The Perfect Weekend Getaway to Amelia Island
Looking for the perfect weekend escape? This 2-3 day Amelia Island itinerary packs the best experiences into one unforgettable weekend—horseback riding on the beach, historic downtown charm, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets.
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Sunset
Check in, hit the beach, and end with a memorable dinner in historic downtown
Check-In & Settle In
Arrive and check into your hotel. Best areas: Downtown Fernandina Beach (walkable to restaurants) or Main Beach area (easy beach access).
Beach Time at Main Beach
Quick dip in the ocean, walk along 13 miles of pristine shoreline, collect shells, and spot dolphins. Main Beach Park has parking, restrooms, and easy access.
Parking $2/hourSunset Viewing
Watch the sunset from Fort Clinch State Park pier (best views), Seaside Park, or your hotel beach. Summer sunsets around 8:15 PM, winter around 5:30 PM.
Dinner in Downtown Fernandina
Enjoy fresh seafood at one of downtown's excellent restaurants. 29 South for upscale waterfront dining, Timoti's for casual beach vibes, or The Surf for oceanfront views.
$50-80 for twoEvening Stroll on Centre Street
Walk off dinner exploring boutique shops (open until 9 PM on weekends) and grab dessert at Fantastic Fudge—they have 40+ flavors with free samples!
Day 2: Full Day Adventure
The highlight day—horseback riding, Fort Clinch, downtown exploration, and sunset cruise
Horseback Riding on the Beach
The #1 TripAdvisor activity! Kelly Seahorse Ranch offers 1.5-hour beach rides. One of only a handful of US beaches where this is allowed. No experience needed.
$95/personFort Clinch State Park
Explore this Civil War-era fort with self-guided tours, climb for panoramic ocean views, walk the 1,500-foot fishing pier, and enjoy a quieter beach.
$6/vehicleLunch Break
Quick bites at Tasty's Fresh Burgers or Green Turtle Tavern. For sit-down, try Florida House Inn—the oldest hotel in Florida.
Historic Downtown Fernandina
Explore 50+ shops and boutiques along Centre Street in Victorian-era buildings. Don't miss Book Loft and Peterbrooke Chocolatier.
Sunset Cruise
2-hour sunset sail with Amelia River Cruises ($65/person, includes champagne) or dolphin eco-tour ($45/person).
$45-65/personSplurge Dinner
Ritz-Carlton Salt for oceanfront fine dining, Brett's Waterway Cafe for live music, or Le Clos for intimate French bistro.
$60-120/personDay 3: Leisurely Morning & Departure
Peaceful beach walk, brunch, and last-minute exploring before heading home
Early Beach Walk
Peaceful morning walk. High tide brings treasures for shell collecting. Watch for dolphins feeding close to shore!
Check Out & Brunch
Florida House Inn for Southern breakfast buffet, Beech Street Grill for upscale brunch, or Salty Pelican for quick açai bowls.
$18-35/personLast-Minute Activities
Kayak tour through marshes ($55/person), rent bikes for the 8-mile trail ($25/day), or enjoy one last beach swim.
Departure
Jacksonville Airport is 45-60 min, Atlanta 5 hours, Orlando 2.5 hours. Last stops: Fantastic Fudge or Timoti's fish tacos for the road.
💰 Budget Breakdown
Here's what you can expect to spend for 2 people:
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Hotel (2 nights @ $175-220) | $350-440 |
| Dining (all meals) | $280-320 |
| Horseback riding (2 people) | $190 |
| Fort Clinch entry | $6 |
| Sunset cruise (2 people) | $90-130 |
| Parking, tips, misc | $50-70 |
| TOTAL | $966 - $1,156 (or $483-578/person) |
💡 Insider Tips
🎒 Packing List
Beach Essentials
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Sunglasses
- Beach towels
- Swimsuit
- Flip-flops
For Horseback Riding
- Closed-toe shoes (required)
- Long pants
- Waterproof phone bag
Evening Wear
- Resort casual outfits
- Light jacket
- Walking shoes
Practical Items
- Cash for tips
- Camera
- Quarters for parking