The first time we met we each thought
we were on a date with some hot model.
Well, not really a date - date.
We just saw a movie and ate dinner together.
Then the plane landed.
Stay tuned for our advice on how to grow
old together in a relationship!
This year Jay and I both turned 70 years old. Cause for celebration! Then again, at our age waking up looking at the right side of grass is cause for celebration. We decided we'd mark the occasion by taking a romantic getaway.
We Googled "Most romantic U.S. vacation destinations". What came up was the name of every overcrowded, car horns blaring and sirens screaming, concrete jungle major American city. Hardly our idea of a romantic vacation destination!
After some searching we found the perfect romantic destination - Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, Florida.
We've allowed ourselves to be pushed into a daily life that's lived beyond a fast pace, operating on automatic pilot much of the time as a result.
We normally don't take the time and effort to show our significant other how much we love and appreciate them. At least I know I'm guilty of this.
People don't fall in love with each other per se...they fall in love with how their partner makes them feel! Making your partner feel special is the key to any successful, long term relationship.
Take the time on your romantic getaway to show your significant other how much you love and appreciate them. Spring some surprises on them.
For example, if you follow this website then you know Jay eats, lives, and breathes golf - and that his pet peeve is alligators appearing on Florida golf courses.
While shopping I ran across this really cool golf bag cooler. I filled it with items I knew he'd need and use - his favorite golf balls, a new golf towel, a new golf glove, golf tees, pro golf club brush cleaner, a ball marker set, a Swiss Army golf tool pocket knife, a golf club bottle opener, a subscription to Golf Digest.
Date night is still important.
It's just now
romantic dinners
have become
early bird and
senior specials.
In the very bottom of the cooler I tucked an adoption certificate for the World Wildlife Federation alligator I'd adopted in his name along with a golf shirt I'd silkscreened (below) to go with the adoption certificate.
I also tucked a note in the bottom that said "Thanks for just being you! Love ya!"
When Jay ran out to the car to get something, I put the cooler on the bed, went in the bathroom and ran the shower so he'd think I was showering and watched him through the cracked bathroom door.
He was like a little kid at Christmas, examining and playing with every item in the cooler. When he got to the items in the bottom of the cooler, he got a big 'ol smile on his face. He'd changed into the shirt before I even walked out of the bathroom. Just doing that little thing had made me happy because I'd made him happy and let him know how much I appreciated him - just for being him. And it set the tone for the rest of our trip, catastrophe and all.
Plan some surprises to spring on your partner during your romantic getaway!
When it comes to romance
on Amelia Island,
where you choose to stay is number one.
There are plenty of high price tag romantic places to stay on Amelia Island, the #1 choice of them by couples being Omni Resort & Spa.
Although they come with a high price tag, several of them do offer romance packages to help ease the cost a bit. Like this one from Omni Resort...
Never go to bed angry
at each other.
Stay up and argue until you forget what it was you were arguing about
in the first place.
By then you'll be too tired to care anyway,
Old age memory loss can be a blessing in disguise.
Here's a list of Island facilities that offer romance package deals:
Looking for a hotel on the beach? Book the Romance Package at The Elizabeth Pointe Lodge. $$$
The Fairbanks House: Offers 2-7-night packages with details like wine, chocolate-covered strawberries and romantic dinners. These packages are available in romantic rooms, suites, and cottages with king beds and Jacuzzi tubs. $$$
The Addison on Amelia Island: Provides romance vacation packages that include options like local events, attractions, and activities, as well as luxury add-ons such as floral arrangements and chocolates. $$$
Beach 5 Villas: Dozen roses and a bottle of bubbly. Crystal champagne flutes. $175
The Ritz-Carlton: Offers a luxury romance package that includes champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, a rose petal turndown, and daily breakfast for two in the Coast restaurant. This package is available for a limited time and requires a promotional code for booking. $$$$
These accommodations don't offer romance packages but are recommended by couples:
Check out the boutique hotel, Hoyt House. $$$
But what if you could have the best of both worlds without breaking your accommodations budget? You can!
Here's the best kept secret these high priced resorts and hotels don't tell you...
At several of them you can enjoy their amenities as a non guest at the same price that their guests pay - or even use some for free!
We booked a 1 bedroom cottage at Sea Cottages of Amelia: 2528 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL
Video copyright: Sea Cottages of Amelia
Very simple cottage: 1 bedroom, 1 bath, living room, kitchenette including convection microwave, refrigerator, hot top cooker, table and 2 chairs. The cottage was clean and comfortable.
Now what if I told you we got the best of both, a 6 night/7 day stay for a total of $1015.18 including all taxes and fees? That averages out to $145.02 per day or $169.19 per night. And we used the high priced resorts hot tubs when needed.
The place has well lit walkways at night, it's safe to walk around on your own. The grounds landscaping is beautiful.
The property is located just one block from the Atlantic Ocean and the 13‑mile sandy beach on Amelia Island.
Interestingly enough, whenever we went down to that beach there was virtually no one there. It was like having a private beach.
A word on golf cart rental...
If you want to rent a golf cart to get around (I highly recommend it) contact eWheelz. Not only will you get a 10% discount but unlike the Omni rental golf carts, you can drive the eWheelz carts on any street or road with a 35 mph speed limit or less!
That means you can drive them around and to town, down to the beach, etc.
Use promo code “seacottages” on their site or give them a call and mention Sea Cottages at (904) 310-4432 to get
your 10% discount and/or rent a cart.
Hang together long enough and you won't finish each other's sentences...
You'll finish each
other's eye rolls.
You may have gotten the impression from reading this website that all of our trips go off without a hitch and sans drama. Ummm, no. Not exactly.
You'll get a picture of what traveling with the two of us can be like in what follows.
Morning: We wanted to hit the ground running so scheduled breakfast at THE most romantic restaurant on the Island according to couples - Leddy's Porch inside The Florida House Inn. 22 South 3rd Street, Fernandina Beach. $$
An Island landmark, Leddy's Porch ia known as the island's best spot for weekend brunch - famous for its buttermilk biscuit and sausage gravy, house made soups, its signature buttermilk fried chicken, and of course
their Bottomless Bloody Mary's and Mimosas. Although we didn't partake of those due to the first activity on our itinerary. But do give Leddy's a whirl for a romantic breakfast of really good food.
Breakfast for the 2 of us came to $31.03 and we had more than enough to eat so the price is really reasonable as well.
Scuba Diving the Amelia Reefs
Warning: Controlled chaos and drama ahead!
The waters around Amelia Island are a fantastic place to go scuba diving and a well kept secret among divers familiar with them. This is because most divers will head for the nearby Keys or Bahama for 'primo diving'.
Amelia Island has several natural reefs within six to nine miles from shore, perfect for diving. The reefs are home to a variety of fish and sea life, making them a rich environment for divers. The offshore waters off Fernandina Beach offer some of the best sites for scuba diving, with prime diving locations that are far less crowded than South Florida or the Bahamas. This means the reefs are generally in better condition as a result of less diver traffic.
In addition, visibility in the reefs can be surprisingly good, especially when the incoming currents are present.
IF YOU'RE NOT A SCUBA DIVER JUST GO SNORKELING INSTEAD!
That being said, you might want to invest in a good pair of puncture resistant gloves and wear them while diving around Amelia Island. (You'll see why in a minute...)
Florida divers recommend and wear Hexarmor 9013 hospital waste gloves that are needle stick proof, you can find them all over the net for $30. It stops anything that wants to get thru to your hand.
But they won't stop a back of hand spine which almost never happens anyways. They last about 100 to 130 dives.
It's not that the gloves wear out. It's the high tech Foam Nitrile finger tip coating that get's thin.
The most important glove feature is that "balance" between "too sticky, too slick, and just RIGHT". If the palm is glossy plastic like hardware store garden gloves, it's hard to hold a grip on most things, The foam nitrile are "just enough" grip and slip. It will take about 4 dives to 'break them in.
We hadn't been diving in awhile so were stoked for that morning's dive even though there were lionfish warnings out. One of the last things I said to Jay was "Don't forget to wear your gloves and watch where you stick your hands down there!"
We were having a great time, this big 'ol sea turtle even coming over to say hello to me...
I turn my back on Jay for just a second when...
Pat told me I don't listen.
Or maybe she didn't...
I wasn't paying attention.
Suddenly I hear him screaming through his regulator. I whirl around to see him enveloped in a cloud of blood, cradling his hand and the divemaster racing toward the two of us.
Jay has gotten himself stung by a lionfish.
Lionfish stings are incredibly painful. Just watch...
For most people, although incredibly painful, the pain of a lionfish sting normally subsides within days, and complications are uncommon. Then again, Jay isn't most people. He's allergic to some venoms and carries an epi pen.
How venomous is a lionfish sting? Their spines can deliver a neuromuscular toxin similar in toxicity to cobra venom. But it's worse than cobra venom in some respects, especially if the person stung has an allergy to venomous stings.
Lionfish stings can cause a range of symptoms, from localized pain to systemic reactions. The venom can lead to severe pain, swelling, inflammation and redness at the sting site, tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, temporary paralysis, sweating, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache. In some cases, the pain can be so intense that it causes the victim to go into shock, leading to symptoms like anxiety, confusion and unconsciousness. When the venom reaches the central nervous system it can even cause hallucinations. People who have allergic reactions to the venom can experience even more severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
To make matters even worse, a lionfish sting can cause bleeding and Jay is on the blood thinner Coumadin.
So he's ringing the dinner bell for every shark within a quarter mile radius of us bleeding the way he is.
Oh goodie. Potential shark feeding frenzy in which we're on the menu.
The divemaster and I are frantically towing Jay to the surface when Jay's body goes ulim[. I have my hand over his regulator to keep it in his mouth. Thank the Lord we weren't so deep that we had to do any decompression stops! Jay comes back around - good, means he likely passed out from the pain.
At least I'm hoping that's the case.
After what seemed like an eternity we get him to the surface and into the Kodiak. As the divemaster races us toward shore, I'm pulling 5 barbs out of Jay's hand and pouring hydrogen peroxide over it.
His hand is already very red and swollen.
On the one hand it's great Jay's a doctor so can give us an accurate assessment on his physical condition, at least while he still has his wits about him. Too early to tell if he's having a reaction to the lionfish venom but he's the best judge of that if he feels a reaction coming on.
"Where's your epi pen?" I ask, intending to inject him.
"Back at the cottage. With my wallet." he replies.
But of course it is! Why would a doctor (of all people!) who's allergic to venomous stings bring something as "inconsequential" as his epi pen along when he knew there were lionfish warnings out and he'd be swimming among them?!!
On to Plan B. Load him in the ambulance that would be waiting on shore, I drive the Land Rover back to the cottage, grab his epi pen and wallet and meet him at the hospital.
Simple plan, right? Not with Jay.
He's the most stubborn man I know. Once he's made up his mind about something, trying to change his mind is akin to trying to shove a mule across ice.
HE doesn't need any ambulance and won't get in one so don't even bother calling one. HE is the doctor, HE is the one who was stung and can assess his own physical condition. WE'RE not doctors so can't and therefore, HE is calling the shots.
WE are going to drive back to the cottage together, grab his wallet and WE will then drive to the hospital. End of discussion as far as Jay is concerned.
Both the divemaster and I have noticed that Jay's breathing has been becoming more labored, in all probability because the venom has gotten into his central nervous system. If that's the case there's no point in arguing with him as to do so will just delay the medical attention he needs STAT and his brain may not be firing on all cylinders.
He did at least agree to let me drive us back to the cottage. I raced inside, grabbed his epi pen and wallet, tossed them through the open car window to him - at which point he rolled up the car window nearly amputating my own hand in the process, locked me out of the Land Rover, climbed into the driver's seat and took off like a bat outta hell for the hospital. Leaving me standing there. Crossing my fingers that he doesn't lapse into unconsciousness behind the wheel.
Luckily there's only one hospital on Amelia Island so I call their ER and alert them Jay is coming and what's going on. Yes, I considered calling an Uber or Lyft to get me to the hospital but they require advance notice and if he'd wanted me at the hospital he wouldn't have locked me out of the car to begin with.
So I did the only thing I could do under the circumstances - prepare for his return.
HOT WATER: I'd brought the 2 hot plates so I could boil water. Check.
TAKE STOCK OF AND ASSEMBLE ALL OTC'S: Neosporin, Benadryl, hydrogen peroxide... Check.
CALL SPA: See if they can reschedule our massage appointment to later today. I told the massage therapist get the CBD cream ready and plenty of it. For those unfamiliar with them, CBD creams are designed to provide targeted relief from soreness, skin health, and recovery. They work by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid receptors, which can reduce inflammation, calm irritated skin, and ease tension without entering the bloodstream.
The gals at the spa were magnificent, even telling me where I could get Jay into a resort/hotel hot tub if I needed to.
At that point, the hospital phones me needing some information. Yes, Jay's there. I ask the nurse, Mary to tell Jay to bring some Hydroxyzine back with him.
"I don't know if the doctor will prescribe it but I'll ask him."
"Mary? You have Jay's wallet there?"
"Yes."
"Open it up, go down to the 3rd slot on the left and pull out the cards in that slot."
I hear her doing this, then say to another nurse "THIS GUY'S A SURGEON! No wonder he's being such a pain in the a** and telling us how to do our jobs!"
Ah YUP! They have Jay there all right.
"Mary? You tell that pain in the a** that you're telling me verbatim everything he's doing and saying and that if I find out he's upset the nurses or is bossing them around, that he knows what to expect from me when he gets back."
Some time later the phone rings again. It's Mary. "You were a COP?!! No wonder he straightened right out and is being sweet as pie to us now! And he has a twin brother that's a surgeon? There are 2 OF THEM like him?!! God help us...
He'll bring the Hydroxyzine. We're giving him IV antibiotics right now."
"You might want to make that IV an antibiotic cocktail, maybe mix in some Diazepam, Alprazolam, Lorazepam, Clonazepam..." I suggested.
"Between you and I, don't think we hadn't considered that..." Mary laughed.
Back to work. Rearrange the itinerary, spread all the more sedate, less physical activities over the next 2 days. He may or may not feel like doing anything but if he felt up to it, everything was already arranged.
I'd planned a surprise beach picnic to spring on him so I moved that to later in the day. Judging from his past reactions he'd be hungry at some point when he got back. (Nausea, vomiting, empty stomach).
I made a rush trip to Marché Burette. This is an indoor market where you could get anything you'd possibly want for a picnic.
The Marché Burette market
I'd remembered seeing a thermos like the one at left at one of the shops in downtown so I stopped and picked one up. It will keep water hot for 24 hours and the opening on it would be large enough for Jay to stick his hand in it to soak if we were somewhere we didn't have access to boiling water.
I sure was glad we'd rented that golf cart!
By the time I got back to the cottage the hospital was on the phone again.
This time it was Jay himself.
"They're releasing me. They were going to keep me overnight for observation but I guess when they found out I was a doctor they decided to release me.
(I nearly told him "They're not releasing you because you're a doctor! They're releasing you because you've been a pain in their a**!)
Anyway, I'm ok. But honey? I'm STARVING! Would you be a sweetheart
and have some lunch ready for me when I get back please?"
"Have the nausea and puking stopped?"
"Yeah. How did you know about that? Did Mary tell you?"
"Nope. Just an educated guess."
"OK see you in a bit..."
I'd be willing to bet poor Mary was preparing his release paperwork at the speed of light...
GREET EM, TREAT EM, STREET EM as the ER saying goes. GET HIM OUTTA HERE!
Jay soaked his hand while I set up our picnic. All he had to do was lie on the beach and eat until our spa appointment.
Omni Spa
I'd initially booked a Table for Two couples massage at the Omni Resort & Spa that included chocolate covered strawberries and a choice of beverage after a relaxing Swedish massage together. Included in this experience is a complimentary upgrade of aromatherapy or CBD targeted relief cream. The CBD cream could only help his situation.
Never having been to a spa before, on the ride over Dr. "Pain In Our A**!" begins getting bucky with me about going to this spa appointment.
"Well, let's see DR. KNOW-IT-ALL! It was YOU and YOUR OWN STUPIDITY that got yourself, me, the divemaster and all the divers on that boat into this FIASCO to begin with so maybe you just aren't as smart as you THINK you are about what's good for you! We're keeping the spa appointment, END OF DISCUSSION!"
Be in a relationship long enough and you both get to the point where you instinctively realize when you've put one foot over that invisible line in the sand your partner has drawn - that you should never cross - and unless you have a death wish, you'll elect to ZIP IT and go along with the program. Jay very wisely ZIPPED IT at that point.
And when our massages are done and he's sitting there sipping champagne while stuffing chocolate covered strawberries in his face...
Okay altogether now - 3...2...1...
EYE ROLL
Carriage Ride
The CBD cream must've helped because Jay was up for killing some time before dinner. I'd offered to cook back at the cottage and just stay in for dinner but no, he felt a bit better and was up to doing something.
he says to me "When are we going to do this again? Let's book another couple's massage before we leave, ok?"
He even purchased some CBD cream to take with him for later that night. After telling me for years "That crap doesn't work!"
(Believing as most doctors do that only THEY can fix anything and if it doesn't appear in the AMA's ICD-10-CM or the PDR it's not a viable treatment option.)
And I probably shouldn't tell this on him but I will. I found out later why he bucked me on the spa.
He thought he'd be nude, his junk on display to the massage therapist. Yeah, that from a surgeon who saw other people's junk on the job every day!
We decided to take a ride a ride on something we'd seen tooling around town. (Walk ups welcome but reservations strongly recommended)
Jeffers Carriages: Corner of Front Street and Centre Street, Fernandina Beach. Phone: (904)738-1519
We'd done plenty of horse drawn carriage rides before...but never an ELECTRIC carriage ride.
Jeffers Carriage Company is a pioneering electric carriage enterprise, proudly holding the distinction of being one of the first of its kind in Florida. Serving the locales of Amelia Island and Northeast Florida, the company offers a unique and unforgettable experience through historic rides with an experienced chauffer.
Jeffers offers several different tours so choose which tour works for you!
Believe it or not, we scheduled the Kids Scavenger Hunt tour to take Jay's mind off his hand.
Our chauffer got quite the kick out of that.
Find pirates, flags, butterflies, ostriches, and other cool stuff. Your chauffer will also point out the sweet shops and kid-friendly restaurants. We asked him to skip the kid friendly restaurants and
only point out the most romantic adult restaurants. (See? We did our homework to only bring you the best spots)
Our ride was thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining. Definitely recommend a Jeffers Carriage tour.
Our tour lasted almost an hour (although their website says 40 minutes) and cost $40 each. They will take no more than 6 people on a tour. Walk ups are welcome.
The tours depart from the corner of Front and Center Street in Fernandina Beach.
Evening: Date night at at Indigo Fernandina: 20 S 2nd St, Fernandina Beach. $$$
After the fiasco the day had turned into, Jay wanted to make it up to me with a downtown date night and dinner at Indigo.
Nestled in a charming 1906 cottage in downtown, Indigo Fernandina (formerly LeClos), introduces a fresh and elevated dining experience focusing on Southern coastal cuisine.
Start out with the butter-poached Lobster Mac n Cheese followed by the sweet & tangy Beet Salad. Entrees of Duck, Filet, Salmon, Lamb, Snapper, and Sea Scallops. All exemplify the chef’s commitment to exquisite flavors.
Our experience from beginning to end was nothing less than fabulous!
Tip: Sit out back, it's cozy and quiet.
Perfect date night dining experience in every respect!
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Thursday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sunday CLOSED
Money $aving Tip: Indigo Restaurant in Amelia Island offers a $48 Prix Fixe Special, which is a curated dining experience that combines elegance and quality. Additionally, during occasional Amelia Island Restaurant Weeks diners can enjoy special dishes and cocktails from various participating restaurants, including Indigo. This event showcases local restaurants' signature dishes, providing a great opportunity to experience the culinary offerings at Indigo and other establishments on the island.
Morning: Breakfast at FloraBelle at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa:
39 Beach Lagoon Road, Fernandina Beach
Absolutely the favorite breakfast buffet on the entire Island! $$
Getting lucky at our age means we remember
where we parked the car.
The Morning Table breakfast buffet offers an extensive variety of locally sourced items beautifully crafted by the FloraBelle culinary team.
Seasonal additions from their aquaponic resort farm, The Sprouting Project, complement this daily offering:
coffee | tea | Florida juices | fresh-cut fruit | berries | yogurts | gluten-friendly cereals | seven-grain granola | smoked salmon applewood-smoked bacon | blueberry-maple sausage patties | old-style country sausage herb roasted potatoes |muffins | omelets | daily breakfast bowl | cheese | cured meats | biscuits & gravy | bread & butter bar gluten-friendly breakfast breads | bagels | jams & preserves | honey | all-butter croissants
$33 per person for all-you-can-eat. Reservations definitely recommended. (904) 432-1468
Open daily from 6:30 am to 11:00 am from Monday to Thursday, and from 6:30 am to 12:00 pm on Friday to Sunday.
Amelia River Cruises
Venture down the Amelia River to Cumberland Island with Amelia River Cruises: 1 N. Front St, Ste #3, Fernandina Beach to see dolphins, manatees and the wild horses that inhabit Cumberland Island.
Wild horses on Cumberland Island
Relax on the Amelia River while encountering wildlife such as playful dolphins, wild horses, sea turtles, and a variety of shore birds.
Picturesque waterways, historic landmarks, maritime forests, primitive seashores, and marsh grasses greet you while certified captains deliver captivating stories of local history.
Open year-round, they are fully accessible, pet-friendly, and have onboard restrooms. You are welcome to bring your own food
and drinks onboard.
We did see one manatee, a mama dolphin and her baby and the herd of wild horses, including a white stallion.
In waters once ruled by Pirates, enjoy the “tales and tails” of traveling the same path that divided Spanish Florida from the United States, when the naturally deep water port and quick access to the Atlantic Ocean, made the seaside Victorian Village a passageway for smugglers and a prized catch of many nations.
The tour lasted 2,5 hours and cost us $35 each.
Afternoon: Lunch at Timoti's Seafood Shak: 21 N 3rd Street, Fernandina Beach. $
Timoti's is a laid back, super casual, counter service restaurant that serves only willd caught fresh seafood. To us, it tasted as though it had been caught that same morning. Customer favorites include their poke bowls, lobster rolls, shrimp basket, Baja box and crab burger.
Both indoor and outdoor dining are available but most of the dining is outdoors, There's also a pirate playground for kids.
Monday - Saturday 11-8pm | Sun 11-3pm
Jay was feeling tired. With a lionfish sting, the pain ebbs and flows over the course of days, his hand was bothering him and I could see the pain was wearing him down.
I took him to Omni Resort and put him in the hot tub there.
He soaked until his hand quit throbbing, then fell asleep on one of the lounge chairs.
I decided we weren't going out anywhere that night. I'd cook dinner at the cottage and Jay could just rest and soak his hand if needed.
Our hearts still race
when we hold hands...
mainly because we forgot
to take our heart meds.
Morning: Jay awoke feeling much better so I took him to
breakfast spot I was pretty sure he'd like - Aloha Bagel:
432 South 8th Street, Fernandina Beach
Aloha Bagel has just about any flavor of bagel and just about anything you could think of to put on them.
Varieties included plain, garlic, poppy, cinnamon raisin, cheddar, multi grain sesame, cranberry, onion and blueberry.
We had a cheddar bagel breakfast sandwich of egg, bacon or ham and cheese. It hit the spot! The price for the sandwich-style bagels included a drink, which was nice.
Jay claims they're every bit as good as NY bagels, if not better.
You also have the option of building your own bagel vs. ordering off the menu. Very reasonably priced too!
Open 7 days a week from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm.
Jet Skiing To Wild Horses
Jay was feeling the need for speed now that he was feeling better and wanted to jet ski. Luckily for me the Island jet ski company only offers guided tours! He wouldn't be able to get himself in too much trouble. Hopefully.
I had to groan when I read this on their website: "Our Tours Aren't Just For The Young People That Want To Get On A Jet Ski And Blast Around And Do Donuts (Yes We Do Some Of That But It's So Much More)"
The young people??? I had a 70 year old that wanted to blast around and do donuts on a jet ski!
Amelia Jet Ski Rental offers 1 hour or 2 hour jet ski eco tours. For $195 ride solo or together on a premium Yamaha WaveRunner as you follow one of their expert naturalist guides through scenic routes around Amelia and Cumberland Islands. Be on the lookout for playful dolphins, gentle manatees, and a variety of coastal birdlife as you cruise across sparkling waters.
To be on the safe side, I insisted we get a 2 rider jet ski as there was no extra charge for riders on a 2 person jet ski and if his hand started acting up I could take over the driving.
We had a fast enough ride to satisfy him and he behaved himself.
It was cool to actually go on Cumberland Island where we'd seen the wild horses and white stallion. (Although we didn't see the white stallion again)
At left is the route the 2 hour eco tour takes.
If you do jet ski the tour be sure to bring along sunglasses and sunscreen because you'll be in the sun a lot during the ride.
Evening: We found another great restaurant that fit the romantic dinner bill - Lagniappe (pronounced Lan-yap): 4810 A1A First Coast Highway, Fernandina Beach. $$
The 2 hour jet ski tour route
Golfing Little Sandy
OK golfers...FORE! Although Jay claimed he didn't think he could do 18 holes of golf, he thought he'd make it through 10 holes - Omni Resort & Spa's shortened 10 hole Little Sandy course.
Just FYI...Omni Resort & Spa has a number of different golf courses. Most are members and guests only but Little Sandy is open to the public to golf.
Little Sandy Golf Course / Photo credit: Omni Resort
Little Sandy features 10 holes nestled around Red Maple Lake, ranging from 30 to 125 yards, and an 18-hole putting course. Playing through a picturesque lowland oak marsh habitat, Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa's new short course provides a traditional, yet fun-focused golf experience for all ages and abilities.
Playability and a fun atmosphere are emphasized to cater to families and those new to the game, but the course also offers strategic tests of golf and bold and contoured greens that will challenge more experienced golfers. One notable feature is the 10th hole that plays to an island green presenting a dramatic close to the round, even featuring a “hole-in-one” pin.
Walk-ins accepted and note: This is a walking course (no golf carts).
Pricing
Adult Guest (18 and over): $53 per round, includes rental clubs
Adult Non-Guest (18 and over): $58 per round, includes rental clubs
Ages 11-17: $18 per round, includes rental clubs
Ages 10 and under: complimentary with paid adult round
Hours of Operation
8 AM - 5 PM
Some of the world’s best golf architects have created 117 of the world’s most challenging holes on Amelia Island courses so Jay was stoked to get out on Little Sandy.
Take your pick of courses!
Amelia River Golf
(904) 491-8500 http://www.golfclubameliariver.com
The Golf Club of Amelia
(904) 277-8015 http://www.golfclubofamelia.com
Fernandina Beach Golf Club
(904) 310-3175 https://www.fernandinabeachgolfclub.com
The Golf Club at North Hampton
(904) 548-0000 http://gcnorthhampton.com
Omni Amelia Island Plantation
(800) 834-4900 www.omniameliaislandplantation.com
Long Point
904-277-5908 www.ameliaislandclub.com
After your game stop by Marsh View Bar And Grill at the resort: 39 Beach Lagoon Road, Fernandina Beach.
The fare is typical of what you'd expect to find at a golf clubhouse...but you can't beat the outdoor dining terrace under a canopy of live oaks! Yes, you can dine here if you're not a Member or resort guest.
Marsh View Bar & Grill offers a menu of southern-inspired, casual fare in a venue overlooking vistas of the marsh, Intracoastal Waterway and ninth hole of the Oak Marsh Golf Course. Lunch menu
FOR YOU NON GOLFERS...
Main Beach
Amelia Island is known for pristine, beautiful beaches with ample accesses to get to them. Probably the most visited family beach area is Main Beach Park, offering visitors two sand volleyball courts, a skate park, playground, several picnic shelters, restroom facilities, and outdoor showers. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
If you get hungry, wander next door to Sandbar Amelia Island for a burger and drink, just as you are. Menu
Evening: We found another great restaurant that fit the romantic dinner bill - Lagniappe (pronounced Lan-yap): 4810 A1A First Coast Highway, Fernandina Beach. $$
The Louisiana French Creole use the term “lagniappe” to describe something that’s “a little something extra,” and that’s exactly what chef owner Brian Grimley knows it takes to transform a dish from mere food into an experience you never forget. Inspired by the culture and flavors of New Orleans, Charleston and Savannah, Chef Grimley’s Lagniappe Restaurant combines the traditions of the French Creole with unique twists on Southern culinary staples using only the freshest local ingredients.
We both had the Artisan salad: Artisan greens from bacon's select produce, blue cheese, craisins, pecan pralines, roasted sweet potato, and tupelo honey dressing. $14
Jay ordered the Grilled Prime NY Strip: Crispy brabant potatoes, broccolini, bourbon butter. $38
I ordered Blue Corn Crusted Catfish: Hoppin' John, crawfish étouffée, pickled collards. $30
Chef Grimley succeeded in dazzling our taste buds.
After dinner take a sunset stroll on the beach.
Morning: Breakfast at Pogo's Kitchen. 1408 Lewis St, Fernandina Beach
We've been friends so long
we can't remember
which one of us is
the bad influence.
The atmosphere was both cozy and romantic. The dim lighting, flowers on each table, and soft music in the background created a perfect ambiance for a lovely brunch date.
The food was flavorful and exceeded our expectations. and the menu had a variety of options. The service was highly attentive without being annoying.
Hang Gliding
I had another surprise up my sleeve for Jay. He'd always been interested in hang gliding since he'd learned I'd been hang gliding since my college days, asking me questions like "What's it like up there just soaring like a bird?"
I arranged for him to find out for himself.
Unfortunately there's only one business on the island that offers hang gliding and they only have motoriazed hang gliding. Ideally I wanted to be able to just rent a non motorized hang glider and take Jay up myself on a tandem ride. But even a motorized flight would give him an idea of what it was like and that was better than nothing so I'd booked a 1 hour flight for him.
Florida Adventure Sports 3990 Centurion Way #5202, Fernandina Beach. (904) 430-3800 $$
From Adventure Sports YouTube channel...
They'd no sooner landed than Jay was shouting at me "I WANT TO GO AGAIN!"
OK, go again. LOL
Their rates aren't that expensive.
I forget now exactly what I paid but I believe it was around $109 per flight? But don't quote me on that.
Whatever the rate was it was worth it just to see how excited he was and his enthusiasm for hang gliding.
Motorized hang gliding is perfectly safe and is a great way to get a bird's eye view of Amelia Island.
Adventure Sports has a perfect 5 star rating from its customers, which translates to proficient, experienced instructors on staff and a great safety record.
Afternoon: Lunch at the Patio On 5th & Ash: 416 Ash St, Fernandina Beach. $$
The Patio at 5th and Ash is an American Bistro offering the freshest, local seafood, chicken and pasta dishes, soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Dinner after 5pm with daily specials.
We ordered a charcuterie board (which was excellent) and decided that was enough to eat for us. We were full!
Daily happy hour specials, a full bar, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for a date day or date night.
Jay had taken the initiative to schedule another massage for us at the Omni Spa after lunch.
Dr. "I Don't Want To Go To Our Massage Appointment" didn't walk to the massage table. He bolted for it.
It was all I could do to keep from laughing listening to his conversation with his massage therapist:
"So what does the aromatherapy massage do? How does that work? What do the exotic oils have in them?"
"How does the Lymphatic Body Massage work? How does it affect the lymphatic system?"
"You're kidding! You mean a massage can help a pregnant woman?! How far along does she have to be or can you do it any time during her pregnancy?"
"What does lavender inhalation do?"
A couples massage? I don't think he even knew I was in the room with him!
I looked over at him and asked "Why are you suddenly so interested in...and I'm quoting you here... "Crap that doesn't work?"
CUE THE CELL PHONE VIDEO CAMERA AND RECORD THIS FOR POSTERITY!
Jay: "OK so I was wrong."
Money $aving Tips: Omni Hotels & Resorts Specials: Check their official website for specials, offers, and packages that may include spa services.
Check for promo codes.
Island Falls Adventure Golf
Next up, miniature golf. Island Falls Adventure Golf. 1550 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach.
Known for its 18 (and a half) inventive and beautiful holes surrounded by waterfalls, bridges, and tunnels, this course is complemented by an outdoor sound system and light snacks: soft drinks, slushies, candy, Ice cream.
For a little added fun, raise the stakes as we did. Loser buys the ice cream after the game.
This means I buy the ice cream being Jay's practically a pro golfer but that's the great thing about being a
couple - you can be "competitive" with each other without being competitive with each other. It's all in fun.
The cost to play at Island Falls Adventure Golf is approximately $13 per round.
It is open on weekdays from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Money Saving Tips: Trip.com offers ticket prices and deals for Island Falls Adventure Golf, allowing you to book online and discover potential discounts.
Groupon: Provides savings and discovery for various activities, including Island Falls Adventure Golf, which may include discounts.
Evening: Dinner at Coast at the Ritz Carlton. 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Amelia Island $$
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Currently closed for renovation/redesign until December 2026 (see above), we really liked Coast.
Coast offers a fresh new taste on coastal cuisine with a seasonal menu that includes a local seafood, steaks, fresh pasta, salads and small plates created with great passion. The casual restaurant offers indoor and terrace dining and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
What's really cool is the pirate ship they make during the holidays.
That entire pirate ship is made out of gingerbread!
We'd just arrived at Coast when a couple of friends of ours from Sarasota walked into the restaurant. What a small world! We invited them to join us at our table.
Within minutes in walk some more friends of ours from Ft. Myers! Jay invites them to join us at our table.
When the third couple walked in I said to Jay "Okay spill it! What's going on here?"
Photo credit: Cruisin Tikis
Cruisin Tikis
Jay had rented a private cruise tiki hut for all of us to party on!
Cruisin Tikis Amelia Island: 3 S Front Street, Fernandina Beach.
Step onto a floating oasis complete with your own licensed captain, ice filled cooler, fresh water sink, some really nice snacks and a jammin' Bluetooth sound system that we cranked loud enough for the entire island to hear.
PAR-TAY!!!
Cruisin Tikis offers several different cruises, including the sunset cruise we were on. Our tour lasted 1.5 hours and the price started at $85.
We had a BLAST together and when our tiki cruise ended, we just took the party into downtown Fernandina Beach, closed the joints there down, then moved the party to the hotel suite of one of the couples.
Photo credit: Cruisin Tikis
There wasn't a one of us who got to bed before 4 am. Best night ever!
At least until later that morning...
See, the thing about growing old is your mind doesn't age as fast as your body does. Your brain tells you that you're still in your 20's, so you follow what your brain tells you to do - carry on as if you were 20 years old. That's when your aging body steps in and says "OH YOU THINK SO HUH?!" and punishes you for thinking you can still act like a 20 year old.
Late morning: I don't think either one of us could have dragged ourselves out of bed to have breakfast at a restaurant. (No, we weren't hung over...just exhausted)
So I made us a romantic breakfast in bed. Well, at least as romantic as it could be when you fall asleep with your face planted in your scrambled eggs.
I love crawling into his arms, kissing his neck & saying those three little words into his ear...
"And another thing ..."
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In one of our less lucid moments we made the incredibly stupid decision to plow through that day's scheduled itinerary rather than take an R&R day.
Fort Clinch State Park
Our itinerary began with a 1 hour bike ride in the Florida heat and humidity to Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach.
When your 70 year old body gets its revenge on your '20 year old' brain
Self induced pain and suffering aside, the trail to Fort Clinch State Park is gorgeous with wildlife everywhere you look. We saw multiple kinds of birds, armadillos, turtles, deer, and the usual gator warning signs with accompanying gators.
We've seen quite a few forts in our days but Fort Clinch definitely rates in the top 3. What a scenic, interesting place!
Admission to the park and Fort combined is uber cheap, we paid $4.84 each so by all means take a guided tour as you'll learn so much more during your visit!
Our docent (dressed in a Civil War uniform) was very funny, so knowledgeable he had no problem answering any question, was full of stories and tales and remained in character the entire time. He really helped make the visit an interesting one!
While at the Fort we learned that apparently hunting for shark teeth is a big pastime on the Island, especially around Fort Clinch beaches, a gold mine for shark teeth.
Jay and I decided to give it a try after getting some pointers from the soldiers at the Fort. An impromptu competition somehow found its way into our hunting for shark teeth. Whoever found the biggest shark tooth, the other would have to give him or her a neck and back massage that night.
Jay enjoyed his massage. He found a good sized shark tooth that he was immensely proud of. So the next time we were in town, we stopped at the jeweler and I had his trophy tooth put on a neck chain for him.
Hunting for shark teeth is actually pretty fun. There's even a company on the Island that will teach you about hunting for shark teeth and take you out to do just that. Amelia Shark Tooth Adventures: 2671 1st Avenue, Fernandina Beach
(Hunting for shark teeth isn't like say, hunting for seashells.)
The cost of a tour with Amelia Shark Tooth Adventures costs $85 per person, for military $75 per person.
Tours run Monday through Thursday. Weekend availability upon request.
PLEASE NOTE: While no permit is currently required to hunt and collect shark teeth, there is a code of conduct that is adhered to in doing so. You can read Ethics, Laws and Permits here.
Times of tours are dependent on when the low tides come in.
There's also a great website called Fossilguy.com where you can learn about hunting for shark teeth.
Afternoon: This is a different kind of lunch but we loved it! Story & Song Neighborhood Bookstore Bistro/Center for Arts & Culture: 1430 Park Avenue, Fernandina Beach. $$
Welcome to Amelia Island’s Indie bookstore, where you can shop for books, sip delicious coffee, signature wine, or craft beer, pick up a creative greeting card and unique gift, and/or dine on a delicious breakfast or lunch. Enjoy the ambiance of the bistro and outdoor patio while dining on specialties, including the Little Paris Bookshop Quiche of the Day, Ina’s Chicken Salad Croissant, A Walk in the Woods Wheatberry Salad, American and Mediterranean paninis, and homemade soup.
Books, food and drinks all in one spot. You can't go wrong if you love to read and eat like Jay and I do.
The Bistro also has programs during meals, like Lunch for Literature Lovers and Restaurant Week, where you choose 2 signature menu specials and complimentary beverages for $15.
Regular Bistro menu and hours: Monday-Saturday 10am – 2pm | Sunday 11am – 2pm
Perfect Wick Candle Bar
Want to take home a souvenir of your romantic getaway that you make yourselves as a couple?
Just a few minutes away from Main Street, you can pop into
the Perfect Wick Candle Bar and do just that. (I'd post their address but they're in the process of moving to a new store.)
This $38 experience allows you and your partner to create a custom scented candle together. During the 1 hour candle-making class, you'll mix a few scents to develop a smell that will always remind you of your romantic weekend on Amelia Island.
(We tried to make ours smell like the ocean breezes of Amelia Island. I think we got pretty close. We made a very plain candle so we could decorate it the way we wanted when we got home, with seashells we'd collected on the beach.)
We think it’s a sweet experience to bring home a souvenir that you make together!
Evening: Have dinner at the Hidden Crab. 942699 Old Nassauville Rd Fernandina Beach
Delicious food, great service. (Shout out to our server Lainey!) Everything arrived at our table fresh and hot, cooked perfectly. The manager checked on us too. Our only criticism: Cocktails are overpriced.
On Fridays and Saturdays open 11 am to 10 pm. Rest of the week open 11 am to 9 pm.
After dinner Jay sprung another surprise on me - - a private horseback ride on the beach at sunset.
Amelia Island Horseback Riding
Amelia Island Horseback Riding: 4600 Peters Point Road, Fernandina Beach. 904-753-1701 or text Robin at 904.753.1701
They also offer Proposal Rides!
Just to be clear on this point: Jay wanted just the 2 of us to be able to ride on the beach but all of the rides are guided, even the private and proposal rides.
The prices of the rides vary but are normally between approximately $125 - $175.00 per person, per hour.
You will have a guide accompanying you.
We did have a romantic sunset ride even though as Jay put it "3's a crowd".
Morning: Breakfast at Sliders Seaside Grill. 1998 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach
We wake up every morning at 8:00 and grab for the morning paper. Then we look at the obituary page.
If our names are not on it,
we get up.”
Beautiful outdoor seating area with a stunning beach view for starters.
The menu offered a great variety of options - from classic breakfast dishes like eggs benedict to seafood options like crab cakes and shrimp & grits.
The food was not only delicious but also nicely plated.
Service was exceptional as well.
Kayaking
Time to get out on the water and do some self guided exploring by kayak! We prefer paddling by ourselves but if you want a guided kayak tour you have some options on Amelia Island.
We used Amelia Adventures for our kayak rental but they also do guided tours of several locations.
3 S Front St, Fernandina Beach
There are plenty of great places to kayak around Amelia Island, even if you're a novice kayaker.
Amelia Island Kayak Tours (Amelia Adventures) offers 6 different guided tours:
Each adventure provides different landscapes, wildlife, and experiences. If you can't decide which tour is right for you, staff will go over everyone in your party, their individual kayak, experience and skill level and can suggest the tour they feel you and/or you group would most benefit from.
Turtle sunning itself on Lofton Creek
Be aware that tour meeting times are coordinated with local tides to ensure you paddle with and don’t work against the current.
Prices vary by guided tour but are around $65 per person at the lowest end of the scale.
To rent a kayak (no tour) is $49 per person for 2-2.5 hours.
Paddles and lifejackets furnished and they will deliver to your chosen waterway.
We chose to tour Lofton Creek by ourselves because it's a freshwater black water inlet with calm water (Jay still had some hand and joint pain) and is protected from the coastal weather
so easier paddling. More wildlife too. It's a good waterway for novice kayakers, FYI.
It will take you about 2 hours 15 minutes to paddle Lofton Creek.
Afternoon: We felt like eating lunch at a gas station. No, I'm not kidding. T-Rays Burgers used to be an Exxon station. 202 South 8th Street | Fernandina Beach
The Washington Post spoke about the restaurant & USA Today named T-Rays on the list of the 50 Best Burger Joints in America.
We agree with USA Today - the burgers are out of this world.
Besides burgers T-Rays serves salads, sandwiches, sides and lunch entrees and they also offer daily specials.
We had the Big T Burger combo - only $13.50. We could barely finish it but oh was it tasty going down!
After lunch we had some shopping to do so hit the Island thrift shops.
We'd found a pirate train ride in nearby St. Mary's, GA and managed to get reservations for the following day.
Participants were to dress in pirate costumes so we were on the hunt for costumes. We were shocked at how many thrift and secondhand shops Fernandina Beach had! I think we hit every one of them but then found Corner Copia.
BAZINGA! Pirate stuff up the wazoo. Mission accomplished.
Evening: Dinner at España. 22 S 4th Street, Fernandina Beach.
España is a Spanish restaurant known for its incredible paella and creative tapas (with many fresh seafood options).
The restaurant interior transports you to coastal Spain and there's also an outdoor patio on which you can eat.
The fig jam and goat cheese crostini were phenomenal as was the paella, which comes in an enormous bowl meant for sharing. As far as drinks are concerned, the sangria was amazing.
All in all, España made for a great night, with great food and a romantic atmosphere.
We'll be besties until
we're old and senile.
Then we'll be new besties.
Morning: Breakfast at Marché Burette: 87 Amelia Village Circle,
Fernandina Beach.
A charming breakfast spot that combines a gourmet market with a cafe, Marché Burette serves fresh, high-quality dishes like smoked salmon bagels and eggs Florentine. Their pastries are homemade. The inviting atmosphere and outdoor seating enhance the dining experience.
Additionally, it hosts a Steak Night every Friday and Saturday.
Step back in time at the grocery and wine shop featuring gourmet products from French Farm, Savannah Bee Co., Pelican Bay, Peterbrooke Chocolates, Nancy's Candy and more.
Road Trip to St. Mary's
We drove the 40 minutes to St. Mary's, Georgia where our pirate train trip would take place that afternoon. In the meantime, we wanted to nose around the town - just because we like exploring small towns.
St. Mary's Submarine Museum
St. Mary's is home to St. Mary's Submarine Museum. 102 W Saint Marys St, St. Marys, GA
Just a small place but two floors loaded with information and exhibits. There are 2 floors, the first floor is dedicated to diesel subs and the second floor is dedicated to nuclear subs. They have records on just about every sub that was ever in the U.S. Navy and they even have a working periscope.
Rates
-
Adults: $5
-
Ages 6-12: $3
-
Active Duty, vets, retirees, students age 13 and up: $4
-
Under 6: $0.00
Hours of Operation
-
Tuesday : 10:00am - 5:00pm
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Wednesday : 10:00am - 5:00pm
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Thursday : 10:00am - 5:00pm
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Friday : 10:00am - 5:00pm
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Saturday : 10:00am - 5:00pm
Pirate Train Ride
It was nearly time for our pirate train ride so we headed to Kingsland Station.
440 S. Lee St., Kingsland, GA - 30 minutes from St. Mary's.
A seat in coach (open air car) will run you $18 (adult) and $10 for kids 3 to 11.
A ride in the cupola caboose runs a hefty $285.
The ride lasts 1 hour.
Whoever was playing Capt. Jack Sparrow was nearly a dead ringer for Johnny Depp. The likeness was amazing.
The railroad runs several different themed trips during the year. Check their website for details.
Photo credit: thegeorgiatrain.com
All train tickets include FREE access to see the amazing train layout being built by the Golden Isles Railroad club as part of their evolving Kingsland Station Train Museum.
Evening: For our last dinner on the Island we decided to splurge and go to Burlingame: 20 S 5th Street, Fernandina Beach. $$$$
Burlingame is one of the premier fine dining restaurants on Amelia Island, if not THE premium restaurants. Very popular so you must have reservations.
Burlingame Restaurant offers relaxed fine dining in the Historic District. Seasonal menus created by a talented young local chef delivered by attentive and unpretentious servers in a casually elegant setting are the makings of your special dining experience. Dinners will be served in the three quaint dining rooms Monday to Saturday. Or just enjoy a beer or glass of wine at the bar or on the louvered pergola deck beneath the magnolias and towering live oaks.
Try their house specialty, Lamb Bologonese. You won't be disappointed. And don't skip an order of fried Brussel sprouts either!
Our Amelia Island getaway ended too soon for our liking - in spite of the lionfish fiasco. We wished we could have spent a few more days there but Jay had to get back to New York.
A great relationship is not when the 'perfect couple' come together,
It is when a perfect couple learns to enjoy their differences.
