5 Reasons To Plan a Trip To Amelia Island, Florida
Situated near the Florida-Georgia state line is sunny, slow-paced Amelia Island, Florida. About the same size as Manhattan but worlds away in atmosphere, there are endless things to do on Amelia Island, FL, with its charming coastal setting. Just 5.5 hours from Atlanta, this barrier island is the perfect coastal escape you've been searching for, with rich history, gorgeous weather, and delicious food around every corner. From clean beaches and nature trails to historic architecture and vibrant local culture, Amelia Island's laid-back coastal vibes give visitors everything they could need, from relaxation to adventure!
1. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Amelia Island's year-round sunny weather allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors no matter the time of year! Its gorgeous outdoor scenery and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect location for those who plan to enjoy their vacation by getting some vitamin D. From kayaking through tidal marshes to biking along scenic paths, outdoor lovers will find themselves at home here. There are plenty of things to choose from for outdoor experiences, but we've compiled our favorites below.
Play a Round of Golf
Amelia Island has multiple golf courses to choose from that are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. Their golf courses preserve the outdoor beauty of Florida while integrating thoughtful designs and upgrades that are perfect for all skill levels. You'll have plenty of courses to golf at, from Fernandina Beach Golf Club to Oak Marsh in the Omni Amelia Island Resort. Each course offers quality service, clean fairways, and stunning views, with ocean breezes and native wildlife adding to the experience. If you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Amelia Island offers golf experiences that will be enjoyable for everyone.
Horseback Riding On The Beach
Whether you're looking for a romantic evening with your partner or an experience the kids will be talking about for years to come, horseback riding on the beach is a must! With 30 years under its belt, Amelia Island Horseback Riding offers seaside horseback riding tours for all. They work to exceed expectations, offering everything from sunrise to sunset rides and even rides for special occasions. Their expert guides ensure a safe and memorable experience and the gentle horses are perfect for new riders. Nothing will beat feeling the ocean breeze as you trot along the shoreline.
Amelia Island Beaches
It wouldn't be a trip to Amelia Island without relaxing on one of its beautiful beaches. With 13 miles of sand stretching out in front of you, it’ll be easy to find a spot you love along the breezy shoreline. For a family-friendly beach, head over to Main Beach, where you'll find plenty of opportunities to swim, surf, sunbathe, and join in on a game of putt-putt golf! There’s even a playground, a basketball court, a skatepark, picnic tables, and seafood restaurants.
For a more quaint and relaxed beach, head over to North Beach Park. This quiet beach will make you forget about all of your obligations. Peters Point offers pavilions with picnic tables and grills, excellent shelling opportunities, and space for beach driving (permit required.) Meanwhile, American Beach provides a fascinating glimpse into African American history and the tallest sand dune in Florida. No matter which beach you choose, you will leave rejuvenated and sun-kissed. Don't forget the sunscreen!
2. FORT CLINCH STATE PARK
Fort Clinch State Park brings Florida history to life with its well-preserved Civil War-era fort. Daily tours feature reenactors who transport you back in time, making history engaging for all visitors. The fort itself offers beautiful views of Cumberland Sound and showcases military life from the 1860s. Beyond the fort, the park has 6 miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking, winding through coastal dunes. The shoreline has the perfect spots for fishing and shark tooth hunting – a favorite activity among families! You can also spot dozens of bird species from this point, and lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of native deer or gopher tortoises.
3. HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
The charming historic district in Fernandina Beach captures the essence of old Florida. Victorian-era architecture lines Centre Street, where local shops and galleries showcase area talent. Don't miss Sounds on Centre, a free concert series held monthly from April through October, where locals and visitors gather for live music. Browse through independent bookstores and antique shops that tell stories of Amelia Island’s history. The Palace Saloon, Florida's oldest continuously operating bar, allows visitors to appreciate the island's past, while the Amelia Island Museum of History provides fascinating walking tours highlighting the area's eight-flags history. If you’re up for a culinary adventure, don’t miss taking a guided food tour!
4. ANNUAL EVENTS
Amelia Island's calendar is absolutely bursting with memorable events throughout the year. In the springtime, the Amelia Concours d`Elegance, recently rebranded as just “The Amelia”, draws in car enthusiasts from around the world to admire and bid on rare and vintage automobiles. In May, the popular and ever-growing Shrimp Festival returns to celebrate Amelia Island’s history as the “Home of the Modern Shrimping Industry.” Picture streets lined with vendors cooking great food and selling their unique creations.
Fall is home to the Amelia Island Jazz Festival, Island Hop Craft Beer Festival, the Amelia Island Dance Festival, and the Fernandina Beach Songwriters Festival, where talented musicians share their work throughout downtown venues. The Right Whale Festival in November celebrates these magnificent endangered whales that visit local waters in the winter with educational exhibits, live music, and area artists. In December, travel back in time with the Dickens on Centre Festival — one of the “largest Christmas markets in the state” according to Travel + Leisure. It’s inspired by Charles Dickens’ novella “A Christmas Carol” and transforms downtown Fernandina into a classic English village.
5. LOCAL DINING
We know you’ll be hungry after soaking in the sun and exploring the island, so we’ll attempt our hardest task yet: to limit our dining recommendations on an island with over 100 restaurants! For something quick and filling in a casual setting, try Timoti’s Seafood Shak where they serve fresh caught seafood and have a little playground for wiggle worms. A few other favorite watering holes that are easygoing and delicious are The Salty Pelican, Wicked Bao, The Patio at 5th and Ash, and Sandbar (perk: it’s oceanfront!) For breakfast, head to Hola Cuban Cafe, Aloha Bagel & Deli, Garden Street Bistro, or Marché Burette. To overlook the beach, visit Tortuga Jack’s upstairs perch at Sliders Seaside Grill mid-island and dig into a Baja Mexican breakfast.
What was the pick of Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger when he was in town? España Restaurant & Tapas! This popular dinner spot has new owners and offers authentic Spanish cuisine in a cozy setting. Meanwhile, Burlingame one street over serves modern American cuisine in a quiet ambiance inside a renovated downtown cottage.
BOOK THE BEST AMELIA ISLAND VACATION RENTAL
When choosing your Amelia Island vacation rental, Destination Amelia stands out as the top choice! As trusted local experts in coastal Florida vacation rentals, they offer a wide selection of properties, from cozy beachfront condos to spacious family homes, each carefully chosen and maintained with robust amenities and thoughtful touches.
What sets Destination Amelia apart is their deep local knowledge and dedication to guest satisfaction. Their expert team matches you with the perfect property while sharing local tips about the island. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family reunion, golf weekend, or girls' trip, each rental comes ready with starter supplies, kitchen essentials, bed and bath linens, high-speed wifi, and vacation extras to make your stay a little more special!
Planning your trip to Amelia Island means choosing from endless possibilities for coastal relaxation, outdoor adventure, historic sites, dining, and special events. Its gorgeous beaches, unique Florida history, and tropical beauty make it one of the best coastal Florida destinations for your next vacation. Start planning your island getaway with Destination Amelia today, and discover why this Florida barrier island should be your next vacation destination.
