Is Amelia Island Worth Visiting? Ultimate Travel Guide
Is Amelia Island worth visiting? If you’re searching for a unique travel destination that offers endless outdoor activities, stunning beaches, and plenty of historical sites to explore, then the answer is definitely yes!
Whether you’re planning on going solo or with friends as a getaway, there are so many things to do on Amelia Island.
From kayaking in the marshes and enjoying breathtaking sunsets at Fort Clinch State Park to taking tours through historic Fernandina Beach – this island will keep your itinerary full from start to finish.
We’ve broken down exactly why we think it’s absolutely worth visiting Amelia Island and what you can expect if you do decide to visit.
( Some of the links in this post are probably affiliate links meaning I might make a small percentage of any purchases you make. All opinions remain my own. For my disclosure policy click here. )
Why Visit Amelia Island?
Florida has so many great places to visit, so why Amelia Island?
Amelia Island is an incredible destination, often thought of as a hidden gem in the Sunshine State.
Located off the coast of Northern Florida, this barrier island offers visitors plenty to do and see. From its beautiful and clean beaches to its rich history and lack of heavy crowds, Amelia Island is a destination people love and keep coming back to.
Why should you visit Amelia Island?
- 13 Miles of beautiful coastline and beaches to relax or stroll along (white sand beaches included!)
- Fascinating history and historic spots to visit such as Fort Clinch State Park or even St. Mary’s Submarine Museum, which houses artifacts from WWII.
- Unique restaurants and food culture – everything from seafood shacks serving fresh catches straight out of local waters to upscale bistros offering gourmet dishes.
Things To Do on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the outdoors and take in all of the beauty of nature.
From kayaking in the marshlands, fishing off the shore, or simply taking in the beauty of its natural surroundings, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy while visiting this beautiful island.
1. Go Kayaking on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is home to some stunning marshlands and waterways which make it perfect for a kayaking adventure.
You can take a guided tour with an experienced guide who will show you around the area and provide insight into local wildlife. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent your own kayak and explore on your own.
We recommend the Amelia Island Kayaking Tour, where visitors will explore the area’s beautiful black water with its reflective properties and journey through the lush waterways while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
A professional naturalist guide will lead the way, ensuring that everyone gets the most out of their 2 hour kayaking experience.
This is an easy paddling and Eco-friendly experience where you’ll get a true taste of “Old Florida.” Best of all, after the tour everyone will get a complimentary photo memory album with photos taken during the tour.
2. Fish Off The Coast
If fishing is more your thing, Amelia Island has plenty of opportunities for anglers too.
With miles of coastline as well as several freshwater lakes, there are ample chances to catch something special during your stay here.
Whether you’re looking for deep sea game fish or just want to relax with some light tackle fishing from shore – Amelia Island has it all.
Peter’s Point Beach is a popular fishing spot to check out if fishing is on the itinerary for your trip.
3. Horseback Riding on the Beach
Horseback riding on the beach in Amelia Island is an unforgettable experience. The island’s scenic beaches are perfect for riding, with soft sandy shorelines that stretch out into the peaceful Atlantic Ocean.
Amelia Island State Park is the only state park in Florida that offers visitors the opportunity for a horseback riding experience along its beaches.
Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or just getting started, Amelia Island’s horseback riding experiences will leave you with a cool experience that isn’t offered just anywhere.
4. Visit Fernandina Beach
Fernandina Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beautiful charms of the south.
Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach offers an atmosphere of warmth, beauty and history. The town’s downtown area is a delightful village full of quaint shops, perfect for strolling and antique shopping.
It is also one of the best-kept secrets in the south, and a great place to explore. Visit historic shops, restaurants, and art galleries in Fernandina Beach’s lovely Old Town downtown district. Or head down to Main Beach Park for some of the area’s premiere beachfront access.
5. Take a Boat Tour of Amelia Island’s Waterways
Visiting Amelia Island is an unforgettable experience and taking a boat tour of its waterways makes it all the more special. Riptide Watersports offers the Fernandina Beach CraigCat Boat Tour of Amelia Island that you cannot miss!
Whether you’ve never been boating before or are an experienced captain, rest assured, they guarantee a safe and enjoyable journey! With small groups, you can intimately explore this stunning island without any overcrowding and truly appreciate your experience.
The expert guides are from the area and have a wealth of knowledge to share about the local wildlife, landmarks and historic sites along the tour route. You may even get to see some wild dolphins near the boats!
Plus, you get to drive your own boat (like driving a Go-Karts on the water) through these winding waterways, taking in sights like Fort Clinch State Park and the historic Dungeness Ruins with its wild horses.
6. Explore Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Amelia Island.
Set amidst a sprawling 1,400 acre landscape of maritime hammocks and lush salt marshes, this stunning state park is known for its rich history and breathtaking views.
The park’s namesake fort dates back to 1847 and has been carefully preserved, offering visitors a chance to explore the fort’s grounds and experience a glimpse of its past.
Visitors can also take advantage of the many amenities offered at Fort Clinch State Park, including swimming, fishing, camping, hiking trails and so much more!
7. Indulge In Some World Class Golf
Amelia Island is home to some of the most incredible golf courses in the world.
Its rolling dunes, lush greens, and beautiful scenery make it a paradise for golfers.
Tom Fazio Golf Course is known for being one of the most challenging, but beautiful, courses in the country, with renowned architect Tom Fazio having designed all 18 of its holes.
Some of the best players in the world have been known to come to Amelia Island for a game or two.
Whether you’re a professional or just want to take in the beauty of this place, golfing on Amelia Island is an experience like no other.
Tip: Two popular golf courses to check out are the Amelia River Golf Club and the above mentioned Tom Fazio Golf Course.
8. Bike Through Egan’s Creek Greenway
A visit to Amelia Island is not complete without seeing the beauty of Egan’s Creek Greenway.
No matter what kind of cyclist you are, this scenic Greenway provides plenty of opportunities for a great biking experience.
Biking this tranquil area gives you a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere that make this place so special.
As one of the few remaining natural areas on Amelia Island, Egan’s Creek Greenway is a great place to observe the local wildlife, including turtles, birds, and even dolphins.
With its winding trails and picturesque views of marshes, meadows, and tidal creeks, this spectacular greenway is certainly worth visiting.
From outdoor activities to historic sites, Amelia Island has something for everyone. We couldn’t even fit all of the fun things to do on Amelia Island into this list without overwhelming you!
Next, let’s explore where to stay on the island so you can make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay on Amelia Island
Are you looking for a place to stay on Amelia Island? From luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, here are our top picks for places to stay on Amelia Island.
Best Resorts, Hotels, and Bed & Breakfast:
- Best Luxury Resort: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
- Best Budget Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Fernandina Beach
- Best Bed and Breakfast: The Addison on Amelia Island
Best Vacation Rentals:
Another great option is to check out vacation rentals. These are a great option if you want some extra space while still having all the comforts of home such as fully equipped kitchens and living areas.
We recommend using VRBO which often has cheaper rates than Airbnb.
Best Camping:
For those who enjoy camping outdoors under starry skies, Fort Clinch State Park is an ideal destination. Visitors can camp overnight along its pristine beaches or pitch their tents in designated campsites within its 635 acres of parkland filled with wildlife trails perfect for hiking or biking adventures during the day.
Where to Eat on Amelia Island
If you’re looking for the foodie scene of Amelia Island, there is a lot! Here’s our take on the best places to eat while visiting Amelia Island. It’s not ALL the places, but it’s some of the best (in our humble opinions).
Breakfast on Amelia Island
- Amelia Island Coffee – grab a coffee, biscuits and gravy or even a breakfast quesadilla in this cute little local coffee shop downtown.
207 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 - Beach Diner Fernandina Beach – Budget friendly breakfast spot with all types of breakfast includes like smoked salmon with a bagel, grits, yogurts, fruits, and pancakes. They even have cold brew and freshly squeezed OJ.
2006 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Lunch on Amelia Island
- Salty Pelican Bar & Grill – Cool, laid back vibe with great views of Amelia River that offers incredible seafood such as crab cakes or even fried shrimp or oysters.
12 N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 - Hola! Cuban Cafe – Reasonably priced cafe with great outdoor seating that serves up empanadas, cuban sandwiches and so much more!
31 S 5th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Dinner on Amelia Island
- España – serves up award-winning tapas and paella paired with earthy and spicy wines from Spain and Portugal. The atmosphere here is warm and inviting – perfect for sharing small plates with friends or family.
22 S 4th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 - Le Clos – cozy cottage ambiance that combines fresh local seafood with delicacies native to France like escargots (snails). Their menu also features plenty of other French favorites like steak tartare and duck confit.
20 S 2nd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
How to Get Around Amelia Island
Getting around Amelia Island is pretty convenient considering this barrier island isn’t over the top wide in distance. Several areas are only about a quarter-mile wide, making it pretty easy to get around, even if you don’t have access to a car.
Here are some tips on how to get around this gorgeous island.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Amelia Island. While we think it’s possible to enjoy the Island without a car, it definitely makes it easier to go at your own pace with one.
Whether or not you need a car will depend directly on where you stay on the island and also what you plan on doing while there. Not everyone needs to rent a car here, but it’s also completely dependent on you and your visit!
If you end up wanting to rent a car, we highly recommend checking out Discover Cars, a rental company that offers competitive rates and a wide variety of vehicles to choose from.
Tip: Book your car in advance to you score the best deal and make sure you have the right vehicle you need!
Public Transportation
If renting a car isn’t an option, there are public transportation options available on Amelia Island as well.
The island has both bus and trolley services (check out the Island Hopper) that run throughout the day at regular intervals with stops at all major attractions along the way.
You can also take advantage of taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft if needed.
Rent Bikes
For those looking for an eco-friendly way to get around Amelia Island, bikes are a great alternative.
Bikes can be rented from local shops. We recommend checking out Pedego bike rentals or SuperCorsa Cycles while on Amelia Island.
From walking to biking, there are plenty of ways to get around Amelia Island. Next, let’s look at when the best time is to visit this beautiful destination.
When to Visit Amelia Island
The best time to visit Amelia Island depends on what type of traveler you are and what activities you plan on doing while there.
In general, Florida has pretty moderate temperatures throughout the year compared to other areas in the US. However, Amelia Island is a bit further north in the state, meaning the temperatures do dip a bit lower than other areas in Florida.
For overall visits, we recommend visiting from March to June for mild temperatures. The Spring and Summer months are the most popular times to visit the island.
Spring months in Amelia Island can mean temperatures from low 50’s to high 80’s during the day. Summer months can bring temperatures that can range from the 70’s to 90’s (Fahrenheit) during the day.
When to Visit for Different Travelers:
- Beach Lovers will most likely appreciate the warmers summer months, although there are still warm temps in May/June or September during the non summer months.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts who want to explore via kayak or on bikes might appreciate visiting during the spring months with milder temperatures and less humidity.
- Whale Lovers should plan to visit from November through March as this is when whales start coming through these warmer waters.
- Food Lovers should plan to come during the winter months in January for Restaurant week – incredible restaurants with fixed menus.
No matter when you decide to visit Amelia Island, one thing remains true: it will always offer something special for any type of traveler.
Tips for Visiting Amelia Island
Here’s a list of our best tips for visiting Amelia Island. No one wants to be caught off-guard with surprises, so hopefully we can prevent any for you with these!
- Weather can be unpredictable here, it’s important to pack layers that can accommodate both warm and cool temperatures.
- Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket or umbrella during the summer months! It’s especially rainy during these times.
- Hotels might have other kinds of fees, like daily resort fees, so make sure you read the fine print before booking a room.
- Beware of Alligators on the island – if you’re not from the area you might not be familiar but alligators like to soak up sun near areas of water. Don’t bring dogs or small children near lakes and other water sources.
- Consider buying travel insurance prior to your trip in case of something unexpected such as lost luggage or medical emergencies.
- Bring bug spray. Enough said.
- Alcohol isn’t allowed on the beach, and do not bring anything glass to the beach!
How to Get to Amelia Island
Getting to Amelia Island is fairly easy.
Jacksonville International Airport is the closest major airport, just a 30 minute drive away.
If you’re driving, take exit 373 off I-95 and turn east on Florida’s scenic A1A for the 15-mile drive to the island. After crossing the bridge over the Intercoastal Waterway, you’ll be there!
Check out an airport shuttle service such as Amelia Airport Shuttle & Transportation for a stress free service to the island without renting a car.
FAQs: Visiting Amelia Island
Yes, Amelia Island is worth visiting! From its beautiful beaches to its historic downtown area, Amelia Island has something for everyone. There are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and biking as well as cultural experiences such as art galleries and museums.
Spring months of March through May are a great time to visit the island. The weather is mild and temperatures range from 60’s to low 80’s. There are also fewer crowds and less humidity, so it’s perfect for anyone looking to spend extra time outdoors.
Amelia Island is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike because of the pristine and generally under-crowded beaches. There’s also a ton of history to explore and an endless amount of outdoor activities like biking or kayaking or even horseback riding on the beach!
With its rich history dating back to 1562 when it was first discovered by French explorers, Amelia Island offers something for everyone from culture buffs to nature lovers alike. There are 13 miles of pristine coastline along with the island being home to a variety of wildlife like sea turtles or dolphins!
Wrapping Up: Is Amelia Island Worth Visiting?
No matter what type of traveler you are – whether it be someone who loves relaxing on pristine beaches or someone who enjoys exploring historical sites – Amelia Island has something special waiting just around every corner.
So if you’re asking yourself “is Amelia Island worth visiting?” The answer is yes!
We hope you have an incredible vacation at this hidden gem of Florida. Hopefully it will stay hidden for a little longer. 😉
