Fernandina Beach Off The Beaten Path

There is a nature preserve and wildlife rehab place called "Beaks". They are located about 20 miles south of the Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach area. They have numerous exotic and native species of birds on premises in a totally natural-type setting.

This really isn't a zoo, it's more of a research station. They will take visitors, and they'll be more helpful if you give them a donation, which you'll probably be willing to do when you see the good work they do.

The best way to find your way is to ask the locals, or at your hotel. I do not remember the exact directions. It wasn't any problem to find, though.

Just a few miles north of Fernandina Beach is the Fort Clinch State Park and fort monument. Fort Clinch was a Union fort, active during the American civil war. The fort is largely preserved, and there is a great deal of historic items for your viewing pleasure.

But, the neatest part of your visit is that the staff is dressed and placed in the mindset of an 1864 timeframe. Soldiers will talk to you as if you are a visitor during the civil war. We sat down and had a cup of hot and strong coffee with the fellow pictured below, and it was quite a history exercise and learning experience to attempt to place ourselves in the proper timeframe for conversation. Be sure to say nice things about President Lincoln, and don't make the mistake that ::I:: made by saying I was born in Alabama. He threatened to lock me up as a rebel spy! And, no, they don't have creamer for your coffee.