A pristine jewel nestled in the embrace of the Florida coastline, Amelia Island embodies a harmonious coexistence with nature. From preserving the lush maritime forests and protecting wildlife to fostering green businesses and responsible tourism, going green is a way of life on this island paradise.
One of the cornerstones of sustainability on Amelia Island is the dedication to preserving its natural treasures. Through tree planting initiatives and thoughtful land management practices, the island ensures the longevity of its cherished maritime forests, sand dunes, iconic canopy roads and scenic parks. These green spaces provide not only breathtaking views, but also vital habitats for various wildlife species.
This commitment extends to the protection and restoration of habitats for sea turtles nesting along these pristine shores, migratory birds, and the endangered right whales. Efforts to safeguard these remarkable creatures are a priority for the entire community that calls this island home. As such, it is requested that visitors and residents leave only their footprints. Please respect the environment and dispose of trash properly, fill in any holes and smooth out sandcastles before you leave the beach. These obstacles can be a danger to nesting sea turtles and other wildlife. Articles left unattended after sunset may be removed and destroyed.
Many local accommodations, restaurants and enterprises have embraced eco-friendly practices and encourage their patrons to do the same. Energy-efficiencies, water conservation efforts, reduced waste and the use of locally sourced cuisine are just a few examples of the various green initiatives.
Several accommodations have achieved the Audubon International Green Lodging Program accreditation, with more on the horizon. This certification process involves multiple evaluations to ensure adherence to eco-friendly standards. Through these evaluations, the program equips these properties with the tools needed to reduce their overall environmental footprint.
Reduce your environmental impact by dining at any of the island’s restaurants that feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether it’s indulging in farm-to-table delights or relishing fish-to-fork options, every meal becomes an opportunity to support local farmers and fishermen while reducing the need for food transportation.
When it comes to shopping, there are many boutiques, galleries and other establishments that are locally owned. Patronizing them means you’re helping support the livelihood of artisans and small business owners on Amelia Island — those that work tirelessly to contribute to the island’s charm and character.
Amelia Island offers abundant opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with nature and enjoy its pristine beauty. These opportunities are not mere moments, they are investments in a sustainable future for generations to come.