Amelia Island, FL: Sea, Sport, and the Best Sunrises
At the southernmost point of the Sea Islands and included in the barrier islands that stretch from South Carolina to Florida sits Amelia Island, a 13-mile piece of paradise only four miles at its widest section.
Named for Princess Amelia, George II of Great Britain’s daughter, the island is home to Fernandina Beach, Amelia City, and American Beach, and boasts a diverse cultural history that includes influences from France, Spain, Britain, Mexico, and more.
The island’s famous Amelia Island Trail is part of the East Coast Greenway, which contains a 3,000 mile-long arrangement of trails that stretch from Maine to Florida.
Often called the “pearl of the barrier islands,” Amelia Island welcomes travelers from all over to experience their serene beaches, famous fresh seafood, golf courses, and impressive historic sections that highlight the many cultures that have influenced the area.
The miles of gorgeous, serene beaches give travelers a plethora of sun and sea activities to explore.
Shelling is hugely popular, with guests finding some of the most beautiful shells and shark teeth to add to their treasured collections.
Early birds know how impressive the sunrises on Amelia are, and late-risers who’ve gotten themselves out of bed early have never regretted the sight over the Atlantic Ocean.
Head to Main Beach Park, where guests can enjoy volleyball courts, playgrounds, a beach bar, and picnic tables.
Fort Clinch State Park beach is another must-see. The state park features a brick fortress and three miles of shore, including a fishing pier, a nature trail, and regular reenactments of military drills and historical trades from the area.
The island is known for its festivals honoring food, music, film, and local treasures. The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival has been held every May on Fernandina Beach since 1964 and celebrates delectable local shrimp and seafood, arts and crafts, antiques, live music, and even a Miss Shrimp Festival competition.
The eight flags in the title refer to the eight different nations that have flown flags on the island since 1562.
Regarded as the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, shrimp is huge in the area, with the Fernandina Beach harbor housing an impressive fleet of shrimp boats.
Other festivals to experience include the Amelia Island Jazz Festival, the Chamber Music Festival, and the Amelia Island Film Festival, to name a few.
The area boasts six golf courses such as the Omni Resort at Amelia Island or the Golf Club of Amelia Island with a mix of resort, municipal, and links-style greens from which to choose, making it easy for new and seasoned players to find the one perfect for them.
Many holes at each course offer a scenic view of the ocean as you play.
Whether you are a history buff or just love breathtaking architecture visit historic Fernandina Beach, where you can view 50 blocks of preserved buildings and structures including the Florida House Inn, the oldest operating inn in the area.
Don’t forget to stop for some Pirate’s Punch at the Palace Saloon, the oldest operating watering hole in Florida that first opened its doors in the early 1900s under the name Shipcaptain’s Bar.
In the Historic District, stop into the Amelia Island Museum of History and learn about some of the infamous pirate inmates at the jail.
There are also interactive exhibits for younger guests and the Shrimp Museum on the harbor.
When you choose to visit Amelia Island, your options for your getaway are endless. From museums, festivals, and historic sites to golf, shelling, and some of the best natural views in the world, guests of all ages and backgrounds are sure to create their perfect vacation.
Experience Amelia Island as it was intended to be enjoyed.
Click the link below and check out these views from the balcony of this Amelia Island Oceanfront Vacation Rental.
BOOK A AMELIA ISLAND VACATION RENTAL IN FLORIDA
” Million Dollar Views”...
