Discover Amelia Island - Historic Charm Meets Coastal Beauty
Explore Amelia Island, Florida's charming Victorian streets, pristine beaches, and rich history. Find luxury resorts, nature adventures, and delicious dining. Plan your escape!
Amelia Island, nestled off the coast of Northeast Florida, is a captivating destination where pristine Atlantic beaches meet a charming historic district steeped in pirate lore and Victorian elegance. This barrier island, known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush natural beauty, offers a sophisticated escape that appeals to every type of traveler seeking both relaxation and adventure.
With a rich history shaped by eight different flags, Amelia Island invites you to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts. From exploring the cobblestone streets of Fernandina Beach to horseback riding on expansive shores and kayaking through serene salt marshes, the island promises a unique blend of cultural immersion, thrilling activities, and peaceful respite.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Where Eight Flags Tell a Timeless Tale
Amelia Island’s unique identity is deeply rooted in its storied past, a history so compelling that eight different flags have flown over its shores. This legacy is most palpable in Fernandina Beach, the island’s only city, where a remarkably preserved 50-block Victorian historic district beckons visitors to wander its charming streets. Here, the echoes of pirates, European explorers, and American pioneers blend seamlessly with vibrant modern life.
Beyond the tales of buccaneers and grand Victorian architecture, the island’s character is also defined by its harmonious relationship with nature. Its coastal landscape, from the dramatic dunes to the intricate salt marsh estuaries, is a testament to its enduring wild beauty. This powerful combination of human history and natural splendor creates a destination that is not just beautiful, but profoundly distinctive and endlessly fascinating.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Explore Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
Wander through the charming 50-block Victorian historic district, discover unique boutiques, art galleries, and visit the iconic Palace Saloon, Florida's oldest continually operating bar.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience a unique and memorable adventure by riding horses along Amelia Island's pristine shoreline, offering breathtaking ocean views. Several local stables provide guided tours.
Discover Fort Clinch State Park
Explore a well-preserved Civil War-era fort, enjoy miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, search for shark teeth, or simply relax on the park's quiet beaches.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding in the Salt Marshes
Paddle through the serene salt marsh estuaries surrounding Amelia Island, observing diverse wildlife like birds, dolphins, and manatees in their natural habitat.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach — Immerse yourself in the island’s past by strolling through this enchanting Victorian district. Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and historic architecture. Plan at least 2-3 hours for browsing, plus time for dining.
Amelia Island’s Pristine Beaches — Discover 13 miles of uncrowded, sugar-soft sands. Main Beach Park offers convenient amenities, while Peters Point Beachfront Park provides a quieter escape. Horseback riding on the beach, especially at sunrise or sunset, is a uniquely magical experience that typically takes 1-1.5 hours and requires advance booking.
Fort Clinch State Park — Step back in time at this impeccably preserved Civil War-era fort. Explore the fort itself, hike or bike along scenic trails, and enjoy the park’s own stretch of beach. Allow 2-4 hours to fully experience the fort and some trails; vehicle entrance is $6, and fort museum entry is an additional $2.50 per person.
Salt Marsh Estuaries — Kayak or paddleboard through serene waterways, teeming with diverse wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. Guided tours are highly recommended for the best experience, typically lasting 2-3 hours and costing around $75 per person.
The Palace Saloon — Visit Florida’s oldest continually operating bar, a true historic gem in Fernandina Beach. Even if just for a quick drink, it’s a must-see for its authentic atmosphere and rich history.
Amelia Island Lighthouse — Ascend Florida’s oldest existing lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and Atlantic. While the grounds are open daily, tours inside the lighthouse are often limited, so check schedules in advance. Allow 30-60 minutes for a visit to the grounds.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is your gateway, a mere 30-45 minute drive south of Amelia Island. While downtown Fernandina Beach is charmingly walkable and bicycles are great for local paths, a car is essential for fully exploring the island’s diverse attractions, from state parks to secluded beaches. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer mild temperatures (60s-80s F) and lower humidity, making them ideal for outdoor pursuits, though these are peak seasons, so booking accommodations and popular activities well in advance is crucial. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild with fewer crowds.
Remember to pack smart for your island adventure: sunscreen, hats, insect repellent are crucial, along with comfortable walking shoes for historic streets and beachwear for the shore. A light jacket can be handy for cooler evenings, especially in the shoulder seasons. Always check for state park entrance fees and be mindful of tide charts, which are useful for shelling and planning beach activities. Public beach access points are plentiful along Fletcher Avenue, often providing convenient parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Don’t miss the Fernandina Beach Farmers Market every Saturday morning at the historic train depot for local treats.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November)
Pros
- Ideal weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity.
- Numerous festivals and events, like the Shrimp Festival.
- Perfect for outdoor activities such as beach strolls and golf.
- Vibrant atmosphere with many dining and shopping options open.
Cons
- Higher accommodation rates and travel costs.
- More crowded beaches and attractions.
- Requires booking well in advance for lodging and popular tours.
- Early fall can still carry a risk of tropical storms.
Shoulder Season: Early Summer (June) & Early Winter (December)
Pros
- Generally pleasant temperatures before peak heat or cold.
- Fewer crowds than the absolute peak seasons.
- Potentially better deals on lodging and activities.
- Still many sunny days perfect for beach and outdoor fun.
Cons
- Humidity begins to rise significantly in June.
- Ocean water can be cool for swimming in December.
- Some establishments might have slightly reduced hours in early winter.
- Risk of late-season tropical activity in June.
Off-Peak: Mid-Summer (July-August) & Mid-Winter (January-February)
Pros
- Best deals on accommodation and travel.
- Quiet beaches and fewer lines at attractions.
- Excellent time to enjoy heated pools and spa services in winter.
- Opportunity for warm, sunny days even in winter.
Cons
- Hottest and most humid weather in summer, with frequent afternoon storms.
- Ocean water too cold for most swimmers in mid-winter.
- Some businesses may have limited hours or closures.
- Fewer large-scale events or festivals during these months.
From the echoes of history whispering through Victorian streets to the wild beauty of its untamed beaches and salt marshes, Amelia Island promises more than just a getaway – it offers an immersive journey into relaxation, adventure, and timeless charm. Whether you’re seeking sophisticated dining, a peaceful encounter with nature, or a deep dive into centuries of history, this barrier island delivers an unforgettable escape that lingers long after you’ve departed.
Sample Itineraries
3-Day Coastal Charm & History
A perfect blend of relaxation on the beach, exploring historic Fernandina Beach, and enjoying local culinary delights.
- Day 1: Historic Fernandina & Waterfront Views
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Arrive on Amelia Island and check into your accommodation. Head to Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach (a 10-15 minute drive from many island resorts). Park on Centre Street or nearby side streets (often metered or free). Begin by exploring the charming Victorian architecture and unique boutiques along Centre Street. Grab a coffee and pastry at Amelia Island Coffee (207 Centre St) to kick off your day (approx. $15 for two). Delve into the island’s past at the Amelia Island Museum of History (233 S 3rd St). Allow 1-1.5 hours. Cost: ~$8 per adult ($16 for two).
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with waterfront views at The Salty Pelican Bar & Grill (12 N Front St). Expect to spend $40-60 for two, depending on drinks. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Fernandina Harbor Marina, watching the shrimp boats and perhaps spotting dolphins. Explore the quiet, tree-lined side streets of the historic district on a self-guided walking tour, admiring the grand Victorian homes. Distance: All activities are easily walkable within downtown Fernandina Beach.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) For dinner, indulge in the refined Southern cuisine at Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro (14 S 2nd St), or savor the vibrant Cuban flavors at Hola Cuban Cafe (117 S 3rd St). Dinner at either can range from $80-120 for two, depending on drinks and courses. Afterwards, enjoy a quiet evening or find a spot for a nightcap at a local bar like the Palace Saloon (117 Centre St), Florida’s oldest continually operating bar.
- Day 2: Fort Clinch, Beach Bliss & Island Charm
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Drive north to Fort Clinch State Park (2601 Atlantic Ave), approximately a 10-minute drive from downtown Fernandina. Explore the remarkably preserved 19th-century brick fort, imagining life during the Civil War. Walk the ramparts for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and St. Marys River. Allow 2-3 hours for exploration. Cost: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people). Enjoy a walk on the beautiful, uncrowded beach within the park, or hike one of the nature trails.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Head south to Main Beach Park (S Fletcher Ave at Main Beach Access), just a 5-minute drive from Fort Clinch. This popular spot offers restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Enjoy some classic beach time – swim in the ocean, sunbathe, or collect shells. For an active option, rent bicycles from Riptide Beach Services (check their website for nearest location or call for delivery) for an hour and explore the paved multi-use path along the coast. Bike rental: ~$15-20 per person per hour. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, or grab a casual bite at POGO’s Kitchen (1418 Sadler Rd) near Main Beach (approx. $30-50 for two).
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Experience a relaxed, oceanfront dinner at Slider’s Seaside Grill (1998 S Fletcher Ave), offering delicious seafood, a casual atmosphere, and often live music (check their schedule). Dinner for two here could be $70-100. Enjoy the sea breeze and the sounds of the waves for a perfect end to a beach day.
- Day 3: Nature, Views & Fond Farewells
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your day with nature immersion. Visit the Amelia Island Lighthouse (2150 Lighthouse Cir) – while tours are very limited, you can often view the historic structure from the outside and enjoy the surrounding quiet neighborhood. Then, explore the tranquility of Egan’s Creek Greenway (access points off Citrona Dr or behind the Rec Center on Atlantic Ave). This protected wetland offers miles of walking trails where you can spot birds, alligators, and other wildlife. It’s a free activity and offers a peaceful contrast to the beach and town. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a good walk. Alternatively, for a more active experience, consider a short 2-hour guided kayak or paddleboard tour with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions (starting from Simons Creek, ~$60-75 per person).
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Enjoy a final lunch back in Historic Downtown Fernandina. For a no-frills, highly-rated local experience, check out T-Ray’s Burger Station (202 S 8th St) (cash only!), very budget-friendly at ~$20-30 for two. Alternatively, Cafe Karibo (27 N 3rd St) offers a diverse menu in a charming setting, costing $40-60 for two. Spend any remaining time browsing for last-minute souvenirs in the downtown shops or revisiting a favorite spot.
- Evening (Departure) Head to the airport or begin your drive home, carrying cherished memories of Amelia Island’s coastal charm and rich history.
5-Day Amelia Island Adventure
Dive deeper into Amelia Island's natural beauty, rich past, and diverse activities, from kayaking to equestrian beach rides.
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Day 1: Historic Echoes & Coastal Fortifications
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Arrive on Amelia Island and check into your accommodation. Afterwards, head directly to Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach for a self-guided walking tour. Wander along Centre Street, admiring the Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and art galleries. Visit the Amelia Island Welcome Center (102 Centre St) for maps and local insights. Most hotels are within a 5-15 minute drive to downtown. Parking is available on Centre Street and surrounding blocks. This activity is free, though you might spend $10-30 on coffee/pastries. Allow 2-3 hours.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy lunch at a downtown eatery such as Timoti’s Seafood Shak (21 N 3rd St) for fresh, casual seafood. Post-lunch, drive north to Fort Clinch State Park (2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach). Explore the remarkably preserved 19th-century brick fort, walk the ramparts, and enjoy panoramic views of the Cumberland Sound and Atlantic Ocean. You can also drive the scenic park road and enjoy the beach access within the park. The drive from downtown is approximately 10-15 minutes. Cost: $6 per vehicle for park entry. Lunch will be $30-50 for two. Allow 3-4 hours including lunch and travel.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Relax and freshen up. For dinner, experience the ambiance of Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro (14 South 2nd St, Fernandina Beach) for upscale Southern cuisine in a historic setting. Afterwards, consider a leisurely stroll along the waterfront docks at Fernandina Harbor. Dinner cost: $80-120 for two (excluding alcohol).
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Day 2: River Paddles & Island Lore
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Dive into nature with a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding adventure. Rent equipment or take a guided tour with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions or Kayak Amelia. Explore the tranquil waters of Egans Creek Greenway (entry points off Atlantic Ave or Sadler Rd) or paddle the calmer sections of the Amelia River, observing diverse birdlife and lush coastal ecosystems. Egans Creek Greenway is easily accessible from many parts of the island. Kayak rental points are typically convenient to launch areas. Cost: Kayak/SUP rental $50-75 per person for 2-3 hours ($100-150 for two). Allow 3-4 hours.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a quick and casual lunch (e.g., sandwiches or salads from Island Time Restaurant & Bar at 2002 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach). Then immerse yourselves in the island’s past at the Amelia Island Museum of History (233 South 3rd St, Fernandina Beach). Discover stories of pirates, Spanish explorers, and Victorian millionaires. Afterwards, take some time to browse the unique shops and art galleries along Centre Street or nearby side streets. The museum is in downtown Fernandina Beach, typically a 5-15 minute drive from kayaking launch points. Cost: Museum admission $10 per adult ($20 for two). Lunch $30-50 for two. Allow 3-4 hours.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a delightful dinner at Salty Pelican Bar & Grill (12 North Front St, Fernandina Beach) for fresh seafood with excellent waterfront views, especially popular for sunset. If time allows and the mood strikes, catch some live music at a local spot like The Palace Saloon or Green Turtle Tavern. Dinner cost: $60-100 for two.
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Day 3: Equestrian Dreams & Plantation Past
- Morning (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM) Experience one of Amelia Island’s most iconic activities: a horseback ride on the beach. Several local outfitters, such as Amelia Island Horseback Riding or Kelly’s Seaside Ranch, offer guided rides along the beautiful shoreline of Peter’s Point Beachfront Park (4650 Peters Point Rd, Fernandina Beach). Booking in advance is highly recommended. Allow travel time to the stable/meeting point. Cost: Horseback riding $100-120 per person ($200-240 for two). Allow 2-2.5 hours including check-in and ride.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:30 PM) After a memorable morning, enjoy a relaxed lunch (perhaps a picnic on the beach if you packed one, or a casual spot like Slider’s Seaside Grill at 1998 S Fletcher Ave near Main Beach). Then, journey off-island briefly to explore Kingsley Plantation (11676 Palmetto Ave, Jacksonville, FL), one of the oldest standing plantation houses in Florida. Located on Fort George Island, it offers a fascinating, albeit sobering, look into the antebellum South and Gullah Geechee culture. Explore the grounds, slave quarters, and the main house. Kingsley Plantation is about a 25-30 minute drive south of Amelia Island. Cost: Free admission to Kingsley Plantation (part of National Park Service). Lunch $40-60 for two. Allow 3-4 hours including travel.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Treat yourselves to an exquisite dinner at Lagniappe (4810 First Coast Hwy, Fernandina Beach) known for its modern Southern cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a refined atmosphere. Dinner cost: $100-150 for two.
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Day 4: Island Serenity & Coastal Charm
- Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your day with a leisurely visit to Main Beach Park (2002 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach). Enjoy a relaxed stroll, search for seashells, or simply relax by the ocean. This popular spot offers public restrooms, picnic areas, and often fewer crowds than the main resort beaches further south. Consider walking a bit north or south for more secluded areas. Easily accessible, this activity is free. Allow 2-3 hours.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a casual lunch (e.g., a delicious burger from Hola Cuban Cafe at 117 Centre St in downtown Fernandina Beach, or a wrap from a local deli). Afterwards, head to the Amelia Island Lighthouse (2150 Lighthouse Circle, Fernandina Beach). While interior tours are very limited (usually only on specific Saturdays), you can admire Florida’s oldest operational lighthouse from the exterior and the surrounding grounds. Then, for more nature, take a peaceful walk through Egans Creek Greenway (use the entrance off Atlantic Avenue) on its easy-to-navigate boardwalks and trails, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the serene marshland environment. The lighthouse is about a 5-minute drive from Main Beach, and Egans Creek Greenway is also very close by. Cost: Free for lighthouse exterior view and Egans Creek. Lunch $30-50 for two. Allow 3-4 hours.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a laid-back dinner at Pajama Dave’s Beachside Grill (96076 Wade’s Place, Fernandina Beach) for a classic beach bar atmosphere and good pub fare. Alternatively, for a unique experience, try the diverse menu and vibrant setting of Nana Teresa’s Bake Shop (31 S 3rd St) if you fancy a delicious sandwich/salad and incredible dessert selection. Dinner cost: $50-80 for two.
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Day 5: Farewell Views & Souvenir Sweets
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at a local favorite like Bright Mornings Cafe & Books (105 S 3rd St, Fernandina Beach), known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast fare. After breakfast, take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in downtown Fernandina Beach – perhaps a unique piece of art, a local gourmet food item, or something from the numerous boutiques. If time allows and you haven’t fully explored it, take one last walk along the Fernandina Beach waterfront and soak in the views. Downtown Fernandina Beach is central for this. Cost: Breakfast $30-50 for two. Souvenirs variable ($30-70). Allow 2-3 hours.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM onwards) Check out of your accommodation. Before heading home, grab a final light lunch (e.g., a delicious sandwich from Amelia Island Juice & Cafe at 5337 S Fletcher Ave) and perhaps one last sweet treat from Nana Teresa’s Bake Shop to remember your adventure by. Depart from Amelia Island, refreshed and with lasting memories. Cost: Lunch $20-40 for two. Allow 1-2 hours for lunch and departure prep.
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