Fernandina Beach, Florida
Charming Fernandina Beach Sits on Idyllic Amelia Island and Boasts a Wonderful Downtown, Tree-Lined Neighborhoods and Miles of White Sand Beaches
Just 20 miles outside of Jacksonville in northeastern Florida, Fernandina Beach sits on idyllic Amelia Island, a barrier island known for its high-end resort hotels, golf courses and miles of sugar soft beaches. The flags of eight separate nations have flown here since the mid-16th century.
The charming downtown has one and two story historic buildings that house boutiques, bookstores, art galleries and fun eateries. A Saturday morning farmers’ market sells fresh produce, grass-fed meats, dairy products and more. Tourist-oriented, horse drawn carriages meander about town. Â
Ancient oaks with dripping with moss line neighborhood streets, and homes range from modest ranch ramblers to exquisite, glass-enclosed Mediterranean estates. There are numerous planned developments, including beautiful Amelia Park, which features New Urbanism design.
Most shopping is of the specialty kind, but there are some big box stores and a Publix.
Fort Clinch, a base of Union operations during the Civil War, stages reenactments. The Amelia Community Theatre mounts plays and musical revues throughout the year, and the Eight Flags Shrimp Festival brings out crowds each May. The Golf Club at North Hampton is an Arnold Palmer signature course and has been named the seventh best course in Florida. The town’s west end has a marina and boat ramps. Beach parks are on the east side.
Population: 14,000
Median Home Price: $675,000
Climate: Fernandina Beach has a hot, humid climate. Summer temperatures are in the 80s and 90s with frequent rainstorms. Winter temperatures are in the 60s and 70s. On average, the area receives 51 inches of rain per year.
Crime Rate: Below the national average
Age 45 or Better:Â 58%
Hospital: Baptist Medical Center
Public Transit:Â A county van service takes people to medical appointments.
Political Leanings: Conservative
Is Florida Retirement Tax-Friendly: Yes
Drawbacks: Fernandina Beach has two paper mills, one on either side of town. Some newcomers say that the mills emit an unpleasant turpentine odor; long-time residents say the odors are minimal.