by The Editors | October 2, 2023

18 Ways to Explore Amelia Island

Explore the Victorian village, historical sites and seaports of the Isle of Eight Flags.

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  1. Fort Clinch State Park Soak up the island’s early history with daily tours of a Civil War-era fort and explore 1,400 acres of natural park shaded by maritime hammocks along the Atlantic Ocean. 2601 Atlantic Ave.
  2. Egans Creek Greenway Ride or hike your way through this grassy oasis of diverse ecosystems, perfect for spotting local wildlife or burning off a big lunch at one of the island’s eateries. 2500 Atlantic Ave.
  3. A.L. Lewis Museum Learn about American Beach and the Black leaders who played pivotal roles in establishing the coastline as a leisure, recreation and economic opportunity for Black Floridians.
    1600 Julia St.
  4. Amelia Island Horseback Riding Trot 13 miles of beaches from atop Mr. Red, Tanner or Cookie and catch the island’s sunrise (or sunset) with this horseback riding outfit. 4600 Peters Point Road 
  5. Eight Flags Antique Market Peruse the eclectic collection of new and vintage wares as well as fine antiques at this curated shop where you’ll find everything from nautical lore to rustic Floridiana.
    602 Centre St.
  6. Fernandina Beach Arts Market On the second and fourth Saturday of every month, a parking lot in the center of town transforms into a marketplace showcasing the best of the region, including locally grown produce, fresh baked bread, handmade jewelry and crafts. 715 Centre St.
  7. Fernandina Harbor Marina Once the shrimping capital of the world, these charming docks are where to watch the boats roll in on the Amelia River, or charter your own for a tour of Cumberland Sound.
    3 S. Front St.
  8. Story & Song Find your next beach read at this cozy bookstore, bistro and cultural center that stocks new reads, serves brunch bites and hosts community book clubs. 1430 Park Ave.
  9. The Heirloom Yard Nestled in the heart of historic Fernandina Beach, Christie Walsh-Myers grows, cuts and arranges flowers right in the backyard of this charming home. 20 S. 10th St.
  10. Palace Saloon Grab a pint at Florida’s oldest continuously operating watering hole, and sit at the same maritime bar that once served the Rockefellers and the founder of Anheuser-Busch. 117 Centre St.
  11. Mocama Beer Company This taproom and coffee shop is dedicated to the art of the brew, offering a wide selection of house beers and wines from across the country. 629 S. Eighth St.
  12. Wicked Bao Enjoy Asian street food at this popular eatery situated in a charming bungalow with a cozy side porch, where bao buns, dumplings and other small plates are served up with a heaping helping of happiness. 232 N. Second St.
  13. Burlingame This Southern staple offers the best of the region’s farm-to-table cuisine, from a bone-in pork chop to a tomato and peach salad to an array of fresh seafood options served in a farmhouse-style setting. 20 S. Fifth St.
  14. The Sprouting Project Experience chef-led private dinners at the Omni Amelia Island Resort, where fresh produce grows in the garden, local honey flows from the apiary and small-batch spirits ferment on-site. 39 Beach Lagoon Road
  15. The Williams House An elegant wraparound porch defines this genteel bed-and-breakfast, located just off Centre Street, built in 1856 and recently restored by owner and architect Veronica Byrnes. 103 S. Ninth St.
  16. Elizabeth Point Lodge This boutique inn combines modern comforts with a nod to New England for a slice of hospitality served up with elegant coastal style and oceanfront views. 98 S. Fletcher Ave.
  17. Amelia Island Lighthouse This historic sentinel has shone out over the Atlantic Ocean, steering sailors home from its perch since 1838. Stroll its grounds during visitor hours on Saturdays 11–2. 215 O’Hagan Lane
  18. Fernandina Historical Tour Walk streets built before the Civil War and discover the mystery and stories of more than 400 years of history from the docents at Amelia Island Museum of History. 233 S. Third St.

READ OUR FEATURE STORY ON THE PERFECT AMELIA ISLAND GETAWAY HERE.