plane flying over palm tree

Things to Do on Amelia Island

Amelia Island is an excellent destination for a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. Our barrier island is part of the Sea Islands chain off Florida’s Atlantic coast and boasts 13 miles of pristine shoreline and white sand beaches. From relaxing on the beach to a sunset cruise, there are many ways to enjoy what this area has to offer. Read on for more local insight into the best things to do on Amelia Island!  

When you’re ready to start planning your trip, get our free Amelia Island Vacation Guide. This planning tool contains more innkeeper-selected recommendations on the best things to do in Fernandina Beach!  

Fun Activities on Amelia Island for Every Visitor

1. Amelia Island Beaches

No trip to Amelia Island would be complete without a visit to the beach! Our island boasts 13 miles of public beaches, so there’s plenty of space to set up camp for a day at the beach. Aside from lounging in a beach chair, here are some of our favorite ways to spend the day on Amelia Island beaches

2. Amelia Island Water Sports

If you prefer exploring over relaxing but still want to enjoy the beauty of our coastal town, check out Amelia Island watersports. There are a few ways to get your fix of saltwater therapy, from deep-sea fishing to kayaking on the Atlantic Ocean.  

Here are some of our favorite Amelia Island watersports

  • Sailing 
  • Kayaking, SUP 
  • Fishing  
People kayaking on the ocean

3. Amelia Island Golfing

Amelia Island golf courses are a paradise of Florida beach and low country scenery, sub-tropical weather, and unique challenges. Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy putting and chipping their way through the best greens on the island.

Here are some of the best golf courses on Amelia Island

  • The Golf Club at North Hampton 
  • Amelia River Golf Club 
  • Fernandina Beach Public Golf Course

4. Amelia Island Cycling

Amelia Island has enough bike trails and paved paths to give you a change of scenery each day of your visit. There is a diverse selection of Amelia Island bike paths that range from rugged trails winding past century-old, moss-laden live oaks and natural waterways to smooth scenic coastal routes. Even better, our guests can take advantage of the Addison’s complimentary bike rentals before hitting the road.

Here are our favorite trails and paths for Amelia Island cycling

  • The Amelia Island Trail 
  • Amelia River-to-Sea Trail 
  • Egan’s Creek Greenway 
  • Paved bike paths at Fort Clinch State Park 
  • Egan’s Creek Greenway

5. Amelia Island Restaurants

Dining is one of the most popular activities in downtown Fernandina Beach. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or authentic Italian fare, you’ll have no problem finding it here! 

Here are some of our favorite Amelia Island restaurants:  

  • Burlingame Restaurant 
  • David’s 
  • España Restaurant and Tapas 
  • Wicked BAO
Pizza and glass of red wine

6. Amelia Island Tours & Adventures

What are you most interested in exploring during your visit to Amelia Island? From downtown tasting tours to sunset cruises and unique local businesses, there are many ways to explore the beauty of this area. Each of the providers listed below offers a distinctive view of our area.

Here are some of our favorite Amelia Island tours

  • Sunset Cruises 
  • Amelia River Cruises 
  • Historic District Tours 
  • Downtown Tasting Tours 

Local Amelia Island Shops and galleries:

People drinking wine on a sunset cruise

7. Amelia Island Parks

Amelia Island is home to some of the most impressive state and national parks in Florida. Be sure to leave a spot at the top of your itinerary to appreciate all they have to offer! You won’t want to miss out. 

Here are some of our favorite Amelia Island parks: 

8. Amelia Island Events

From arts festivals to events that celebrate local flavors, there’s an annual event on Amelia Island for everyone’s interests. Live like the locals do when you attend an event or festival on Amelia Island! 

Here are some of our favorite Amelia Island events

  • Amelia Island Restaurant Week 
  • Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival 
  • Amelia Island Jazz Festival 
Woman getting food at a food truck

9. Day Trips from Amelia Island

Amelia Island’s surrounding areas offer exciting day trips for guests who wish to expand their travel horizons beyond our Historic District and pristine beaches. 

Here are some of our favorite day trips from Amelia Island

  • To the North | Jekyll Island 
  • To the North | Savannah, GA 
  • To the South | Big Talbot Island 
  • To the South | Fort George Island 
  • To the West | Okefenokee National Wildlife Rescue 
older couple on a road trip

10. Stay at the Addison on Amelia Island

Now that you know about all the best things to do on Amelia Island, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay. Our Fernandina Beach B&B features fourteen guest rooms that seamlessly blend the elegance of a bygone era with the modern amenitiesservices, and conveniences that today’s discriminating traveler expects. Even better, we’ll make reservations for any of the restaurants or activities on Amelia Island on your behalf, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about the details! 

Check our availability to discover the best things to do on Amelia Island for yourself!  

private porch at The Addison on Amelia Island