Amelia Schoolhouse Inn- Fernandina Beach, FL

Amelia Schoolhouse Inn is impossibly quaint and charming. It feels fresh and modern, without losing any of the building’s original charm. Small and personal without feeling intrusive, it strikes the perfect balance all boutique hotels aspire to achieve.

Constructed in 1886 as Amelia Island’s first schoolhouse, the original 4 room wood framed structure with brick veneer, designed by noted architect Robert Sands Schuyler, was expanded in 1916. By 1926, the community once again outgrew the schoolhouse; this time they opted to build a larger structure, starting Old Schoolhouse No. 1 on its long and varied reuse journey.

After serving a century as office space, a library, and the Mason’s Lodge, the battered building was decidedly shabbier than many of it’s historic district neighbors. That all changed in 2017, when new owners retained architect Jose Miranda to transform the space into a 17 room boutique hotel. Miranda modernized the property, but retained whatever original features he could, such as the well worn staircase off the lobby. Elements that could not be saved were reused throughout the hotel, including in the lobby, which features a bar custom built using reclaimed wood salvaged during the restoration.

The end result is absolutely spectacular. Both the public spaces and the guest rooms feel substantial and well built, with great attention to detail. It is a small property that contains all the amenities of a larger hotel, including a tranquil pool, complementary bicycles, and craft cocktails. Conveniently located a few blocks from just about everything, you can easily ditch your car for the duration of your stay. Excellent all around, you will be planning your return visit before you leave.