Fernandina Beach Travel Guide | Sarah’s Small Town Escapes
If you’re drawn to Florida’s coastal history, Fernandina Beach is a must-visit. Located on the northern tip of Amelia Island, this town helped launch the modern shrimping industry and is part of the famed Isle of Eight Flags, the only place in the U.S. to have flown eight different flags.
The 50-block historic district is easy to explore, and is home to the oldest hotel in the Sunshine State! Here are five memorable stops to add to your itinerary.
1. Start your morning at Amelia Island Coffee
The cozy Amelia Island Coffee sits right in the heart of downtown Fernandina Beach, just steps from the marina. The coffee is locally roasted in Yulee, and the shop has a warm, welcoming vibe with plenty of seating. I loved the Beach Babe Iced Latte (a local favorite). It’s the perfect blend of coconut and sea salt!
2. Take a scenic cruise with Amelia River Cruises
Before this trip, my knowledge of Cumberland Island National Seashore was pretty limited, but Amelia River Cruises came highly recommended, and it didn’t disappoint.
I opted for the two-and-a-half hour Cumberland Island Tour, which departs at 10 a.m. daily, and the time honestly flew by. The narrated cruise crosses into Georgia and gives you the chance to see feral horses along the beaches of Cumberland Island.
What really made the experience special was the storytelling. The captains/guides shared fascinating details about the island, the local shrimping industry, and Amelia Island’s broader history.
In addition to the horses, we spotted coastal birds, dolphins, and even an alligator. It was the perfect way to get a feel for the region
3. Stroll the Historic District & stop by The Palace Saloon
I spent a good chunk of the day walking up and down the streets of Fernandina Beach’s block Historic District, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of the trip. The area is packed with restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and historic architecture.
One stop you have to make is The Palace Saloon, known as Florida’s oldest continuously operating bar, dating back to 1903, and home of The World Famous Pirate’s Punch.
4. Dive deeper at the Amelia Island Museum of History
Set inside the old Nassau County jail, the Amelia Island Museum of History offers a deeper look at the people and events that shaped this coastal community. It’s a great place to better understand how Amelia Island earned its title as the Isle of Eight Flags.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. If you can, time your visit for one of their docent-led tours, which are included with admission and offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+), and $5 for children ages 5–17.
5. Catch live music at The Green Turtle & stay next door at the Florida House Inn
If you're looking to wind down your evening, the Green Turtle Tavern is a fun and casual spot known for its laid-back vibe and live music. And, it’s right next door to the Florida House Inn, believed to be the oldest hotel in Florida, dating back to 1857. This historic inn is full of character, with wraparound porches, a 280-year-old oak tree out back, and two cozy on-site spots, Leddy’s Porch and the original Mermaid Bar. It’s a picturesque stay packed with history. I think you’ll love it!
