Pirates, the native Timucua tribe, Florida’s first Black beach resort, and EIGHT different national flags have all been part of Amelia Island’s history. It’s a historical site set in a modern-day resort island. The founder and colonial governor of Georgia, James Oglethorpe, named the place in honor of Princess Amelia of Great Britain. It was still a Spanish possession at that time, and while Spanish rule didn’t last, the name stuck. If you are a history buff, this is the place for you. But you don’t have to love history to love Amelia Island. Stick with me and we will discover all that this island has to offer right here in our backyard!
Things to Know
13 miles long and 4 miles wide at its widest spot, Amelia Island is a true paradise on the First Coast. Conde Nast Traveler’s Choice Award voted it
#6 amongst North America’s Island – and for good reason! The names Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach are used interchangeably but are slightly different. Fernandina is simply the town ON Amelia Island. But no matter what you call it, people love vacationing here - AND living here. From luxury senior living to waterfront homes to cute historic bungalows – Amelia and Fernandina can support your lifestyle (and I can help you find the right place here too!), of course. A few things to consider:
· Fernandina Beach High School is ranked
#1 in Nassau County – and
#12 in Jax. And while the public schools are well regarded here, there are also private schools to choose from on the island.
· Beach lover? Look no further! Amelia has everything from the fun Main Beach, with restaurants, parks, and activities abounding, to quiet and wonderful beaches like our very own “boneyard beach” (massive and ever-changing driftwood) on Big Talbot.
· Restaurants and night life. In the quaint and historic downtown area, you have many choices of great food from tapas to seafood (of course) to Japanese. The food is great, and the atmosphere tends to be intimate and fun. And there is plenty of live music in the many venues and even an upscale wine and whiskey bar on the main drag. Some of my favorites include:
o Espana for tapas and other Spanish delights.
o Brett’s Waterway Café for seafood, water views, and a big dog-friendly porch.
o And excellent American fare at Burlingame.
o And the wine and whiskey bar mentioned above? It’s called The Decantery, and it’s a great place to end a wonderful evening out.
· And if you like to have fun and make new friends, try one of Fernandina’s festivals. The famous Shrimp Festival and Concours D’Elegance have already happened this year (check them out next year for sure), but there are lots more to come. Why not check out:
o Amelia Island’s Dining Month, September 1-30. Wonderful special prix fixe menus at some of the finest restaurants in NE Florida.
o Join all the cool cats at Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival September 29-October 6th.
o October 5th is the Island Hop Craft Beer Festival.
o And the wonderful Right Whale Festival, November 1-3rd. Followed closely by the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival November 5th.
o And don’t miss the Giant Shrimp Drop (yes, really) on New Year’s Eve.
o You get the idea – there is always something happening on the island!
Finally, let’s talk real estate (my favorite thing to talk about.)
And if you aren’t ready to buy yet, why not rent a place for a week or a weekend and get in on all the fun?
· There are multitudes of beachfront homes and condos to rent (check VRBO and Airbnb).
· And many Victorians have been converted to bed and breakfast properties (these are our favorite!)
· And hotel options range from the super affordable Hampton Inn on the harbor front to the always-fabulous Ritz Carlton Amelia Island (definitely book a spa appointment while there and consider dinner at the fabulous and award-winning Salt.)
If you are an Amelia Island fan, as I am, please let me know your favorite things to do there!
