Amelia Island in Northeast Florida is loaded with history, luxury, culinary finds and outdoors recreation, including golf, fishing, hiking and biking. Located north of of Jacksonville, the barrier island is among the Southeast’s more popular destinations.
This Summer season promises to promises to blend beloved with fresh new experiences, as Amelia Island continues to enchant travelers with its laid-back coastal charm, 13 miles of pristine Appalachian quartz beaches, and historic seaport vibe.
.Salt Restaurant (The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island)
Here’s a closer look:
- Beaches with a twist: With rolling sand dunes up to 40 feet high, Amelia Island’s beaches offer public access points, many with boardwalks and features for strollers and wheelchairs. Amp up your beach day with horseback rides, electric skateboard tours, or a sunset cruise on the Atlantic.
- History that comes alive: Kids (and parents) love Fort Clinch State Park, a preserved 19th-century fort with reenactors, tours, and some of Florida’s best fossilized shark tooth hunting. Continue the adventure at the Amelia Island Museum of History, followed by a stroll through the 50-block National Historic District of Fernandina Beach packed with boutiques, ice cream parlors, and old-world charm.
- Parks for play and exploration: Families and sports enthusiasts flock to the universally accessible Central Park, where tennis, pickle ball, pétanque courts and more are available for public use. Egans Creek Park offers a fitness trail, yoga garden, birdwatching docks, and kayak launch, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Oak Marsh at Omni Amelia Island Plantation (Omni Amelia Island)
- Resort updates: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island recently debuted a renovated spa, new wellness programming, a scientific dolphin cruise, and a refreshed Salt restaurant, which might be the best dining experience in Florida. Meanwhile, Omni Amelia Island Resort introduced its new FloraBelle dining venue and reopened its iconic Oak Marsh Golf Course after a full renovation by Beau Welling Design.
- A treehouse retreat: The new Amelia Island Treehouse, tucked on five wooded acres, offers a luxurious escape for two, complete with modern amenities and easy beach access.
- Sail through time: Set sail on a serene river cruise aboard an 18-foot electric Duffy boat, then travel back in time at Fernandina Fossils & Co. for guided fossil hunts, educational sessions, and art classes.
- Fresh local flavors: Newcomers to the dining scene include the charming Kismet Coffee, lively Irish pub Scully’s, and the ultra-personal Art Culinarian experience, where Chef Brian crafts a bespoke meal in your vacation rental.
Feature Photo: Amelia Island Treehouse (AmeliaIsland.com)