Here’s what you need to know before visiting Amelia Island.
It’s no secret that Florida has some great beach destinations, but Amelia Island is one of its most pristine. Located in northeast Florida along the state’s Atlantic coast, Amelia Island belongs to the Sea Islands chain of barrier islands. It remains popular among families and couples for its luxury resorts, golf courses, abundant native wildlife, and 13 miles of breezy beaches.
A Florida gem that remains quiet and peaceful, even as the rest of the state attracts more visitors, Amelia Island serves as a true retreat for locals and visitors alike.
1. What to Do on Amelia Island
Unsurprisingly, the main attraction on Amelia Island is the beach. However, there are plenty of outdoor activities available, including nature trails, biking, golf, and tennis. With the Atlantic Ocean on its eastern side and the Intracoastal Waterway, Nassau Sound, and Cumberland Sound surrounding it, the island provides ample coastline adorned with gorgeous water views to delight visitors. Moreover, the average temperature of the ocean during the summer is a pleasant 82 degrees, making the beaches perfect for swimming.
Amelia Island is unique as its beaches are comprised of natural Appalachian quartz sand, most of which are framed by sand dunes that can reach heights of 40 feet. Not all Florida beaches are backed by such stunning natural features, making Amelia Island a true coastal paradise.
Main Beach Park showcases iconic sand dunes, complemented by a public boardwalk featuring recreation facilities, including oceanfront mini golf. For nature enthusiasts, Amelia Island State Park boasts 200 acres rich in beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests. With over 40 public beach access points along Amelia Island’s coastline, there is no shortage of exploration opportunities.
As the oldest operational lighthouse in Florida, the Amelia Island Lighthouse—first lit by whale oil in 1838—is a must-see on your visit. While registration for tours is available, please note that climbing the stairs inside the lighthouse is prohibited.
With a rich history influenced by Spanish, French, British, and American cultures, Amelia Island is a haven for history buffs. At nearby Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach, visitors can discover the 19th-century Fort Clinch alongside beautiful ecological features, such as plains and maritime hammocks. Add Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve in Jacksonville and the Dungeness Ruins in nearby Georgia to your itinerary for a complete historical experience. Don’t miss the Amelia Island Museum of History, located inside the old county jail, for a fascinating look at Nassau County’s heritage.
In addition to the beaches and historical sites, Amelia Island offers a variety of activities. Explore bike tours, horseback riding, candle-making, or visit Marlin and Barrel Distillery, a craft distillery known for rum, gin, and bourbon. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Amelia Island Historic District in Fernandina Beach, where Victorian-era architecture and Florida’s oldest bar await. On Amelia Island, you can curate the perfect beach getaway.
2. Where to Stay on Amelia Island
Sprawled across 1,350 acres at Amelia Island’s tip, Omni Amelia Island Resort is renowned for its luxurious oceanfront accommodations. This sumptuous destination features a private 3.5-mile stretch of secluded beach along with classic resort amenities, including on-property dining, multiple pools, 36 holes of championship golf, and a full-service spa. With over 400 oceanfront guest rooms and suites equipped with balconies, this resort offers ample space for families and groups.
Another excellent option is The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, where every room and suite boasts a private balcony and stunning ocean views. This resort includes an 18-hole championship golf course offering private lessons, as well as indoor and outdoor pools with direct beach access and cabanas. The resort naturalist can guide you through the area’s natural beauty, along with exceptional on-resort dining experiences.
Bargain seekers can enjoy a pleasant stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Amelia Island or the quaint, 46-room Seaside Amelia Inn, which is a favorite among visitors.
For a unique experience, consider one of the ten rooms at the Amelia Island Williams House—a charming bed-and-breakfast situated in a historic 19th-century mansion. Guests appreciate the two-course daily breakfast, private baths, and warm Southern hospitality.
3. Best Time to Visit Amelia Island
With year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, Amelia Island is a destination with no bad time for a visit. Many people flock to the island during summer to enjoy hot beach days, while spring and fall also offer beautiful weather. In spring, you’ll find blue skies with average highs in the 70s—perfect for outdoor activities. Conversely, autumn brings cooler weather and reduced rainfall.
Winter on Amelia Island is marked by dry air and comfortable temperatures. The ocean may be too chilly for swimming, but the weather is ideal for golf, tennis, hiking, and biking adventures.
Christmas is a particularly enchanting season to visit Amelia Island. The charming downtown area dazzles with impressive light displays and decorated shop windows, while the docent-led Amelia Island Holiday Home Tour showcases lavishly decorated historic homes. For literature enthusiasts, the Victorian-themed Dickens on Centre Christmas street festival is a must-see. If possible, stay through New Year’s Eve for the annual Shrimp Drop, Florida’s unique twist on the snowy Times Square celebration.
4. Where to Eat and Drink
As with any coastal destination, expect to indulge in fresh seafood, and Amelia Island certainly doesn’t disappoint. Visit Timoti’s Seafood Shak for a casual experience featuring fried shrimp and fresh poke, which is a local favorite.
With a coastal Mediterranean influence, Verandah at the Omni Amelia Island Resort offers delicious house-made pasta and seafood in an elegant setting. For an enchanting dining experience, visit España Restaurant & Tapas, which features traditional Spanish cuisine and seafood that garners rave reviews. For a really lovely ambiance, enjoy your meal in the lush outdoor garden.
Dine by the water at Salt Life Food Shack, The Sandbar & Kitchen, Brett’s Waterway Cafe, or Sliders Seaside Grill, and savor seafood delights while enjoying the ocean breeze.
5. Getting There
For those not in driving distance of Amelia Island, the ideal entry point is Jacksonville International Airport, located only half an hour away by car. Alternatively, Orlando International Airport is a roughly three-hour drive.
Traveling by car? Take I-95 to Exit 373, turn east on A1A, and drive 15 miles. Upon crossing the scenic bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway, the sparkling Atlantic will signal your arrival at Amelia Island.
