Fernandina is a Throwback Town on the A1A

Sometimes you must endure the interstate to find that cool backroad that leads to a special beach town. If that road happens to be called the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway, all the better. The A1A Highway was renamed for the “Margaritaville” singer and runs from Georgia all the way to Key West, with some amazing scenery along the way. 

My trip took me from North Augusta to Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach, Florida. About 100 miles of it was on I-95 - not my favorite. The I-95s of the world make me love backroads even more. 

Downtown Fernandina Beach is loaded in history. It features 50 blocks of shops, restaurants, and Victorian architecture - small town charm at its best. It certainly has come a long way since a pesky pirate, Luis Aury, took control of the town in 1817. Federal troops moved in and forced him out. He hasn’t been seen since - thank goodness. 

My first stop was at Amelia Island Coffee. It is a cozy little place, perfect for my first cup of coffee in the morning. I grabbed a seat outside and met Roy, a golden retriever, and his owner. It became obvious that this was a friendly town. After my coffee, I headed out to explore. 

I soon discovered, because I have a nose for such things, that Fernandina is also the home of the oldest bar in Florida. Opened in 1903, the Palace Saloon survived Prohibition by selling items like ice cream, cigars and near beer. Later, newsman Walter Cronkite was a regular when he docked his yacht at the downtown marina. If those walls could talk. 

The Green Turtle Tavern has a Key West vibe with a large porch and seating both inside and outside. Locals and tourists love this place with its live music and cold beer. I’m told they have an excellent selection of bourbon as well. 

In addition to a great selection of drinking establishments, there are also some excellent restaurants downtown, such as the Salty Pelican Bar and Grille. The bar is upstairs and is a favorite because of the incredible sunset views. 

This is the perfect town to walk and enjoy the scenery and the food and drink scene. It is the kind of place that forces you to relax and cast your cares away for a few days. I’m sure A1A Jimmy loved this place. 

Mind on a permanent vacation/Ocean is the only medication/Wishing my condition ain’t ever gonna go away 

– Jimmy Buffett