This vacation home places you next to Fernandina Beach and within a 10-minute walk of Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
Fort Clinch State Park - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
Omni Amelia Island Resort Golf - 15 min drive - 9.6 miles
Mayport Naval Station - 45 min drive - 30.8 miles
Getting around
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) - 40 min drive
Restaurants
Salt Life Food Shack - 10 min walk
The Sandbar & Kitchen - 12 min walk
Mocama Beer Company - 6 min drive
Mocama Coffee - 6 min drive
The Patio Place - 5 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach
Welcome to your charming beach bungalow at 537 Tarpon Ave. Located on the serene North end of Amelia Island, just two blocks from beach access. Enjoy proximity to Fort Clinch State Park, with its historic sites, biking and running trails, and Main Beach, offering miniature golf, a playground, a skate park, basketball courts, and two beachfront restaurants. A short drive will take you to Historic Downtown Fernandina, known for its unique shopping and dining experiences.
Unwind in comfort and style at The Blue Whale, a charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home just minutes from the sand and surf. Thoughtfully designed for families, couples, or friends traveling together, this inviting retreat is also pet-friendly — so your furry companion can join the fun too!
The spacious living room offers plenty of seating — the perfect spot to kick back after a day on the beach. Stream your favorite shows with ease using the home's complimentary WiFi, or simply relax with a good book and the company of loved ones.
The fully equipped kitchen features generous counter space and all the essentials to cook up anything from beachside breakfasts to homemade dinners. Enjoy meals at the dining table or take them outside to the patio for a laid-back alfresco experience.
Step into the fenced backyard to enjoy some privacy, let your pup stretch their legs, or soak up the coastal breeze. For added convenience, a washer and dryer are available to keep your beachwear fresh throughout your stay.
At the end of the day, retreat to the serene primary suite with a king bed, TV, and ensuite bathroom. The guest room offers a cozy queen bed and TV — perfect for unwinding after a sun-filled day.
With all the comforts of home and the beach just a short distance away, The Blue Whale is the perfect place to make lasting memories. You'll have a 'better' stay with Stay Better Vacations!
• No Pool • Sofa Bed • 1 King Bed • 1 Queen Bed • Parking in Driveway • Minimum Age to rent is 30 • Fireplace is Not Operational • One-level w/ground-level entry • Boat Parking in Driveway not Allowed • Non-Refundable Pet Fee for up to 2 Dogs (approval required)
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE! The digital guestbook you'll receive after booking provides you with DIRECTIONS, ADDRESS, MAPS, PARKING, AMENITIES INCLUDED, A LOCAL AREA GUIDE - with many of our favorites - and much, much more!
ADDED AMENITY: BEACH GEAR CREDIT Stay Better Vacations partners with VayKLife, a beach gear delivery service. Bookings between 2 and 21 nights include a credit toward a variety of beach gear, delivered right to your door before arrival. After booking, VayKLife will reach out directly with all the details, credit amount, and instructions for reserving your gear. This credit applies to current calendar year bookings only. To ensure gear is ready for your first day, orders must be placed by 2:00 PM the day before your arrival. Orders placed after this cutoff cannot be guaranteed for next-day delivery, and same-day delivery is not available.
IT'S ADVISABLE to purchase travel insurance to safeguard your vacation investment. Additionally, please be aware that we don't offer refunds or rescheduling for bookings impacted by inclement weather, including tropical storms or hurricanes.
--IT'S AN ISLAND THING-- Discover the allure of tranquil Amelia Island, nestled in Northeast Florida and embraced by Southern hospitality. Amelia Island beckons you with pristine beaches to the east, breathtaking marshes to the west, and island charm throughout. Conveniently accessible from Jacksonville International Airport, AI invites you to explore 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, meandering walking and biking trails, the historic Fort Clinch State Park, and captivating sunsets.
Embrace your adventurous side with activities like golfing, kayaking, boating, and fishing. Delight your taste buds by exploring culinary treasures to include fresh shrimp & seafood found in locally-owned eateries and fine restaurants. Whether you seek relaxation on the shore or crave indulgence through spa treatments, Amelia Island promises to fulfill your desires.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a fenced private yard.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Wheelchair accessibility
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the marina
Near the sea
Things to do
Kayak
Basketball nearby
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Sailing nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 1,208 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 30
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
Rental agreement required. Once signed, you'll receive the Happy Stays Guestbook with arrival info, gate codes (if needed), and everything in between.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 30
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.
Property is also known as
877092
Frequently asked questions
What can I see close to this vacation home?
This vacation home in Fernandina Beach is within a 10-minute walk of Fernandina Beach and Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park. You'll also find Fort Clinch State Park and Amelia Island Lighthouse within a short drive.
Is there parking available at The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this vacation home next to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
Is The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach a good place to stay for couples?
Couples will appreciate amenities at this vacation home, including a fireplace and a kitchen in each house and a fireplace in some.
Does The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach have a hot tub?
No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this vacation home offer breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Does The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach have connecting rooms available?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Where is the closest airport to this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which is 27.3 mi away (40 minutes by car). Another top airport is Jacksonville, FL (CRG-Jacksonville Executive at Craig), which is around 23.9 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies at The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach?
Yes, every house at The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach comes with a patio.
The Blue Whale - Just Blocks to the Beach Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 16 reviews
10 - Excellent
15
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 16 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 16 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 16 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 16 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Judy M.
Apr 12, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
The house was great, just as pictured. It was 2 short blocks to the beach. The rental company was very responsive to any questions we had. We would definitely stay here again.
Judy M.
Stayed 51 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Georgia H., chesterfield virginia
Sep 7, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great little house. Walking distance to beach great neighbors and location.
Georgia H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wendy Q.
Aug 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
House was perfect for my family. Clean, convenient to everything. Beach very close, pet perfect.
Wendy Q.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Mindi M.
Jul 31, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful time!! The house was beautiful and the surrounding areas were lovely.
Mindi M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Debra U.
Jul 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This is my 2nd time staying here this summer. I highly recommend this little house! Love, love, love, this house, the service, and location. I tell everyone I know to stay here!
Debra U.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lena or Tony C.
Jul 7, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
4Th of July 2025–Connell
We had a small bump, hot water heater went out but Praise Jesus, a new one was replaced the next day.The place, beautifully close to beach and pleasant neighborhood. I would book again too.Tony & Lena Connell
Lena or Tony C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Debra U.
Jun 6, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary Getaway
The pictures online do not do this place justice! Great place! We will be staying again here again.
Debra U.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
John B.
May 4, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely House! Steps to Beach!
We loved our stay at the Blue Whale Cottage! The location couldn’t have been better—just steps from the beach, which made morning walks and sunset strolls incredibly easy and enjoyable. The cottage was super clean and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. It’s also pet-friendly, which was a huge plus for us. Our pups felt right at home! The neighborhood was peaceful, and we were close to great local spots for dining and exploring. We would absolutely stay here again. Highly recommend for a relaxing, beachy escape!
John B.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Karen B.
Apr 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
The house was clean and great location. Accessible for my son who is a full time wheelchair user. Would have loved to have had a sink that he could have roll up under to wash his hands. There was no iron even though that was listed on the description. It would have been nice to have better fans in the bedrooms and tvs in the bedrooms. Location to the beach was great. All over, very happy with our stay!
Karen B.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
STUART C.
Nov 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great House
Fresh remodel, great location and great host. What more do you want?
Thank you!
STUART C.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Amy D.
Sep 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Cute, comfy, quality stay
Great location! Nice yard and comfy home for a good price! Walk to beach, park, restaurants. We had a great time!
Amy D.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Alfred Q.
Aug 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Review from the guinea pigs
My wife and I were the first people to stay at this property so we were in fact the guinea pigs who tried things out first. Other than a few initial hiccups, we can wholeheartedly recommend this property. The rep from Stay Better Vacations had to come over and set up the TV since the owner's password had not yet been entered for the U Tube TV. We also had to be directed to the location of the beach towels (under the bench in the entranceway). The house was spic and span and was ready for its first guests. One of the main reasons we chose this property is because it was dog friendly. We brought our golden retriever who just loves the beach. The house has a fenced in side yard that was very convenient to let Kirby out to go to the bathroom (don't worry SBV, we poopy scooped). The family room was spacious. The couch was not particularly comfortable but the other chairs in the room were quite comfortable for TV viewing. The kitchen was well stocked although we would recommend adding some wine glasses. The beds were quite comfortable. The bathrooms were nice and functional. Since you had to open the high gate to access the property, we had a real sense of privacy while at the house. We were not disturbed by outside noises such as barking dogs (except for Kirby but he really doesn't bark very much) or by exterior voices like you might in a condo. The proximity of the house to the beach can't be beat. You are literally two blocks and a five minute walk from the beach.