Amelia Island State Park
200 Acres • Beach Driving • Horseback Riding • World-Class Fishing
At the southern tip of Amelia Island, where the Nassau Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean, sits one of Florida's most unique state parks. Amelia Island State Park is the only Florida state park where you can ride horses on the beach—and one of the few beaches anywhere where you can drive directly onto the sand. But it's the fishing that draws serious anglers: the convergence of currents here creates one of the best surf fishing spots on the East Coast.
What Makes This Park Special
Amelia Island State Park sits at a geographic convergence point. The Nassau Sound funnels water from the Amelia and Nassau rivers into the Atlantic, creating strong currents, nutrient-rich waters, and exceptional fishing. The park's 200 acres include pristine beach, salt marsh, and coastal hammock—all accessible via a short drive from Fernandina Beach.
But here's what nobody tells you: this is a raw, undeveloped beach experience. There are no lifeguards, no concessions, no beach chair rentals. You bring everything in and take everything out. That's exactly why regulars love it—and why it's not ideal for everyone.
Things to Do
🏇 Horseback Riding on the Beach
Only Florida State Park with Beach RidingThis is the park's claim to fame. Kelly Seahorse Ranch operates guided rides directly on the beach—an experience you simply can't get elsewhere in Florida. Rides run along the surf line at sunrise, during the day, and at sunset. The 45-60 minute rides cost $85-125/person depending on timing.
Book in advance: Especially sunset rides and weekend slots fill weeks ahead. Contact Kelly Seahorse Ranch at (904) 491-5166 or book online.
🚗 Beach Driving
4WD RequiredDrive directly onto the beach—one of few places in Florida where this is legal. The sand is soft and deep in places, so 4-wheel drive is mandatory, not recommended. Air down your tires to 15-20 PSI for better traction. The beach access ramp is clearly marked near the main parking area.
Who this is for: Anglers loading fishing gear, families wanting to set up near their vehicle, beachgoers who prefer a more private stretch of sand.
🎣 Surf Fishing
Premier Shark Fishing SpotThe southern tip of the island is legendary among surf anglers. The convergence of Nassau Sound and the Atlantic creates a feeding zone for sharks, redfish, pompano, and whiting. Bull sharks, blacktip sharks, and lemon sharks are regularly caught from shore. Serious shark anglers wade out at low tide to deploy baits.
What to know: This is not casual fishing. Strong currents, deep dropoffs, and abundant sharks make swimming inadvisable. This is a fishing beach, not a swimming beach.
🦈 Shark Teeth Hunting
Best on IslandThe strong currents that make this area great for fishing also churn up fossils from the seafloor. Shark teeth—some from megalodon sharks millions of years old—wash up regularly. Best hunting is after storms or at low tide. Look in the shell line where waves deposit debris.
🐦 Birdwatching
Year-RoundThe salt marsh and coastal hammock provide habitat for diverse shorebirds. Look for oystercatchers, pelicans, herons, egrets, and during migration seasons, countless species passing through. The park's undeveloped nature means less disturbance and better wildlife viewing.
Wildlife You'll See
The park's location at the convergence of ecosystems means diverse wildlife:
Practical Information
Getting There: The park is located at 12157 Heckscher Drive (A1A), at the southern tip of Amelia Island. From downtown Fernandina Beach, head south on A1A for about 7 miles. The entrance is well-marked on your left.
Entrance Fees: $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people). Exact cash or Florida State Parks pass accepted. Honor system operates outside staffed hours.
Facilities: Minimal. Portable restrooms, picnic tables, and a small pavilion. No running water, no concessions, no lifeguards. Bring everything you need including water and snacks.
Beach Driving Requirements: 4-wheel drive only. Air down tires to 15-20 PSI. Stay below the high tide line. No driving on dunes. Permit included with park entry fee.
Who Should Visit (And Who Shouldn't)
Perfect for: Anglers, horseback riders, photographers, nature lovers, beachcombers seeking solitude, shark teeth hunters, and anyone who appreciates raw, undeveloped beach experiences.
Not ideal for: Families with young swimmers, visitors wanting amenities (restrooms, food, rentals), anyone without 4WD who wants beach driving, or those looking for a classic "beach day" with lifeguards and conveniences.
Book a Beach Horseback Ride
The only Florida state park where you can ride horses on the beach
Horseback Riding Guide All BeachesFrequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Amelia Island State Park?
Swimming is technically allowed but strongly discouraged. There are no lifeguards, strong currents exist near the inlet, and shark activity is high due to the convergence of waterways. For swimming, Main Beach Park or Peters Point are much safer options with calmer water and lifeguard presence.
Do you need 4WD to drive on the beach?
Yes, 4-wheel drive is required, not just recommended. The sand is soft and deep in sections, and 2WD vehicles frequently get stuck. Air down your tires to 15-20 PSI and stay on compacted sand. If you don't have 4WD, park in the main lot and walk to the beach.
How much does it cost to enter Amelia Island State Park?
Entrance is $4 per vehicle for up to 8 people. Exact cash is preferred. Florida State Parks annual passes are also accepted. Beach driving is included in the entrance fee—no separate permit required.
Can you ride horses on the beach at Amelia Island State Park?
Yes! This is the only Florida state park where beach horseback riding is permitted. Kelly Seahorse Ranch operates guided rides directly on the beach. Rides must be booked in advance—especially sunset rides which fill up quickly. Contact (904) 491-5166 for reservations.