Our Five Favorite Things to Do on Amelia Island

This charming barrier island off Florida’s northeast coast offers plenty of activities. Here are the best things to do in Amelia Island.

Amelia Island, Florida

From Islands

Just thirty minutes from Florida’s Jacksonville Airport, two bridges connect the mainland to Amelia Island. The island beckons with 13 miles of beaches and well-preserved historic district of Victorian architecture steeped in Old Southern charm. June through August is peak beach season with warm temperatures and a temperate ocean; the shoulder or 'secret' season of late fall and early winter is a favorite for those seeking fewer crowds and better bargains. Heading into December, temps can drop into the 30s at night, but pack that jacket — if you’re in search of a deal, it’s the absolute best time to go.

Fort Clinch

Fort Clinch

The first weekend of every month, re-enactors at the 19th-century Fort Clinch demo blacksmithing, masonry, military drills and fire cannons. Named for General Duncan Lamont Clinch, the brick fortress sits in a 1,400-acre state park that comprises three miles of shoreline and a half-mile fishing pier. Bike the oak-lined drive, or hike the park’s six-mile nature trail.

Bountiful beaches

Peters Point

With 13 miles of Atlantic coastline, public access is plentiful, so you can find your perfect beach for sunrise (try Main Beach Park) and then find another favorite for sunbathing and wave watching (we suggest Peters Point Beachfront Park). Fancy some fishing? The fishing pier at Amelia Island State Park is the spot for you.

Plentiful paddling

Amelia Island salt marsh

The calm, flat waters of Amelia Island’s salt marsh near the resort are the perfect place for novices to test their stand-up paddling skills. Keen-eyed paddlers will see great egrets, herons, ibis and fish during this 90-minute outing. Rather sit than stand? Sunset and moonlight kayak tours are available around the island.

Marlin and Barrel Distillery

Marlin and Barrel Distillery

Take a tour of – and a tasting at - the local Marlin and Barrel Distillery and learn how Venture Vodka, made with Florida sugar cane, and Bearing Light Rum are made. Bring a bottle of Bearing Light home so you can mix up the Bandera Espanola, a rum cocktail from The Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar.

Explore the Historic District

Historic District

The Palace Saloon isn’t the only highlight of Fernandina’s Downtown Historic District. A stroll along Centre Street offers local shops, antique markets and dining experiences. Enjoy lunch with a waterfront view at the Salty Pelican and then head to the Amelia Island Museum of History for a guided tour. Our favorite? Happy Hour History, of course! To see the more than 50 blocks on the National Register of Historic Places, hop on a trolley for a tour of the Victorian-era architecture.

Beaches of Amelia Island

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