20 Fun Things to Do on Amelia Island

Amelia Island is a quaint barrier island off Florida’s northern coast and one of our favorite weekend getaways. With wide beaches framed by sea oats and rolling dunes, marsh lands, and an adorable historic downtown, we never run out of things to do on Amelia Island.

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Amelia Island: The Escape You Didn’t Know You Need

I can literally feel the tension leaving my shoulders as soon as we hit the bridge leaving the mainland. There’s something magical about the way Amelia Island greets you—salt marshes shimmering in the sunlight, sea oats swaying in the breeze, and ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss lining the roads. It’s like driving straight into a postcard.

This charming island feels like Charleston’s laid-back little brother or maybe a quieter cousin of Savannah, blending indulgent luxury with a deep sense of history and unspoiled nature. From its pristine beaches to its storied past, Amelia Island offers a little bit of everything, all wrapped in its signature Southern hospitality. Its no wonder John Grisham based his best selling novel Camino Island on this little piece of coastal heaven.

Things to Do On Amelia Island

To help you plan your trip, here are 20 fantastic things to do on Amelia Island. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, this list will fill your itinerary with fun and memorable experiences.

1. Stroll Through Fernandina Beach’s Historic Downtown

The historic streets of downtown Fernandina Beach are  lined with unique shops and local restaurants, many with great happy hours and live music. Centre Street is the main street stretching 8 blocks from the harbor into town. This is a great place to spend an afternoon before grabbing dinner at one of our favorite restaurants downtown like the Salty Pelican Bar and Grill.

The Book Loft is a must on my list every time we are downtown. I could spend hours wandering through this charming indie bookstore. (It was the inspiration for the bookstore in John Grisham’s Camino Island.) I always find some sort of treasure at Eight Flags Antique Market and Twisted Sisters has the cutest gift items.

Oh, and go ahead and join the line stretching out the door of Fernandina Fantastic Fudge. The handmade candy is fantastic, but the ice cream here is delicious! Its worth the wait.

2. Relax on the Beach

Obviously, one of the most popular things to do on Amelia Island is to hit the beach. And, with 13 miles of pristine beaches on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, you’re spoiled for choice on Amelia Island. Sunbathe, hunt for shark teeth, or dive into that novel you’ve been saving for vacation. Oceanfront resorts and private rentals offer easy access to the beach. If you are staying downtown, you can access the beach at Main Beach Park. That’s where the action is.

But if you’re after a more peaceful vibe, head to Amelia Island State Park—less hustle, more serenity thanks to the 300 person limit enforced by the Department of Environmental Protection. There’s a $2 charge to visit the park and payment is on the honor system.

3. Tour Fort Clinch State Park

For a dose of history and adventure, make your way to Fort Clinch State Park. This Civil War-era fort offers living history programs that let you step into the shoes of a Union soldier. Stroll through the fort, join a guided tour, or explore the park’s hiking trails and stunning waterfront views. Don’t forget your camera—the photo ops here are pretty cool.

See our recommendations for the best restaurants in Amelia Island

4. Take a Sunset Cruise

Nothing beats watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a boat. Amelia River Cruises offers scenic trips along the Amelia River, where you’ll get front-row seats to breathtaking salt marshes, barrier islands, and the occasional dolphin or wild horse. The Adults Only Twilight Cruise is BYOB and has the added bonus of live music. So, bring your favorite person and a bottle of wine to enjoy the sunset from the water.

5. Explore the Amelia Island Museum of History

History buffs, this one is for you! The Amelia Island Museum of History is located in the former Nassau County jail and combines memorabilia with spoken history to share the fascinating stories of the island. You’ll learn about the 8 flags that have flown over Amelia Island and exactly how Fernandina Beach became the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry. Guided tours keep it engaging and fun, so even if history wasn’t your favorite subject in school, you’ll leave with some fascinating stories to share. Put this one on your list of things to do on Amelia Island on rainy days.

6. Ride Horses on the Beach

If you’ve ever dreamed of horseback riding on a beach, now’s your chance. Amelia Island Horseback Riding offers guided tours for all skill levels. You’ll enjoy the sound of waves crashing, the feel of ocean breezes, and the rhythm of hooves on the sand. I recommend a sunrise or sunset ride for the stunning views and moderate temperatures (especially in the summer). It’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after you are back home.

7. Indulge in Local Seafood & Craft Cocktails

You know I wouldn’t skip including my two favorite things to do on Amelia Island – eat great seafood and indulge in craft cocktails. The island’s local restaurants serve up fresh, flavorful dishes that highlight the day’s catch. Whether you’re devouring shrimp tacos at Timoti’s Seafood Shack or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at Salt at The Ritz-Carlton, you won’t leave hungry. If seafood isn’t your thing there’s no shortage of great food on Amelia Island.

After dinner, you can wrap up your day with a craft cocktail at The Decantery with its creative drink menu. Or, add a dose of history to your happy hour and grab a drink at The Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar. And, I couldn’t leave out the Lobby Bar at the Ritz-Carlton where you can enjoy First Call, which is the presentation of the day’s unique bourbon blend. I have to order a Smoked Old Fashioned here on every trip.

8. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Take to the water for an up-close look at Amelia Island’s stunning natural environment. Glide through salt marshes by kayak or paddleboard, and keep your eyes peeled for gopher tortoises, herons, and maybe even a manatee. Guided tours make it easy for beginners, so don’t be shy—get out there and paddle!

9. Visit Egan’s Creek Greenway

Egan’s Creek Greenway is a 300 acre protected area that lets you get up close and personal with nature. This peaceful trail system winds through marshes and forests, offering prime wildlife-spotting opportunities. You’re likely to encounter turtles, herons, and maybe even an alligator or two (from a safe distance, of course). It’s perfect for walking, biking, or just soaking up the serenity.

10. Stay in a Historic Bed & Breakfast

Why settle for a cookie-cutter hotel when you can stay in a charming, historic bed-and-breakfast? The Amelia Island Williams House and the The Addison on Amelia bring Southern hospitality to life with elegant rooms and personal touches. Breakfast here isn’t just a meal—it’s an event. Check out our guide on where to stay on Amelia Island for more B&B options.

11. Attend a Festival

Amelia Island loves a good celebration, so check the calendar for local events. Kick off the year with Amelia Island Restaurant Week in January. The Fernandina Beach Songwriters Festival in April is perfect for music lovers. The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May honors the area’s shrimping industry with food, music, and crafts. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, expect festive lights and a warm community vibe.

12. Play a Round of Golf

Amelia Island is a true golfer’s paradise, and playing a round is one of the most popular things to do on Amelia Island. Tee off at the Amelia River Golf Club or Omni Amelia Island Resort and enjoy championship courses with jaw-dropping views. Even if your swing needs some work, the scenery alone makes it worth the effort.

13. See Wild Horses on Cumberland Island

Take a short boat ride to Cumberland Island for a nature escape like no other. This gorgeous island is actually in Georgia and is a true unspoiled paradise. Hike the trails, explore historic ruins, and watch wild horses roam freely. This beautiful island feels worlds away from everyday life—perfect for a day trip.

14. Take a Ghost Tour

Add a little mystery to your trip with a Fernandina Beach Ghost Tour. Walk through historic streets as you listen to haunted history tales and spooky legends. You can also choose a Haunted Hike or Haunted Bar Crawl (I’m so in for this one!) Even if you’re a skeptic, the storytelling alone makes it a night to remember.

15. Enjoy a Spa Day

When it’s time to unwind, book a spa day at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Inspired by the island’s natural surroundings, their luxurious treatments will melt your stress away. You’ll walk out feeling like a new person—or at least a very pampered one.

16. Go Fishing

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, fishing on Amelia Island delivers. Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing or cast your line from the pier. You might reel in redfish, trout, or flounder—and plenty of good stories to go with them.

17. Rent a Bike

Hop on a bike and explore Amelia Island on two wheels. The Amelia Island Trail offers scenic routes through lush landscapes and historic areas. Biking is a fun way to soak in the island’s beauty at your own pace. Choose an E-Bike Tour and have a professional guide give you a tour of the island.

18. Watch the Sunrise

This one is a non-negotiable every time we are on Amelia Island. Watching the sunrise over the water is one of my absolute favorite things to do on Amelia Island. The sunrises here are absolutely stunning. Grab a coffee and your camera and head to the beach a few minutes before sunrise.

19. Shop at the Farmers Market

Every Saturday (rain or shine), the Fernandina Beach Market Place buzzes with vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect way to kick off your morning while supporting local businesses.

20. Take a Segway Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore, try a Segway tour at the Omni Amelia Island Resort. Glide through the resort’s marshes and maritime forests while your guide shares fun facts and insider tips.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do on Amelia Island

Amelia Island combines natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. That’s why we continue to come back year after year. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or a little bit of both, this northeast Florida escape will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.

More Things to Do on Amelia Island