For six years, Kitchen 251 was one of those Amelia Island spots where the food, the people, and the waterfront sunsets all seemed to work together. Tucked inside the Amelia Island Marina, it became a favorite for locals and visitors looking for fresh seafood, comforting Southern dishes, and a little Cajun flavor.
Now, Kitchen 251 has traded its marina views for historic charm, a much larger dining room, and plenty of room to grow.
The restaurant officially opened its new location at 801 Beech Street in January 2026, settling into the historic William Bell House in downtown Fernandina Beach. While the setting may be different, the familiar food and welcoming atmosphere that built Kitchen 251’s loyal following have made the move right along with it.
The new space is a major change from the restaurant’s former marina location, which only had a small number of indoor tables. Kitchen 251 can now welcome approximately 140 guests inside, with additional seatin ...

 


If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d willingly pay to cuddle the world’s largest rodent, I probably would’ve laughed. But after meeting a capybara, I completely understand the hype.
And yes… before you ask… Can I pet that capybara? The answer is yes.

Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, these gentle animals have become internet celebrities, and now you don’t have to travel across the world to meet one. Right here in St. Augustine, Capybara Café gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with one of the friendliest animals you’ll ever encounter.
 
Located just minutes from Historic Downtown St. Augustine, the experience is much more than a café. Guests can feed, pet, and learn about capybaras in a relaxed, educational setting that feels surprisingly personal.
The café was created in partnership with Noah’s Ark Sanctuary, giving rescued animals a place to educate t ...

Why Local Knowledge Matters More Than Ever in Northeast Florida Real Estate
Buying or selling a home is about much more than signing paperwork. Every neighborhood, every street, and every market has its own story. That is especially true throughout Northeast Florida, where communities can look very different just a few miles apart.
Whether you are purchasing your first home, moving across town, or preparing to sell, having local expertise on your side can make the process smoother and help you make more informed decisions.
Real Estate Is Local
You have probably heard that real estate is all about location. While that is certainly true, it is also about understanding the details behind each location.
A home in Jacksonville may have a very different market outlook than one in St. Augustine, Fernandina Beach, Orange Park, or Ponte Vedra. Even within the same city, neighborhoods can vary in pricing, buyer demand, school zoning, insurance costs, HOA requirements, and future development. ...

If you've been thinking about making a move, you've probably asked yourself one question:
Is now the right time?
It's a fair question, especially when headlines seem to change every week. The reality is that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The right time to buy or sell depends on your goals, your finances, and your timeline.
At EXIT 1 Stop Realty, we believe every move should start with a plan, not a headline.
Buyers Have More Choices Than They Did Just a Few Years Ago
The Northeast Florida housing market has become more balanced, giving buyers opportunities that were hard to find just a few years ago.
Many buyers are finding:


More homes available to tour


More time to make informed decisions


Better opportunities to negotiate


The possibility of requesting repairs or seller concessions


While mortgage interest rates remain an important part of the conversation, they are only one piece of the puzzle. Waiting for the "perfect" rate could mean missing t. ...

Whether you're thinking about buying your first home, upgrading to fit your family's needs, downsizing, or preparing to sell, understanding today's market is key. The Northeast Florida real estate market continues to offer opportunities for both buyers and sellers, but success starts with having the right strategy.
For Buyers: Opportunity Is Still Knocking
Many buyers have been waiting on the sidelines, hoping for lower interest rates or home prices. While rates have fluctuated, Northeast Florida continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in the state, thanks to its strong job market, beautiful coastline, excellent schools, and diverse neighborhoods.
Why Buying Now May Make Sense
Less Competition Than Previous Years
The frenzy of multiple offers on every home has cooled in many areas. Buyers often have more negotiating power than they did just a few years ago.
More Inventory
Many Northeast Florida communities are seeing more homes available for sale, giving buyers . ...