When you think of a Florida getaway, sunny beaches and theme parks may spring to mind, but tucked away on the state’s northeast coast are some of the most historically rich towns in the U.S.
Amelia Island, a hidden gem, lies just a 30-minute drive from Jacksonville airport. This barrier island is the only place in the U.S. to have flown the flags of eight nations throughout its history, making it a truly unique destination for those seeking a blend of culture, history, and leisure.
Amelia Island's first inhabitants were the Native American Timucuan people, followed by French and Spanish explorers. The French Huguenots arrived in 1562, marking the earliest European contact. Over the years, the island was contested by various nations, finally becoming part of the United States in 1821 when Spain ceded Florida. Today, Amelia Island is a popular getaway for celebrities, including John Travolta and Oprah Winfrey, who appreciate its peaceful seclusion and historical charm.
We stayed at the Omni Amelia Island Resort, a sprawling 1,350-acre property located on a former plantation. The resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury, making it the ideal base for our trip. Each room overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning sunrise views. Guests can enjoy an array of amenities, from world-class pools and a championship golf course to a full-service spa and family-friendly activities. For an elevated experience, the nearby Ritz Carlton provides luxurious accommodation, a newly renovated spa, award-winning dining, and unique curated experiences for guests of all ages.
Our first full day on Amelia Island began with a guided tour, where Daniel Daly of Amelia Island Historic Tours provided a fascinating look into the island’s rich past. Daly, a Kerry native and former drummer with the Pouges and Bagatelle, spent 90 minutes driving us around, sharing captivating stories about how the island was once used as a port to smuggle enslaved people into Georgia and South Carolina after the U.S. banned the importation of slaves in 1808. The tour also highlighted notable landmarks like the Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar, and the house that featured as Pippi Longstocking’s home in the 1988 film The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking.
After the tour, we headed to the Ritz Carlton for an indulgent afternoon at their spa. Champagne greeted us upon arrival, setting the tone for a 50-minute stress-relief massage. The spa’s facilities include jacuzzis, steam rooms, and tranquil dry spas—offering the perfect way to unwind. For couples, there are co-ed spaces where you can relax together, including an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery.
That evening, we had planned to take a sunset river cruise, but due to inclement weather, it was cancelled. Instead, we found ourselves back at the Palace Saloon, where we enjoyed their world-famous Pirate Punch. The Saloon itself is an architectural marvel, with its rich wooden interiors and a historic Coca-Cola mural on the building’s exterior. The bar is also notable for being the first establishment to serve Coca-Cola in 1905, back when the beverage still contained cocaine.
The Palace Saloon was originally constructed as a haberdashery in 1878 before becoming a saloon in 1903. It survived Prohibition by selling ice cream, near beer, and special wines. Over the years, its patrons have included members of the Rockefeller and Carnegie families. Its historical significance, along with its beautifully preserved interiors, makes it a must-visit even if you don’t drink.
For families visiting Amelia Island, a horseback ride along the serene Fernandina Beach is an unforgettable experience. The stunning beachfront also offers glimpses of celebrity homes, including those of authors Stephen King and John Grisham, who are known to frequent the island.
Another must-see attraction is Fort Clinch, where you can dive into Amelia Island’s role in the Civil War. Although no battles were fought at this historic fort, it was an important site for Union operations and was seized by Confederate forces in 1861. Monthly reenactments bring the fort’s history to life, and nature lovers will appreciate the surrounding 1,400-acre park, home to gopher tortoises and an array of bird species.
When it comes to dining, Amelia Island does not disappoint. We visited in early September during the inaugural Amelia Island Dining Month, where top restaurants offered prix-fixe menus for $35 or $55. One standout dining experience was at David’s Restaurant, where Executive Chef David Echeverri showcased the finest local ingredients with a Latin flair. I opted for the Wagyu Picanha, served with fondant potatoes and grilled baby carrots, followed by the decadent Roasted Banana Cheesecake—a dessert packed with bold flavours of rum chantilly, salted caramel, and meringue.
After three days on Amelia Island, we continued our journey south to St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied city in the United States. On the way, we stopped at Guana River Reserve, the spot where Ponce de Leon landed in 1513 and claimed the land for Spain. The towering dunes and quiet beaches offer a peaceful place to search for fossilised shark teeth, although our hunt wasn’t successful that day.
In St. Augustine, we stayed at The Collector Luxury Inn and Gardens, a stunning collection of restored historic buildings. I stayed in a King Suite in Murat House, once home to Prince Achille Murat, nephew of Napoleon, and his wife, Princess Catherine Willis Gray Murat, a great-niece of George Washington. The Collector lives up to its name, providing luxury accommodations filled with historic charm and modern comforts.
St. Augustine itself is brimming with activities, from exploring the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park to enjoying a relaxing yoga class at the historic Ximenez-Fatio House. A visit to the St. Augustine Salt Spa was a highlight of our stay. The salt cave, filled with 25,000 pounds of Polish and Himalayan salt, replicates the therapeutic conditions of a famous salt mine in Poland. The one-hour relaxation session left me feeling rejuvenated and at peace.
For food lovers, a Tasting Tours food and drink tour is a fantastic way to explore the local culinary scene. Our guide, Judi, took us to top-rated restaurants, where we savoured dishes like crab-crusted swordfish, carnitas tacos, and indulgent churros filled with Bavarian cream. Each stop offered a different flavour of St. Augustine, from seafood to Latin-inspired cocktails.
Before heading back to Orlando Airport, we made time to visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Fort Matanzas. Climbing 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse rewarded us with breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Fort Matanzas, a short ferry ride away, preserves a coquina watchtower built in 1742 to defend the city from invasion.
Amelia Island and St. Augustine offer a captivating blend of history, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring historic forts, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, these destinations offer something for every traveller.
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English (United States) ·