Naval Base, Beaches, and Pirates!

(Mayport FL) We have certainly enjoyed our stay at Pelican Roost RV Park at the Naval Station in Mayport (near Jacksonville).  This military campground is very well managed and maintained.  When we first arrived we were assigned to a grass site, but the next day were upgraded to a site that over looks the St. Johns River. 

We sat here most of the morning watching the very active waterway. Jimmy has his own special chair. 

In the afternoon we went to the beach on site at the Naval Base.  We took a long walk and pretty much had the beach all to ourselves. 

It was Jimmy's first time on a beach.  He had a blast.  There were lots of new smells!

More dog lovers

Today we went to Amelia Island.  It was about an hour drive and involved taking a car ferry.  It cost $5 each way and was quick and easy.  It saved a lot of driving time. 

Arriving Amelia Island

We spent most of the day driving around the island.  One side has very exclusive homes all along the beach with plenty of public access.  The beaches are very rustic and beautiful.  It was too cold today to walk very far. 

There are long board walks that lead out to the beach.

The states first resort was built on this island due to a cross state railroad.  There is only one city named Fernandina Beach. We walked around a lovely Victorian district that had many nice shops and restaurants. 

We stopped at the Palace Saloon established in 1878. 

This city was once a haven for smugglers and pirates. Inside the saloon a birthday party was being held for a member of the Pirates Club.  One of the pirates kidnapped me and John took a picture of the motley crew.  It was a lot of fun.

There is a beautiful state park on Amelia Island called Fort Clinch State Park.  There are RV sites right on the beach and others in a shaded area. It was beautiful with lots of biking paths and trails.  We plan to go back and camp here soon.  The ranger mentioned that reservations are recommended. 

Afterwords we took the ferry back and returned to the base.  There were over 10 navy ships at the dock.  It's an amazing site.

We enjoyed our stay here and hope to return again soon.  This campground is open to  active duty or retired military.  You can also stay if you are traveling with a qualified member.  Tomorrow we are traveling along the panhandle of Florida.   Life is good!