Amelia Island - historic and beautiful
Stunning, with 13 miles of fine quartz beach sand, Amelia Island is one of Florida's best preserved areas.
You could label the downtown of Fernandina Beach the town that time forgot, but you'll hardly forget your visit as its charm and beauty provide a setting that is unique and quite memorable.
When Henry Flagler was building his railroad, Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach were well known tourist destinations for Northerners looking for a winter's escape.
But Henry wasn't interested in helping the area - he didn't own any land there - he bypassed the area completely and built up areas to the south: Flagler Beach, St Augustine and Palm Beach. Certainly what was good for Henry was devastating to Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island.
But unintended consequences are not to be discounted. Because the island fell on hard times and tourist travel slowed to a trickle, many of the structures that were built are still standing. So, instead of unsightly strip malls, fast food chains and gas stations, Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach have developed into something very distinctive and quite nice.
Restaurants
Beach Street Grill
Within the confines of an 1889 Victorian, the interior is surprisingly contemporary as is the food. Have fun navigating the menu, as the ingredients offer an almost unlimited combination of descriptive adjectives. 801 Beech Street in Fernandina Beach.
Espana Restaurant and Tapas
For those familiar with Spanish tapas (small plates), this friendly restaurant is all about good food and conversation. Downtown location makes it an ideal place to comfortably fall into and out of several times an evening. 22 South 4th Street in Fernandina Beach.
The Crab Trap
Authentic Florida seafood type decor outfit the Crab Trap where you can get fresh seafood dishes as well as a few land-based dishes. 31 North 2nd St, in Fernandina Beach.
Places to Stay
Hoyt House
One of the better bed and breakfast inns. A 1905 Queen Anne with period antiques and furnishings. 804 Atlantic Avenue.
Ritz-Carlton
Beach-front with all rooms having private balconies and ocean view. Golf, tennis and a number of guest-pampering amenities await. 4750 Amelia Island Parkway.
Amelia Island Plantation
With 1350 acres, lodging options abound and range from the Resort to a number of villa and condominium vacation rentals. Miles of beaches, 72 holes of golf, 23 clay tennis courts, a shopping village and more. In short, the kind of place you wouldn't mind getting lost in. 6800 First Coast Highway.
Attractions
Fort Clinch State Park
Florida is well-known for its beachfront camping parks, and Fort Clinch is no exception. It is however, quite exceptional with the brick and masonry fort (circa 1847). Those familiar with Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas will note many similarities. An active volunteer staff and park rangers offer an insight into Civil War garrison duty.
Amelia Island Museum of History
Learn local history form this former jailhouse. Guided and self-guided tours help deconstruct over 4,000 years of area history. 233 South Third Street in Fernandina Beach.
Kelly Seahorse Ranch
Noted as one of only a few horseback riding stables in Florida that offer rides on the beach and along the ocean. 7500 First Coast Highway in Amelia Island.
Amelia River Cruises
Backwater cruises of the Amelia River and Cumberland Sound offer historic and wildlife guided tours. Fernandina Harbor Marina on Front Street.
Local Resources
Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach/Yulee Chamber of Commerce
Be sure to pick up a brochure outlining the self-guided tour of the historic district. 961687 Gateway Blvd.
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