Florida's First Coast

This stretch of northeastern Florida coast known as the First Coast is steeped in history – and is known for many "firsts." The Spanish founded St. Augustine in 1565, making it the oldest continuously occupied European city in the New World – that is 42 years before the English colonized Jamestown, and 55 years before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

In the mid-19th century, the city of Fernandina Beach became Florida's first resort, but its beginning was as a haven for smugglers and such a colorful place that President James Monroe was eager to clean up what he called "a festering fleshpot."

Amelia Island is laden with picturesque Victorian buildings. Its strategic location and secluded harbor were coveted by some of the world's greatest powers. In the last 400 years, the flag of eight different rulers have flown over the island.

In 1838, the Amelia Lighthouse was rebuilt after being transported, brick-by-brick and granite-step-by-granite-step, from Cumberland Island. It has the distinction of residing farther inland than any other lighthouse in Florida.

In the mid-1880s, Florida's first railroad brought tourists south along the east coast of Florida. Henry Flagler not only built railroads down the entire length of Florida's East Coast, but he also built luxury hotels to accommodate the influx of tourists his railroad carried, thus contributing to the growth of Florida's tourism industry.

In 1935, American Beach is established as one of Florida's first resorts for blacks. In those days, blacks were restricted from other beaches in the racially segregated South.

Today, Florida's First Coast is an interesting and diverse coastal region that is worth the visit. The old blends with the new where significant historical landmarks still stand as a testament to Florida's rich history. Visitors to Florida's First Coast can stand where Spaniard's took a stand over 400 years ago at the old fort – Castillo de San Marcos. They can step inside a colonial school house in St. Augustine, and stay in a Victorian Bed & Breakfast on Amelia Island. Or, they can enjoy modern and luxurious resorts, spas, a game of golf, and stroll nearby beaches.

Getting There

Florida's First Coast runs from just south of the Georgia border – Fernandina Beach – south to Ormond Beach. It is easily accessible by Interstate 95 and Highway A1A – running north and south along the coast – and coming from the west, Interstate 10 intersects with I-95 in Jacksonville.