Amelia Island is a blend of natural beauty, history, and relaxed island vibes. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time on this picturesque island.
Getting Here
Amelia Island is easily accessible by car or plane.
- By Car: If you’re driving, Amelia Island is located just off Interstate 95. Depending on your starting point, you can reach the island from major cities like Jacksonville (about 45 minutes), Orlando (about 3 hours), or Atlanta (about 6 hours).
- By Plane: The closest major airport is Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which is about a 30-minute drive from Amelia Island. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the island.
Where to Stay
Amelia Island offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
- Beachfront Resorts: Enjoy ocean views, easy beach access, spas, restaurants, shopping, and more at luxurious resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island or Omni Amelia Island Resort.
- Hotels and Motels: Lay your head at a chain hotel that’s as familiar to your heart as it is your wallet. There are plenty to choose from.
- Bed & Breakfasts: Step back in time and experience southern hospitality at charming B&B’s loaded with history and ambiance.
- Vacation Rentals: For a home-away-from-home experience, consider renting a beachfront condo or a cottage in the historic district.
Things to Do
Make memories on land, water and air… leaving behind the routine of everyday life.
1. Explore the Beaches:
- Main Beach Park: Where all the action is. Perfect for sunbathing and family picnics, with amenities like restrooms, showers, putt putt, volleyball courts, and even a skate park.
- Secluded Beaches: For quieter more natural surroundings, drive or bike to Fort Clinch State Park, North Beach Park, or any one of the many public beach accesses.
2. Discover History and Culture:
- Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach: Stroll through Victorian-era streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, ice cream/candy stores, and eclectic restaurants.
- Museums: Learn about the island’s fascinating past, from Spanish explorers and pirates, to Gilded Age millionaires and Florida’s historic African-American beach.
3. Outdoor Activities:
- A Day on the Water: Explore the island’s marshes and waterways with guided kayak tours or rentals; head out to sea with a fishing charter; or, take a river cruise for dolphin sightseeing at its finest.
- A Day on the Links: With 99 holes of world-class golf, Amelia Island is one of LINKS Magazine’s “Top 25 Golf Islands in the World.” Five championship golf courses… play one or play them all.
4. Dining and Nightlife:
- Diverse Restaurants: Amelia Island is not just a paradise for beach lovers, it’s also a haven for “foodies”. Whether it’s a mom & pop breakfast joint or AAA Five Diamond award-winning ocean front restaurant, you’re bound to find something you love. Fresh local seafood, Spanish, Asian, Italian or American cuisine. It’s all good.
- Bars and Breweries: Amelia Island is loaded (no pun intended) with eclectic places to partake in adult beverages. Everything from craft breweries and taverns to a distillery and a funky beer & wine garden named after a guy that wears pajamas all day. Nope, I’m not making that up.
Events and Festivals
Amelia Island features a vibrant calendar of festivals and events that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups.
- Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival: Amelia Island is known as the Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry so it’s no surprise that we hold an annual festival every May to honor our favorite crustacean. The weekend-long festival has arts & crafts, live entertainment, pirates, and shrimp. Lots and lots of shrimp!
- Amelia Island Concours Week: A world-renowned classic car show held in March, showcases vintage automobiles, auctions, ride & drive experiences, and Sunday’s Amelia Concours d’Elegance held against the backdrop of the stunning Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
Practical Tips
- Weather: Amelia Island enjoys a mild climate year-round, but summers can be hot and humid. Pack sunscreen and light clothing.
- Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for getting around the island and nearby attractions at your own pace. However, there are other cool ways to sightsee and explore.
- Reservations: Make restaurant and activity reservations, especially during peak season, to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in nature, or a taste of history and culture, Amelia Island offers something for everyone. Prepare to be enchanted by its beauty and hospitality—your unforgettable island getaway awaits!