3 Star Hotels in Fernandina Beach

American Beach on Amelia Island holds a special place in history as a pioneering African American resort community from the segregation era. The American Beach Museum showcases this rich cultural heritage through fascinating artifacts and photographs. Take a walk past colorful historic cottages to Florida's highest dune, NaNa, where Atlantic views stretch for miles and sea oats dance in the breeze. This peaceful coastal neighborhood offers an escape from commercialized beaches with its pristine shoreline and quiet streets. Visitors typically need cars to explore, as shopping and dining options require a short drive to nearby Fernandina Beach. Accommodations lean toward vacation rentals and charming bed & breakfasts in restored heritage properties.

American Beach Historic District whispers stories of cultural resilience along Florida's Atlantic shore. Founded in 1935 during segregation, this pioneering African American beach resort offers a blend of history and coastal charm. The American Beach Museum showcases the community's legacy through photographs and artifacts, while weathered wooden cottages line sandy streets beneath towering live oaks. Dining options are limited, so visitors often bring provisions or drive to nearby Fernandina Beach for restaurants. Accommodations consist mainly of vacation rental homes and cottages with basic amenities. The compact layout makes exploration easy, with most destinations reachable within a 10-minute walk despite the sandy terrain.

Ocean Cay invites beach lovers to a quiet Atlantic escape on Amelia Island. You'll find pristine sandy shores for swimming, fishing, and sunrise walks away from the crowds. The Egan's Creek Greenway Trail beckons nature enthusiasts, while nearby Amelia Island Lighthouse offers picturesque views. Fort Clinch State Park and the Island's pinball museum make perfect day trips. Upscale vacation homes with ocean views and private pools dominate the accommodation scene. Most rentals come with full kitchens, perfect for enjoying home-cooked meals with ocean breezes. While Ocean Cay itself has limited dining options, a quick drive to downtown Fernandina Beach reveals local restaurants and charming shops.

Heron Oaks offers a peaceful retreat from the tourist bustle while keeping Amelia Island's attractions within easy reach. The neighborhood's mature oak trees draped with Spanish moss create a quintessential Southern backdrop for morning walks. Nearby Fernandina Beach awaits with pristine Atlantic shores, while golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Omni Amelia Island Resort course just minutes away. This residential enclave features mostly vacation rentals with resort-style amenities like community pools and landscaped grounds. You'll need wheels to explore—the historic downtown's seafood restaurants and shops are just a short drive away. The quiet, tree-lined streets make Heron Oaks perfect for travelers seeking tranquility after beach-filled days.