Amelia Island
Almost two weeks ago, Dan and I headed to Amelia Island for a 3 night stay. For having never heard of Amelia Island before and not knowing what to expect, we ended up having a blast! First off, we were there to witness the marriage of our two great friends. Between splitting our time at the pool/beach (perfect weather each day with temps around the high to mid 80's), we managed to head into Fernandina Beach for some good eats and a bit of shopping. Read on to see how we spent our time.
Where we Stayed
We stayed at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort and booked a two bedroom villa in the Shipwatch community. Our friends from Boston were joining us the following evening. We had a private community pool (which we had to ourselves as shown in the first pic) and direct access to the beach. This is the view from our bedroom balcony.
The wedding ceremony took place at Walker's Landing right on the resort, which overlooked this beautiful scene. During the reception, we were able to see the sunset from our table and it was magnificent.
Where We Dined
We had rented a car which made it easy to leave the resort in search of food. Fernandina Beach is about a 20 minute car ride from the resort. For lunch one day, we ventured out to Timoti's Seafood Shak.
We had rented a car which made it easy to leave the resort in search of food. Fernandina Beach is about a 20 minute car ride from the resort. For lunch one day, we ventured out to Timoti's Seafood Shak. I couldn't make up my mind so I had one blackened shrimp taco and one blacked mahi mahi taco. Both get the 2 thumbs up. Dan opted for the fried oyster po' boy which he thoroughly enjoyed. We split the hush puppies - those were BOMB.
After a recommendation from fellow blogger, Boston Chic Party, and a quick review of yelp, I made us a dinner reservation at Gilbert's Underground Kitchen. So here's what we feasted on, as pictured: The Ultimate Sampler (the boys defn picked this one), Burnt Ends Sandwich (that's me!), Pulled Pork Sandwich, Fried Brussel Sprouts, Speckled Cheese Grits, Cornbread and Sangria! Fun Fact: I don't follow Top Chef but Chef Kenny Gilbert competed on the show!
Thanks to Yelp, we discovered Espana, a Spanish tapas restaurant, in Fernandina Beach for dinner. We started with this amazing meat and cheese board. I mean, how could we not?
We did all tapas that evening which included the beef and goat cheese empanadas and shrimp ceviche (both pictured). Two other items not pictured (because it got dark in the dining room and the lighting was not great): Gambas Mozambique (shrimp sauteed with fresh garlic, paprika and parsley) and Escargot Andalusia Style (flambeed with brandy, garlic, onion and a creamy tomato sauce). We topped the meal off with a piece of tres leches cake, my all time fave.
Amelia Island Coffee is a must for your cup of joe. The Cafe Cremoso is a MUST - I had to go back a second time for another. It's cold brew with vanilla, caramel drizzle and half and half.
At the recommendation of an employee in a store we shopped at, we lunched at Sabia Mediterranean Street Food.
Pictured here is the mahi mahi gyro which I went halfsies on with Dan. The other half that I wolfed was the shrimp gyro. I also stole a bite (or three) of our friend's baklava. I love the sugary sweetness!
Where We (um, I) Shopped
With the limited time we had in Fernandina Beach, I was able to pop into a few cute little shops. Southern Touch, a gifts and home decor shop, is the perfect place if you are looking for a souvenir to bring home. Think white ceramic whale pitchers & bowls - adorable without being too kitschy. We also popped into Lemongrass, a boutique filled with clothing, shoes, homegoods and jewelry (of which I picked up a bracelet and my friend, a pair of earrings). Last shop stop was Colie's, a cozy little clothing and gifts boutique. I picked up the cutest t-shirt dress (coming soon to the blog).
We didn't have time but were told to go north of downtown to see gorgeous Victorian homes (all the way down N.14th). But in downtown, you can see some of that architecture. Even the post office is a majestic looking building!
What I Wore
OTS Chambray Dress: Banana Republic, $128; Sandals: c/o M.Gemi.
Cynthia Rowley dress: rental c/o Best Dressed (South Boston); Tassel Earrings: Best Dresed, $32. The earrings are featherweight and comfy to wear; Sandals: c/o M.Gemi; Clutch: GiGi, $125 (+$10 for personalization).
Hat: Banana Republic, under $15 clearance. Here are two other options from BR that are available: Eugenia Kim, $88 & Wide Brim Straw Hat, $48; One Piece: Yeah Bunny via MoMo.