Why Families Choose Amelia Island for Spring Break
Skip the chaos of Panama City and Daytona. Amelia Island offers everything families want—beautiful beaches, great weather, and plenty to do—without the spring break party scene.
Uncrowded Beaches
13 miles of pristine, family-friendly beaches with plenty of space. No loud music, no rowdy crowds—just sun, sand, and relaxation.
Family-Focused Atmosphere
A wholesome destination with resort kids' programs, nature activities, and attractions that appeal to all ages.
Perfect Spring Weather
Comfortable 70-80°F temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain. Ideal conditions for beach days and outdoor adventures.
Educational Adventures
Fort Clinch State Park, maritime museums, and nature centers make learning fun. Kids explore history and wildlife firsthand.
Unique Experiences
Horseback riding on the beach, dolphin tours, kayaking through marshes—create memories you won't find at typical beach destinations.
Great Dining Options
100+ restaurants from casual beachside spots to upscale seafood. Plenty of kid-friendly options that adults will love too.
Spring Break Weather on Amelia Island
March and April offer some of the best weather of the year—warm enough for the beach, cool enough to explore comfortably.
🌸 March Weather
🌷 April Weather
Top Spring Break Activities for Families
From beach adventures to historic explorations, here's how to fill your spring break with unforgettable experiences.
🐴 Beach Horseback Riding
Amelia Island State Park offers the only beach horseback riding in Florida's state park system. Kids and adults love this bucket-list experience.
🏰 Fort Clinch State Park
Explore a remarkably preserved Civil War-era fort. Rangers in period costumes bring history to life. Plus, great beaches and nature trails.
🐬 Dolphin & Nature Tours
Boat tours through the marshes and inlets to spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and countless shorebirds. Educational and exciting!
🚴 Bike the Island
Rent bikes and explore the island's scenic trails. The Amelia Island Trail connects beaches, parks, and downtown Fernandina Beach.
🦐 Shrimping & Fishing
Book a family fishing charter or try cast-netting for shrimp. Kids love pulling up their catch. Several kid-friendly charter options available.
🏄 Surfing Lessons
Spring swells provide perfect learning conditions. Local surf schools offer lessons for beginners of all ages on gentle waves.
🏛️ Historic Downtown
Stroll the 50-block Victorian district in Fernandina Beach. Ice cream shops, candy stores, toy shops, and the Palace Saloon (Florida's oldest bar!).
🌅 Beach Bonfire
End your day with s'mores on the beach. Several companies offer bonfire setups with everything you need for a magical evening.
Best Hotels for Spring Break Families
From luxury resorts with kids' programs to beachfront rentals with full kitchens, find the perfect base for your family vacation.
Omni Amelia Island Resort
Camp Omni kids' program, multiple pools, beach access, mini golf, and family dining options.
The Ritz-Carlton
Ritz Kids program, stunning beachfront, exceptional dining, and world-class amenities for the whole family.
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Boutique beachfront hotel with direct beach access, pool, and walking distance to Main Beach restaurants.
Hampton Inn & Suites
Great value with free breakfast, pool, and suites with extra space for families. Close to beaches and downtown.
Vacation Rentals
Beach houses and condos with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private pools. Great for extended families.
Seaside Amelia Inn
Cozy beachfront inn with personal service, complimentary breakfast, and beach chairs provided.
Sample 4-Day Spring Break Itinerary
Here's how to make the most of a long weekend on Amelia Island with kids.
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Time
Check into your hotel, hit the beach to let kids burn energy, then sunset dinner at Sliders Seaside Grill. Walk the pier at Main Beach and get ice cream at Fantastic Fudge.
Day 2: Fort Clinch & Historic Downtown
Morning at Fort Clinch State Park exploring the fort and beaches. Lunch in downtown Fernandina Beach, then explore the shops, grab candy at Amelia Island Sweets, and visit the Maritime Museum. Evening beach bonfire with s'mores.
Day 3: Adventure Day
Morning horseback riding on the beach at Amelia Island State Park. Afternoon dolphin tour or kayaking through the marshes. Dinner at The Crab Trap for fresh-catch seafood with waterfront views.
Day 4: Relax & Depart
Sleep in, enjoy resort amenities or one last beach session. Brunch at Café Karibo or Bright Mornings before heading home with incredible family memories.
📅 Spring Break Booking Tips
Book Early
Reserve hotels and activities 2-3 months ahead. Spring break is peak season—the best properties and experiences sell out fast.
Compare Dates
Early March is often cheaper than late March/early April when most schools have break. Flexibility saves money.
Consider Vacation Rentals
For families of 5+, a beach house with kitchen often costs less per night than multiple hotel rooms.
Book Horseback Riding First
This is the most popular activity and fills up weeks in advance. Reserve immediately after booking your hotel.
Rent a Car
While the island is compact, a car gives flexibility for beach hopping, day trips, and restaurant variety.
Pack Smart
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards for extended swimming, and layers for cool evenings.
Spring Break FAQs
Is Amelia Island crowded during spring break?
Amelia Island sees increased visitors during spring break, but nothing like Panama City or Daytona Beach. You'll always find space on the 13 miles of beaches, and the atmosphere remains family-friendly and relaxed. Peak days are typically Saturdays and when local Georgia/Florida schools are on break simultaneously.
Is the water warm enough to swim in March?
The ocean temperature in March averages 64°F—refreshing but swimable for most people. Kids often don't mind and will play for hours. By late April, water temps reach a more comfortable 70°F. Consider bringing rash guards or light wetsuits for extended water play.
What if it rains during our visit?
Spring rain showers are usually brief (30-60 minutes) and often occur in late afternoon. Plan outdoor activities for morning, and have backup plans like bowling at Beach Bowl, movies, the Maritime Museum, or shopping in downtown Fernandina Beach. Rain rarely ruins an entire day.
How does Amelia Island compare to other Florida spring break destinations?
Amelia Island is the anti-party spring break destination. Unlike Panama City Beach, Daytona, or Clearwater, there's no rowdy college crowd, no loud beach clubs, and no spring break chaos. It's perfect for families who want a real vacation, not a scene to navigate around.
Are there spring break deals or packages?
The Omni and Ritz-Carlton often offer spring packages that include kids' activities, dining credits, or resort credits. Check hotel websites directly for spring promotions. Vacation rental sites sometimes offer weekly discounts for 7+ night stays.
What's the closest airport to Amelia Island?
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is just 30 minutes away—one of the most convenient airport-to-beach drives in Florida. You can be on the sand within an hour of landing.
Start Planning Your Spring Break Escape
Don't wait—the best hotels and activities book up fast for spring break. Start planning your family's Amelia Island adventure today.