Top 15 Activities in Fernandina Beach, Florida

Fernandina Beach is a remarkable city located in the northeast region of Florida. This charming destination resides on Amelia Island, just across the Cumberland Sound from Georgia.

The city’s origins date back to the 19th century, with the stunning waterfront fortified by a Civil War-era stronghold. Fernandina Beach features an exceptionally picturesque downtown area that opens onto the expansive lower sections of the Amelia River.

The marina serves as a conduit to the splendid estuarine habitats surrounding the area and is an ideal vantage point for enjoying sunset views over the marshes. On the ocean side of the island, wide sandy beaches epitomize the Atlantic coastline.

Several access points are available, with Main Beach Park centrally located as a tranquil oasis.

1. Centre Street

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Centre Street boasts a vibrant main thoroughfare, characterized by charming Victorian-era storefronts that have thrived for more than 150 years.

This tree-lined avenue features shaded sidewalks, an abundance of brick architecture, and a considerable selection of shops and restaurants. The breathtaking sunsets alone justify a visit to this location.

Extending over eight blocks and culminating at the marina with lovely views of the Amelia River, visitors will find galleries, antique shops, fashion boutiques, and delightful gift stores.

The downtown area is replete with a diverse array of dining establishments. There is certainly something to satisfy every palate—southern-style seafood, tapas, Cuban, Mexican, Mediterranean, barbecues, Italian, burgers, and much more.

2. Fort Clinch State Park

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Securing the entrance to Cumberland Sound at the northernmost tip of Amelia Island, Fort Clinch has been preserved through the years.

This site has been fortified since the 1730s, with the existing structure dating to the mid-19th century. It served as a refuge for Confederate blockade runners during the Civil War.

Restored by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, the fort serves as the centerpiece of a 1,400-acre park. Inside the fortification, various historic structures house museum exhibits, and costumed reenactors provide engaging historical insights.

While this historic location should be a top priority, the natural surroundings hold much beauty as well.

Notably, the ancient maritime hammocks feature impressive live oaks. The waterfront scenery is equally stunning, and visitors can search the beaches for unique shells and shark teeth.

3. Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival

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Taking place over the first weekend in May, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival has been a prominent annual event in Fernandina Beach for more than 60 years. Seafood undoubtedly occupies the spotlight at this festival.

Non-profit and civic organizations offer a delectable variety of shrimp dishes, ranging from popcorn shrimp to shrimp gumbo.

What I appreciate is that none of the vendors at the Food Festival are commercial enterprises, ensuring that the proceeds support worthy causes.

Throughout downtown Fernandina Beach, attendees can enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, pageants, fireworks, and a vibrant parade. This distinctive festival is a significant draw for individuals of all ages and interests.

4. Main Beach Park

Numerous public access points dot the oceanfront of Fernandina Beach; however, Main Beach Park stands out for its convenient location and comprehensive amenities by the entrance to Fort Clinch State Park.

At the terminus of Atlantic Avenue, this park is a destination where one could easily spend an entire day from dawn to dusk. The highlight is the expansive band of soft, white sand, caressed by the Atlantic waves.

To enhance visitor comfort, a wealth of amenities is available. Options include mini-golf, bike rentals, a skate park, and an impressive variety of dining choices for a public park.

Casual dining options such as Salt Life Food Shack exist alongside the more upscale Sandbar & Kitchen, the only full-service restaurant along Amelia Island’s beachfront.

5. Sounds on Centre

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The Sounds on Centre concert series, located at the corner of 2nd and Centre, is organized by the Fernandina Beach Business and Historic Association.

Taking place on the first Friday of each month from April to October, these free concerts showcase various musical genres.

Accompanied by a selection of delicious food and family-friendly activities, these events often coincide with festivals and parades.

Typically, concerts commence at 6 PM and last until approximately 8 PM, with a portion of food and arts and crafts sales proceeds benefiting local civic organizations and scholarships.

6. The Amelia Island Museum of History

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This exceptional local history museum is uniquely housed in a historic Nassau County Jail (built in 1938) and is notable for being largely a spoken museum—the first of its kind in the state.

While numerous exhibits and artifacts are displayed, most information is conveyed through the knowledgeable docents who provide guided tours.

This experience is distinct and offers a refreshing change from conventional history museums.

Most of the information shared focuses on the Timucua Native Americans who inhabited the region and the French and Spanish explorers who first arrived in the area.

7. Peters Point Beachfront Park

This beachfront park, located just beyond the municipal airport, is another excellent public beach access point.

Peters Point Park features ample parking, and although vehicles are permitted on the beach, non-residents must obtain a permit.

Crossing over the dunes, a broad stretch of soft white sand greets visitors, complete with gentle rolling waves that create a vast shallow area. The designated swimming area stretches several hundred feet and is complemented by indoor/outdoor showers and picnic facilities.

This beach is also a favorable spot for hunting shark teeth, and horseback riding tours commence from this location.

8. Egans Greek Greenway

East of the downtown area, Fernandina Beach contains significant natural preserves along the banks of Ron Sapp Egans Creek. A network of multi-use trails, which opened in 2000, meanders alongside the creek.

At the northern terminus near Main Beach Park, these trails traverse through hardwood hammocks and salt marshes. Heading further south leads visitors through coastal hammocks and restored freshwater swamps.

There are numerous vantage points to appreciate the beautiful views. A downloadable trail map and brochure offer insights into the diverse species that may be encountered, including over 200 documented bird species in the area.

9. Amelia River Cruises

One highly recommended experience while in Fernandina Beach is taking a boat tour. This method provides an intimate view of the enchanting scenery of the Amelia River estuary and the surrounding Cumberland Island.

Sailing from the Fernandina Harbor Marina, Amelia River Cruises offers expert-guided tours that explore the area’s spectacular beaches, salt marshes, and historic riverbanks.

On narrated excursions, passengers may spot various wildlife, ranging from manatees to wild horses, gaining a deeper appreciation for Amelia Island and its surroundings.

A variety of tours are available, including a brief yet delightful sunset cruise and a thorough exploration of Cumberland Island.

10. Amelia Island Horseback Riding

Since 1993, this company has provided horseback adventures through Amelia Island’s stunning coastal landscapes. Catering to beginners, they offer gentle horses and attentive guides.

A wide selection of public and private tours is available, but a sunset ride creates an unforgettable memory. During this hour-long excursion, attendees can witness the sky transform in subtle hues of pink, orange, and gold, reflected in the water by the beach.

Likewise, taking a sunrise ride from Peters Point Beachfront Park allows for breathtaking views of the sun rising above the Atlantic, where guides can highlight memorable encounters, including breaching dolphins and nesting sea turtles.

11. Fernandina Beach Market Place

Located just off Centre Street in downtown, the vibrant Fernandina Beach Farmers Market operates every Saturday from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, rain or shine.

Distinct from many farmers’ markets, this private enterprise has thrived as a regular event for over a decade.

While browsing the vendors, visitors will find an abundance of fresh produce, seasonings, jams, seafood, plants, salsas, fresh breads, and baked goods.

Dining options span from tacos and Chicago-style pizza to vegan specialties and egg rolls. Live music enhances the market atmosphere weekly, with an arts and crafts market operating on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

12. Amelia Island Welcome Center

In summarizing the breadth of activities available in Fernandina Beach, a visit to the Amelia Island Welcome Center is a wise way to start your exploration.

This center is uniquely situated within Fernandina Beach’s historic passenger depot, a dignified relic from the Gilded Age, constructed in 1899 following the destruction of its predecessor by a hurricane.

Visitors can discover more about David Levy Yulee, a prominent senator and railroad magnate, while also viewing the eight flags that have previously flown over Fernandina Beach.

This welcome center is an excellent resource for obtaining information about local attractions, tours, dining, lodging, events, and much more.

13. Green Turtle Tavern

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Embodying the city’s reputation as a relaxed, bohemian destination, the Green Turtle Tavern is a popular nightlife venue filled with character.

Conveniently located in the historic downtown area, it is celebrated for its selection of local and regional beers, in addition to margaritas, mojitos, and other cocktails.

The inviting porch offers a cozy ambiance during the evening, featuring games like ping pong and cornhole, along with engaging live music that attracts crowds nightly.

14. Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve

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Located south of Amelia Island, this extensive national preserve features a diverse landscape, including salt marshes, estuaries, dunes, and hardwood hammocks.

Historic points of interest include Kingsley Plantation (established in 1798) and the remnants of the settlement at Fort Caroline. Both sites provide engaging educational insights into the region’s past.

Visitors will learn about the pioneers, soldiers, settlers, and enslaved individuals who called this place home centuries ago.

With its four rivers and chain of barrier islands, this preserve is considered one of Florida’s top locations for saltwater paddling, offering numerous miles of creeks to explore. For those without their own vessels, Kayak Amelia provides rental options and guided tours.

15. Fernandina Beach Golf Club

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The city features a respected municipal golf facility situated near the airport, consisting of 27 holes. Each of the three nine-hole courses spans over 3,000 yards from the tips and is surrounded by native vegetation.

During my time on the course, it became evident that considerable attention has been devoted to maintaining the greens and fairways, both of which are in excellent condition and bordered by a mix of pine and oak trees.

Additionally, the facility includes a full-service restaurant and a practice area equipped with state-of-the-art TopTracer technology, providing immediate feedback on your shots and enabling friendly competition.