Amelia Island is located off the coast of Northeast Florida in the United States. It is part of a chain of barrier Islands that extend along the Atlantic coast and is one of the Sea Islands. Amelia Island is located in the city of Fernandina Beach and thirty miles away from downtown Jacksonville, Florida. It is accessible by two bridges from the mainland, with entry points from A1A and I-95 Interstate.
Amelia Island is 13 miles long and between one and 2.5 miles wide on the northeastern corner of Florida.
Amelia Island is a favored tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, fishing on and offshore, historic sites, year-round festivals, Art collections, and some of the best golf courses in the nation. It has something to offer for everyone. Whether planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, here are some things you should know about our Island paradise:
Only about a 15-minute drive from your beach suite. Florida State Parks are on both the island’s north and south ends. The North State Park is Fort Clinch, a historical spot with a fabulous natural environment, walking paths, and a great historic place to visit. It provides campgrounds with a great beach to surf, fish, and hunt for sharks’ teeth. There are many deer sightings and alligators. An occasion Manatee can be sighted in Egan’s Creek. The Southern side is a beach and fishing paradise.
History
Amelia Island is also known as ” The Isle of Eight Flags.” Its rich history dates back to the 1500s when Spanish explorers discovered it. Over the centuries, the Island has changed hands multiple times between the Spanish, French, British, and American governments. Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island is in the history books for being known as the Birthplace of the “Modern-Day Shrimping Industry.”
A great book to pick up at one of our local bookstores is “Amelia Island”Birthplace Of The Modern Shrimping Industry…written by a local resident, Grey Edenfield. This will be an interesting read while you are relaxing on the beach.
We encourage our Guests to explore Fort Clinch State Park, a 19th-century fort that offers a glimpse into the Island’s military history, and the Amelia Island Museum of History, which showcases the Island’s colorful past. The “Eight Flags” of Amelia are on display at the Fernandina Shrimping Museum and Welcome Center.
Beaches
Amelia Island is home to some of the most beautiful and expansive beaches in Northeast Florida. Amelia’s beaches are known for the best shark teeth hunting and shelling experiences in Florida. Main Beach Park, located in the heart of Fernandina Beach, is a popular spot for families and features a playground, picnic area, and volleyball courts. If you are looking for a more secluded beach, Fort Clinch State Park offers a stunning stretch of sand that is perfect for sunbathing, fishing, or simply enjoying the view.
Nature
Amelia Island is a nature lover’s paradise, with an abundance of parks, nature preserves, and wildlife refuges. The Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, manatees, and a wide range of bird species. Visitors can explore the lush forests and marshes of Egans Creek Greenway, a scenic park that offers hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities.
Dining and Nightlife
Amelia Island offers a variety of dining options, from seafood restaurants to chic bistros. In the Historic downtown area, you will find an array of quaint shops offering the latest fashions for women and men. Fabulous jewelry stores…my Favs are Lindey’s and Amelia’s Fine Jewelry.
Live bands play at the local favorite “The Green Turtle” during the day and the evening. There are also bar hangouts that offer a lively nightlife scene, such as the oldest bar in Florida…” The Palace Saloon”! Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, Amelia Island has something for everyone.
Events
Amelia Island is known for its many events and festivals throughout the year. Our internationally known Car Show…In 2024, we are celebrating our 29th year showcasing automobiles from around the world…”The Concours D’Elegance” … known as ” The Amelia”!
Some of the most popular events include the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, which has been a tradition in Fernandina since the 1950s. The local Shrimpers gather to kick off the start of the shrimping season. Visitors are able to taste local fresh catch prepared in many different ways and also browse the streets where Artists come from all over to display Art pieces. Live music and beverages are abundant. We can’t forget that the Amelia Island Jazz Festival and the Amelia Island Book Festival are also popular.
A newer addition is the Amelia Island Songwriters Festival. Our local Songwriters and others from across the country gather and collaborate. These events offer a fun and festive atmosphere and provide an opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality of Amelia Island.
