Amelia Island's Fernandina Beach a mixture of historic sites, sc

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Amelia Island's Fernandina Beach is a mixture of historic sights, scenic beauty and miles of water

Fairbanks Folly, now an inn on Amelia Island, was built in 1885 by Maj. George Fairbanks, who presented it to his bride. The island includes includes historic Fernandina Beach, Fort Clinch and several resorts.

The Florida House Inn, dating back to 1857, is the oldest inn still operating in Florida. Fernandina Beach's strategic location made it a much-contested spot for many countries, which is why it served under eight flags. They include France, Spain, Britain, Scotland, Mexico, and finally, the U.S.

Bailey House is among dozens of lovely Victorian homes within a few blocks of downtown.

The Ash Street Inn in Fernandia Beach is more than 100 years old. The pet-friendly bed and breakfast has two rooms reserved for small, four-legged guests.

Centre Street in Fernandina Beach is flanked by historic Victorian brick storefronts dating between 1873 and 1900. This scenic avenue is part of a 50 block area that is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Amelia is also home to historic Fort Clinch, a well-preserved pre-Civil War fortress that guarded the mouth of the St. Marys River.

Fort Clinch, shown in this aerial view, is on American Beach, one of the few beaches on the East Coast open to African-Americans during segregation. The fort is a wonderful place to visit for its white sand and seclusion.

Amelia Island Plantation is a mega-resort complex 10 miles south of Fernandina with inn and villa accommodations, 72 holes of golf, 23 tennis courts, several restaurants and miles of beaches.

When you take a break from the beach or sightseeing, show your body some love at the plantation's spa.

Murray's Lighthouse on Amelia Island was built in the 1970s by a businessman who used the top floor as his studio.

What made Fernandina Beach such a thriving city is its location at the confluence of the St. Marys and Amelia rivers.

Visitors enjoy horseback riding on the beach.

A right whale and her newborn calf swim in one of the island's beaches.

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Fairbanks Folly, now an inn on Amelia Island, was built in 1885 by Maj. George Fairbanks, who presented it to his bride. The island includes includes historic Fernandina Beach, Fort Clinch and several resorts.

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