One of our favorite places to spend time on the island is Fort Clinch. The fort has been around since 1736, when the Spanish first fortified it. After that, throughout the years it switched hands from the War of 1812, the Seminole Wars, the Civil War and both World Wars. It is mainly heralded for its use as a Union base during the civil war, and today you can see reenactors at the Fort on an almost daily basis, with large reenactments happening several times a year. The view from the top of the Fort is a beautiful overlook all the way across the channel to Cumberland Island. It is made up of almost five million bricks, and is home to a museum and many historical teaching aids. The park itself is open every day from 8am to dusk, and has beautiful beaches, perfect for shell or shark tooth hunting, as well as fishing and just having fun. The canopy road leading in and out of the Fort state park is well-known for its beauty. One of our favorite Amelia Island guided kayak tours is held in the estuary between Fort Clinch and the island, called Egans Creek. You have the possibility of seeing dolphin, manatee, pelicans, alligators, seagulls and more. The Fort is definitely a spot you won’t want to miss on your Amelia Island adventure!
