White Sands Buddhist Center
White Sands Buddhist Center things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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When someone told me there was a Buddhist monastery in Mimms I could not believe it. A friend took me there over the weekend, and this place was amazing. The serene landscape and Buddhist statues are astonishing to see in person. Walking around in silence around a very small crowd of others respecting the Buddhist religion had a very calming effect. It is rare to visit any place and have it be so quiet while around others. Manners are the glow on society and it is rare to witness anymore. The gift shop was very fairly priced. I was expecting double+ what they were asking for. My friend purchased a ring ($11) and I purchased a hand written framed picture ($35) The art is all created by Buddhist nuns on site. It truly will make a unique gift. Note: I was brought here as a surprise. I then went home and researched Buddhism. I was very curious about the statues (many brought over from Vietnam) and the religious trinkets and fruit that were left at the base of them. I believe to get the full experience you should research Buddhism so you have more of an understanding while visiting. They do have plaques that cover some details, but you will need to do some personal research to fully grasp all that you see. Pros: - Extremely calming experience whether you are spiritual or not - Gift Shop prices are extremely fair and offer unique art. - 45min to 1 hour experience. Cons - Not knowing if a building allows visitors. The gift shop was clearly marked, But I would walk up to other doors to buildings within the monastery and they would be locked. There were no signs that stated what the building was for.
Bruno LipniskisBruno Lipniskis
10
Gorgeous, but small. The entrance is secluded and you drive down a dirt path lined by tropical plants. When you emerge you see pillars and statues. Park the car, enjoy the scenery and be mindful of all around you. Its small, but its a slice of peace in the chaos that is life. The ladies at the gift shop were wonderful, and I got talked into dropping $45 on a Vietnamese lunch for myself and my girlfriend. The food was incredible. Fresh, tasty, full of exotic flavors and I can't wait to try more. My favorite part was how happy it made the family cooking to serve me as their first customer today. Their English was great, the little bows at the end of conversation made me feel special, and the man making coffee? DELICIOUS. Absolutely bring some money and support this place by trying some food/shopping at the gift shop. They have some very inexpensive food options. Rice balls for instance are $2 each and they had multiple kinds. Its so peaceful here, and the drive from port orange down was well worth it.
Jason RJason R
170
Both Beautiful and Tranquil, this Buddhist Center has many Attributes that speak volumes without ordinary words. The Monuments, Statues, and Plaques describe an inner revelation for Peaceful Life! A Prayer Center within the Sanctuary houses a high energy that permeates out to the exterior of the building. To complete the Marvelous Display, the center also homes a Bodhi Tree (Fig Tree) aka Tree of Awakening and a Large Ceremonial Bell. Along the route to the center, we were greeted by two circling Hawks and one of the Hawks landed upon one of the taller statues to guide and watch over us. It was a very Mystical Experience and we will be returning for a visit one day soon. I must add that they also feature a small gift shop next to the restroom area and a small garden area for recreational walks. This place is Truly Lovely and a Must See if you wish to discover something Special! My single word to describe this Place is Marvelous... Simply MARVELOUS!! ✨🙏✨
Bridgette Donaldson (देवी ब्री - Devee Bree)Bridgette Donaldson (देवी ब्री - Devee Bree)
20
Amazing zen place perfect for a stroll, their gift shop has unique items that are super affordable. They also have a monk and nun living on site. This is a Vietnamese Buddhist temple, there is another temple in Melbourne and it is a Thai temple. Not sure of the difference other than the countries but thought I’d note this. The shop keeper mentioned they have retreats ( this is on hold due to COVID, I suggest checking the website or calling for updates ) and Sunday service ( limited to 50 people - there is no place to make a reservation so I suggest calling if you want to join the service).
Suzette CarterSuzette Carter
20
Very pretty but seems new age. Went with my family and it's a very pretty place to come and relax and experience. For the experience i would give it a 10/10. But it just didn't feel very Buddhist. It seems as though the place is very highly influenced by the new age movement, as though it's run by hippies who discovered Buddhism in the 60's but never bothered reading about the 4 noble truths or noble eightfold path. Would love to come back and experience the tea ceremony or.. mass of sorts they seem to offer.. If i lived closer I'd probably come every day and read by the pond, check it out.
J LJ L
100
I went to this Buddhist Center for their Buddha Birthday Ceremony. It was an amazing experience, so glad that I went! The ceremony was an awesome experience to be able to participate in the bathing of Baby Buddha. I loved learned new chants in Vietnamese. The services are in both Vietnamese and English, that was very helpful. The center is such a beautiful place. Walk around the grounds, do a meditation walk to see the statues, read the history on the statues. Ring the Bell if Wisdom and Compassion. This is a fantastic way to spend a Sunday. Have lunch there and visit the gift shop!
Holly NeelyHolly Neely
00