Amelia Island Beaches
13 miles of pristine coastline & 40+ public access points
Here's what nobody tells you about Amelia Island beaches: even on the busiest summer weekend, you can find stretches of sand where you won't see another soul for a quarter mile. That's the magic of having 13 miles of coastline and over 40 public access points on a barrier island that still feels like Florida did before the condos took over.
I've walked every inch of this shoreline—from the rock jetty at Fort Clinch where the dolphins chase mullet at dawn, to the wild southern tip at George Crady Bridge where serious fishermen surf-cast for redfish. Each beach has its own personality. Main Beach brings the lively weekend vibe with beach volleyball and nearby restaurants. Peters Point delivers that old Florida quietude with moss-draped oaks and wild horses occasionally wandering down from Cumberland Island. American Beach carries 90 years of Black American history in its sand.
This guide covers the beaches locals actually go to, not just the ones in the brochures. I'll tell you where to park for free (it exists), which access points have real bathrooms versus porta-potties, and why timing your visit with the tides makes all the difference.
The Main Beaches: Where to Go
Amelia Island has six major beach parks with full amenities, plus dozens of smaller neighborhood access points. Here's the breakdown of each, starting from north to south.
🏖️ Main Beach Park
Family-Friendly Full AmenitiesThe flagship beach of Fernandina Beach, and for good reason. This is where the action happens—a covered playground that'll keep kids occupied for hours, volleyball courts that draw competitive games on weekends, and a boardwalk connecting to downtown's restaurants and shops. The beach itself is wide and well-maintained, with lifeguards on duty during peak season.
The "Washed Up" project here is brilliant: a box of free beach toys for kids to borrow during their visit. There's also a Little Free Library near the pavilion. Show up early on summer weekends—the parking lot fills by 10am.
🐎 Peters Point Beachfront Park
Quieter Vibes Beach Driving Dog-FriendlyMy personal favorite for a reason: Peters Point delivers that "old Florida" feeling that's increasingly rare. The parking lot sits under a canopy of live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and the boardwalk crosses pristine dunes before opening onto a wide, uncrowded beach. On quieter days, you might spot wild horses that occasionally swim over from Cumberland Island—yes, that actually happens.
Nassau County residents can drive directly onto the beach here (permit required), which means fishermen set up their rods and beach chairs right from their trucks. Even without a vehicle permit, the beach is wide enough that crowds never feel oppressive. The picnic pavilions have grills for cookouts, and there's a horse tour operator that offers sunset rides along the shoreline.
🏛️ American Beach
Historic Site Dog-Friendly PeacefulAmerican Beach isn't just a beach—it's a living piece of civil rights history. Founded in 1935 by A.L. Lewis, Florida's first Black millionaire, as a resort for African Americans during Jim Crow segregation, this community became a refuge where Black families could vacation with dignity. The neighborhood still has historic homes, and NaNa, Florida's tallest sand dune at 60 feet, towers over the landscape.
Today, American Beach offers one of the most peaceful stretches of sand on the island. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with tide pools perfect for kids and enough space that you won't be sharing umbrella shadows with strangers. Dogs love it here. Make time to walk through the neighborhood and appreciate the historic significance—markers tell the story of this remarkable community.
🌊 Burney Park
Family-Friendly Less CrowdedAdjacent to American Beach, Burney Park offers full facilities without the crowds of Main Beach. The parking lot is generous, the boardwalk is short, and the beach is wide. Lifeguards patrol during summer months. This is where locals bring their families when they want amenities but not chaos.
The covered pavilion with picnic tables makes this a solid choice for birthday parties and family reunions. Bathrooms have indoor and outdoor showers (cold water, but refreshing after a beach day). Pro tip: the southern end of this beach connects to American Beach, so you can walk between them easily.
🚗 Seaside Park
Beach Driving SecludedIf driving on the beach is your thing, Seaside Park is your spot. A 4WD or AWD vehicle is strongly recommended—regular cars can and do get stuck in the soft sand near the access point. Once you're on the beach, you can drive south for miles along the shoreline, setting up camp wherever looks good.
The facilities are basic but clean: bathroom, covered picnic area, and that's about it. The appeal here is the freedom to stake out your own private stretch of beach without a long walk from the parking lot. Bring everything you need because there's nothing nearby.
🏰 Fort Clinch State Park Beach
Fishing Hotspot Historic Site UncrowdedThe northernmost beach on Amelia Island sits within Fort Clinch State Park, and the $6 per vehicle entry fee keeps it blissfully uncrowded. The beach wraps around the northeastern tip of the island where the St. Marys River meets the Atlantic—a geography that creates strong currents but also incredible fishing and wildlife viewing.
The rock jetty extending from the fort is a gathering spot for serious fishermen, and dolphins regularly chase baitfish through the inlet. The fort itself—a remarkably well-preserved Civil War-era structure—is worth exploring before or after beach time. Rangers in period costume give tours on weekends. Swimming isn't recommended here due to the currents, but for fishing, photography, and exploring tide pools, Fort Clinch is unmatched.
🦈 Amelia Island State Park
Surf Fishing Beach Driving Dog-FriendlyAt the southern tip of Amelia Island, this state park delivers the wildest beach experience. The $4 entry fee gets you access to a pristine stretch where 4x4 vehicles can drive directly onto the sand. This is THE spot for serious surf fishing—whiting, redfish, flounder, and even bonnethead sharks are regular catches.
Fair warning: sharks are abundant here. The locals know this and fish for them deliberately. Swimming isn't prohibited, but most people wade cautiously. What you do get is exceptional shelling, particularly after storms when the tides deposit treasures from the offshore sandbars. Shark teeth hunting is popular—the fossilized teeth from ancient megalodon sharks wash up regularly.
Quick Amenities Comparison
Not all beaches are created equal when it comes to facilities. Here's what you'll find at each major beach park:
| Beach | Restrooms | Showers | Lifeguard | Playground | Parking | Dogs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Beach Park | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (seasonal) | ✓ | Free lot | Designated area |
| Peters Point | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (seasonal) | ✗ | Free + beach | ✓ Welcome |
| American Beach | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | Street | ✓ Welcome |
| Burney Park | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (seasonal) | ✗ | Free lot | ✓ Welcome |
| Fort Clinch | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | $6 entry | Leashed only |
| Amelia Island SP | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | $4 entry | ✓ Welcome |
Best Beach For...
Different beaches excel at different things. Here's where to go based on what you're looking for:
Families with Kids
Playground, lifeguards, restrooms, and nearby food options make the whole day easier.
→ Main Beach Park
Dogs
Wide open beaches, minimal crowds, and no strict leash enforcement. Just clean up after your pup.
→ Peters Point or American Beach
Fishing
Surf casting for redfish, whiting, and flounder. Shark fishing at the southern tip.
→ Amelia Island State Park
Shelling & Shark Teeth
Fossil hunting is best after storms when tides churn up the bottom. Shark teeth are real finds here.
→ Amelia Island State Park
Photography
Historic fort, dramatic jetty, dolphins, and golden hour light reflecting off the marsh.
→ Fort Clinch State Park
Solitude
When you want to hear nothing but waves and seabirds. Peak quiet on weekday mornings.
→ American Beach or Peters Point
🏠 Stay Steps from the Sand
Wake up to ocean views and skip the parking hunt. Beachfront rentals and oceanview hotels put you where you want to be.
Browse Beachfront StaysSeasonal Beach Conditions
Amelia Island beaches are usable year-round, but conditions vary significantly by season:
Spring (Mar-May)
Perfect temps (70-82°F). Water warming up. Low crowds except spring break weeks. Best overall beach season.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Hot and humid (85-92°F). Warm water for swimming. Afternoon thunderstorms. Peak crowds. Arrive early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Cooling temps. Hurricane season peaks early fall. Fewer crowds after Labor Day. Water still warm through October.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Mild but cool (55-68°F). Too cold for most swimming. Excellent beach walking weather. Virtually empty beaches.
Parking & Access Tips
Free Parking Options
Despite what some visitors assume, most Amelia Island beach parking is completely free:
- Main Beach Park: Large free lot, but fills by 10am on summer weekends
- Peters Point: Generous free lot under shady oaks
- Burney Park: Free lot with easy beach access
- Numbered Access Points: Small pull-offs along A1A (5-10 spaces each)
Paid Parking
Only two beaches charge entry fees, and both are state parks with enhanced facilities:
- Fort Clinch State Park: $6 per vehicle (includes fort access)
- Amelia Island State Park: $4 per vehicle (includes beach driving for 4WD)
Beach Driving
Unlike most of Florida, you can still drive on certain Amelia Island beaches. Here's what to know:
- Peters Point & Seaside Park: Nassau County residents only (annual permit required)
- Amelia Island State Park: Open to all with 4WD vehicle ($4 entry)
- Speed limit: 10 mph on all beach driving areas
- 4WD required: Regular cars will get stuck. AWD vehicles should use caution.
Beach Rules & Etiquette
Amelia Island beaches are relatively relaxed compared to other Florida destinations, but a few rules keep things safe and enjoyable:
What's Allowed
- Beach tents and umbrellas (remove by sunset)
- Coolers and picnicking
- Dogs on most beaches (clean up after them)
- Fishing with valid Florida license
- Beach fires in designated fire pits only
What's Not Allowed
- Glass containers on any beach
- Leaving equipment overnight
- Disturbing sea turtle nests (May-October)
- Fireworks anywhere on the beach
- Camping outside designated areas
Sea Turtle Season (May-October)
Loggerhead sea turtles nest on Amelia Island beaches from May through October. During this time:
- Fill in any holes you dig before leaving
- Knock down sand castles at day's end
- Keep flashlights and phone screens away from the beach after dark
- Never disturb marked nests or nesting turtles
- Report any turtle sightings or nest disturbances to the Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch
Wildlife You'll Encounter
Amelia Island beaches support remarkable biodiversity. Here's what to watch for:
Bottlenose Dolphins
Seen year-round, especially near the Fort Clinch jetty where they chase fish through the inlet. Early morning offers best sightings.
Shorebirds
Pelicans, oystercatchers, sandpipers, and the occasional roseate spoonbill. Peters Point is prime birding territory.
Ghost Crabs
Dig those burrows you see everywhere. Most active at dusk and dawn. Kids love chasing them (they're fast).
Wild Horses
Occasionally swim over from Cumberland Island. Rare but magical when it happens. Most sightings at Peters Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Amelia Island beaches crowded?
Compared to other Florida beach destinations, Amelia Island beaches are remarkably uncrowded. Main Beach Park sees the most visitors, especially on summer weekends. For guaranteed solitude, try Peters Point, American Beach, or any of the numbered access points along A1A. Weekday mornings are peaceful everywhere.
Can you drink alcohol on Amelia Island beaches?
Alcohol is permitted on Amelia Island beaches, but glass containers are prohibited everywhere. Use cans, plastic bottles, or koozies. Be respectful of families around you, and clean up completely when you leave.
Is the water clear at Amelia Island beaches?
Water clarity varies with conditions. Amelia Island's water is typically greenish-gray rather than the turquoise of South Florida—this is normal for North Florida beaches. After storms or high wind, expect murky conditions. The calmest, clearest water usually occurs on windless summer mornings during incoming tides.
Are there jellyfish at Amelia Island beaches?
Yes, jellyfish appear seasonally, typically in late summer and early fall. Most common are moon jellies (harmless) and cannonball jellies (mild sting). Portuguese man-of-war occasionally wash up during strong east winds—avoid touching them even if they appear dead. Lifeguards post purple flags when jellyfish are prevalent.
What's the best beach for swimming with kids?
Main Beach Park is ideal for families with children thanks to lifeguards (seasonal), nearby restrooms, a shaded playground, and gentle wave action. Burney Park is a good alternative with similar amenities and typically smaller crowds. Avoid Fort Clinch and Amelia Island State Park for swimming due to strong currents.
🐎 Ride Horses on the Beach
One of the most magical Amelia Island experiences. Sunset rides along the shoreline create unforgettable memories.
Book Beach ActivitiesMore to Explore
Make the most of your Amelia Island beach trip with these related guides: