American Beach

American Beach: A Historical and Cultural Landmark

Introduction

Situated on the island's south end along A1A, between downtown Fernandina Beach and Jacksonville, American Beach is known for its historical significance and Black heritage.

Historical Background

Abraham Lincoln Lewis (A.L. Lewis), Florida's first Black millionaire and the president of the Afro-American Insurance Company, established the beach in 1935 as one of the few accessible beaches to Black Americans. At the height of its popularity, American Beach saw more than 10,000 people a day, creating a thriving community of residents and seasonal businesses, including a nightclub that hosted music legends like James Brown, Louis Armstrong, and Ray Charles, and well-known celebrities like famous heavyweight boxer Joe Louis. Unfortunately, the resort town was devastated by Hurricane Dora in 1964 and never rebuilt.

Preservation Efforts

American Beach was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, thanks to the preservation efforts of A.L. Lewis' great-granddaughter and renowned opera singer MaVynee Oshun Betsch, also known as "The Beach Lady." You can visit the A.L. Lewis Museum, located several blocks from the beach on Julia Street, to learn about Betsch and the history of American Beach.

Modern-Day American Beach

Today, American Beach is a quiet place to spend a day sunbathing or strolling along the Atlantic coastline, as most of the land is held by private landowners. Many people also come to see the "NaNa" dune system, the tallest in Florida. Restrooms are available at Burney Beachfront Park.

Activities and Tours

Tours

If you're interested in learning more about American Beach and the African American experience on Amelia Island, you can book a guided small or group tour with Ron Miller of Coast One Tours LLC.