Things to Do on Amelia Island Amelia Island is the kind of place that doesn’t need to shout to impress you. It just lets you slow down, look around, and realize you’re somewhere special. Tucked off Florida’s northeast coast, this laid-back barrier island blends natural beauty, rich history, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting—without ever feeling rushed or overbuilt. Start with the beaches. Amelia Island has miles of wide, uncrowded shoreline where mornings feel quiet and personal, even during peak season. Early risers catch pastel sunrises and dolphin sightings, while afternoons are perfect for long walks, shell hunting, or simply parking a chair and letting the ocean do its thing. Some areas allow beach driving, making it easy to explore stretches of sand that feel untouched. It’s beach life without the chaos. When you’re ready to move inland, head to historic Fernandina Beach. The downtown district is packed with 19th-century architecture, brick streets, and a relaxed small-town vibe. You’ll find locally owned shops, art galleries, coffee spots, and plenty of places to grab lunch or a cold drink. History buffs can dive deeper with walking tours, museums, and stories that trace the island’s past through pirates, shrimping fleets, railroads, and Gilded Age resorts. Outdoor lovers have endless options beyond the sand. Kayaking and paddleboarding through tidal creeks and salt marshes is one of the best ways to experience Amelia Island’s wild side. These calm waterways are home to manatees, birds, and marine life, and they offer a peaceful contrast to the open beach. Nature trails and parks provide easy hikes and bike rides through maritime forests and coastal landscapes that feel a world away from city life. Golf is another big draw here. Amelia Island is known for scenic courses that mix ocean views, rolling fairways, and challenging layouts. Whether you’re a serious golfer planning a dedicated trip or just looking to sneak in a round during vacation, the island offers options for different skill levels—all wrapped in that breezy coastal atmosphere that makes even a tough round feel enjoyable. On the water, fishing and boating are major highlights. Inshore and offshore fishing charters take advantage of the island’s location near rich Atlantic waters, offering chances to reel in everything from redfish to king mackerel. Boating tours and sunset cruises are also popular, especially for visitors who want to see the island from a different angle and soak in the calm, coastal scenery. Food and nightlife round out the experience. Amelia Island punches above its weight when it comes to dining, with everything from casual beachside grills to upscale restaurants focusing on fresh seafood and Southern flavors. Evenings often end with live music at local bars, where the crowd is friendly, the pace is easy, and nobody’s in a hurry to call it a night. What really sets Amelia Island apart is how all of this fits together. You can have a full day—beach in the morning, downtown exploring in the afternoon, sunset on the water, live music at night—without ever feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s a place that invites you to do a lot, or absolutely nothing at all. That’s the magic of Amelia Island. However you choose to spend your time, it meets you right where you are—and makes it hard to leave.
"Beautiful fort, I’ve been coming here for years. Great scenery, right by the water. They have a gift shop and visitor’s center as well. It’s $6 per car to get in and an ad..."
📍 2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Great beach with nice facilities. Place for dogs and kids. In a very pretty section of town. Water was rough today but beautiful nonetheless."
📍 32 N Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"This is my go to beach forever. Parking is great, not crowded at all, lifeguards are nice, they have bbq grills available and picnic area, showers, restrooms, can bring your car..."
📍 4600 Peters Point Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"I very much recommend this tour. The 2 1/2 hour excursion that left the dock at 10 AM was very informative and enjoyable. Our captain and his first mate were knowledgeable about..."
📍 1 N Front St Suite #3, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"This is my happy place I grew up coming out here if you are looking to find shark teeth this is a awesome place to come. The fishing out here is pretty decent for whiting , spad..."
📍 Jimmy Buffett Mem Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA
"Not very many people on the beach right now. There was surf fishing, dog walking, people walking for exercise and a few basking in the sun. It's not like American Beach anymore,..."
📍 95570 Burney Blvd, Amelia Island, FL 32034, USA
"One of our family's favorite places to go! Beautiful walks on the beach not too crowded depending on the time of year. You also can drive your four-wheel drive or all-wheel driv..."
📍 2002 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"The 8 Flags Tour given by Daniel of Amelia Island Historic Tours was great! He journeyed us through the rich history of Fernandina Beach with his expert weaving of storytelling ..."
📍 1 N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"The Fernandina Beach Farmers Market delivers an incredible community experience every single time. The atmosphere is vibrant, well-organized, and packed with quality vendors who..."
📍 N 7th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Great service! Good bikes. Husband and I emailed Riptide about 8 one evening and wanted bikes delivered to hotel the next morning. They were locked up behind the building. Had a..."
📍 5012 1st Coast Hwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Amazing kayak tour to Cumberland Island. Guide was very skilled and very informative! Had the best time! We saw dolphins, a loggerhead turtle and many horses out on the island. ..."
📍 3 S Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"We had an amazing time here!! All the staff was really great! Jess was the best though. She talks you through every step of the process. Very calm. And so excited and fun for ou..."
📍 3990 Centurion Wy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"A wonderful mini golfing experience. In addition to being fairly cozy I loved the atmosphere. The tree cover was great and the water features were fantastic. There were lots of ..."
📍 1550 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Highly recommend. There is a walking trail. Lots of shade & squirrels lol. Nice public restrooms, picnic tables, & a water fountain. It's well worth the trip!"
📍 2490 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"I've booked two tours with J in the past year. One for my boyfriend's birthday in May and the second in October (yesterday) when my cousin was visiting. We had such a great time..."
📍 3 N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"We booked the electric skateboard adventure for my daughter’s 7th birthday and we had a blast! Slightly more challenging for the littles because they aren’t quite as heavy f..."
📍 401 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"My son told me about this hidden gem. They have a great selection of books for adults and children along with a lot of funny cards for all occasions. Their selection is a step..."
📍 1430 Park Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Update: I have been here many times now and come every Saturday I am able to. They just updated the Bunny field with a new fort and helicopter as well. I will add some pictures..."
📍 86588 Goodbread Rd, Yulee, FL 32097, USA
"Volunteers Amazing. While the tour guide talked to us, we felt we were there with the French, English, Spanish, Scottish, and Indians. I want to go back again soon."
📍 233 S 3rd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"5-Star Review for Nikki! Nikki did an amazing Barbie-themed tattoo for my mom who passed away. It was her first glitter tattoo, and she absolutely nailed it!! The detail, the s..."
📍 1683 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"There were 4 of us that took the tour around the island. We had the best time! Jay was great. But it can be a little strenuous if you are pedaling. We all took advantage of the ..."
📍 4800 1st Coast Hwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Last year we met a fellow sailor here as he was anchored near this marina. Well equipped marina with friendly staff and great location to shops and local grocery store. Learn a..."
📍 3 S Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"We booked a 7:30pm sunset ride. Let me tell you it was absolutely amazing! Our guide was awesome she helped us feel very comfortable with our horses. She was so incredibly sweet..."
📍 9600 Peters Point Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"This walk was awesome. If you like nature trails and can't decide between fort clinch and egans creek, Egans creek is the way to go. It really feels like you are nature, fort cl..."
📍 2555 Jasmine St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"This is a historic lighthouse. Sadly it only opens on Saturday from 11:00 -2:00 pm. We got there at 13:00 and were able to listen in to the class provided. We also got a look at..."
📍 215 O Hagan Ln, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Zoe was a skilled and good-natured guide! She knew the river like the back of her hand and was able to identify so much of the wildlife/vegetation. The 3hr tour was perfect. We ..."
📍 463540 FL-200, Yulee, FL 32097, USA
"The goat hike was so much fun! Perfect for my Girl Scout Troop! The girls loved the goats (especially the baby), the swings, and the hammocks. They even provided us with chilled..."
📍 95098 Frank Ward Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Sometimes places are special because of what happened there and not for what remains. While nothing from the former Spanish settlement is still standing, the place is still real..."
📍 201 Estrada St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"We've done our fair share of southern antiquing and this place has far better variety and better than average pricing than plenty of our usual haunts. Their new comic book booth..."
📍 329 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Great welcome center with lovely ladies inside to greet you! Both were very helpful and knowledgeable of the area, they had free stickers to give out, brochures and maps for eve..."
📍 102 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"The museum is ran by lovely staff who are extremely knowledgeable of A.L. Lewis and the American Beach. The rich history and culture of the beach makes it a special place to all..."
📍 1600 Julia St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"The Pinball Museum is a hidden gem. It has a large selection of vintage and modern games available to play for only $10 an hour. We love spending rainy afternoons playing pinball."
📍 behind "Krystal, 2106 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"What a cool and unique place! I thought I’ve entered a museum! Lampshades so beautiful!"
📍 602 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Our jet skiing adventure was absolutely thrilling! The guide made us feel safe the entire time, and we really appreciated their expertise—especially when we had to reschedule ..."
📍 3 S Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"American beach was a very interesting place to visit...... The juxtaposition between.... Brand new big houses on stilts.... And the remnants of the Small buildings or metal roo..."
📍 5492 Gregg St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"We had an amazing day fishing with Captain Keith. He's a gentle soul, amazing with kids teaching them with a lot of patience. Could not have had a better captain for their first..."
📍 1620 N 14th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"36 holes of simple yet challenging minigolf at thr oceanside. Metal putters, which is awesome! Love the nostalgic vibes! Super cheap"
📍 6 N Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Wow! What a great experience! Captain Billy was very informative, fun, helpful, patient, and knowledgeable! We caught a ton of fish! Such a blast! We will be going with Captain ..."
📍 23 S Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Was having 3rd Annual Skate Jam. Had a Food Truck making delicious smelling food. Their were yummy Sno Cones to help with the hot summer day."
📍 25 Tarpon St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Captain Brad was awesome! He put us on some nice reds and made sure we had a great time. He’s extremely knowledgeable, I’d do it all over again. Maybe try some tarpon in ..."
📍 10 Ash St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"I highly, highly recommend stopping at this boardwalk, even if you’re not into bird watching! This boardwalk has beautiful views as you enter Talbot Island. And there is defin..."
📍 15500 Buccaneer Trail, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA
"Stuart was the best---helpful, had good tips and knowledge of the area. Equipment was affordable, comfortable and quality. My 8 year old loved the adventure. It was easy but gor..."
📍 13030 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA
"The Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival is an absolute gem in our community, bringing the beauty and intimacy of chamber music to life in a way that is both moving and memorabl..."
📍 1405 Park Ave STE 101, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Today I had a great experience at paddling in Amelia Island. The weather was simply perfect and the high tide allowed us to discover places that you can’t reach otherwise. We..."
📍 1630 Scott Rd #5641, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Heading along the trail to Fort Clinch, there is a trail to drive, including hiking and biking trails. Along the way, you marshes and beaches, including lighthouses that were on..."
📍 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Really cool fountain, and has a good view of the street incase of a car parade or show, very cool scenery."
📍 406 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"NaNa, the tallest dune in Florida, is a protected landmark due largely to the efforts of MaVynne Betsch (January 14, 1935-September 5, 2005), widely known as the "Beach Lady." B..."
📍 Amelia Island, FL 32034, USA
"Great place to watch the sunset or enjoy a outdoors."
📍 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
"Really cool if you like historical stuff. Take your kids. Show them how hard life was in the past, And how grateful we are to live at this moment in history."
📍 PG3W+9F, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
🌴 Got a recommendation we missed? Let us know by emailing irecommend @ ameliaislandresort.com — we'd love to hear from you!