What is Geocaching? It's a 'high tech' sport that has become very popular in the U.S. and all over the world. Geocaching is an entertaining adventure game for GPS users. The basic idea is to have individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the internet.

GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. All the visitor is asked to do is if they get something they should try to leave something for the cache.

What's a GPS? It's a hand held receiver that uses satellites to show the precise location, latitude and longitude, on the earth.

Kids of all sizes love geocaching, because you never know what is going to be in the treasure box when you find it, and you never know what sights you might see on the hunt. It's also great for kids as it introduces them to electronic technology and helps them learn about mapping.

Caches are hidden not only by 'the locals' in an area, but also by visitors. So what's all this have to do with Amelia Island? There are quite a few caches hidden right on the island, and in other locations along the ocean near the island. Some of the caches here include several in Fernandina Beach, one in Egans Creek Greenway, a few in and around Fort Clinch State Park, some very near to or on the beach near Summer Beach and the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, and a few off the island in places like Talbot Island State Park. There is even on right downtown on Centre Street near the historic district.

There are many models of GPS receivers available, and they vary in price, but a basic model that costs between $100 and $200 is all that is necessary for Geocaching. Walmart can help you out if you're already here and want to purchase one. Don't consider it a beach toy - it's something you can take home and enjoy no matter where you live - there are thousands of caches to look for all over the country.

In order to find information about caches in the area where you want to hunt, you'll need to visit a web site where all that information is stored, Geocaching.Com. There you will find more general information about the sport, and you can also locate the specific information about caches here in Amelia Island by searching the cache database using our zip code (32034) - just plug the zip code into the search box on the main page.

Have Fun! And don't forget the sun block - nobody likes bright red tourists.

Article By Amelia Island Online Staff