Whether it’s your first time visiting our sunny shores or you’re a seasoned Amelia Island guest, if you’ve got questions … we’ve got answers. Take a look at this list of frequently asked questions that can help you plan your trip. If by chance your question isn’t here, we recommend emailing us at info@ameliaisland.com. We’ll find the answer and get right back to you.
Fernandina Beach is the town located on Amelia Island. It’s known for its charming downtown historic district and waterfront views. Discover more with our Downtown Fernandina Beach Travel Guide.
Unlike most Florida destinations, Amelia Island gets four seasons. June, July and August bring long, summer beach days and all the memories you can make. September, October and November mean slightly cooler temperatures, so fall is perfect for enjoying outdoor area activities, including many island events. December and January bring drier air and comfortable winter weather. March, April and May bring springtime blooms, and it’s a great time to enjoy sightseeing, beachcombing, biking and nature walks.
Amelia Island boasts beautiful public beaches that are open to residents and visitors alike. Some of the popular public beach access points include Main Beach Park, Peter’s Point Beachfront Park, Seaside Park, and American Beach. These beach accesses offer wide stretches of sand and amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and parking facilities. Several hotels and restaurants are right within walking distance. Plan your perfect beach getaway with the Amelia Island Beach Travel Guide.
With natural beauty, family-friendly attractions and accommodations, and welcoming atmosphere, Amelia Island is an excellent choice for families. 13 miles of uncrowded, clean beaches offer so many ways to play. Historic attractions and outdoor recreation, such as Fort Clinch State Park, are abundant. And sports, from mini-golf to electric skateboarding, are great for all ages. Get inspired with our Family Travel Guide.
The island is home to a variety of accommodations. Choose from luxury oceanfront resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and Omni Amelia Island Resort; intimate Bed & Breakfasts; vacation rentals, hotels and campsites. See more places to stay.
Escape to Amelia Island without leaving your four-legged family members behind. We offer pet-friendly hotels/motels, resorts and vacation rentals where most pets are welcome to stay. Historic downtown Fernandina Beach is proud to be pet-friendly and you can tell by all the water bowls located outside many of the store fronts on Centre Street. If your furry family member wants to play on the beach, that’s fine. Leashed dogs are welcome to frolic in the surf just the same as you! Or, send them to one of the island’s dog parks for a fun canine experience with friends. Learn more about pet-friendly vacations on Amelia Island.
With 99 holes of championship golf, the island is a true golfer’s paradise. There are five island golf courses to choose from on Amelia Island, which has been named one of the “Top 25 golf islands in the world,” by LINKS magazine. There’s also the Little Sandy short course, designed for players of all levels. Find more fairway inspiration with our Golf Travel Guide.
Amelia Island is located in Nassau County, Florida and is the northernmost barrier island on Florida’s Atlantic coast and the southernmost of the Sea Island chain that stretches along the East Coast of the United States from South Carolina to Florida. On a map, Amelia Island is 35 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida, 127 miles south of Savannah, Georgia and 197 miles east of Tallahassee.
Amelia Island is easily accessible by car via Interstate 95 (I-95). Travelers coming from the north or south can take I-95 to exit 373 onto State Road A1A and travel 15 miles crossing the Intracoastal Waterway onto Amelia Island. If you’re coming by air, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is the closest airport and links Northeast Florida with cities across North America and around the world. Amelia Island is just 25 miles from JAX. Private, corporate and charter aircraft may use the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport located on Amelia Island.
Amelia Island is only 35 miles from downtown Jacksonville and only 25 miles from Jacksonville International Airport. Head north on I-95, then take exit 373 east for 15 miles until you cross the Intracoastal Waterway. Warning: you might feel a sudden sense of ease and relaxation once you cross over the bridge.
Only two miles wide and 13 miles long, nothing on Amelia Island is more than 15 minutes away and getting around is easy. Once here, you can choose from car rental and rideshare services, or try something different and use the Amelia Island Trolleys, bikes, scooters and more.
Historic downtown Fernandina Beach is located in the heart of Amelia Island. Lined with beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings, quaint shops, cozy cafes and craft breweries, it offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair.
Depending on your individual needs, Amelia Island offers a wide variety of accommodations. For more information, visit our Places to Stay page where you can search for resorts, hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, vacation rentals and more.
Less than 30 minutes from Amelia Island, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is the closest airport and links Northeast Florida with cities across North America and around the world. Additionally, the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport is conveniently located on the island.
The most popular Amelia Island restaurants offer something for every taste. From Southern specialties and seafood prepared any way you like it, to elegant dinners by candlelight and kid-friendly favorites. Explore the island’s diverse dining scene, offering over 90 independent restaurants, with our Dining & Nightlife Travel Guide.
Many Amelia Island restaurants offer takeout services. We always recommend that you check our website for the most up-do-date information, including takeout menus and operating hours. Plus, we provide contact information for every one of our dining partners, so you can always call the restaurant directly.
Amelia Island offers a wide range of highly rated restaurants to satisfy every taste. From award-winning seafood establishments to upscale steakhouses, cozy bistros and charming waterfront eateries, people continually rate Amelia Island as a great foodie destination.
With year-round pleasant temps, Amelia Island is the perfect place to dine outdoors. Whether you prefer dining al fresco with ocean views, overlooking a serene marsh, or in a tranquil garden, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Many eateries on the island provide a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages. Our family-friendly establishments offer children’s menus with kid-friendly dishes, high chairs, and some even have play areas to keep your little ones entertained. Additionally, some restaurants organize special events or themed nights for families, making dining a fun-filled affair for everyone.
Many restaurants feature vegetarian or vegan dishes on their menus, and some are committed to plant-based cuisine, ensuring that those with specific dietary needs can enjoy delicious meals. Please check our website or call the restaurant directly if you need more information.
From spacious resort suites and vacation rentals to hotels, there are several accommodations available to suit your family’s needs. Many properties offer amenities and services tailored specifically for families, such as kid’s clubs, children’s pools, playgrounds and organized activities for kids. Explore more with our Family Travel Guide.
The Spa and Salon at Omni Amelia Island Resort and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island offer luxurious oceanside treatments that will transform you — body, mind and spirit. Some B&Bs also offer spa packages great for couples and moms-to-be. If you prefer the convenience of a day spa, we have those, too. Find your bliss with our Spa and Wellness Travel Guide.
Many accommodations on Amelia Island are pet-friendly. Some hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals allow guests to bring their pets, but it’s always recommended to check with the specific property for their pet policies and any applicable fees.
Located on the north side of Amelia Island, Fort Clinch State Park offers camping facilities within a beautiful coastal setting — perfect for spending the night under the stars, and drifting off to sleep to the sound of ocean waves. The park provides both tent and RV camping sites, complete with amenities such as restrooms, showers and picnic tables. Camping reservations can be made through the Florida State Parks website.
If it’s just you and your significant other, the quaint charm of our Bed & Breakfast Inn’s will most likely win you over. Look on our website for special B&B packages that include deals for couples such as massages and a welcome bottle of bubbly. Romance packages can also be found at several of the island hotels and resorts. Find inspiration in our Romance Travel Guide.
In addition to beautiful beaches, Amelia Island is home to an irresistible mix of luxury spas, world-class golf, distinctive dining, unique shopping and an amazing array of things to do for families, couples and groups.
Amelia Island has festivals and events for every season and scene. Great ways to celebrate the island’s colorful past and present include signature annual events such as Amelia Island Concours Week in March, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May, and Dickens on Centre in December. Check out our full calendar of events.
Historic Centre Street is the main artery in the heart of downtown Fernandina Beach. Centre Street is eight blocks long and anchored by the city’s harbor. Vintage buildings line the sidewalks where boutiques, restaurants, banks, churches, watering holes, a courthouse, and post office can be found. It’s where the past meets the present.
Downtown Fernandina Beach is made up of 50 very walkable blocks for shopping, dining and entertainment. There are also several nature trails, which are great places to walk or bike. Visit our Nature and Outdoors Travel guide for more information.
In addition to downtown, Amelia Island’s Old Town is also a designated historic district; along with the Amelia Island Lighthouse, the Peck Center and the Oxley-Heard Funeral Home, which are individually designated historic district sites.
Amelia Island is home to five championship golf courses: Fernandina Beach Golf Club; The Golf Club of Amelia Island; The Amelia River Club; and Oak Marsh, Long Point and Little Sandy all located at the Omni Amelia Island Resort.
Golf carts are offered at certain resorts for easy transport while on the property. On the rest of the island, driving golf carts that are street legal is allowed as long as they’re being driven on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less.
The Fernandina Beach Golf Club offers the Lighthouse Driving Range, powered by the Toptracer app where you can work on your swing, enjoy friendly competition, and play virtual courses. Additionally, The Amelia River Club Performance center offers private lessons and quick fixes.
If you don’t have clubs or prefer not to travel with them, equipment rentals are often available at the golf courses on Amelia Island. This provides convenience for those who don’t wish to travel with their own clubs. Contact the course you plan to play at to inquire about rental options and availability.
Amelia Island is only 35 miles from downtown Jacksonville. Head north on I-95, then take exit 373 east for 15 miles until you cross the Intracoastal Waterway.
Warning: you may feel a sudden sense of ease and relaxation once you cross over the bridge.
In addition to beautiful beaches, Amelia Island is home to an irresistible mix of luxury spa, world-class golf, distinctive dining, unique shopping and an amazing array of things to do for families, couples and groups.
Depending on your individual needs, Amelia Island offers a wide variety of accommodations. Choose from luxury oceanfront resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and Omni Amelia Island Resort; intimate Bed & Breakfasts; vacation rentals, hotels and campsites. For more information, visit our places to stay page where you can search for resorts, hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, vacation rentals and more.
With 13 miles of pristine beaches, Amelia Island is known for its natural beauty and laid-back coastal ambiance. Downtown Fernandina Beach also makes Amelia Island a Northeast Florida hidden gem for arts, culture and dining.
If you’re looking for a romantic escape, nothing says “I love you” like a beach getaway. Enjoy tranquil strolls together, sunbathing or an oceanfront couples’ massage. Find inspiration with our Romance Travel Guide.
When most people think of the best weddings in Florida, they think of a beach ceremony. Yes we have breathtaking beach locations, but we also have luxury wedding venues, lush tropical gardens, golf courses, marshlands and more.
March, April and May are the spring wedding season, while October and November are the best months in fall. Either way, the weather in these months is typically cooler than the southern half of Florida, but not too cold that you’d need to wear a jacket over that beautiful wedding dress.
Many hotels, resorts and venues offer wedding packages. We recommend you contact an individual property to request pricing on specific packages and other information. You can also fill out a Request Information form, and someone from our team will get back to you.
You’ll find a delightful array of restaurants that cater to wedding groups with unforgettable dining experiences. From elegant waterfront eateries with a view to cozy downtown bistros, you and your wedding guests will discover a delectable range of options that will add a delicious touch to your wedding plans.
After the invitations have been sent and the rings purchased, it’s time to start thinking about a honeymoon. Even if you decide to get married somewhere else, Amelia Island is an idyllic destination for relaxing days on the beach and romantic nights under the stars.
Easily accessible and always inspiring, Amelia Island is a perfect choice for corporate retreats and incentive travel. The idyllic coastal setting, upscale amenities and abundance of outdoor activities provide the perfect blend of relaxation and productivity.
Amelia Island offers a wide variety of team building activities. From beachside challenges and water sports to golf tournaments and nature excursions, there are plenty of options to engage your team members. These activities take advantage of the island’s stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, fostering communication.
A resort hotel offers a wide range of amenities for vacationers and business conferences, including upscale lodgings, restaurants, ballrooms, conference rooms and recreational activities. Amelia Island is home to two resort hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and Omni Amelia Island Resort. Combined, they offer over 800 guest rooms and suites, along with many of the same meeting features that other conference hotels in Florida offer.
While a conference hotel typically caters to smaller-scale events, such as business meetings, seminars, and workshops, a convention hotel is specifically designed to host large-scale events, such as trade shows, exhibitions and conventions.
A conference hotel is a type of accommodation specifically designed to host and cater to smaller-scale events, such as business meetings, seminars, workshops, and corporate gatherings. These hotels offer well-equipped meeting rooms, audiovisual facilities, and professional services to support the smooth execution of various professional events.
Amelia Island beaches have long been a source of beauty, enjoyment and wonder, and unlike many Florida beaches, the Island offers virtually unlimited access to its coast. Visitors will experience an unparalleled sense of calm and peace as they stroll along the 13 miles of pristine shoreline. Amelia Island’s entire length along the Atlantic Coast is available for running, walking or simply relaxing.
With over 90 independent restaurants, dining on Amelia Island is a feast for your senses. Some favorites include fresh seafood, a farmer’s market, tasting tours and farm-to-table options. When it comes to Amelia Island nightlife, this Northeast Florida barrier island offers a rocking craft beer and live music scene. Every kind of visitor can find so much to love!
With a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages, Amelia Island family vacations are always a best-bet. From relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring nature trails, historic sites, and incredible dining options ranging from 5-star to incredible family-friendly restaurants, your clients will have their pick of things to do. And with something for everyone, this hidden gem is also an ideal destination for solo travelers, couples and groups. Even four-legged visitors will feel right at home with a wealth of pet-friendly places to stay, eat and play.
Amelia Island offers great year-round weather. Celebrated as a quintessential beach destination it is no surprise that Amelia Island is most popular during the summer months, yet the destination offers visitors amazing temperatures from March through May and September through November, with great rates and fewer visitors. Even Amelia Island winter weather means basking in the sun. Between December and February, the destination celebrates some of the lowest rates, along with consistently dry and comfortable temperatures for endless walks on the beach all to yourself. Visitors can fully take advantage of outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the island’s natural beauty year round.
If you’re looking for directions to Amelia Island, the island is easy to get to but hard to forget. For flights to Amelia Island, it’s best to book via Jacksonville International Airport. From there, rental cars, shuttles, or rideshare services are available for the approximately 45-minute drive to Amelia Island. Once on the island, there are several rental car agencies, as well as taxi and shuttle services available for getting around. Visitors that opt to drive directly to the island come via Interstate 95, which runs along the eastern coast of the United States.
Effortlessly reflecting the island’s undeniable charm, Amelia Island offers everything from high-end luxury resorts to historic Bed & Breakfast Inns, the comfort of a favorite hotel, a beachfront condominium or villa, or a campsite under the stars. There’s a place for every stay and every style. Find Amelia Island resorts and Amelia Island hotels, including Amelia Island hotels on the beach, by visiting our Places to Stay page.
Popular activities and things to do on Amelia Island include beachcombing, kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, and exploring the island’s rich history and natural beauty. There are several guided tours and excursions available, including guided kayak tours, historic walking tours, and eco-tours of the island’s natural areas. Some of the must-visit attractions include Fort Clinch State Park, Amelia Island State Park, the historic downtown area of Fernandina Beach, and the Amelia Island Museum of History.
With a vibrant Amelia Island calendar of events and festivals throughout the year, there is something for every interest and age group. Notable events include the prestigious Amelia Island Concours D’Elegance, showcasing vintage and luxury automobiles. The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, celebrating all things shrimp. The Chamber Music Festival and the Amelia Island Jazz Festival, dedicated to music enthusiasts of all ages. And, Amelia Island Dickens on Centre, which kicks off the holiday season with a weekend Victorian festival.
In case of emergency, please dial 911.
Poison Control Center: 800-222-1222 Fernandina Beach Fire Department: 904-277-7331 Nassau County Fire Department: 904-491-7525
Travel advisory information
Amelia Urgent Care is located at 1987 S. 8th Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904-624-7003).
Baptist Medical Center – Nassau is located at 1250 South 18th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904-321-3500).
Walgreens is located at 2101 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904-277-9615).
CVS is located at 870 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904-261-0836).
Horses are prohibited north of Sadler Road Beach Access and within city limits. South of Sadler Road Beach Access, horses are allowed May-Oct from 5 p.m. to sunset and sunrise until 11 a.m. Nov-April, horses are permitted in designated areas south of Sadler Road, avoiding dunes and vegetation. Commercial exceptions require permits.
No, overnight camping is prohibited. However, camping is permitted in Fort Clinch State Park.
It is unlawful for any person to bathe, swim, or wash in any body of water within the city limits, naked or insufficiently clothed.