Take a day trip to Amelia Island

Plan your visit during one of the island's special events. Classic car fans will be wowed by The Amelia, while foodies can't miss the Amelia Island Cookout, held in mid-October on the lawn at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. – Gwen Pratesi

About 30 miles northeast of downtown Jacksonville, the relaxed community of Amelia Island draws families and year-round vacationers with its 13 miles of beaches, historic attractions, and laid-back environment.

History of Amelia Island

Amelia Island offers a wealth of history to explore. Fernandina Beach, the island's historic downtown, is recognized as the birthplace of America's modern shrimping industry. Known as the "Isle of 8 Flags," Fernandina Beach is the only municipality in the U.S. to have had the flags of seven different nations flown over it since 1562, with Spain ruling twice.

The Significance of American Beach

From the 1930s to the 1950s, Amelia Island was a safe vacation haven for Florida's Black residents. Self-made Black millionaire Abraham Lincoln Lewis purchased more than 200 acres of beachfront on Amelia Island and named it American Beach. This allowed Black vacationers to enjoy the island without the threat of racial discrimination or violence. The A.L. Lewis Museum on American Beach is dedicated to this important local history.

Activities and Attractions

While on the island, there are numerous activities to enjoy. Learn about pirate lore at the Amelia Island Museum of History, sip a pirate's punch at the Palace Saloon (Florida's oldest continuously operating drinking establishment since 1903), and look for alligators while walking through Egans Creek Greenway. You can also view the wild horses of Cumberland Island with Amelia River Cruises, explore historic Fort Clinch State Park, or simply relax on the beach.

Getting to Amelia Island

There are two main routes to reach Amelia Island from Jacksonville. One option is to take Interstate 95, then State Road A1A through Yulee, and cross over the bridge to Amelia Island. The second option is to follow the scenic route along Heckscher Drive (also A1A), which takes you past five barrier islands, including Big and Little Talbot islands, and onto the south end of Amelia Island. Here you'll find two of the largest resort properties, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, and the Omni Amelia Island Resort.

Accommodations on Amelia Island

To make the most of your visit, consider staying on the island. Amelia Island offers an array of upscale accommodations, including The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. You'll also find other chain hotels, historic bed-and-breakfast properties, as well as numerous vacation rentals and condos that can accommodate families and larger groups. It is advisable to make reservations well in advance if you plan to visit in the summer.

Previous visitors have appreciated the beautiful beaches, quaint downtown area of Fernandina Beach, and the island's Old Florida charm.

You can visit Amelia Island at any time, free of charge.