September 16, 2022
Historic downtown Fernandina Beach has always been the “hub” of Amelia Island. It was and is the town “center” that everything else fanned/fans out from. But what about the main thoroughfare that has lead folks to the historic district for years? Let’s take a stroll down S. 8th Street, Amelia Island’s first auto-centric commercial corridor in Fernandina Beach.
The S. 8th Street Corridor first evolved as an extension of downtown with mainly automobile dealers and gas stations. It was also the main road for folks coming on and off the island. In the mid-20th century, more commercial developments appeared and restaurants, retail, banks, and other businesses developed along the corridor heading to downtown. As Fernandina Beach continued to grow and shoppng and restaurants popped up in other areas of the island, long time businesses on 8th St. began to close and the once vibrant street began to decline.
We are so happy that in the last few years, there has been a concerted effort to revitalize 8th Street and the sleepy street is re-awakening. Take a look at 8th Street today!
Hoyt House – 804 Atlantic (corner of 8th and Atlantic)The beautiful historic 1905 Victorian mansion is rich in historic architecture, surrounded by lush gardens, a wraparound porch and 250-year old oak trees. The Hoyt House boasts ten luxuriously-appointed guestrooms, each with private bath. Start your day with a three course breakfast and end your day with afternoon social hour of complimentary wine and appetizers.
JW Frame Gallery (917 S. 8th)For over ten years JW Frame Gallery has been committed to providing the best framing, printing and art service on Amelia Island. They offer creative and unique ways to frame any type of art, by offering museum quality materials and a huge selection of frames to fit your style and your art.
Casey Matthews Fine Art (813 S. 8th)Casey Matthews creates rich paintings with multi-media surfaces that are both visually intriguing and full of energy. They incorporate expressive color, fluid movement, and strong elements of design. The work combines emotional content, observation, technique, exploration, and reinvention. By appointment.
Redbones Dog Bakery (809 S. 8th)Pick up treats for your pup AND enjoy a glass of wine or beer at Redbones Dog Bakery and Boutique where they strive to find the finest selection of upscale boutique items, gifts and accessories from all around the world. Dogs are encouraged to come in and say hello!
Antiques & More Treasures (329 S. 8th)If you love to shop, Antiques & More Treasures is the place to be! Offering vintage and antique home decor, furniture, jewelry, soaps, seasonal decor, and unique gifts, this huge store has a little bit of everything.
Atlantic Hair Studio (302 S. 8th)Atlantic Hair Studio is a hair salon with a collective of artists that individually create and design in a modern atmosphere. They continually invest in advanced education to bring you current and innovative styles. Good Hair. Good Vibes. Good People.
Cormier Hair Studio (229 S. 8th)Cormier Hair Studio team’s goal is to pamper you from head to toe in the salon and to bring out your individual, natural beauty. The experienced and talented staff members at Cormier Hair Studio are among the most qualified in the industry.
Mocama Beer Company and Mocama Coffee (629 S. 8th)Located in the old Ford Car Dealership, Mocama screams mid-century charm in everything from the massive bar & brass taps to the light fixtures and custom lounging area. Beer styles range from Lagers and Stouts to Hazy IPAs and Porters. If you don’t know what you like, order a flight and taste a few. Not a fan of beer? They have a great wine selection, too. The Mocama Coffee Bar is located right next door to the Brewery Taproom.
Aloha Bagel & Deli (432 S. 8th)Fresh and deliciously huge bagels in just about every flavor … served with just about everything you like on them! Also enjoy deli sandwiches, specialty salads, and cookies/brownies all in a funky, cool and colorful building near downtown Fernandina. Aloha!
Area 51 Korean Grill (510 S. 8th)Area 51 BBQ & Grill offers Korean cuisine, southern barbecue, and American grill favorites right in the heart of Fernandina Beach. Authentic Korean dishes and American comfort food plus barbeque that is out of this world! Beer and wine available.
Overtime Sports Bar (320 S, 8th)Overtime Bar & Grill is a sports bar serving up delicious appetizers, wings, wraps, burgers, tacos and more with a full selection of frosty cold beer and soft drinks.
Marlin & Barrel Distillery (232 S. 8th)Marlin & Barrel is a craft distillery handcrafting a variety of rum, vodka, gin, cello and bourbon. Enjoy samples in their tasting room and learn more about them from knowledgeable and friendly staff.
T-Ray’s Burger Station (202 S. 8th)A local favorite for breakfast and lunch. Southern breakfast, delicious burgers, and daily specials. Located in a former gas station, T-Ray’s was named one of USA Today’s 51 Best Burger Joints in the US. Beer and wine available.
Beech Street Grill – 801 Beech Street (corner of 8th and Beech)The Beech Street Grill is an upscale southern restaurant offering unique dishes in a cool atmosphere. Each plate showcases the best of the seasons with a global perspective on Southern traditions. Enjoy fresh local seafood, farmer’s produce, craft cocktails and an exquisite wine list.
Amelia Island Tea House (122 S. 8th)Serving up fresh tea, tea sandwiches, quiches, salads, pastries, desserts, and much more. For your next cup of tea, try Amelia Island Tea House! Reservations highly recommended. Parties of 8 or more please call for availability.
David’s Restaurant & Lounge (corner of 8th and Ash)Amelia Island’s premier fine dining steakhouse and seafood restaurant serving dinner nightly. Begin your relaxing dining experience in the comfortable lounge offering a full bar and appetizer menu with the best martini around! David’s is the winner of the Wine Spectator 2013, 2014, & 2015 Award of Excellence.
La Surena Restaurant & Store (22 S. 8th)For a taste of old Mexico, head to La Surena, a restaurant and grocery store combo offering authentic Hispanic products and foods. Enjoy some of the tastiest tacos this side of Guadalajara as well as delicious sauces and sides, amazing soups, and daily specials.
Tasty’s Fresh Burgers & Fries (corner of 8th and Centre)Tasty’s sets itself apart from your average fast food burger joint. Their selection of burgers along with hand-cut fries, house-made sauces, and many other Tasty menu items are sure to please…don’t forget to top off your meal with a delicious handspun milkshake. Beer and wine also available.
Roadshark Powersports (626 S. 8th)Explore Amelia Island in comfort and style. At Roadshark Powersports you can rent Scooters, Electric Kick Scooters, Electric Bicycles, or an Electric Cart. Have a blast touring the island.
EWheelz (501 S 8th)Golf carts are all the rage on Amelia Island! For a fun way to cruise around the island, rent a golf cart from EWheelz. They also offer new golf cart sales, repair, maintenance, refurbishments, and used cart sales.
Fernandina Beach Cycling & Fitness (11 S. 8th)Fernandina Beach Cycling & Fitness has been providing new bicycle sales, bicycle repair, bicycle racks, and bicycle parts & accessories to Fernandina Beach since 1985. Let them hook you up with a bike and get pedaling!
As you can see, 8th Street is what’s happening. Come visit us and take a stroll on 8th Street for yourself!
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