Introduction

Amelia Island, a gem off Florida’s northeast coast, is not just a picturesque beach destination—it’s a place rich with history, culture, and unique stories. From its shifting allegiances to its contributions to shrimping, Amelia Island offers a fascinating glimpse into America’s past and present. Here are ten captivating facts that make Amelia Island a truly unique destination:

A Tapestry of Flags

Amelia Island is one of the few places in the U.S. to have had its sovereignty claimed by eight distinct groups. Over its tumultuous history, the island has flown the flags of Mexico, France, Spain, the Confederate States of America, the Patriots of Amelia Island, the Green Cross, the United States, and Great Britain. This rich tapestry of claims has shaped the island’s diverse cultural heritage.

The East Coast Greenway

A portion of the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile trail stretching from Maine to Key West, traverses Amelia Island. This trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a scenic route to explore the island’s natural beauty and enjoy its coastal landscapes.

A Golfer’s Paradise

Despite its modest size—just 13 miles long—Amelia Island is home to several world-class golf courses. Notable courses include the Fernandina Beach Golf Club, the Golf Club of Amelia Island, the Golf Club at North Hampton, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation, and the Amelia River Golf Club. For family fun, there’s even a miniature golf course.

Florida’s Oldest Saloon

Amelia Island boasts the Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar, which predates Prohibition. During the Prohibition era, it was rumored that the saloon served ice cream with a splash of alcohol upon request, cleverly navigating the restrictions of the time.

Named After a Princess

The island was named in honor of Princess Amelia, the daughter of King George II of Great Britain. This regal connection adds a touch of historical charm to the island’s allure.

Frequent Change of Control

Between 1750 and 1850, Amelia Island changed hands about seven times. This constant shifting of control among various powers—Spanish, French, English, and others—contributed to the island’s rich and complex history.

Protected Natural Spaces

Approximately 10% of Amelia Island is designated as protected park and preserve land. These areas help to preserve the island’s natural beauty and offer visitors a chance to experience its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Birthplace of Modern Shrimping

Modern shrimping is said to have originated off the coast of Amelia Island. The island’s early boat-builders crafted ships specifically designed for shrimping, leading to one of the largest shrimp festivals in the U.S.—the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.

Rumored Buried Treasure

Amelia Island has a storied past with pirates, and many historians believe that treasure may still be buried off its coast. The island’s history as a major pirate harbor adds an element of mystery and adventure to its allure.

The Patriots of Amelia Island

In the early 1800s, Amelia Island was seized from the Spanish by an independent insurgent group known as the Patriots of Amelia Island. Led by Colonel George Matthews, this short-lived takeover was secretly sanctioned by President James Madison. The Patriots’ flag flew for just one day before the island was returned to Spanish control under pressure from Congress.

A Beachside Oasis

Amelia by the Sea is a premier choice for vacationers looking to immerse themselves in beachside bliss. This upscale condominium complex features 2 and 3-bedroom units that cater to both families and couples. The condos are elegantly furnished and offer breathtaking views of the white sand beach and the fishing pier. Each unit is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, electric heat, dishwashers, and ice makers, ensuring a comfortable stay. Many condos have been recently updated with new beach-themed décor, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and stylish custom drapes.

Guests can enjoy private balconies with panoramic views of the sparkling swimming pool and the Atlantic Ocean. The complex also boasts a serene private pool, secure parking, two tennis courts, and direct access to the only fishing pier on the island. This 780-foot pier offers some of the best surf fishing opportunities in Florida, with common catches including redfish, Spanish mackerel, and flounder.

Amelia Island’s Rich History

Amelia Island is not just a beautiful beach destination; it is a place where history comes alive. The island’s storied past includes tales of pirates, ancient civilizations, and multiple national flags. Here’s a glimpse into the historical tapestry that enriches the Amelia Island experience:

Ancient Beginnings

Thousands of years ago, the Timucua tribe built their civilization on this island. Their legacy is a part of the island’s deep historical roots, providing a fascinating backdrop to the contemporary enjoyment of Amelia by the Sea.

Pirate Legends and Colonial Days

The island has a colorful history of piracy and colonial rule. Imagine the footsteps of pirates who once roamed these shores, searching for hidden treasures. Amelia Island’s history is marked by a diverse range of influences, including Spanish, French, and English, with the island being the only place in America where eight different national flags have flown.

Victorian Elegance and Civil War Era

Experience the charm of American royalty by staying in a Victorian-era bed and breakfast or explore the remnants of the Civil War at Fort Clinch State Park. This historic fort offers a glimpse into the island’s military past, complete with walking tours and reenactments.

Cultural Heritage

Amelia Island also embraces the cultural heritage of its diverse community. Taste the Gullah Geechee influence in local cuisine, like shrimp and grits, and explore the beach that was once home to Florida’s first Black beach resort. This blend of cultural history and culinary tradition adds depth to the island’s appeal.

Things to Do Around Amelia by the Sea

In addition to enjoying the luxurious amenities of Amelia by the Sea, guests can explore a range of attractions nearby:

• Fernandina Beach Municipal Golf Club: A top-rated 27-hole golf course, offering a practice putting green, driving range, and a clubhouse with a full bar and menu.
• Amelia Island Museum of History: The state’s first oral history museum, featuring exhibits, lectures, and ghost tours that showcase the island’s over 4,000 years of history.
• Amelia Island Lighthouse: One of Florida’s oldest lighthouses, offering tours on specific days of the month.
• Bosque Bello Cemetery: A historic cemetery surrounded by majestic live oaks and ancient cedars, offering a serene glimpse into the past.
• Fort Clinch State Park: A historic 19th-century fort with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, hiking, and camping.

With breathtaking views of the white sand beach and fishing pier from its many apartments, Amelia by the Sea is the ideal vacation destination for families and couples looking for the perfect place to enjoy what the area has to offer. This condominium complex offers luxurious 2 and 3-bedroom condos that are available for short-term rentals, and guests can rent them for a week or a month at reasonable rates. Read below to find out everything Amelia by the Sea has to offer.

2 and 3 Bedroom Condo Amenities

The condos available at this upscale complex offer guests many fabulous amenities including completely furnished apartments with air conditioners, electric heat, dishwashers, and ice makers, as well as private balconies with views of the beautiful swimming pool and fishing pier. Many of the condos have recently been updated, with new beach décor that make them perfect for a family vacation.

Other recent updates in the units include refreshed kitchens with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, new cabinetry, new washer and dryers, stylish décor with custom drapes, and remodeled bathrooms as well. All units in Amelia by the Sea have great views of the ocean, sparkling swimming pool, and the only fishing pier on its side of the island. Amelia by the Sea’s generous amenities and great location make it ideal for Amelia Island vacation rentals or condo rentals.

Complex Amenities

Amelia by the Sea features a gorgeous, serene private pool, guest access to the white sand beach just steps away from the pool area, two tennis courts, secure parking, and access to the only fishing pier on the beach. This private, 780-foot pier gives access to some of Florida’s best surf fishing; typical fish caught on the pier include redfish, Spanish mackerel, flounder, sharks, sea trout, bluefish, and many other species. The complex also has private elevators for guests to use. Managers also live in the complex and are available for assistance anytime. The amenities at Amelia by the Sea make it an ideal destination to enjoy everything that the area has to offer in comfort and luxury.

Location

Amelia by the Sea is conveniently positioned right on the beautiful white-sand beach, with all units of the complex boasting views of the glistening Atlantic Ocean, the swimming pool, and the fishing pier. Located close to your condo are many great attractions and things to do for guests on vacation, including golfing, restaurants, shopping, parks, spas, and more, which will be detailed below.

Attractions & Things to Do

Guests of the complex will have plenty of fun things to do around the area, with many attractions within walking or driving distance of the building, making Amelia by the Sea a great choice for vacation condo rentals. Located nearby is the Fernandina Beach Municipal Golf Club, a 27-hole golf course that was rated 3-1/2 stars by “Golf Digest” and is considered by most to be one of the country’s best public golf courses. In addition to the golf course, it also features a practice putting green, driving range, a clubhouse with a full bar and menu, and a stocked pro shop.

For vacation guests looking for a more historical experience, check out the several museums and historic landmarks the island has to offer, many of which are within driving distance of the condominium complex. Take a short trip and visit the Amelia Island Museum of History, the state’s first oral history museum featuring modern exhibits, lectures, ghost tours, historic walking tours, and information on the island’s over 4,000 years of history.

The Amelia Island Lighthouse dates back to 1839 and is one of Florida’s oldest lighthouses; tours of the lighthouse are only offered the first and third Wednesday of the month, and are also open every Saturday for public viewing. Another historic location to check out is the Bosque Bello Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful place with massive live oaks and hundred-year-old cedars that seem to guard the graves of the soldiers buried there.

If you’re an avid fisherman, look into getting a chartered fishing boat or simply fish from the pier right off the Amelia by the Sea condo complex. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of parks to enjoy while staying at the complex, including Fort Clinch State Park, located on the north end of Amelia Island; this park offers a historic 19th-century fort, a beach for swimming and sunbathing, fishing, hiking and biking, nature trails, and a campground and camping area for younger children and teens.

Try Amelia by the Sea Vacation Rentals Today!

Amelia by the Sea Vacation Rentals has dozens of amenities to offer those who visit, from gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean from its condos, convenient location on the white-sand beach, a private fishing pier, luxurious, furnished condos, a sparkling swimming pool, and excellent position that’s close to attractions like shopping and dining, historical landmarks, upscale golf courses, and beautiful parks for walking, hiking, swimming, and much more.

Why Choose Amelia by the Sea?

Amelia by the Sea offers more than just a place to stay—it provides a gateway to an exceptional beach experience intertwined with the rich historical essence of Amelia Island. With luxurious accommodations, stunning ocean views, and a location steeped in historical significance, it is the ideal destination for those looking to blend relaxation with a touch of historical exploration. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure into the past, Amelia by the Sea is your perfect beach getaway.