The Perfect Amelia Island Weekend
2 Days of Beach, History, Food & Relaxation
A weekend on Amelia Island is the ideal escape from reality. Two days gives you time to sink your toes in the sand, explore the charming historic downtown, eat exceptionally well, and still return home genuinely relaxed. This itinerary balances beach time with exploration, built from countless visits and local recommendations. Adjust it to your pace—but don't skip the sunset.
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Bliss
Check In & Settle
Most hotels allow early check-in starting at 3-4 PM, but many will accommodate 2 PM arrivals if rooms are ready. Drop your bags, change into beach clothes, and resist the urge to unpack everything. The beach is calling.
Beach Time at Peters Point
Skip Main Beach (too crowded for your first impression) and head to Peters Point Beachfront Park. Parking is free, the beach is beautiful, and it's quieter than the popular spots. Grab chairs from your hotel or rent them there. Spend 2-3 hours doing absolutely nothing productive.
Sunset Drinks at The Surf
Shower off the sand and head to The Surf restaurant at Main Beach for sunset cocktails on their deck. The view is spectacular, the frozen drinks are strong, and this is the perfect transition from beach mode to evening mode.
Dinner: Espana Restaurant
Your first dinner should be memorable. Espana serves excellent Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic setting on Centre Street. The paella feeds two generously, the sangria is house-made, and the patio seating is perfect for warm evenings. Make reservations.
Evening Stroll on Centre Street
Walk off dinner with a stroll down Fernandina's historic main street. The shops are mostly closed, but the architecture is beautiful under streetlights. Stop at the Palace Saloon—Florida's oldest bar—for a nightcap if you're not ready for bed.
Day 2: Explore & Experience
Sunrise Beach Walk (Optional but Magic)
Set an alarm. Seriously. Amelia Island sunrises over the Atlantic are extraordinary. Walk the beach near your hotel with coffee in hand. Dolphins frequently cruise the surf line at dawn. You can always nap later.
Breakfast at Barbara Jean's
The island's beloved breakfast spot. Get there by 9:30 to beat the crowds. The crab cake benedict is legendary, the biscuits are house-made, and the portions are generous. Outdoor seating overlooks the marina.
Fort Clinch State Park
A must-do. This remarkably preserved Civil War-era fort sits on the island's northern tip. Explore the brick fortifications, walk the nature trails, and check out the beach (different character than the main beaches—rockier, wilder). Budget 1.5-2 hours. Entry is $6/vehicle.
Lunch: Timoti's Seafood Shak
Casual, delicious, and quintessentially coastal. Order the fish tacos or the fried shrimp basket. Eat at one of the picnic tables outside. This is not fancy dining—it's exactly what you want after a morning of exploring.
Centre Street Shopping & Exploring
Now's the time to actually explore downtown Fernandina. The shops are open, the streets are lively, and there's genuine character here. Book Loft for books, Fantastic Fudge for treats, and dozens of boutiques for browsing. Get ice cream at Freeze'n Squeeze.
Pool Time or Beach Round Two
Head back to your hotel for pool time, or hit the beach for round two. Late afternoon light is beautiful for photos. The water is calmer, the crowds thinner, and the temperature more comfortable.
Dinner: Salt at the Ritz-Carlton (Splurge) or The Patio Place
For your final dinner, either go upscale at Salt (the island's best fine dining—make reservations weeks ahead) or stay casual-but-excellent at The Patio Place on the water. Both deliver memorable meals. Salt runs $100+/person; Patio Place is half that.
Day 3: Departure
One Last Beach Walk
Before checkout, take one more walk on the beach. Early morning is peaceful, and you'll want that memory of sand between your toes for the drive home.
Brunch at Gilbert's Underground Kitchen
A hidden gem for your final meal. The eclectic Southern menu changes regularly, the atmosphere is unique, and it's a fitting farewell to the island's food scene. Or return to Barbara Jean's—no one would blame you.
Check Out & Head Home
Pack slowly, take one last look at the ocean, and promise yourself you'll be back. Jacksonville airport is 45 minutes away; the drive to most Southeast cities is 2-5 hours.
Where to Stay
Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island
The island's premier luxury property. Exceptional service, excellent spa, and refined dining. From $499/night.
Omni Amelia Island Plantation
Best for families and golfers. Multiple pools, 54 holes of golf, extensive activities. From $299/night.
Elizabeth Pointe Lodge
Intimate beachfront B&B with classic Nantucket charm. Includes breakfast. From $259/night.
Hampton Inn Amelia Island
Clean, comfortable, and well-located. Beach access, free breakfast. From $159/night.
Weekend Packing Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Beach towels (or use hotel's)
- Sunglasses
- Hat for sun protection
- Sandals and comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers for evenings
- One nice dinner outfit
- Camera or phone charger
- Cooler for beach drinks
- Book or podcast for beach time