Trip at a Glance
3 Days / 2 Nights
Perfect for a long weekend
$600-$1,200
For 2 people (mid-range)
JAX Airport
30 minutes away
Car Recommended
For flexibility
Arrival & Beach Bliss
Get settled, hit the sand, explore downtown
💡 Pro Tip
If you arrive early enough, catch sunset from the Fernandina Beach pier. It's a short walk from downtown and the views are spectacular.
History & Adventure
Fort Clinch, nature, and island experiences
💡 Pro Tip
Book horseback riding ASAP—it's the most popular activity on the island and fills up weeks in advance, especially during peak season.
Relax & Departure
One more beach morning before heading home
💡 Pro Tip
Have a later flight? Use the extra time for one more beach session or rent bikes to cruise the Amelia Island Trail before you go.
Budget Breakdown
Here's what to expect for a 3-day trip for two people.
💰 Estimated Costs (2 People)
🏨 Accommodations (2 nights)
Budget hotels to beachfront resorts
🍽️ Dining
Mix of casual and upscale meals
🎯 Activities
Fort Clinch + 1-2 tours/experiences
🚗 Transportation
Rental car + gas + parking
Total Trip Cost
Depending on accommodation choice and activity level
3-Day Packing Essentials
🏖️ Beach
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Swimsuit(s)
- Beach towel
- Sunglasses
- Hat or visor
- Sandals/flip flops
👕 Clothing
- Light layers (evenings can be cool)
- Casual dinner outfits
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket (just in case)
📱 Essentials
- Phone charger
- Camera
- Reusable water bottle
- Any needed medications
- ID & credit cards
Customize Your Trip
Swap activities based on your interests
🏌️ Golf Lovers
Replace Day 2 afternoon with a round at one of the island's championship courses:
- • Omni Oak Marsh (resort course)
- • Amelia Island Club (members & guests)
- • Fernandina Beach Golf Club (public)
💆 Spa & Relaxation
Trade adventure for pampering:
- • Ritz-Carlton Spa (top-rated)
- • Omni Spa (oceanfront)
- • Pool day at your resort
👨👩👧👦 Family Version
Kid-friendly swaps:
- • Putt-putt at Main Beach mini golf
- • Splash pad at Fernandina park
- • Shell collecting at low tide
- • Ice cream crawl downtown
🍷 Foodies & Wine
Culinary-focused additions:
- • Marlin & Barrel (craft cocktails)
- • Local shrimp boat tours
- • Cooking class at local kitchen
- • Happy hour crawl downtown
3-Day Trip FAQs
Is 3 days enough for Amelia Island?
Yes! Three days is perfect for a first visit. You'll have time for beaches, Fort Clinch, downtown exploration, and 1-2 activities without feeling rushed. That said, many visitors wish they'd planned more days once they arrive—the island has a way of making you want to stay longer.
Do I need a car?
Highly recommended. While you could technically use rideshare, having a car gives you freedom to beach-hop, explore Fort Clinch, and get around easily. The island is about 13 miles long, and attractions are spread out. Rental cars at JAX are reasonably priced.
Best time of year for a 3-day trip?
March through May and September through November offer the best combination of weather and smaller crowds. Summer is peak season with the warmest water but more visitors. Winter is quieter and cooler—still pleasant for beach walks but swimming is chilly.
Where should I stay for a short trip?
For a 3-day trip, stay central! The area around Main Beach or downtown Fernandina puts you within easy reach of everything. The Omni or Ritz-Carlton offer resort amenities if that's your style, while downtown boutique hotels provide walkable access to restaurants and shops.
What should I book in advance?
Definitely: horseback riding (books 2+ weeks out), any fishing charters, and dinner reservations for upscale restaurants. Good to book early: your hotel (especially peak season), dolphin tours, and spa appointments. Can wait: everything else.
Ready to Plan Your 3-Day Trip?
Browse hotels, check out activities, and start building your perfect Amelia Island weekend.