Whether a first-time trip or annual family tradition, a visit to Amelia Island in Northeast Florida promises a summer to remember, blending beloved classics with fresh new experiences. This award-winning destination continues to enchant travelers with its laid-back coastal charm, abundant outdoor recreation, and dynamic culinary scene.

A Top-Rated Getaway

Amelia Island consistently earns its place among America’s most celebrated travel destinations, thanks to its 13 miles of pristine Appalachian quartz beaches, championship golf, and historic seaport vibe.

Recent accolades include:

• Global Traveler’s No. 1 Best Island in the U.S. (2024, 2025)
• Travel + Leisure’s No. 2 Best Island in the U.S. (2024)
• HGTV’s No. 3 Most Charming Small-Town Downtowns in America (2025)
• Condé Nast Traveler’s No. 4 Top Island in the U.S. (2024)
• U.S. News & World Report’s No. 9 Best Family Beach Vacation in the U.S. (2024)
• Southern Living’s No. 10 Best Beach Town in the South (2025)

Timeless Favorites

For generations, visitors have flocked to Amelia Island for one-of-a-kind experiences that set it apart from other Florida beach destinations:

• 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.

Exciting New Discoveries

• Resort updates: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island recently debuted a renovated spa, new wellness programming, a scientific dolphin cruise, and a refreshed Salt restaurant. 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 brand-new Amelia Island Treehouse, tucked on five wooded acres, offers a whimsical and 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 – even create your own one-of-a-kind shark-tooth necklace.
• 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 right in your vacation rental – dishes washed, of course.

Plan Your Summer Escape

Make the most of your summer vacation with a visit to this top-rated island gem, where timeless favorites meet fresh discoveries.