Visit American Beach on Amelia Island

by Catherine Tortorici
October 15, 2020
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Photo Credit: @samuel_mac

American Beach is a community on Amelia Island filled with history. It also has the largest dune system on the Atlantic coast in Florida. Founded in 1935, American Beach served the African-American community during segregation when Black people were not allowed on public beaches. Right down the street at 1600 Julia Street, there is the American Beach Museum where you can learn about the history surrounding the area. Due to COVID-19 the museum is closed currently, but there are still plenty of things to do. Many of American Beach’s historical landmarks are still there to visit.

PLACES TO SEE

Ervin’s Rest: This is the second home built on American Beach in 1938. The property still has the original architectural design

Franklintown Community Church of Amelia Island: In 1888, Gabriel and Edith Means donated land for a church. The property was destroyed for the construction of A1A. In 1972, a new property was built and elements from the old one were transported over.

First Home Built on American Beach: In 1935, the first home on American Beach was built for A.L Lewis.

Evan’s Rendezvous: in 1948, Willie Evans opened Evan’s Rendezvous as a popular beach spot with food and entertainment. Work is being done to revitalize the building.

American Beach Villas: The A.L. Lewis motel has an ocean view and is known for their hospitality and service. It is still operating today, but known as the American Beach Villas.

Do you plan on visiting American Beach? Check out the website below for more information about this historical place.

https://americanbeachmuseum.org

Photo Credit: @renatacherlise

PHOTOS

Photo Credit: @motherwitblog

Photo Credit: @geraldmmccullouch

Photo Credit: @decaturstan

Photo Credit: @lauren_m_mitchell

Photo Credit: @ladonna.pm

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ADDRESS:

American Beach

Fernandina Beach, FL

Please remember when visiting springs, parks, beaches and other beautiful places we share to not litter or disturb these beautiful, natural resources. There’s a saying, remember it: “Take only memories, leave only footprints”