History

Located near the upper tip of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is just south of Georgia’s Cumberland Island and only about 15 minutes east of Jacksonville. The area, which also includes Fernandina Beach, boasts 13 miles of sparsely populated sandy beaches.

With 40-foot sand dunes, an abundance of wild Sea Oats and pristine shimmering waters, it comes as no surprise Amelia Island was selected in 2009 by Conde Nast as fourth among America’s Top 10 North American Islands, making it the highest ranked Florida Island for three years in a row.

Originally part of the territory of the now extinct Timucuan Native American peoples, Amelia Island’s history is rife with tales of pirates, noblemen and confederate soldiers. Fernandina Beach emerged early as an important seaport, which led to the construction of an abundance of Victorian-era architecture. Much of it remains today in the area’s historic district.

Also known as the “Isle of Eight Flags,” Amelia Island has had the following flags flown over it since 1562: France, Spain, Great Britain, the Patriots of Amelia Island, the Green Cross of Florida, Mexico, the Confederate States of America, and the United States. Another important bit of history: Old Town Fernandina, or Old Town as it was once known, is the site of the last Spanish Colonial Settlement in the Western Hemisphere. The town still contains the original street grid laid down by the Spaniards in 1811.

Why you should go

Amelia Island offers the weary vacationer the opportunity to relax in a peaceful and unspoiled seaside community. Abundant in natural beauty and outdoor adventure activities, the island is also home to an impressive number of world-class resorts, spas, restaurants and 117 holes of golf right by the ocean.

Main attractions

* Fort Clinch State Park: This beautiful park encompasses more than 1,000 acres. Don’t pass up the chance to explore the fort and park, where you can go camping, hiking, fishing and enjoy wildlife observation opportunities. www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch/

* Amelia Island Museum of History: Take a fascinating journey across time while you experience the history of Amelia Island from its days as part of the territory of the Timucuan Indians and occupation by the French and Spanish. Learn about marauding pirates, the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry and the island’s distinctive Victorian period. www.ameliamuseum.org

* Amelia Island Historic District: Its remarkable district covers more than 50 blocks and includes numerous homes and businesses listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Opt for a scenic carriage ride to take in the sights in true Victorian style. www.ameliaislandliving.com

How to get there

Amelia Island is 30 minutes from Jacksonville International Airport and 15 minutes from I-95. Travel time from Atlanta by plane to Jacksonville is just over an hour. On the highway you can expect about a six hour drive via I-75S to I-16E to I-95S.

Links of interest

* Chamber of Commerce: www.islandchamber.com

* Tourist Board: www.ameliaisland.com

* Hotel/Motel Association: www.northfloridalodging.com

* Restaurant Association: www.ameliaisland.com/area-services/dining/