Boasting over 20 kilometres of idyllic beaches, Amelia Island is a coastal haven with golden sand, dolphin sightings, upscale golf courses and horse riding excursions along the beach. Explore the region’s rich Native American and European history at local museums and enjoy an array of international and American restaurants.

Things to do

Holidays on Amelia Island generally include numerous beach days, but there are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss, particularly the sprawling Fort Clinch State Park. Here you can take guided tours through a 19th-century fortification, spot native wildlife and walk along designated nature trails. Alternatively, visit Amelia Island State Park for canoeing and kayaking, beach horse riding and fishing.

Are you visiting with your family? Make a beeline for Main Beach Park, which overlooks Amelia Island’s stretch of golden sand, but also features picnic shelters, playgrounds and volleyball courts. Keen anglers should head to George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier, where you can cast a line out with local fishermen.

Explore Amelia Island’s local history at the Amelia Island Light, which was built in 1839 and is Florida’s oldest existing lighthouse. Afterwards, check out the Amelia Island Museum of History, which houses exhibits on the native Timucuan people and the history of Nassau County. It’s located in an old jail, which still retains its original security doors and cells.

If you love playing golf, visit Amelia Island Plantation, an opulent resort with two championship-level golf courses, including the 18-hole Long Point with marshland and sand dunes. Located nearby, the Marlin & Barrel Distillery is perfect for a post-game drink, whether you want to try the spiced vodka or espresso rum, while the Palace Saloon is a pre-Prohibition bar and the oldest operating saloon in the state.

Getting around

Amelia Island is a 40-minute drive from Jacksonville and the Jacksonville International Airport. You can catch taxis around Amelia Island, but it’s best to have your own vehicle.