Our Amelia Island rentals are a quick trip away from anything you might want to do during your trip. Of course, there are plenty of breathtaking natural spaces around the island, inviting you to hike the trails or dip your toes in the sand on Fernandina Beach. But to truly enjoy Amelia Island to its fullest, it’s essential to learn a bit of history about the area.
Head to the Amelia Island Lighthouse for a fun afternoon full of great views and fascinating stories.
The History of the Amelia Island Lighthouse
Amelia Island is known for its rich history, and the Amelia Island Lighthouse is a big historical contributor. The Amelia Island Lighthouse can trace back to 1802 when six acres of land on Cumberland Island’s southern tip were allocated for building a lighthouse. The Cumberland Island Lighthouse was officially constructed in 1820, just one year before Spain ceded Florida to the United States.
Once Florida officially belonged to the U.S., Amelia Island became the southernmost area of America’s Atlantic Coast, a title that had previously belonged to Cumberland Island. Because of its proximity to Amelia Island, the lighthouse on Cumberland Island could no longer appropriately illuminate the waters of St. Mary’s River and the Atlantic. So, in 1838, the lighthouse was disassembled and rebuilt here on Amelia Island.
Since then, the Amelia Island Lighthouse has served as the island’s gorgeous and functional landmark. The lighthouse went electric in the 1930s and was automated in 1970. The city of Fernandina Beach was given ownership of the lighthouse in 2001 and beautifully restored in 2004. Today, the Amelia Island Lighthouse is recognized as the Sunshine State’s oldest standing lighthouse.
Lighthouse Tours
These days, there are quite a few residential properties near the lighthouse, and offering tours can be complicated. Still, two public tours are offered each month, allowing visitors to learn more about the lighthouse and see the gorgeous view.
On your lighthouse tour, you’ll be able to get the whole backstory of the lighthouse from one of the dedicated and knowledgeable tour guides. You’ll get to explore the grounds and see this stunning lighthouse in all its glory. (It’s important to note that taking a tour does not allow you to climb up to the top of the lighthouse.)
Hours, Location, and Pricing
The Amelia Island Lighthouse tours on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 10 a.m. If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll be happy to learn that admission costs just $5 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under! To participate, you must register ahead of time by calling the Fernandina Beach Parks and Rec Department.
Plan Your Visit!
Looking for an unforgettable vacation destination? Amelia Island offers history, endless enjoyable activities, and stunning vacation rentals. View our properties and reserve your stay today!
Your tour will leave from the Atlantic Recreation Center at 2500 Atlantic Avenue. You’ll need to arrive at the Rec Center at least 10 minutes before 10 a.m., allowing you to board the bus in plenty of time for your tour. You’ll then be driven to the lighthouse for your tour.
If you’d rather explore the lighthouse on your own, you can find it at 215 O’Hagan Lane. The property is open to the public every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You won’t be able to go inside the lighthouse, but you’re free to enjoy the grounds.
Of all the things to do on Amelia Island, a trip to the lighthouse should undoubtedly be on your list. After you’re done, head to one of our Amelia Island oceanfront rentals for even more breathtaking views! Contact Amelia Vacations today to learn about all of our Amelia Island condo rentals and to book your next vacation.
