The Complete Amelia Island Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your perfect Florida island getaway in 2025
Why Amelia Island is Florida's Best-Kept Secret
Tucked away at the northeastern tip of Florida, Amelia Island offers something increasingly rare: an authentic coastal escape without the tourist overload. With 13 miles of pristine beaches, a Victorian-era downtown, and the only city in America to have been under eight different flags, this barrier island delivers the perfect blend of relaxation, history, and adventure.
Unlike crowded destinations like Miami Beach or overtouristed Key West, Amelia Island maintains its small-town charm while offering world-class amenities. You'll find Ritz-Carlton luxury alongside family-owned seafood shacks, championship golf courses next to untouched nature preserves, and beaches where you can actually find a quiet spot even in peak season.
Amelia Island at a Glance
What Makes Amelia Island Special
The Beaches: Wide, uncrowded, and perfect for everything from sandcastle building to horseback riding. Yes, you can actually ride horses on the beach here – one of the few places in Florida where it's allowed.
The History: Fernandina Beach's 50-block historic district features stunning Victorian architecture, making it one of the best-preserved downtowns in the Southeast.
The Food: As the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, Amelia Island takes its seafood seriously. From upscale waterfront dining to no-frills shrimp shacks, you'll eat well here.
The Pace: This is a place that moves slower by design. No high-rises blocking the beach views, no spring break chaos, no chain restaurants dominating the dining scene.
When to Visit Amelia Island
Unlike many Florida destinations with a single peak season, Amelia Island offers year-round appeal with distinct advantages in each season.
Spring
March – MayBest Overall
- Perfect weather: 75-85°F
- Low humidity
- Shrimp Festival in May
- Highest occupancy
$380-420/night
Summer
June – AugustBest for Families
- Hot & sunny: 85-92°F
- Warmest water (82-84°F)
- School vacation friendly
- Afternoon storms
$280-340/night
Fall
September – NovemberBest Value
- Pleasant: 70-80°F
- Fewer crowds
- Great hotel deals
- Book Festival
$220-280/night
Winter
December – FebruaryBest Deals
- Mild: 55-70°F
- Escape northern cold
- Lowest prices
- Great for golf
$180-250/night
Where to Stay on Amelia Island
From luxury resorts to cozy vacation rentals, accommodations for every budget and travel style.
Luxury Resorts
World-class properties like the Ritz-Carlton and Omni with full-service spas, golf courses, and beachfront access.
From $380/night
View Luxury Options
Beachfront Hotels
Wake up steps from the sand. Mid-range properties with ocean views, pools, and direct beach access.
From $220/night
View Beachfront Hotels
Vacation Rentals
Beach houses, condos, and cottages perfect for families. Full kitchens and a home-away-from-home feel.
From $180/night
View RentalsTop Things to Do on Amelia Island
From unique beach experiences to historic sites, here's what you can't miss during your visit.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
One of the few places in Florida where you can ride horses directly on the beach. Kelly Seahorse Ranch offers guided tours along the shoreline.
Learn More
Fort Clinch State Park
Explore a remarkably preserved Civil War-era fort, walk pristine beaches, fish from the pier, or hike 6 miles of nature trails.
Learn MoreMore Top Activities
Amelia Island Beaches
Thirteen miles of wide, uncrowded beaches – each with its own character and appeal.
Main Beach Park
The most accessible beach with parking, restrooms, playground, and the iconic beach boardwalk. Perfect for families.
Best for FamiliesFernandina Beach
Wide stretches near downtown with easy access to shops and restaurants. Great for a beach-to-dinner day.
Near DowntownFort Clinch Beach
Quieter beach within the state park. Popular for shelling, shark tooth hunting, and watching ships pass.
Best for ShellingWhere to Eat on Amelia Island
From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to upscale Southern cuisine, Amelia Island's dining scene punches well above its weight.
🦐 Seafood & Local Favorites
As the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, you'll find some of Florida's best seafood here. Try Timoti's for casual waterfront dining or The Salty Pelican for local atmosphere.
🍽️ Fine Dining
For special occasions, Salt at The Ritz-Carlton delivers exceptional cuisine, while downtown's Lulu's offers upscale Southern comfort food.
☕ Casual & Coffee
Start your morning at Amelia Island Coffee or grab a casual lunch at T-Ray's Burger Station, a local institution since 1983.
How to Get to Amelia Island
By Air
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is the closest major airport, just 30 miles south (45 minutes by car). It's served by all major airlines including Delta, American, United, Southwest, and JetBlue.
By Car
Amelia Island is easily accessible via I-95. Take Exit 373 (A1A East) and follow signs to Amelia Island.
Getting Around the Island
While a car is recommended for exploring, the island is manageable. Downtown Fernandina Beach is very walkable, and many resorts offer shuttle services. Bike rentals are popular for beach cruising.
💡 Pro Tip
Rent a car at JAX airport for the best rates and flexibility. Uber/Lyft service to the island can be unreliable and expensive.
Ready to Plan Your Amelia Island Trip?
Start with accommodations – everything else falls into place from there.