May 9, 2011 – May 15, 2011
Nothing like a little getaway to offer a change of scenery and rejuvenate the spirits. The trip to Amelia Island was planned months ago by my husband’s parents as a sort of family vacation, to which his parents, sister and her boyfriend, and the two of us would enjoy (along with the dogs, of course… because they’re part of the family, too). We rented an SUV and packed up the three adults (Michael, his Mom and I), the two dogs (Tank, our English Bulldog, and Madei, his Mom’s little Westie), about half the house, and made the 5.5 hour trek up the Florida coast. The drive wasn’t all that bad, sans the fragrant, pet-generated aromas and frequent bathroom breaks, and we made it in one piece. Success!
Michael’s Dad was awaiting us at the house they rented in Amelia Island Plantation, a gated resort-like community of mixed villas, single-family homes and an Omni resort. The house was Mediterranean inspired, three bedroom, two bath, that would comfortably accommodate 7 of us by the end of it (one of the cousins came over for two days at the end of the trip) thanks to a comfy pull out couch in the living room. While we had our computers in tow, and had to put in some work hours during our stay, it was nice having the flexibility to be away for a bit.
For the first few days, we mostly hung around the house working in the morning and early part of the afternoon, then spending some time by the backyard pool, taking walks with Tank, and exploring the Plantation. Within the community there were several private beach access points, a golf course (not cheap at $150 before 2pm… but I’m not a golfer, so…), apx. 50 tennis courts, a fitness center, a large community pool by the beach, and the Omni’s facilities. There was actually a set of shops and restaurants near the entrance to the Plantation, which had public access, which was unique and during the times I stopped by, was alive with visitors and locals alike; a nice place to hang out.
Once obligations were out of the way, we had some time to lay by the community pool, order drinks you only do when you’re on vacation (you know, tropical flavors, bright color, umbrellas), lazily meander around on golf carts. Yes, golf carts; they came with the house! Fernandina Beach, the heart of which is about 15 minutes North of where we were staying, became a regular destination. The downtown area is lined with local eateries and small shops, nestled in low country, as they call it — marshes scattered through the island.
Always on the prowl for tasty cuisine, we were eager to try out the local flavor. One of our dining highlights came on the first night in Amelia Island at 29 South Eats. We were celebrating Mother’s Day which, technically, was the day prior, but that’s just how things worked out. I’d found the restaurant online when searching for a place to make a reservation, and one of the things that stood out for me was that they used products from local growers and farmers, and even some of their own garden ingredients. Our meals were delicious, hearty, and there were some really unique flavor combinations. The Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chop, for example, was served over a light elbow macaroni and topped with warm blackberry ginger preserves — not overly heavy, and a lovely blend of sweet and savory. The Coffee and Donuts dessert was a sweet finish to our savory feast. This is definitely a dining spot I would recommend to any visitors in and around Fernandina Beach.
On one of our last evenings, we all gathered in the shopping/dining area of the Plantation for dinner at Marche Burette, popular that night for the live music and outdoor seating. It seems visitors on the Plantation and locals alike gather here for the laid back atmosphere and casual good time. The scenery was nice and it was convenient (we took the golf carts!), plus music just makes everything better. We had to wait a few minutes to snag a table, so we took advantage of the neighboring shops to pass the time.
While it might not have been a place the two of us would venture, for a relaxed family getaway, Amelia island was a nice balance of quiet and leisurely activities. Everyone had a little space to take time for themselves, but there were definitely opportunities for all of us to get together and enjoy one another’s company. It’s a good spot to unwind a little and rejuvenate before returning to the daily grind.
