Amelia Island
Historic charm and pristine beaches
Amelia Island, while not precisely a secret (Condé Nast readers ranked it among the world’s best islands), is undoubtedly one of Florida’s less well-known vacation spots. It’s surprising, given this island retreat has almost everything a traveler could want: beaches, history, outdoor activities, shopping, fine restaurants, and lodging suitable for both celebrities and families. Amelia Island boasts 21 kilometers of shoreline, 99 picturesque golf holes, a 50-block historic area, more than 100 excellent restaurants, and a packed festival schedule.
Families, History, and Nature at Beaches
The beaches on the island with quartz sand are immaculate, thanks to strict laws that are upheld. Families usually gather at Fernandina Beach, which is close to the historic town, or Main Beach, which also has beach wheelchairs and handicap access. Bicyclists wishing to access the 10-kilometer Amelia Island Trail frequently stop at Peter’s Point. Visit Fort Clinch to gather shark teeth and shells, or visit historic American Beach to view the preserved dunes. Amelia Island State Park offers beach horseback riding at the southernmost point of the island. Want to get away from it all? Try the State Park at Little Talbot Island. It is still delightfully unspoiled, brimming with natural habitats and wildlife.
Quest for History
One of Florida’s most historic sites, Amelia Island is home to several of the state’s “oldest” establishments, including the oldest newspaper, lighthouse, tavern, and inn. Every brick and particle of sand has been infused with the cultural influences of the eight distinct flags that have flown over this location since 1562. Located in the former county jail, the Amelia Island Museum of History provides a thorough historical overview covering everything from Timucuan Native Americans to pirates, European settlers, Civil War soldiers, and Victorian aristocracy. From here, explore the 50-block historic neighborhood of Fernandina Beach on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. Visit Fort Clinch State Park to see a living history demonstration and tour the barracks. The American Beach Museum can tell you more about this beachfront sanctuary for African Americans during the Jim Crow era. American Beach is the first destination on the Florida Black Heritage Trail.
Savor, Sip, and Celebrate on Amelia Island
Amelia Island features more than 100 separate restaurants to satisfy your appetite. Some of the notable favorites are the wild-caught seafood at Timoti’s Seafood Shak, the Spanish and Portuguese specialties at España Restaurant, the ultra-high-end dining at Salt—winner of the AAA Five-Diamond Award—and the Southern comfort food at 29 South. January’s Restaurant Week offers a reduced opportunity to try these and a variety of other dishes. The Palace Saloon is the oldest saloon in Florida, so a visit there wouldn’t be complete without a drink. After that, stroll down the charming streets that are dotted with galleries, taverns, boutiques, and antique stores.