Comfort Suites Fernandina Beach at Amelia Island

For travelers familiar with this brand, the Amelia Island outpost holds few surprises, and interiors are pleasantly modern, if entirely nondescript. The lobby is a functional space that doubles as a breakfast room, with sofa seating too. Don't be confused by the "oceanview" claim that appears in this hotel's name. While it certainly has ocean views from many of its rooms (for now), the property is not actually on the beach.It's pretty typical of the brand, which favors low rates and convenient locations over stylized decor or furnishings. Even so, rates in peak season will likely not be as low as some travelers might expect (though they're often a fraction of the cost of staying right on the beach). Guests are mature couples and families who come for the laid-back atmosphere, the large rooms, and the outdoor pool.

The Comfort Suites Oceanview is near the eastern coast of Amelia Island. There's not much in the immediate area, except a gas station, but it's a few minutes on foot to the long stretch of sandy beach that runs the length of the island. Fort Clinch State Park, for the historic fort and pretty hikes, is also essentially right next door and accessible on foot. A 10-minute drive through the park leads to the secluded beaches on the island's north. Ferdandina Beach is the island's downtown area, with numerous local boutiques and restaurants, plus a busy marina, and is a five- to 10-minute drive from the hotel. Those who enjoy exploring on foot can wander across the river to the historic lighthouse -- the oldest in Florida -- in about 15 minutes. Amelia Island is pretty small -- in fact it's just a 25-minute drive from the hotel to Amelia Island State Park on the southern tip, where water sports and wildlife abound. There's a domestic airport on the island, but most guests fly into Jacksonville's airport, which is a 40-minute drive from the property.

Rooms are spacious and pleasantly modern, and often include a sitting area with a large corner sofa bed. As with the rest of the hotel, decor is simple and functional. Expect to see earth tones and pops of blue, and while the furniture is of a decent quality, sofas are showing signs of wear. Previous guests rave about the comfortable beds. Most rooms have views of the ocean, though unfortunately there are no balconies for relaxing or taking in those panoramas. Amenities include air-conditioning, mini-fridges, microwaves, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, irons, desks with ergonomic chairs, and safes -- though these require an extra fee. Wi-Fi is free. Bathrooms have a good amount of counter space, toiletries, hairdryers, and shower/tub combos. 

The location of the Comfort Suites means guests tend to spend their days out on the beach, and the minimal amenities here reflect that fact. It does have a small outdoor pool that tends to be quiet, though it's next to the parking lot and not particularly pretty. Those keen to keep active can use the small fitness room, which has just a couple of machines. A full American buffet breakfast is included in rates and served in the lobby breakfast room, with eggs and other hot items, plus waffles and fresh fruit. Coffee is available all day for free. There's a coin-operated laundry room, and a guest PC in the lobby with printing. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.