FLORIDA HOUSE INN, Fernandina Beach

Florida House Inn - The oldest surviving hotel in Florida with Southern charm, historic character, and a famous Mermaid Bar

Dating back to the 1800s, Florida House Inn stands as the oldest surviving hotel in the state of Florida, centrally located in the beating heart of Amelia Island's historic district. The 17-room Fernandina Beach hotel combines historic character with modern amenities, featuring accommodations ranging from cozy Railroad Twin rooms to luxurious Deluxe King rooms with oversized soaking tubs. Guests can enjoy Southern cuisine at Leddy's Porch, known for weekend brunch offerings like fried chicken & waffles, shrimp and grits, and bottomless Bloody Marys, or sample craft cocktails at the Mermaid Bar, particularly renowned for its Old Fashioned. The property provides complimentary amenities including breakfast served daily from 8:30 AM, free WiFi, and on-site parking. Florida House Inn sits steps away from local attractions including Blue Door Artists, Island Art Association Gallery, and the Amelia Island Museum of History, with beaches and water activities like kayaking and sailing accessible nearby. Jacksonville International Airport is located 28 miles from the property.

Pros

The historic inn has housed numerous famous guests including Ulysses S. Grant, Henry Ford, and Laurel and Hardy

A charming outdoor courtyard features bistro lighting and the famous Mermaid fountain

The property offers 1200 square feet of event space with an on-site Event Manager for weddings and special occasions

The connected Green Turtle bar provides lively music and a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists

Cons

The inn has no elevators, with only four rooms located on the ground level

The property is 28 miles from Jacksonville International Airport, requiring transportation arrangements