The Hammerhead

BEWARE BARTENDER RIP OFF in this place… especially if you are not a ‘local’ or ‘known’ by the bar staff!!! We have read posted warnings about fleecing visitors at area bars, so were sort of ready for this. After all, I was the only one in the place wearing a shirt with a collar! There was a POSTED beer special… signs all over the bar. The bartender on duty (hefty man) charged me a dollar over the posted price. The ‘excuse’ when challenged was that…‘the computer won’t let us change over to that price until 8PM.’…as if one could actually believe such a story! They didn’t care… just grinned as in take it or leave it pal!!! So, seeing as were were there, we ‘took’ it… and just left no tip… the overcharge having already gone into his pocket!!! So, BEWARE… this bar and the Palace Saloon are notorious for this treatment of ‘non locals’.

We packed this place Saturday post wedding with the wedding party and guests. Right at the beach in Fernandina, great after 11pm on a weekend night. Between the locals and hotels nearby, it’s jammin. Multi roomed each with pool tables. Great drinks-​make sure to get the island punch and hit the jukebox. Great local joint. Go have fun and make sure to put your toes in the sand afterward.

An example of the kind of Honky Tonk great drinking songs are written about!
This is no Wine & Caviar sorta joint, so don’t be disappointed by the smoky air, salty language, or dirty floors! This is a true, honest, old time Honky Tonk that would make Kid Rock, Hank, & the whole gang down right proud.
Once you enter & the smoke clears a bit, you can see lots of pool tables w/​games going strong, folks lounging in huddled seating areas or standing along the high tops w drinks flowing, pets wandering & laughter abundant.
Someone always seems to be standing at the updated video juke box — arcade looking machine, choosing the next round of tunes — which varies from old country to Metallica playing a cover song (what!?!) — with even the occasional rap thrown into the mix. Seems like they’ve got your fav tunes covered someway!
The traditional bar is old, worn & wonderful! No table service here most nights, elbow your way up & use all means necessary to get the bar keeps attention. Also, drink prices may very depending upon who takes ur order & how witty you may be about it — but hey, it’s fun! And cheapest beer beachside so far.
Three level decking w speakers for music is attached to the side of the main entrance.
Outstanding ocean views from the top deck but it sometimes closes at sundown, A few chairs are strewn about, a wooden table/​footstool and standing level ledges to sit your drinks upon.
The second level has a few older patio tables and chairs, umbrellas for those scorching afternoons and standing level built in wooden tables, also allows beach view but closer to the roadway — perfect for people watching!
Out back, there is a small patio lounging area with weathered patio furniture, slightly cushioned wicker couches, holds 10 – 12 comfortably.
It overlooks the back alleyway & additional parking where you are likely to witness couples — half soused squabbling over this & that, regulars milling about, along w the occasional — way too drunk to walk — patron stumbling about headed to nap it off in his vehicle. Lots of Fun to watch!
All in all, it’s a very friendly bunch, mostly 35ish and up, with great stories to tell, terrific attitudes & very welcoming to newcomers & visitors.
Expect a traditional Honky Tonk and you won’t be disappointed and it just across from the beach at that!
Sunday is Funday so–
Grab a friend & Enjoy!

Awesome Bar in the heart of Fernandina! This place is a must stop when on the island. The staff is great and the beers are a deal. Buckets $ 8 and hottie bartenders makes this place one of my favorites. Side note: Was there last night and my debit card fell out of my pocket. Just stopped by now to see if they had it — A patron had found it and turned it in! These are great folks that come and work here. I would trust this place any day. Come on by and enjoy the day and you won’t be disappointed. One of the best and most real spots you’ll find. Sunday Funday!!!

Best beach bar on the island! Don’t miss this place! Killer bartenders super nice and fun! Sunday Funday is a must do! Pool tables, buckets of beer, and hot barkeeps in bikinis!!! Don’t come to Amelia Island without stopping by this hot spot! You will meet all the cool people and leave very happy!!!