These Two Hidden Coastal Gems Are the Gateway to the Sunshine State

Jeff Walker,  Entertainment Writer / Travel Writer

Featuring 13 miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches Amelia Island and neighboring Victorian-era downtown Fernandina Beach offer some of northeast Florida's richest and most idyllic getaways. While Amelia Island's history dates back over a 1000 plus years and the city of Fernandina Beach began to take shape in 1811, combined they're both part of the 'Isle of 8 Flags' region, which refers to the entire island's iconic history, having eight different national flags flown over it since 1562. 

While Florida officially became a state in 1845, the entire northeast territory played a significant role in the Revolutionary War as well as the Civil War. Safe to say Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach have a long and well documented past regarding the progression and overall growth of America. That completes the recap to History 101 for Amelia Island. 

More than two centuries later approximately one million people visit the area yearly, fueling an estimated $900 million economic impact. Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, vacationers come not only for the rich history, but for the modern day amenities and serenity Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach have to offer. The best of yesteryear and today collide on a daily basis.

Must Visits:

All out history buffs have a bevy of things to see and do when visiting. Located to the northeast of Fernandina Beach at the entrance to the Cumberland Sound you'll discover Fort Clinch State Park, an 1100 acre Florida State Park, over-run with sand dunes, plains, an estuarine tidal marsh (coastal wetland ecosystem), and maritime hammocks (hardwood trees that form an ecological island surrounded by wetlands). 

Young and old, there's something for everyone to do at Fort Clinch State Park. From the jetty boardwalk land and sea wildlife enthusiasts might enjoy spotting the rare purple sandpiper, white-tailed deer, and other birds, as well as dolphins and manatees. Take the Willow Pond Nature trail for your best opportunity to see alligators, raccoons, songbirds and an occasional bobcat. The best view of Amelia Island Lighthouse in the park comes with a visit to Egans Creek Overlook, a marsh habitat popular with wading birds.

Fishing, sunbathing, hiking, bicycling, picnicking, and camping await serious outdoor types. The Amelia River Campground has two hot-water restroom & shower facilities for 41 campsites in an oak hammock. Hardcore bird watchers, Fort Clinch State Park provides a gateway to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, a 2,000-mile, self-guided highway trail connecting over 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across Florida. To discover where history meets nature visit https://www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch

Platted in 1811 and listed among the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Old Town (aka Original Town) Fernandina is where the city's history began. Situated on a bluff near the northern tip of Amelia Island, Old Town carries a significant 19th-century history, and is particularly of interest to visitors intrigued in Florida's Spanish heritage.

Old Town has survived several conflicts over the years, including the Patriot War and the Battle of Amelia Island (1812-17). British, Spanish, and native American history abound in Old Town, which is located approximately one mile north of Fernandina Beach proper. Architectural admirers might revel in their frame vernacular coastal cottage homes adorned with huge southern style porches. The 1800s-era Lesesne House, Fairbanks, and Captain's House standout among the historic homes.

Want to fully ensconce yourself in Fernandina's rich history, maybe stay at the Florida House Inn. Located at 20 & 22 South 3rd Street, within walking distance to the beach and the downtown area, Florida House Inn (circa 1857) is recognized as the state's oldest surviving hotel, and listed among the National Register of Historic Places.

Enjoy brunch at Leddy's Porch and sip on cocktails at The Mermaid Bar in an intimate, cozy atmosphere. While dignitaries have stayed at the 17 room boutique inn during its existence, it's the hotel's paranormal activity and resident ghosts that attract the most acclaim, including a young boy who drowned in the 1800's and former maid who at times throws plates and silverware. To bask in southern traditions celebrated daily visit https://www.floridahouse.com/

History and potent potables unite at the Palace Saloon, Florida's oldest continuously operating bar (1903) located at 117 Centre St, Fernandina Beach. Featuring a 40-foot mahogany bar, legend has it this former 1800's haberdashery survived prohibition by selling ice cream and gasoline. Due to the high volume of sea captains who frequented the establishment during the 20th century, the Palace Saloon is known affectionately to locals as the 'Ship Captain's Bar'. 

Following his death in the 1960's longtime bartender Uncle Charlie (who lived & worked in the building for 50 years) is believed to haunt the premises. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the saloon didn't let a potentially devastating 1999 fire destroy their history or heritage. Billed as unquestionably the 'best bar for spirits & billiards', Uncle Charlie has his own adult hideaway behind the Palace, and who knows he just might greet you at the door.

Don't visit the Palace Saloon without swigging their famous Pirate's Punch. Be certain to check out this iconic tavern with its vintage murals, mosaic floors, and live music at https://www.theaihg.com/the-palace-saloon

Built during a prosperous late 19th-century Reconstruction era the Silk Stocking District is a prestigious residential area within the Fernandina Beach Historic District. Featuring 120 plus well-preserved historic Victorian era homes, the area was nicknamed for the wealthy residents (bankers and business owners) who lived there, particularly near North Sixth and Seventh Streets. It's a key stop for local tourism.

Seasonal Visits:

Depending on your comfort level Amelia Island's subtropical climate is welcoming all year long, with day time winter weather hovering in the upper 60's and mid summer temperatures topping out in the 90's. Subsequent to the weather, Amelia Island host a slew of annual events appealing to a variety of hobbies and pastimes.

Easily the most celebrated is their namesake Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival celebrating Amelia Island’s unique history and its role as the birthplace of the modern U.S. shrimping industry. Featuring fresh seafood, a boat parade, live music, pageantry, and arts & crafts, the festival is held yearly during the first weekend in May. Seafood and pirate lovers stay tuned at https://www.shrimpfestival.com/ 

Held annually during the second weekend in March, the three decade strong Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance aka 'The Amelia' is billed as a premier, multi-day automotive charitable event. Featuring 250 plus rare and historic vehicles, as well as a high-end auction, the event is hosted on the 10th and 18th fairways of The Golf Club of Amelia Island, adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton hotel.

If you don't want to miss this award winning event paying tribute to automotive excellence, world-clas vehicles, and motorsports than keep your engine running and continually check out https://www.ameliaconcours.com/

Presented on various stages and various venues throughout the community, the annual Amelia Island Jazz Festival is held typically during the first full week of October (80°F avg. daytime). The schedule features a diverse line-up of entertainers including big band, swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, and blues artists.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Les DeMerle the yearly event has been taking place since 2003. The festival kicks off with a free community concert, with jazz and wine tasting, and a "Jump Jive and Swing" night among the eight day festivities. Get jazzed up early at https://ameliaislandjazzfestival.com/

Just For Fun:

Perhaps the easiest way to get around Amelia Island without worrying about parking or directions is by relaxing on the Anchor Trolley & Transport. The daily trolley offers hop on/hop off service, allowing visitors to explore historic downtown Fernandina Beach, Old Town, Silk Stocking District, and other points of interest at their own pace, rather than staying on for the entire 1.5-hour loop. Tours on St. Simons Island also available. To book a ride visit https://anchortrolleys.com/ 

Want to explore Fernandina Beach proper from a more charming veiwpoint, consider relaxing on a horseless electric carriage compliments of Jeffers Carriages. Knowledgeable chauffeurs will escort you around town providing riders with the rich history of Fernandina Beach, all in the open-air comfort and opulence of a yesteryear gilded carriage. Ideal for wedding parties and group outings. Begin your tour here at https://www.jefferscarriages.com/

Want to totally immerse yourself in wildlife viewing, while getting a behind the scenes history lesson on a real civil war era fort, sacred grounds, and Gilded Age mansions, I recommend taking a coastal tour with Amelia River Cruises Cumberland Island Tour. Piloted by U.S. Coast Guard certified captains, the 2½-hour adventure takes you along the coastlines of two legendary islands in two different states. That's right, the southern tip of Georgia is in included in this journey highlighting stories about Cumberland and Amelia Islands.

Naval history buffs might relish in tales about Kings Bay Naval Base in Georgia, home to the Ohio-class nuclear submarines. History, wildlife, dolphins, and the occasional gator await. You never know what you’ll spot along the shorelines, in the water, on land, or in the skies. Sunset and adult only BYOB Tours available as well. Set your nautical GPS to https://ameliarivercruises.com/ 

Much like their website proclaims, Amelia Island Board Rentals provide the #1 outdoor experience on Amelia Island. Enjoy 30 or 60 minute guided beach tour on remote controlled four-wheeled electric skate boards, or cruise through historic Fernandina Beach on a three-wheeled Arcimoto FUV (fun utility vehicle).

Ideal for bachelor or bachelorette parties, family outings or team building exercises. Super fun for all ages. Let your hair down, catch the breeze, and get your motor running at https://ameliaislandboardrental.com/

With 99 holes of championship golf, Amelia Island is one of LINKS Magazine’s “Top 25 Golf Islands in the World.” Home to five championship golf courses including Fernandina Beach Golf Club, The Golf Club of Amelia Island, The Amelia River Club, and Oak Marsh at the Omni, Amelia Island is a golfer's paradise. Tee off here first at https://www.ameliaisland.com/travel-guides/golf/

Hospitality:

No different than any preferred vacation destination, Amelia Island has several chain hotels including a couple high-end (Ritz-Carlton & the Omni) choices. As always, location matters. If you stay just off I-95 you might could spend less, but depending on daily traffic you'd have to travel up to 30 minutes or more to reach the area and Fernandina Beach. 

Going full tilt, there are no less than a half dozen award winning popular bed and breakfast inns on Amelia Island, with most located in historic Fernandina Beach downtown. All offer a mix of southern charm and coastal experiences, along with their own slice of Amelia Island history.

Although they would not toot their own horn, the Addison on Amelia Island was awarded a 2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice rating, meaning the bed & breakfast at 614 Ash Street Fernandina Beach is ranked among the top 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor globally. Furthermore their B&B property is a proud member of Select Registry, a hospitality directory recognizing high-quality in the the craft lodging industry.

The overall charm, stunning scenery, courtyard views (upon request), floral garden, and list of complimentary amenities make the Addison a clear choice when staying in the heart of Fernandina Beach. If you're seeking lodging that provides R&R, whether that means 'rest & relaxation' or 'rest & recuperation', a stay at the Addison checks all the R&R boxes and them some.

Several of the everyday comforts covered in your stay include homemade breakfasts made with the freshest ingredients, and a daily 5-6pm happy hour mixer, complete with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Every room comes with elevated decor (hint of the tropics), comfortable beds with luxurious bed linens, and down-filled pillows, as well as rich hardwood floors, and balconies adorned with wicker furniture. Revel in spa quality eco-friendly niceties in the bath including Turkish towels. Everything designed for maximum comfort. 

Want to enjoy your stay at an even more elevated level, the Addison provide guests with complimentary concierge services. They'll make dinner and deluxe spa reservations for you. Like to take a leisurely bike ride around town. You guessed it, they provide free bicycles for guests to use.

Other than your swim trunks and a good book, there's no need to carry the customary beach gear on vacation, as the Addison provide complimentary beach towels, beach chairs, and beach umbrellas for your day at the beach. The upside, you're approximately two miles from putting your toes in the sand.

The proprietors Lisa and Ron West are overly attentive, very hospitable, and can provide guests a wealth of information regarding their beloved community. Additionally Lisa has collected unique breakfast menus from Bon Appetit and her own travels, thus creating memorable morning fare primarily using ingredients from local produce vendors. Ideally the Addison on Amelia Island is designed for honeymooners and couples who want to totally pamper themselves. Explore elite accommodations at https://addisononamelia.com/

Serious Eats:

Depending on your palate (fine to everyday), the Isle of Eight Flags offers food lovers a variety of cultural flavors. Spanish, Mexican, Italian, Asian, and southern cuisine, as well as an awesome deli will tantalize the taste buds.

Although it's not always the case, locals and weekend warriors who drop in for lunch or dinner, at the Patio at 5th & Ash don't seem to mind even if they wait 30 minutes for a table. They agee the ambiance, laid back atmosphere, and awesome American fare including house-made sangrias, bourbon-style Bloody Marys, among other signature cocktails is worthy of hanging around the adjacent sidewalk, perhaps listening to live music overflowing from the canopy covered patio adorned with ive oaks dripping with Spanish moss and twinkling lights. 

While their lunch menu is inviting, offering an array of shareables and handhelds, including a giant Bavarian Pretzel, Famous Meatballs, a Charcuterie plate, French Dip sandwich, and their namesake angus beef Patio Burger, the corner of 5th & Ash streets really shine during the dinner hours. Using fresh ingredients to create hand-crafted recipes, eight selections apiece are listed under their surf and turf main entrees. Natives seafood lovers often order the Patio's fresh filet Island Grouper seared with Caribbean spices, or feast on their Old Charleston style recipe Shrimp & Grits complete with andouille sausage and the cheesiest grits.

Carnivores might want to sink their teeth into their pan seared double Bone In Pork Chop, or their melt in your mouth Braised Short Ribs basking in a red wine demi-glaze reduction. Both served over home-made mashed potatoes. Freakin' delicious! Save room for a slice of Seasonal Cheesecake or their very creamy and tart traditional Key Lime Pie. Owner Scott Cline, his family, and his staff are passionate about what they do and it shows. The Patio at 5th & Ash welcome visitors yearround. Start here at https://www.thepatiofernandinabeach.com/

Celebrating Amelia Island's heritage España Restaurant & Tapas (small plates) has gained a stellar reputation since Chef Roberto Pestana and his wife Marina threw open their doors in 2004 at 22 S. 4th St. Whether you dine inside or on their expansive garden patio España offer up a wealth of Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. 

España are highly regarded for their seafood entrees, as well as their Shrimp Ceviche (a tapas selection), and their three genuine paella offerings (Spanish rice dishes), crafted using virgin olive oil, spices, seasonings, flavored meats, house-made stocks, and rice served in traditional shallow flat pans. Flan Caramelo (egg custard) and Tres Leches (three milk vanilla cake) are just two of their five authentic desserts. For a memorable meal visit https://www.espanaamelia.com/

Got the midday munchies. If you enjoy a good sandwich, a hearty salad, or a combination of both, locals and island visitors seem to gravitate to 4th Street Deli, not surprisingly located at 3 North 4th Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. 4th Street offer up over two dozen plus sandwiches including a haf dozen salad (chicken, tuna, egg, etc) options, served on your choice of nine different breads. The Amelia Club is teeming with roast beef, sliced turkey breast, ham, Swiss, and provolone.

Regulars and island transplants from up north assure me the Hot Pastrami, the Italian, and the Reuben sandwiches would easily put a smile on a New Yorkers face. Their 11 signature salads rum the gamut. Among the list include a traditional Greek, and old school Creamy Macaroni (celery, tomato, onion & seasoned mayo), and a Strawberry Pecan served in a spring mix. Sandwiches made while you wait, and salads made fresh every day. Open Mon-Sat 10:30-4pm. Be sure to check out Fernandina's original sandwich shop at https://www.4thstreetdeli.com/

Typically a dive bar is described as a no-frills hole in the wall establishment. Oddly enough while locals agree the Sandbar Amelia Island on Fernandina Beach at one time resembled the description, over its 62 years serving food and drink to islanders, it's morphed into a a lively beachfront restaurant and watering hole located directly on the island's Main Beach or as the seagull flies 2910 Atlantic Avenue. 

As their website proclaims, the Sandbar is where 'good vibes, high tides, and great bites' meet up, and for regular types that personifies one hellacious dive bar. Furthermore the Sandbar is where the bar literally meets the sand, whereas you can step out back and have your toes in the sand. Maybe you're hanging out on the beach and want some cold brews and an awesome burger. In that case, just plop down at one of their picnic tables, and they'll come to you. No shoes, no shirt, no problem. They'll serve you.

Aside from their killer burgers, 14" artisanal pizzas, jumbo wings, seafood entrees, and a hot & chunky salted caramel chocolate chip cookie for dessert, the Sandbar boast the largest whiskey library in Florida, if not the country. From A to Z, or a least from A (Amador 12 YR) to Y (Yellow Spot 12 YR 92P) the Sandbar pour up 1200 variations of Scotch, American, Canadian, Japanese, and Rye whiskeys. Sip and dine, while enjoying live music on weekends. Join their beach party at https://sandbarameliaisland.com/

If you're a northerner seeking thin sliced NY style pizza I recommend Pizza Street Kitchen located in the Garden Street Bistro Courtyard at 105 S3rd Street. Not only do they serve up a no flop slices with just the right amount of oil dripping off, they offer cheesy bread, stromboli, and homemade meatballs. It's perhaps the closest you'll get to NY style pizza on Fernandina Beach proper. Taste the difference at https://www.pizzastreetkitchen.com/

If you don't make it to Espana and are craving Hispanic style cuisine, consider dining at Pepper's Cocina Mexicana & Tequila Bar. Situated at 530 Centre St., this family owned business pride themselves are serving up the finest quality Mexican food and beverages, including a wide selection of their tequila infused signature peppers. Their California Burrito can easily satisfy two light eaters, especially when combined with their complimentary made from scratch chips and salsa. Spice up your visit at https://www.pepperscocina.com/

For those who enjoy partaking in spirits and craft beers, I offer up three separate places adult beverage connoisseurs might want to visit. Originally founded in 2015, Marlin & Barrel Distillery located at 232 S 8th St currently purify 13 different potent potables including gin, vodka, rum, and bourbon products. Drop by Wednesday - Saturday from 12-8pm for guided tastings, specialty cocktails, flights, and bottles for purchase. 

If you're curious about the concoctions, young Reilly the M.D. aka the 'master distiller' will be happy to provide a nickel tour of the distillery and walk you through the process. Marlin & Barrel is owned by the Amelia Island Hospitality Group, the same group who own The Palace and Hammerhead Beach Bar, a beloved, no-frills local tavern located at 2045 S Fletcher Avenue in proximity to the ocean. Discover all their locations at https://www.theaihg.com/

Craft beer lovers, you have two uniquely different choices. Constructed in 1954, a former Ford car dealership at 629 S 8th St. now houses Mocama Beer Company. It is here they brew some of local's favorite beers, including their ever popular Cosmico Indian Pale Ale with its bright notes of orange, mango, and pineapple. Truly a tropical inspired blend. However, Mocama which is Spanish for 'at the sea', offer up more than just a diverse menu of high-quality craft beers ranging from crisp lagers (like Amelia Light) to stouts and IPAs.

Open 7am until 11pm most days, Mocama's 7000 sq.ft. meeting place with its modern industrial decor, is a dual-destination craft brewery and coffee shop, operating as a breakfast café until 11am daily, serving premium espresso, drip coffee, and light breakfast items. While the coffee shop remains open until 4pm, the afternoon fare transitions into handhelds and shareables that pair nicely with their signature beers. Ever forward thinking, Mocama wake you up with piping hot cup of joe, and help visitors unwind at the end of the day with a cold brewski. 

Want to know more about how they brew your favorite beer, then go behind the scenes. Mocama offer group tours, including some priced with tasting flights. (21 & older please). Here in their mid-century modern brewhouse as their website asserts, they'll deliver just the right amount of beer geekery to appreciate their craft. Whether you congregate in their stylish dual-concept lounge for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or decide to educate yourself on craft beer, Mocama welcomes you. Depending on what night you pop in, they serve up bingo, trivia, or live music. Stay in the know at https://mocama.com/

Just down the way at 22 S. 8th Street, Maryland natives and University of Maine alums Jessie and Kevin O'Brien are so passionate about beer they named their brew pub First Love Brewing. Cleverly they've combined their 20 rotating brews on tap with a menu designed to go with a cold beer, including a smash-burger and a dozen specialty pizzas.

Maybe order up a Cardinal Truth, a west coast inspired IPA with hints of citrus, grapefruit, and pine. Non-IPA types might be drawn to A Beacon of Light, a smooth tasting beer crafted with dark roasted malt and lactose milk sugar, providing subtle notes of coffee and chocolate. Just two of their premium core offerings.

How devoted are this couple to their craft and the community. While Jessie continues to school herself in brewery sciences (it's a thing), together they ventured to Chicago to train under a 'master pizzaola' to educate themselves on the art of making awesome pizza, and as pizza lovers know it begins with the dough. To fully experience their profound romance with beer and pizza visit https://firstlovebrewing.com/ 

Whether it's a singer songwriter or a full band, several of the aforementioned offer up live music on a regular basis or at least Friday through Sunday. Most of downtown Fernandina Beach' music scene centers around either side of Centre and 2nd Streets. Among the fray are PJD's Beer and Wine Garden, Scully's Irish Pub & Eatery, and the world famous Palace Saloon.

However (there's always a however), if you seeking out live music pretty much pre-TGIF and starting earlier in the day, there's only one choice. Sitting at 10 N 2nd Street Tigre Island Room host a wide variety of musical artists covering various genres. 

Once a former dry goods store, this landmark building designed in 1878 by French architect Anton “C.H.” Hout, now serves up local gems to national acts for your listening pleasure. Simply stated, TIR rock downtown Fernandina Beach. Oh yeah, and they serve craft beer and cocktails too! Open until midnight early in the week and until 2am Friday and Saturday. Rock on at https://tigreislandroom.com/ 

Shopping and window browsing:

Centre Street is the center (pun intended) for downtown Fernandina Beach. From 8th Street to harbor marina, it's best to describe it as taking a trip back to yesteryear, similar to picturing a Norman Rockwell painting. Centre Street is exceptionally clean, well manicured, and quite frankly the heartbeat of Fernandina Beach. The eight block stroll that ends at the intracoastal waterway is aligned with eateries, park benches, fountains, hideaways, taverns, and specialty boutiques such as Twisted Sisters!, Teak & Ivy, Debonair, and Lemongrass, certain to keep the ladies busy for hours.

Antique aficionados could spend just as much time in Trailer Park Collectibles or Eight Flags Antiques Market (voted the area's best antique store), searching for vintage jewelry, rare finds, and other artifacts from the past. Maybe purchase a one of a kind necklace, china set, hard to find album, or an addition to your Coca-Cola memorabilia. https://www.facebook.com/TrailerParkCollerctibles

Want more. Every Saturday (year round) from 9am until 1pm, 7th St. shop the Fernandina Beach Market Place, a weekly gathering of vendors offering up farm-fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, local honey, and handmade arts and crafts. If you're heading back home on the weekend, carrying produce, seasonings, spices, and a few knick-knacks from area artisans isn't such a bad thing. It's a great way to support the local community. 

With Kids in Mind:

If you're coming to Amelia Island with your young ones in tow, especially those pre-teen and younger, aside from the beach, a hotel pool, and Fort Clinch State Park, the city's website suggest a few things to maintain their interest. In an attempt to keep them off electronic devices the downtown area provides clever ideas, and when mother nature allows, several are within walking distance. 

The Amelia Island Museum of History offer interactive activities that will keep kids entertained, including stories involving pirates, shrimpers, and explorers, as well as a scavenger hunt. They are all told with children's imaginations in mind to spark interest. Perhaps older kids and parents might enjoy the museum's weekly Ghost Tour that meets in front of the cemetery behind St. Peters Episcopal Church (801 Atlantic Avenue) Fridays at 6pm. Explore opportunities and unlock the past at https://ameliamuseum.org/

Want to go ful pirate and experience a bygone era, than I recommend embarking on a 90-minute daytime voyage aboard the 53 foot Flying Dutchman pirate ship, a family-friendly, theatrical adventure departing from Fernandina Harbor Marina. Sail the seas searching for the mythical Davy Jones and his cursed ship.

Piloted by costumed pirate crews, the trip includes interactive games, pirate lore, water cannons, and scenic views of Fort Clinch, Cumberland Island, and local salt marshes. Reduced rates for Scallywags (13+) and Buccaneers (3-12yrs), with Swabbies (under 2) sailing free. Before you walk the plank check out all their voyages including sunset cruises at https://www.ameliaislandpiratevoyages.com/

Need to satisfy your sweet tooth or just want to treat the kids for being so well-behaved. Take a step back in time and pop in 503A Centre St., home to Fernandina Beach' famed Vintage Donut Shop. Beginning with a vanilla cake donut you create your own confection. Choose from five icings, a dozen plus toppings, and a half dozen drizzles to craft your very own made to order confection. Follow the savory aroma to https://www.vintagedonuts.com/ 

Maybe it's later in the day and you're still craving something sweet. A trip to Fernandina's Fantastic Fudge could do the trick. It's here at 218 Centre Street they make fudge and chocolate delicacies the old-fashioned way, using a copper kettle and marble slab tables to create recipes dating back to 1887. You can't go wrong with their scooped ice cream. Pleasing the sweet tooth of locals and visitors since 1988. Begin your chocolate decadence at https://www.fantasticfudge.com/

To further entertain the kids and parents, the city site suggests The Book Loft, Duck Pinz miniature bowling, and Gregor MacGregor’s Mini Links & Drinks where you can enjoy a pleasant round of putt-putt while enjoying beer on tap, wine by the glass, soft drinks, and signature frozen drinks at their 19th Hole beachy bar. Food, fun, & drink are par for the course at https://www.macgregorminigolf.com/

For a detailed list of things for families to do and suggestions for young kids visit https://www.ameliaisland.com/blog/a-kid-level-view-downtown-fernandina-beach-through-a-childs-eyes/

The list is long for things to do for couples and or a family on Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. Water, nature, and wildlife tours aplenty, as well historical walking tours, and fully electric Arcimoto FUV rentals (street-legal three-wheeled vehicles) with space for two people. Rated the #1 on outdoor experience on Amelia Island. Get around this beach town in style at https://ameliaislandboardrental.com/ 

Need a day to relax in the sun and work on your tan. Don't forget the beach is just minutes away from anywhere on Amelia Island, and less than 5 minutes away from downtown Fernandina Beach proper. You can ride a bike out or if you take your car, you'll be happy to discover there's free parking at the beach. That alone will blow your mind. Remember to use suntan lotion and turn every 30 minutes. Get hungry or thirsty, maybe you'll find an open picnic table at the Sandbar.

You can't see Amelia Island or Fernandina Beach from I-95. However this vibrant island community is not only the Nasau County seat, it is literally the welcome mat to the state of Florida, and the first exit (373) travelling south off the interstate once you've crossed the St. Mary's River.

After exiting follow state road 200/A1A East for approximately a half hour you're in a historically rich coastal city overflowing with Victorian charm, 13 miles of pristine beaches, and home to the Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry.

The sunshine state offers a variety of vacation destinations, with Miami, Orlando, and Tampa-St. Pete often receiving the most attention for obvious reasons. However, if you're seeking a blend of historic charm and coastal relaxation rich with dining and shopping, than a stay on Amelia Island exploring the 50-block Fernandina Beach historic district is a welcome alternative.

Whether you're coming for a long weekend or a full seven days, Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach have a lot to offer. You vacation in places such as these because you want to relax, or as the locals might say 'to enjoy a laid back time'. Want to know more visit https://www.visitflorida.com/listing/amelia-island-welcome-center-and-convention-%26-visitors-bureau/25220/