Explore Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
More national flags have flown over Fernandina Beach than any other municipality in the United States. From pirates to millionaires, shrimpers to bootleggers, countless colorful characters left their mark on the town's long and storied history.
Located on Amelia Island, it's Florida's northernmost East Coast city. First inhabited by the Timucuan Indians and later by the French, Spanish and English, Fernandina Beach is now considered to be part of Greater Jacksonville but still maintains much of its earlier identity as a Victorian-style seaport village.
As a Fernandina Beach home builder, Artisan Homes takes great care to develop properties that are consistent with and respectful of all this very special part of the state has to offer. For visitors seeking a location for new homes, Fernandina Beach FL is the perfect blend of natural splendor and laid-back, family-friendly lifestyle. And yet it's just minutes from Jacksonville International Airport.
Huffington Post has voted Fernandina Beach America's number one beach town. It's been a much-loved island destination for generations. The downtown historic district is one of the most pristine examples of early architecture left in Florida.
And as you immerse yourself in its old-time charm, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover a vibrant foodie scene. The local shrimp are a highlight, of course, but over ninety independent restaurants serve an enticing array of domestic and international specialties. From informal patio settings to the best in fine dining, from farm-to-table options to the delectable creations of visiting and resident star chefs, you can find something to satisfy every palate and budget.
Part of the fun of going downtown is exploring the many eclectic shops and boutiques you can find all the way from the harbor to Centre Street. And of course there are the popular local bars, many with live music adding to the mix.
One of the newest features of historic downtown is the butterfly garden next to the train depot. It's a wonderful place to sit and relax, designed and landscaped as a treat for the senses.
Often called the “Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry”, Amelia Island once attracted many fishermen from Greece. They brought their shipbuilding skills and soon began hauling in the bounty of crustaceans that helped to establish a tradition.
The first week of May brings the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival to Fernandina Beach. It starts with the massive Pirate Parade, featuring nearly a hundred entries and the Fernandina Pirates Club's two spectacular floats as its grand finale. Then, there's music and dancing in the streets, the Miss Shrimp Festival pageant, a fabulous sidewalk sale, Invasion of the Pirates, fireworks and so much more.
Traditional highlights of the weekend include the Blessing of the Fleet and the Wreath Ceremony celebrating the town's heritage and honoring those whose lives were lost to commercial fishing.
We're proud to be a Fernandina Beach homebuilder – to help provide a place to live for those who choose to settle in this very special part of Florida. Artisan Homes has earned a reputation for master craftsmanship, timeless design and energy-efficient construction.
Among the new homes Fernandina Beach FL has to offer, our newest waterfront community – Marsh View – stands out for its beautiful two-story, three bedroom townhomes with covered balconies overlooking the Amelia River marsh. They're priced from the high 400s and feature expansive living space, metal roofs and two-car garages.
In the heart of downtown, you'll find Harbor View, also by Artisan Homes. Minutes from the beaches and steps away from shopping and restaurants, it's an attractive development notable for its efficient floor plans and attractive streetscape, with views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
You can enjoy a wonderful life here. Our team of designers are experts at making dreams come true. We guide you through every step of the building process, making it as easy and stress-free as possible. If you'd like more information, give us a call today.
Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island are home to upscale resorts and spas, picturesque bed and breakfasts, intriguing historic sites, natural wonders and year-round fun. We love being part of it all, and we'd love to share it with you.
As someone once said of the experience, “You'll come for the summer and stay forever.”