You may not have heard of Amelia Island, about 20 miles north of Jacksonville. But rest assured, the Spanish, French, English, and Scottish did, and some of them captured the island, lost it, and then re-captured it again. Amelia Island must be the most desired place in America, because eight flags have flown over it - more flags than anywhere else. Through the early years, the island's local cast of characters included pirates, gun-runners, Confederates, Union soldiers, escaped prisoners, and sailors who jumped ship. Today, the island's main town of Fernandina Beach looks much as it did then, with brick sidewalks and red-brick Victorian buildings from the late-1800s, many now filled with interesting shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a horse-and-buggy ride through town and stroll these old streets for some great surprises. The island also offers great hiking, biking, horseback riding, beaches, a couple of interesting museums, and ghost tours. History buffs might also enjoy the Civil War reenactments at historic Fort Clinch.

Amelia Island sits a few miles off the coast of Florida and offers 13 miles of pristine coastline where you can go horseback riding on the beach. Meander through the city’s downtown area to discover boutique shops and quaint restaurants housed in Victorian mansions or visit the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s past. Take a sunset walk along the beach or spot wildlife on a kayaking tour.