Amelia Island
Fernandina Beach
Amelia Island is the southernmost of the "Golden Isles" chain of Atlantic coast barrier islands that stretches from North Carolina to Florida. Amelia's beaches are its most alluring attraction. Its 13 miles of pristine beaches, rimmed by 40-foot dunes capped by sea oats, are rated among America's ten most beautiful. Since the island is only 1.9 miles at its widest point and 13 miles long, no matter where you are on Amelia, the beach and the waterways are close by, making it a great spot for a beach vacation. Its rich history, lush, natural setting, moss-covered oaks, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and friendly "locals," however, make it more than just a place to visit.
Considered the oldest structure on the Island, the 1839 Amelia Island Lighthouse sits atop the highest elevation in Florida, 107 feet above sea level. The lighthouse still works and is observable 19 miles out to sea.
The exclusive Silk Stocking District, encompassing fifty blocks of shady streets lined with gracious 19th-century Victorian "cottages," recalls Amelia's golden era. Adorned with opulent turrets, gables, bays, gingerbread rick-rack and fishscale decorations, Amelia's architectural styles include Queen Anne, Italianate, Chinese Chippendale, Florida Vernacular and "Mississippi Steamboat" masterpieces.
Amelia Island offers five golf courses to fit the budget and skill level of any golfer, from the Fernandina Beach Municipal Course, which is open to the public, to the elegant and exclusive Long Point on Amelia Island Plantation. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for activities such as boating and fishing, as well.
The Great Florida Birding Trail begins at Fort Clinch. The trail makes it easy for birders - whether casual or expert, locals or visitors - to find new birding sites throughout the state. Guides detailing what species to expect at each site and the best times for viewing can be obtained at Fort Clinch, and Little Talbot State Park.
Fernandina Beach, located near the north end of the island, was once a bustling Victorian seaport. The picturesque downtown now harbors a treasure trove of history, antiques, fashions and collectibles. Multi-colored brick buildings dating from 1873 to 1900, gas lantern replicas and wrought iron benches and cobblestone walks lead to the shrimp boat-anchored marina. The Fernandina Harbor Marina sits at the end of Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach - birthplace of the modern shrimp industry. The adjoining shrimp boat dock is a sunset sensation as fleets of shrimp trawlers arrive home. Fernandina Beach hosts its annual "Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival" the first weekend of each May.
Amelia Island Lighthouse
Amelia Island Museum of History
Fort Clinch State Park
Accommodations in the Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach area will be of all types – single family homes, condominiums and villas, cottages.
HIGH SEASON - June, July, August
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