THINGS TO DO ON AMELIA ISLAND
There’s more to Amelia Island than beautiful beaches. Spend a day searching for shark teeth, explore a historic fort, cruise past neighboring islands, bike beneath live oaks, or slow things down with an afternoon of shopping and ice cream in downtown Fernandina Beach.
From outdoor adventures to local history and easygoing family activities, there are plenty of ways to fill your itinerary. Here are some of our favorite things to do on Amelia Island.
1. Explore Fort Clinch State Park
A trip to Amelia Island isn’t complete without exploring Fort Clinch State Park. Step inside the remarkably preserved 19th-century fort to wander through historic rooms, galleries, and grounds while learning about the soldiers who were once stationed there.
Beyond the fort, the state park offers beaches, hiking and biking trails, fishing, wildlife viewing, and plenty of space to explore. It’s an easy place to spend a few hours or make an entire morning out of your visit.
2. Take a Boat Ride Toward Cumberland Island
See Amelia Island from a completely different perspective with a cruise along the surrounding waterways. Local boat tours depart from the Fernandina Beach waterfront and travel toward neighboring Cumberland Island, combining coastal scenery with stories about the area’s history and wildlife.
Keep your eyes on the water for dolphins and sea turtles and toward the Cumberland Island shoreline for its famous wild horses. Amelia River Cruises offers several options, including shorter coastal trips and longer narrated excursions.
3. Go Shark-Tooth Hunting on the Beach
Your Amelia Island souvenir might already be waiting for you in the sand.
Fossilized shark teeth can be found along the island’s beaches, making a simple walk along the shoreline feel more like a treasure hunt. Check around the tide line and among small piles of shells, especially as the tide changes. Make it a family challenge to see who can spot the first one.
4. Walk or Bike Egans Creek Greenway
Trade the sand for the trails at the Ron Sapp Egans Creek Greenway. This protected natural area winds through marshes and coastal habitat right in Fernandina Beach.
Walk or bike the trails while watching for herons, egrets, osprey, marsh rabbits, and other local wildlife. Alligators also live in the area, so always admire wildlife from a safe distance.
5. Play Mini Golf by Main Beach
Add a little friendly competition to your beach day with a round of mini golf at Putt-Putt Fun Center near Main Beach.
Its location makes this one especially easy to work into an afternoon. Spend some time on the beach, see who earns bragging rights on the course, then grab a cold treat afterward.
6. Explore Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
Leave some room in your itinerary for simply wandering.
Historic downtown Fernandina Beach is filled with local boutiques, restaurants, galleries, sweet shops, and beautiful historic architecture. Stroll along Centre Street, pop into whichever shops catch your eye, grab a bite to eat, and make your way toward the waterfront.
7. Visit the Amelia Island Lighthouse
Add one of the island’s historic landmarks to your sightseeing list.
The Amelia Island Lighthouse has stood watch over the area for generations and remains an important piece of local history. Public viewing hours and guided tours are available on select days, giving visitors the opportunity to see the lighthouse property and learn more about its story.
Access is limited, so check the current schedule before heading over.
8. See Amelia Island from a Kayak
Some of Amelia Island’s best scenery is found away from the road.
Guided kayak excursions take paddlers through the area’s creeks, rivers, and salt marshes for a closer look at the coastal ecosystem. Along the way, keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife while enjoying a quieter side of the island.
Local outfitters offer excursions for a range of experience levels, including options suitable for beginners.
9. Rent Bikes and Explore the Island
Give the car a break and explore Amelia Island on two wheels.
The island and surrounding area offer miles of trails and bike-friendly routes ranging from relaxed paved paths to more adventurous rides. Cruise beneath live oaks, explore coastal trails, or pedal through historic Fernandina Beach at your own pace.
Traditional bikes and e-bikes are available from local rental companies, and guests staying at Surf & Sand Amelia Island can take advantage of bike rentals right from the property.
10. Take a Trolley or Historic Tour Through Fernandina Beach
You can walk through historic Fernandina Beach, but taking a guided tour gives you the stories behind what you’re seeing.
Local sightseeing tours take visitors through the historic district while sharing tales about the island’s eight flags, architecture, notable residents, and colorful past. It’s an easy way to learn more about the destination while giving your feet a break.
Plan Your Amelia Island Getaway
Ten activities later, and we still haven’t run out of reasons to explore Amelia Island. Spend your getaway searching for shark teeth, discovering local history, getting out on the water, exploring downtown Fernandina Beach, and finding a few favorite spots of your own along the way.
The best part? You don’t have to fit everything into one trip.
Find your place to stay, start building your itinerary, and get ready to experience Amelia Island.
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September brings another full month of things to do on Amelia Island, with live music, arts and culture, outdoor activities, and community events happening throughout the island. Catch a free concert in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, experience four days of dance performances and workshops, take part in a scenic cycling event, or spend an afternoon listening to local music. Here are some of the events to add to your September plans.
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Summer is still going strong on Amelia Island, and August is packed with live music, local markets, community events, and family-friendly fun. From waterfront concerts and downtown entertainment to races and artisan markets, there’s plenty happening throughout the month. Here are some of the top events to add to your August itinerary.
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Whether you’re winding down after a day at the beach or looking for the perfect spot to kick off an evening in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, happy hour is always a good idea. From handcrafted cocktails and fresh seafood to casual waterfront favorites and elevated dining, Amelia Island offers plenty of places to sip and snack for less.
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Looking for something fun to do on Amelia Island this July? From local markets and waterfront concerts to festive family events, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the island. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or soaking up the summer as a local, these July events are worth adding to your calendar.
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