"Amelia
Island is a place where a place where magnificent live oaks and
Southern charm meet Florida's warm ocean waves and white sand beaches. "
Situated
along 13 miles of pristine, picturesque Atlantic coastline, Amelia
Island is
the southernmost of the Sea Islands, a chain of barrier islands along
the
eastern U.S. seaboard. Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach,
Florida, was
once a vibrant Victorian village by the sea. Amelia Island also owns the
unique
distinction of being the only U.S. city to have once been under the
domain of
eight different nations, and is still known as the Isle of 8 Flags.
Today,
Amelia Island is a seaside retreat for nature lovers and those who
thrive on an
abundance of sun, sand and outdoor sports. Visitors will also encounter a
wealth of fine dining, and a variety of interesting shops and museums to
browse
as they stroll the cobblestone streets in the heart of historic
Fernandina
Beach, Florida.
The
Ritz-Carlton,
Amelia Island is a natural playground, offering an abundance of
activities and
adventures for guests of all ages.Spend the day exploring the history and nature of the island with
a
variety of tours and excursions, or simply relax by their oceanfront
pool.
The sports enthusiast can hit the links on a PGA Championship golf
course or
receive expert instruction at the newly renovated tennis facilities,
while our
younger guests enjoy the interactive fun and games of the Ritz Kids'
program or the private teen lounge.
Amelia Island River Cruise:Climb aboard and take a cruise along
the Fernandina waterfront to the coast of near by Cumberland Island.(Cumberland Island is where JFK, Jr.
tied the knot with Carolina)You'll spy wild horses, dolphins, the home of Trident submarine
and the
homes of the Rockefellers.Your
boat tour is professionally narrated with a friendly crew ready answer
your
questions or let the kids drive the boat. Details
Fort Clinch: A part of the
park
system since 1935, Fort Clinch is one of the most well-preserved 19th
century
forts in the country. Although no battles were fought here, it was
garrisoned
during both the Civil and Spanish-American wars. During the 1930s, the
Civilian
Conservation Corps began preserving and rebuilding many of the
structures of
the abandoned fort. Daily tours with period re-enactors depicting
garrison life
bring the fort to life for visitors. Sunbathing, swimming, and
beachcombing are
popular activities at the beach.
Talbot Island State Park With
more
than five miles of beautiful, white sandy beaches, Little Talbot Island
is one
of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida.
Maritime
forests, desert-like dunes, and undisturbed salt marshes on the western
side of
the island allow for hours of nature study and relaxation. The diverse
habitats
in the park host a wealth of wildlife for viewing including river
otters, marsh
rabbits, bobcats, and a variety of native and migratory birds.
The Jacksonville Zoo: A true family adventure, the
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is quickly becoming a world-class
establishment.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is the only walking safari in Northeast
Florida. Discover the earth's wildlife through interactive and
educational
experiences. The Zoo has something for everyone with over 1,500 rare and
exotic
animals and 1,000 varieties of plants.
The Museum of History and Science: The
local's call this place MOSH.This
is a great family friendly museum that overlooks the St. Johns River and
is
near the downtown area. Fun and an educational experience for the whole
family,
it comes with its own planetarium. Exhibits include marine life, native
Florida
wildlife, local history, and the Holozone, full of interactive games and
simulator rides. In addition, classroom activities and planetarium
programs
allow for hands-on, interactive fun.
