Top reasons to visit Amelia Island
- Stunning Beaches: Amelia Island boasts beautiful, pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Rich History: Explore the charming town of Fernandina Beach and its historical sites, including the Amelia Island Museum.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits such as paddle boarding and golfing on excellent courses.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The island offers activities suitable for families, ensuring a memorable holiday for all ages.
- Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, many of which are pet-friendly.
Find great hotels near Amelia Island
Discover the charm of Amelia Island with a delightful range of hotel accommodations tailored to suit every traveler's needs. From cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, you'll find the perfect setting for both business trips and family holidays. Many establishments are pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry friends can join in the fun. Explore the best in Amelia Island hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals for an unforgettable getaway.
- Amelia Hotel at the Beach: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and is located 3km from Amelia Island. The Amelia Hotel at the Beach is designed for families and adventure seekers, offering direct access to the beach for guests to enjoy sun and surf. Onsite and nearby, you can indulge in a variety of adventure sports including sailing, skydiving, and hiking. The hotel also caters to younger guests with special amenities and activities, making it a delightful choice for family vacations.
- Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa: With a 4-star rating and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this exquisite resort is situated 8km from Amelia Island. The Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa is ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy direct beach access, a range of onsite activities like surfing, fishing, and biking, as well as nearby horse riding. Families will appreciate the array of children’s amenities, including an arcade, playground, and supervised childcare options, ensuring a memorable stay for guests of all ages.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Jacksonville Airport: Situated 24km from Amelia Island, this budget-friendly hotel is well-suited for pet-friendly and business travellers. The Days Inn allows pets, making it a convenient choice for those travelling with furry companions. The hotel offers essential amenities for business needs and maintains a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Its strategic location near the airport provides easy access for visitors, while the hotel’s pet policy ensures a comfortable stay for both you and your pet.
Where to stay near Amelia Island
Amelia Island offers a delightful blend of beach getaways and historical charm, making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike. Explore the captivating historic Amelia Island, bask in the sun on its pristine beaches, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of its seaside communities. With convenient access to nearby cities and neighbourhoods, visitors can indulge in romantic excursions and family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable vacation experience on this enchanting island.
- Jacksonville: As a vibrant metropolis, Jacksonville serves as a gateway to Amelia Island. The city boasts a mix of family-friendly attractions, business venues, and urban experiences. Visitors can expect a year-round influx of tourists, with peak times in March, July, and October. Highlights include sprawling shopping malls and local beaches, perfect for sun-seekers and families alike. Jacksonville’s diverse neighbourhoods offer a blend of culture and entertainment, making it an ideal starting point for your exploration of the region.
- Fernandina Beach: Situated on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is a charming city known for its outdoor activities and beautiful coastlines. The travel experience here is characterised by a relaxing, beachy vibe, with peak visitor numbers occurring in March to April and July. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy golfing at local courses or spending time on family-friendly beaches. The town is steeped in history and offers delightful neighbourhoods to wander through, making it a perfect spot for those looking to embrace the coastal lifestyle.
- St. Marys: Located 18km from Amelia Island, St. Marys is a picturesque city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. The arrival of travellers peaks in March to April and July, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore recreational areas and golf courses, while the nearby national state park provides ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. St. Marys is an excellent destination for those seeking an adventurous getaway amid stunning natural surroundings.
Things to do in Amelia Island
Shopping
Just a short stroll from the historic district, you can explore the charming boutiques and galleries of Centre Street, where unique souvenirs await. For a broader selection, the Amelia Island Shopping Centre offers a variety of shops, perfect for finding gifts that capture the island's essence.
Recreation
The Amelia Island Wellness Retreat offers a tranquil atmosphere with guided yoga sessions, rejuvenating massage therapies, and holistic health workshops, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery and calming ocean sounds. This retreat encourages relaxation and self-discovery in a serene coastal environment.
At the Ritz-Carlton Spa, indulge in luxurious treatments inspired by local ingredients, including soothing facials and revitalising body scrubs. The spa’s serene ambience, complete with ocean views, creates an ideal setting for unwinding and rejuvenating your senses.
Join a kayaking tour at Amelia Island Kayak Excursions, where you can explore the island's beautiful waterways. Paddle through scenic marshes while observing wildlife, allowing for a peaceful connection with nature and a refreshing outdoor experience.
Adventure
Experience thrilling water sports at Amelia Island's beaches, including paddleboarding and kayaking along the scenic coastline. For land adventures, explore the lush trails of Fort Clinch State Park, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting, or enjoy horseback riding along the sandy shores for a unique perspective of the island.
Nightlife
Amelia Island’s nightlife offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy live music and craft cocktails at The Palace Saloon, or unwind with a beachfront view at Sandy Bottoms Beach Bar & Grill. For a more intimate setting, the Amelia Island Wine Company provides an excellent selection of wines.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Amelia Island
For a budget-friendly trip to Amelia Island, consider visiting during the cheaper months of October and December to January, avoiding the pricier March to April and July. Tuesdays offer the best hotel rates, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter accommodations by budget and location, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Explore the island’s free activities, such as its beautiful beaches and parks, to further reduce your expenses while enjoying the local scenery and culture.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Amelia Island are October and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Amelia Island is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Amelia Island is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation on Amelia Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Amelia Island
Amelia Island offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, the Amelia Island Museum, the scenic Amelia River, and the charming town of Fernandina Beach. This destination is perfect for those seeking a mix of culture and urban experiences amidst beautiful state parks and urban parks.
- American Beach: Located 6km from Amelia Island, American Beach offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Enjoy sunbathing on its sandy shores, swimming in the gentle waves, and taking leisurely strolls along the beach, immersing yourself in the tranquil coastal vibes.
- Amelia Island Lighthouse: Situated 5km away, the Amelia Island Lighthouse is a charming historic landmark. Visitors can appreciate its rich cultural heritage while exploring the picturesque surroundings, making it a delightful spot for photography and learning about the island's nautical history.
- Cumberland Island: 24km from Amelia Island, Cumberland Island is a natural paradise boasting pristine beaches and abundant outdoor activities. Discover scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and untouched landscapes, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Best time to go to Amelia Island
The best time to visit Amelia Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Amelia Island falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Amelia Island falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Amelia Island
Flying into Amelia Island is convenient with several nearby airports. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is located 26km away, with excellent hotels such as the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Airport, just 483m from the terminal. Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), 130km distant, offers options like the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Gainesville, situated 13km away. Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), located 69km from Amelia Island, features the 4-star Grey Owl Inn, 14km from the airport. Each hotel provides easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth transition for your travel plans.