Fernandina Beach is a small but historic city perched on a barrier island in northeast Florida. The city is a part of Amelia Island, a 4-mile wide stretch of land between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean; most locals affectionately refer to the city and surrounding communities as Amelia Island. Locals can only access the water-bound city by bridge or boat. The coastline is an open invitation to explore miles of beachfront, dock at marinas or visit fishing charters to catch sea trout and redrum. "Fernandina Beach is a small town with a slow pace and friendly smiles," says John Cagle, a resident and Real Estate Advisor with Florida Homes Realty. "People move here because of the people, and that's why they end up staying. It's really a hidden gem."
Also known as the Isle of 8 Flags, the island was governed by eight rulers between the 1500s and 1800s. Fernandina Beach still maintains two historic districts, military fortresses and an old lighthouse that guides boats into the harbor. Old Town dates back to the area's Spanish occupation in 1811 and still contains architecture of the time. In Downtown Historic District, palm trees dot brick and cobblestone sidewalks lined with over 400 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Fernandina Beach began pre-celebrating its 1825 bicentennial throughout 2024, culminating in a citywide party on January 1, 2025.
The area has been a tourist destination since the early 1900s. The island is famous for the quartz sands on American Beach to the south. Amelia City, previously known as Franklintown, was Florida's first all-Black beach resort. The city played a vital role in the shrimping industry in the early 20th century. Although tourism is the city's main economic driver, the past is still honored in an annual shrimp festival.
Fernandina Beach is the northernmost city on Florida's Atlantic coast, situated on Amelia Island.
The Amelia Island Lighthouse in Fernandina Beach is the oldest lighthouse in the state and is a staple icon of the community.
Fernandina Beach is filled with historic charm and scenic views of the ocean.
1/3
Beach houses and condos on Amelia Island
Close to downtown are early 20th-century cottages and late Victorian homes with wrap-around porches. Waterside residences come in a range of build dates, from 1930s concrete homes and midcentury beach houses to more recent condos. Buyers won't find large-scale developments since much of the city is already built out. Many older homes in Fernandina Beach were leveled to make room for new traditional styles from the last 10 years. In this diverse housing market, buyers can find a midcentury fixer-upper just a few miles away from a luxury condo or a multimillion dollar beachfront home.
The median listing price for residences in Fernandina Beach is around $650,000, twice as much as most inland Jacksonville neighborhoods but comparable to coastal towns like Atlantic and Jacksonville Beaches. Waterfront properties and homes on the island's southern end, especially in Amelia Island Plantation, are often valued higher. Typically, condos and townhouses leave the market between $350,000 and $1.6 million, depending on location and square footage. Single-family houses often range from $500,000 to over $2.5 million.
Beachfront housing options are a major draw for prospective homebuyers in Fernandina Beach.
Fernandina Beach is home to some of the most stunning beach condos in the Jacksonville area.
Colonial-style homes are common sight on Amelia Island in Fernandina Beach.
1/3
Nassau County Public Schools receive high marks from Niche
Local kids attend Nassau County Public Schools (NCPS), earning an A-minus grade by Niche. In 2024, NCPS was designated as one of the state's highest-performing school districts by the Florida Department of Education. Fernandina Beach High and Fernandina Beach Middle are considered the top schools in the county, according to Niche.
Southside Elementary School
is minutes away from Fernandina Beach.
Fernandina Beach Middle School is located on Amelia Island and is a high performing education option.
Fernandina Beach High School is where many older students in the community finish out their education.
1/3
Fernandina Beach parks and the Egans Creek Greenway
There are more than 20 recreational spaces spread across over 400 acres of beachfront and parks. Beachgoers walk to over 30 access points along State Route A1A. The Egans Creek Greenway spans over 300 acres with a walking and biking path in view of a marshy creek. To the north awaits Fort Clinch State Park, an expansive 1400-acre space with a namesake, Civil War-era fortress next to lush mangroves. Those visiting Amelia Island State Park surf, paddleboard or comb the white sand for shark teeth. George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier, also at the state park, is a repurposed footbridge reaching over a mile for fishing along the Intracoastal.
Enjoy nature, wildlife, and beautiful beaches at Amelia Island State Park in Fernandina Beach.
Eagan's Creek Park is a sprawling green space that offers several recreation options in Fernandina Beach.
Fort Clinch State Park is a recreation option that offers a unique look at Fernandina Beach's militant history.
1/3
Shopping and dining in Downtown Fernandina Beach
The downtown district has sidewalks lined with local boutiques, shops and restaurants. As a resort community, the dining scene offers upscale yet modern experiences at Burlingame as well as David's Restaurant and Lounge. The area is known for its freshly caught seafood, which are heavily featured at top restaurants like Salty Pelican and Bar, or Sliders Seaside Grill. The city has a handful of national grocery stores, with most on the island's northern end. Amelia City and American Beach, to the south, have smaller retail spaces with restaurants for locals and vacationing tourists. The Fernandina Beach Farmers Market is open every Saturday, while the Arts Market hosts vendors every other Saturday. "If you want to go out, there's always someone playing music downtown," Cagle says. He recommends hotspots like Green Turtle Tavern and Palace Saloon.
Pecans are one of the best selling items at the Fernandina Beach Farmers Market.
Residents can shop for fresh groceries, deli items, and more at the convenient Publix in Fernandina Beach.
Palace Salon in Fernandina Beach offers exquisite dining with an elegant atmosphere.
1/3
Annual events in Downtown Historic District
Most festivals and annual events are held on the busy streets of historic downtown. At Sounds on Centre, a Friday-night concert series, residents sit on lawn chairs and listen to music as the sun sets. In early May, locals and visitors celebrate the community's shrimping history at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival. The beach town also hosts car-themed events; The Amelia is an auction for uncommon and vintage automobiles held in the spring, and the 8-Flags Car Show happens in October. During the wintertime, the city becomes a Victorian village inspired by the holiday tale, "A Christmas Carol." Called the Dickens on Centre Festival, characters dress up to perform while residents shop at the Victorian Christmas Market.
Groove to live tunes at Sounds on Centre in the heart of Fernandina Beach.
Enjoy seafood and local art at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in Fernandina Beach.
Celebrate the season with the festive Dickens Illuminated Procession in Fernandina Beach.
1/3
A walkable city with less traffic than neighboring cities
Most locals drive to get around; Fernandina's main road, State Route A1A, passes through the northern side of the island, down the scenic beachfront, and leads to the city's southern end. St Peter's Episcopal Church is a Gothic-Revival landmark that has been a part of the area since the late 1800s. To leave the island, commuters take the Thomas J. Shave Jr. Bridge to the north or the George Crady Bridge to the south. Locals also arrive by boat at local marinas, such as Fernandina Beach Harbor and Amelia Island Marina. Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport is about two miles from the city's beaches, but most fly in and out of Jacksonville International Airport, about 27 miles away. Baptist Medical Center – Nassau is the only major hospital on Amelia Island. Interstate 95, about 15 miles west, brings commuters through downtown Jacksonville, around 35 miles away.
Crime, safety and flood risks in Fernandina Beach
In 2022, the Fernandina Beach Police Department reported significantly lower property and violent crime rates than national figures. The city also has lower crime rates than the nearby metro area of Jacksonville.
The island's unique placement allows for colorful views in the evening. "On the east coast, it's hard to find a good sunset, but downtown has beautiful sunsets over the marsh," Cagle says. Fernandina Beach also has several low-lying areas, and proximity to the coast makes some properties vulnerable to flooding and hurricane damage. In addition to home insurance, homeowners are encouraged to purchase flood protection. Property owners in Special Flood Hazard Areas may qualify for a 25% discount on flood insurance rates.
Many residents in Fernandina Beach require flood insurance if purchasing a beach home due to high risk.
Residents of Fernandina Beach can take in the beautiful views at sunrise and sunset.
1/2
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
Photography Contributed By
Gian Lorenzo Ferretti
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tara Belanger,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Fernandina Beach, FL sell after 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Fernandina Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $600,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Escape to Amelia Island walk and wiggle toes on the pristine beach 1.9 miles away. View majestic sunrises. Inhale enchanting ocean breezes. Watch sea birds' frolic. Reside in Masterfully crafted one-owner sanctuary, custom brick home. Enjoy the 2165 SF ,4/2 split open floorplan. Primary suite includes trey ceiling, walk-in closet, dual vanity, tiled garden tub, and glass enclosed tiled walk-in
Privacy, acreage, and newer construction just minutes from Amelia Island are hard to find. Built in 2023 and set behind the gates on 1.2 acres in Fernandina Beach, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers 2,424 square feet with engineered hardwood flooring, pitched ceilings, and an open floor plan built for easy everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the main living areas
Experience the coastal lifestyle in this immaculately maintained ''like new'' home, used only as a second home. Ideally located just minutes from Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island, this 3BR/2.5BA home offers 1,843 sq ft with a bright open floor plan designed for easy living and entertaining. Enjoy a spacious primary suite with a soaking tub, walk-in closets in every bedroom, a chef's kitchen,
LESLIE MCKIERNANKELLER WILLIAMS REALTY ATLANTIC PARTNERS
Welcome to this charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in beautiful Fernandina Beach. This property offers a spacious and functional layout perfect for comfortable everyday living. The home features a bright living area, well-appointed kitchen, and generously sized bedrooms that provide both comfort and privacy. Step outside to enjoy the large, fully fenced backyard, ideal for entertaining,
VA assumable 4.5% rate. Welcome to Amelia Walk, where modern design meets everyday comfort and a true Florida lifestyle. This 4 bedroom, 2 bath home features a desirable split bedroom floor plan and an open concept layout filled with natural light. The spacious kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing quartz countertops, a large center island, sleek cabinetry, and designer back splash perfect
Experience country living with modern luxury in this 2023 manufactured home situated on a beautifully landscaped 1-acre lot zoned Open Rural. Thoughtfully upgraded throughout, this 3-bedroom home features solid surface countertops in the kitchen and both bathrooms, luxury vinyl plank flooring, a spacious butler's pantry, full laundry room, and walk-in closets in every bedroom. The owner's suite
CDD bond paid in full. This Multi Generational home has the largest floor plan with just under 5000 sq ft of family living situated on a beautiful pond setting. This Seton floor plan features expansive living areas, dual master bedrooms, 3 car tandem garage and versatile spaces. The main floor includes a spacious living room, gourmet kitchen with modern appliances. Upstairs, the master suite is a
Craig Brewis
Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Heymann Williams Realty
Escape to Amelia Island walk and wiggle toes on the pristine beach 1.9 miles away. View majestic sunrises. Inhale enchanting ocean breezes. Watch sea birds' frolic. Reside in Masterfully crafted one-owner sanctuary, custom brick home. Enjoy the 2165 SF ,4/2 split open floorplan. Primary suite includes trey ceiling, walk-in closet, dual vanity, tiled garden tub, and glass enclosed tiled walk-in
Completely Remodeled in 2017 all within walking distance of downtown Amelia Island. This charming cottage offers the perfect blend of cozy comfort and coastal charm. Surrounded by lush, thoughtfully designed landscaping, the home feels like a private retreat with plenty of extra driveway space to have all your new friends over. Inside, warm, inviting spaces are filled with natural light and
Craig Brewis
Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Heymann Williams Realty
Welcome to 85507 Fall River Parkway in Fernandina Beach, a beautifully upgraded 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath WATERFRONT home situated on an OVERSIZED LOT in the desirable Amelia Walk community. This property features a rare 3-car garage with an additional RV/BOAT GARAGE, a paver driveway, and a fully fenced yard. Inside, you’ll find luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout (no carpet!), along with a
Welcome to The Enclave at Summer Beach, perfectly positioned between the Ritz-Carlton and Omni Amelia Island, just moments from the ocean, fine dining, and casual eateries. This single-story 2BR/2BA home offers 1,380 sq ft of modern coastal living with an open floor plan, spacious kitchen with center island, gas range, and a bright, airy flow. Relax on the screened porch overlooking the pond or
Experience refined coastal living in this beautifully furnished second-floor villa located within the exclusive gated Omni Amelia Island Resort. This Mediterranean-inspired oceanfront retreat blends relaxed luxury, resort-style amenities, and excellent investment potential with weekly rentals permitted. Lovingly enjoyed as a private second home and never used as a rental, this impeccably
Picture yourself coming home to this highly sought-after 2-bedroom, 2-bath ground-floor flat in the gated community of Cottages at Stoney Creek in beautiful Fernandina Beach. These units are in demand for a reason, offering the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and low-maintenance living, all with the added bonus of your own single-car garage.Step inside and immediately feel at ease in
One-of-a-kind contemporary coastal custom home on Crane Island, thoughtfully designed by the acclaimed team at Lake & Land Studio. Offering over 4,600 square feet under air with 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, this exceptional residence blends luxury craftsmanship with modern coastal elegance. Enjoy more than 1,500 square feet of porches, a heated/cooled lanai, and a saltwater pool for year-round
A private 2-acre parcel off Old Nassauville Road, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers space, flexibility, & endless potential. The property includes a large 2-car garage with extra storage or workspace, a very tall 3-car carport, a storage shed, & a pole barn, giving you room for equipment, hobbies,& all your toys. Inside, the home features a large living room with a fireplace 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
JANET RUIS
FLORIDA HOMES REALTY & MORTGAGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Welcome to your ideal 1200 sq ft 3 bedroom 1 bath rental on Amelia Island right off Atlantic Ave centered between the beaches and Centre St. You don't have to pay for parking, you can ride your bike to Centre St!! The perfect location! The large fenced in backyard is perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation, while the beautiful large oak trees in the front add to the picturesque setting. A
JANET RUIS
FLORIDA HOMES REALTY & MORTGAGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Welcome to Vintage Amelia Island, your urban destination for modern comfort and style. Located less than an hour from Jacksonville, Vintage Amelia Island bundles chicly appointed one, two, and three bedroom apartments with resort-like community amenities for a totally unique living experience.
Just like brand new! Only 2 years old. A Rare opportunity to own one of the most sought-after floor plans in the community, offering over 2,400 sq ft of well-designed living space. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home features a spacious bedroom/bath and convenient laundry room on the main level, with three additional bedrooms and a versatile loft upstairs--perfect for a home office, playroom, or media
Marsh Cove and Somerset is a classic resort community that borders the coastal marsh along the Intracoastal Waterway. Located on historic Amelia Island, Marsh Cove, and Somerset is just minutes away from shopping, recreational facilities, and less than 3 miles from the beautiful beaches! With the ambiance of the moss-laden oak trees, you will enjoy relaxing by the swimming pool. Please give us a
Live the life you’ve always envisioned at Amelia Island Plantation—where natural beauty and a vibrant community come together seamlessly. Set on a serene and, scenic barrier island off Northeast Florida, this 1,320-acre enclave is surrounded by maritime forests, tidal salt marshes, and unspoiled sandy beaches.Residents enjoy peace of mind with a 32-member, uniformed security force providing
Property Id: 1380192This open concept townhome offers the perfect balance of space, style, and convenience. Experience premium coastal living minutes from the pristine beaches of Amelia Island.?PREMIUM FEATURESSpacious 1,795 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space3 generous bedrooms with large closets2.5 bathrooms with modern fixturesBonus room perfect for home
The advertised rate of $8,112/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 8, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Property Id: 1533364Looking for a comfortable, well-located home to share? This spacious 1,795 sq ft, 3-bed / 2.5-bath townhouse in Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island offers two flexible living arrangements to fit your lifestyle and budget. All utilities and internet are included. Furnished option available.Property highlights:•3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms•2nd-floor loft —
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home is priced to rent and won't be around for long. Apply now, while we make this home ready for you, or call to arrange a meeting with your local Progress Residential leasing specialist
Property Id: 1167835Move-in ready and perfect location, across the street from Fernandina Schools and two houses down from Egan's Creek Greenway. Bike to the beaches or to downtown Fernandina.Beautiful kitchen with silestone quartz countertops and brand new appliances, this home is a must see. A shaded sizable backyard with privacy fencing and play area for the entire family.
Property Id: 1027015Lovely maintained home is located on a quiet street in North Hampton, this home is located across the street from the golf course and backs up to the preservation area. Four bedrooms, 3 baths, an open floor plan, and a large screened back porch. This property will include cable and high-speed internet. Neighborhood amenities include an Olympic size pool, tennis courts,
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple!This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Fernandina Beach, FL, may be the right place for you. See the
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
