Sandy beaches, rocky outcroppings, and the author's (pictured) favorite pastime, cocktails on the beach, make Fernandina Beach, Florida, a close-to-home getaway with year-round appeal.
The Fernandina Beach Historic Downtown is rife with restaurants, boutiques, dive bars, ice cream shops and more. Celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, John Travolta, Kenny Chesney and Sean Connery have all visited, usually by private yacht, to the Fernandina Harbor Marina pictured at the end of the street.
On a walking tour, you'll stroll past beautiful homes (author John Grisham has a beach home here), manicured gardens, and real southern charm.
Fort Clinch is a well-preserved Antebellum fort open to visitors year-round.
Shrimping is still big business in the waters surrounding Fernandina Beach and history is everywhere.
Visit the Amelia Island Museum of History for the full and fascinating story of this coastal city.
Spanish dishes from España Restaurant & Tapas are a local favorite. Story author Paul Grimshaw poses with one of the locals in front of The Palace, purportedly slinging drinks continuously since 1903.
Outdoor seating under large shade trees and giant umbrellas just off the beaten path make this a very busy and popular spot for breakfast and lunch.
