Amelia Island, FL

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 kilometers) 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 center.

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 organized by some resorts in the area. From the center of Jacksonville it’s a 33-mile (53-kilometer) 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

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

When in Ocean Cay, you can plan a visit to Amelia Island Lighthouse and Amelia Island Museum of History, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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

While there might not be top attractions in Heron Oaks, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Omni Amelia Island Resort Golf and American Beach.

Heron Oaks
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American Beach Historic District

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in American Beach Historic District and surrounding area, you can visit 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 ¥16,494 per night from Apr 29 to Apr 30
¥16,494
¥18,474 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 29 - Apr 30
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 Apr 25, 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 ¥17,384 per night from Apr 28 to Apr 29
¥17,384
¥19,469 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 28 - Apr 29
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 Apr 25, 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 ¥30,919 per night from May 2 to May 3
¥30,919
¥41,065 total
includes taxes & fees
May 2 - May 3
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! (1,001 reviews)
"Lovely"

Reviewed on Apr 22, 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 Apr 21, 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! (38 reviews)
"Ok apartment"

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Vintage Amelia Island Apartments
Studio Unit
Studio Unit
Fernandina Beach
Stay at this vacation home in Fernandina Beach. Enjoy a garden, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (316 reviews)
Relaxing place
"We always love staying at the Sea Cottages. The people there are so warm and friendly."

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2025

Studio Unit
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.

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