Amelia Island

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Visit Jacksonville
Photo provided by Visit Jacksonville
Photo provided by Visit Jacksonville
Photo provided by Visit Jacksonville
Photo provided by Visit Jacksonville
Visit this scenic island that offers sandy beaches, ports, seaside resorts and two state parks just off the coast of mainland Florida.

Amelia Island is a small section of land with beaches, ports and picturesque natural scenery off the east coast of mainland Florida. The area is known as a barrier island because it runs parallel to the coast and is separated by only a narrow stretch of water. On the island you can visit some of the state’s most recognizable attractions, including Fernandina Beach and Fort Clinch State Park. There’s also 13 miles (21 kilometres) of sandy beaches.

Stay at one of the luxury resorts along Amelia Island’s coasts. Enjoy the panoramic views of the sparkling blue ocean. With luck, you may catch sight of dolphins and a white whale. 

Visit the port town of Fernandina Beach on the northern part of the island. Learn about some of the area’s early Native American inhabitants and Spanish settlers that arrived in the 1800s. Get around on foot to experience the relaxed atmosphere of this laid-back town. Visit galleries and charming cafés in Fernandina Beach centre.

Go camping in Fort Clinch State Park. The nature reserve consists of 1,400 acres (570 hectares) of scenic parkland surrounding Fort Clinch. The brick fort dates back to the mid-1800s and now features reenactments of life during the Civil War.

Relax on the sandy shore of Main Beach Park, one of the most popular spots on the island for sun, sand and sea. Join in volleyball or other public activities on the beach and let the kids play on a playground. Make your way to Burney Park to explore the sand dunes. Cross the dune walkover path for picturesque views of the dunes and the ocean.

Find Amelia Island northeast of the city of Jacksonville. Take a 30-minute taxi ride from Jacksonville International Airport or rent a car. Shuttle services to and from the airport are organised by some resorts in the area. From the centre of Jacksonville it’s a 33-mile (53-kilometre) drive to Amelia Island.

Where to stay in Amelia Island

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American Beach

If you're spending some time in American Beach, American Beach and Spanish Quarter Village are top sights worth seeing.

American Beach
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Ocean Cay

While Ocean Cay may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Amelia Island Lighthouse and Amelia Island Museum of History.

Ocean Cay
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Fernandina Beach Historic District

The stunning beaches and island views are just a few highlights of Fernandina Beach Historic District. Make a stop by Blue Door Artists or Island Art Association Gallery while you're exploring the area.

Fernandina Beach Historic District
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Heron Oaks

When in Heron Oaks, you can plan a visit to Omni Amelia Island Resort Golf and American Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Heron Oaks
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American Beach Historic District

Though American Beach Historic District may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like American Beach and Omni Amelia Island Resort Golf.

American Beach Historic District
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
2.5 out of 5
1997 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is RM502 per night from 29 Apr to 30 Apr
RM502
RM562 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Book a stay at this eco-certified hotel in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,946 reviews)
"I loved that the hotel was just across the street from the beach and that it also had a pool. I love walking and sitting at the beach but swimming in a pool. I arrived early and was able to check in early by the very friendly front desk attendants. Happily, I put on my swimsuit, grabbed a book and ..."

Reviewed on 25 Apr 2025

Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Ocean Coast Hotel at the Beach Amelia Island
Ocean Coast Hotel at the Beach Amelia Island
3 out of 5
2707 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach, FL
The price is RM529 per night from 28 Apr to 29 Apr
RM529
RM593 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Stay at this 3-star eco-certified hotel in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
"Great location close to the beach. Easy to grab a quick bite to eat"

Reviewed on 25 Apr 2025

Ocean Coast Hotel at the Beach Amelia Island
The Villas of Amelia Island
The Villas of Amelia Island
4 out of 5
8 Amelia Village Circle, Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, FL
The price is RM941 per night from 2 May to 3 May
RM941
RM1,250 total
includes taxes & fees
2 May - 3 May
Stay at this 4-star beach resort in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,005 reviews)
"The Villas are owned and operated by the Omni Hotel. The hotel was excellent. The Villas were a bit tired, and not much of a porch. The grounds were well maintained and staff was excellent. All the amenities, pool, bars, restaurant and grill were available, and beach chairs and umbrellas were available ..."

Reviewed on 26 Apr 2025

The Villas of Amelia Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Beach 5 Villas - Immaculate 300 steps from the Ocean
Beach 5 Villas - Immaculate 300 steps from the Ocean
4.5 out of 5
441 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Egan's Creek Greenway ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (12 reviews)
"Communication by the owners/management was great! Even a late night question about parking was answered immediately. Place was clean, steps from the beach and perfect for a weekend getaway!"

Reviewed on 21 Apr 2025

Beach 5 Villas - Immaculate 300 steps from the Ocean
Vintage Amelia Island Apartments
Vintage Amelia Island Apartments
3.5 out of 5
111 Vintage Wy, Fernandina Beach, FL
Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Fernandina Little Theatre and Egan's ...
7.8/10 Good! (35 reviews)
"Ok apartment"

Reviewed on 15 Apr 2025

Vintage Amelia Island Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do