travel area: A Day on the First Coast | 3 Things to do in Amelia Island and Fernandina

Things to do in Fernandina and Amelia Island

One of the things I love about living on the First Coast is the plethora of adventures that await us right outside our back door. From the river to the beaches there are ample things to do, places to shop, and great food to taste. Should we decide to escape the boundaries of the city there is St. Augustine just South, and Amelia Island and Fernandina just North. Tourists flock to St. Augustine every year, but Fernandina and Amelia remain a bit less congested.

Like St. Augustine, Amelia Island and Fernandina are full of history and charm, and of course that classic Southern hospitality you would expect of the region. My family recently spent the weekend there on a little mini babymoon staycation. You've heard about our stay, now learn more about what we did, and where we ate.

What to do:

Ft. Clinch

Admission: $6 parking $2 per person entry into Ft
Over 1,400 acre state park
Civil War Era Fort
Historic Reenactments

Right on the water

Great for exploring with the kids

Affordable

Miles of Hiking and camping

Travel Blogger Amy West and daughter at Ft. Clinch in Fernandina

Amelia River Cruises

Admission: Average $22-28 for adults, $16 for children
Sunset Adult BYOB Cruises

Family Cruises

Tour the river and intercostal around Amelia Island and Cumberland Island

Pass Ft. Clinch

Pass Dolphins and wild horses

Learn more about the history of the First Coast and the families who influenced it

Travel writer and daughter on Amelia Island River Cruise

Where to Eat:

On the Menu:
Mayport Shrimp and Rice

Gilbert's Underground Kitchen

Average Entree: $13
Celebrity (From Top Chef Season 7) Chef Kenny Gilbert's newest creation

Soulful food with a creative edge

Line out the door goodness

Tasty brunch (make reservations)

Finger licking good BBQ
Home cooked food that doesn't feel heavy

A restaurant that is also a think tank for top chefs visiting the area

Tons of regional inspiration and down-home goodness delivered with an elevated finesse and terrific sense of place

Fried Green Tomato Silders at Gilbert's Underground Kitchen in Fernandina

On the Menu:
Fried Green Tomato Sliders with Pimento Cheese
Housemade Potato Salad and Pickled Radishes

Sweet Potato Turnover at Gilbert's Underground Kitchen

On the Menu:
Sweet Potato Turnover

Have you experienced the charms of Fernandina and Amelia Island? What are your favorite spots to frequent? I'd love to hear about your travels in the comments section.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com