida locations? If you’re looking to book an experience in the Tampa Bay / St. Petersburg area, there is a dedicated location — visit CapybaraCafeStPete.com for bookings and availability. The St. Pete location offers its own lineup of unique encounters, so Florida fans of the café have two great options to choose from.
The Capybara Café
📍 105 S. Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Website: https://thecapybaracafe.com
