The eastern shore of Amelia Island has about 13 miles of beach, most of it wide, hard-packed, and less crowded than Florida's more famous stretches. The northern beaches near Fernandina Beach are part of Fort Clinch State Park and require a park entrance fee but reward with near-solitude. The central portion near the resort developments is more accessible and more populated. At the southern end, American Beach retains a distinct character tied to its history as a historically Black beach community.