By Last Updated on December 2, 2022
Amelia Island is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. As the northernmost barrier island on the state’s Atlantic Coast, an almost timeless, off-the-beaten path draws visitors to this seaside destination. Located just 30 miles from Jacksonville, staying at an Amelia Island Florida bed and breakfast can make you feel a world apart.
On my first visit to Amelia Island and the city of Fernandina Beach located there, I thought it might be nice to stay in a bed and breakfast. After all, this delightful place is chock-a-block full with enchanting Victorian, Queen Ann and Italianate homes right out of a Hallmark romance movie.
The Addison on Amelia Island ended up being a perfect choice of Fernandina Beach Florida bed and breakfast located in the historic downtown district. Romantic, charming, and a throwback to a bygone era, this lovely property listed on the National Register of Historic Places magically blends old-world elegance with the ideal dose of modern sophistication.
Addison bed and breakfast Amelia Island Florida
Lisa and Ron West are the innkeepers at this Amelia Island B&Bs and Lisa will be the first to tell you that owning such a property was a 30-year dream fulfilled. She once lived on an old rice plantation in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.
After the couple retired from their careers in health information technology, they sampled and stayed at bed and breakfast inns from St. Augustine to Charleston, S.C., until finally coming across the one that met all their expectations – The Addison Bed and breakfast Amelia Island Florida. Shopping and dining are steps from the front door, the beach is 2 miles away distance and this island paradise absolutely spoke to them.
Rooms of the Inn
Each of The Addison’s 14 guest rooms are filled with their own unique charm and Southern grace. Accommodations are tastefully appointed in Old World Style with just the right infusion of Florida tropical hints. Rooms located on the first and second floors range from kings and queen beds, all with private baths and premium Egyptian bedding. Some boast private porches and gas fireplaces.
My room at this Fernandina Beach Florida bed and breakfast, located on the second floor, featured a queen-sized bed, desk, reading chair and hardwood floors. A bistro table and chairs located just outside the room overlooked the courtyard gardens and fountains – the ideal place to welcome the morning with a fresh, steaming cup of coffee.
Loved the Comforts of the Inn
The Addison property is comprised of three buildings surrounding a lush central courtyard with a three-tier fountain and brick walkways.
The main dining room, lobby with fireplace, kitchen and innkeeper’s quarters are located in the main house along with a welcoming living room with another fireplace. Built in 1876, the inn actually has five fireplaces along with the 11 ½-foot ceilings and original heart-of-pine floors found in many of the south’s classic historic homes.
Interestingly enough, the current property has played multiple roles. It was an infirmary during a Yellow Fever epidemic, a rooming house for millworkers, a physician’s office, and daycare center in addition to being a private home.
Amazing Amenities – Best of Amelia Island B&Bs
Coffee and tea are available in the lobby along with a free afternoon wine reception and complimentary daily made-to-order breakfast. Free bicycle rentals – a wonderful way to get out and explore this fascinating island – are also included in the stay. Guests have access to beach towels, loungers and umbrellas for more fun in the Florida sun on any of Amelia Island’s 13 miles of public beaches.
But, Oh That Breakfast
Lisa and Ron West are the consummate hosts providing an incredible breakfast each morning for their guests. Unlike the set menu you’ll find in some Amelia Island B&Bs, visitors here choose from a rotating menu reflecting the freshest available ingredients. Lisa actually peruses the farmer’s market on Saturdays searching for the best produce for breakfasts and happy hours.
But come hungry, as you definitely won’t leave this way. As a matter of fact, I completely skipped lunch after those hearty breakfasts. A featured entrée may include a vegetable quiche or other egg dish (as mine did) with muffins, bread, and a choice of bacon or sausage. Guests preferring a lighter selection will love the fresh fruit, house-made muffins or bread, or fruit and yogurt with homemade granola, always on the menu.
Personal Concierge Service
For a relatively small island, this destination has some incredible restaurants and activities. Another great benefit of staying at The Addison Amelia Island Florida bed and breakfast is that you’ll have your own personal on-site concierge. The innkeepers will gladly make reservations ahead of your stay or during the stay for partner restaurants or attractions on the island. These can even be billed directly to your room. They know the island well and have a wonderful relationship with other businesses in Fernandina Beach.
I can personally attest that the restaurants and activities they recommended during my stay were spot on.
If you’re looking for the perfect escape, an environmentally friendly lodging choice, a trip through history, great proximity to enjoy all the Island has to offer – and the perfect hosts – a stay at The Addison on Amelia Island should be in your plans.
This amazing inn will provide an unforgettable experience. Believe me, I know. And I’m looking forward to returning again, next time with my spouse.
What do you think?