Gold Coast Tour

Tour Overview

The tour begins in Palm Coast, where we will wind our way up to the historic Kingsley Plantation on Fort George Island. The island's history spans more than 1,000 years, beginning with the Timucuan Indians. In 1814, Zephaniah Kingsley brought his family to Florida. The stark contrast between the preserved slave quarters and the natural beauty of this Civil War-era plantation is a poignant reminder of the past. Kingsley's ambition and enthusiasm for land acquisition led him to establish this historic plantation. He operated the property until 1839, when a turbulent shift in laws forced him and his family to abandon the land. Explore the legacy of historic ruins and structures that remain long after the once-thriving plantation of Sea Island cotton, citrus, sugarcane, and corn ceased operation. A canopy of trees will greet you at our next stop, Fort Clinch, a fortress made of nearly five million bricks that guards the entrance to Cumberland Sound. Step back in time as you take in the unique brick buildings and parade grounds that span the park. Civil War reenactments take place on the first weekend of every month, with ladies in hoop skirts and men in Union uniforms. Nature lovers can hunt for shark teeth along the two-mile beach, while the Willow Pond Nature Trail winds through a variety of flora and fauna. From there, we set our sights on Amelia Island. A combination of natural beauty and old-world charm makes this a truly enchanting place. Its 13 miles of pristine beaches, bordered by 40-foot-high sand dunes capped with sea oats, are rated among the best in America. The mazes of salt marshes and moss-covered trees provide shade and shelter for more than 250 bird species, as well as bobcats, red foxes, alligators, and manatees. Visit the oldest structure on the island, an 1839 functioning lighthouse perched 107 feet above sea level. Museums and historic hotels abound in this unspoiled paradise. We'll end the day at Fernandina Beach, home of the modern shrimping industry. Both historic and romantic, this coastal town invites you to walk along the shore, where whales calve in the fall and sea turtles nest in the summer. Stroll through 50 blocks of classic Victorian architecture, and visit Florida's oldest saloon, once frequented by the Carnegies and Rockefellers. Browse through quaint antique and gift shops offering unique finds, then dine in one of the town's distinguished restaurants. You'll leave this tour enchanted by one of Florida's oldest cities. This one-day excursion is one of the most illuminating experiences you can have while in Florida. The combination of breathtaking natural landscapes, deep history, and the charm of Fernandina will leave you wondering: When can I come back