Quick Comparison
| Category | Amelia Island, FL | St Simons Island, GA | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Length | 13 miles of beaches | 3 miles of beaches | Amelia |
| Village/Downtown | Historic Fernandina Beach (quieter) | St Simons Village (very lively) | St Simons |
| Nightlife | Quiet, limited options | Active bar scene, live music nightly | St Simons |
| Dining | 100+ restaurants (upscale focus) | 50+ restaurants (casual to upscale) | Amelia |
| Luxury Resorts | Ritz-Carlton, Omni Resort | King and Prince Resort, Sea Island nearby | Amelia |
| Family Activities | Fort Clinch, nature parks | Mini golf, pier, bike paths, Neptune Park | St Simons |
| Island Vibe | Relaxed, upscale, quiet | Lively, social, active | Tie (depends on preference) |
🏖️ The Beach Experience
Amelia Island Beaches
- 13 miles of wide, pristine beaches
- Uncrowded, peaceful atmosphere
- Horseback riding at Amelia Island State Park
- Excellent shelling, especially at low tide
- Multiple beach access points
- Sea turtle nesting (May-October)
St Simons Island Beaches
- 3 miles of beach along east coast
- East Beach is the main public beach
- Massengale Park is family-friendly
- Beaches can be more crowded in summer
- Great for families with kids
- Village is walking distance from beach
Bottom line: Amelia Island wins decisively for beach lovers seeking space and solitude. St Simons beaches are smaller but convenient to village amenities.
🌃 Village Life & Nightlife
Fernandina Beach Downtown
- 50-block Victorian historic district
- Charming shops and galleries
- Palace Saloon — Florida's oldest bar
- Quieter evening atmosphere
- Fine dining focus
- Closes relatively early most nights
St Simons Village
- Very walkable, compact village
- Live music most nights at multiple venues
- Active bar scene (Rafters, Village Inn)
- St Simons Pier for sunset views
- Neptune Park with playground, pool, mini golf
- Social, lively atmosphere year-round
Bottom line: St Simons Island is the clear winner for nightlife and village energy. Amelia Island is better if you prefer quiet evenings and early bedtimes.
🏆 The Verdict
Choose Amelia Island If You Want:
- Miles of uncrowded beaches
- Luxury resort experiences (Ritz-Carlton, Omni)
- A peaceful, relaxing getaway
- Horseback riding on the beach
- Upscale dining experiences
- A quieter Victorian downtown
Choose St Simons Island If You Want:
- An active, social atmosphere
- Nightlife and live music
- A walkable village with everything close
- Family-friendly activities (pier, mini golf, pool)
- A more affordable vacation
- Access to Sea Island for a day trip
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Amelia Island from St Simons Island?
About 45 miles, roughly a 1-hour drive via I-95 and US-17. Easy to visit both in one trip!
Which island is better for young couples?
St Simons Island, hands down. The active nightlife, live music scene, and social village atmosphere are perfect for younger couples who want more than just beach time.
Which is more family-friendly?
Both are excellent for families, but in different ways. St Simons has Neptune Park with a playground, pool, mini golf, and the pier. Amelia Island offers more beach space, nature activities, and resort kids' programs.
Which island is more affordable?
St Simons Island generally offers more budget-friendly options for lodging and dining. Amelia Island has more luxury properties that drive up average costs, though both have mid-range options.
What about Sea Island vs Amelia Island?
Sea Island (adjacent to St Simons) is ultra-exclusive with The Cloister resort. It competes directly with Amelia Island's Ritz-Carlton for luxury travelers. Sea Island is more private and members-focused.
Ready to Experience Amelia Island?
Discover why Amelia Island's pristine beaches, world-class resorts, and Southern charm make it the perfect escape from the everyday.