Curator’s statement
Somewhat off the radar, about an hour north of Downtown Jacksonville is a quaint island with beach towns that gives all the coastal charm you need blended with rich history! It’s a bit of a trek to get there. It’s down one-lane, windy roads—but on a nice day the sun sits perfectly over the water as you cross multiple bridges, and this is the ideal location for a relaxing and romantic getaway. Amelia Island & Fernandina blend perfectly together for tons of fun on a weekend at the beach.
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Where to stay on Amelia Island
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Things to do on Amelia Island
Golf! There’s nothing better than an afternoon on the course on a nice day in Florida. Grab the clubs and schedule in a few rounds. The Golf Club of Amelia Island is a members club with exceptional food and a beautiful course—it’s also a wedding venue and my wedding business The Calm Bride, is a preferred planner for this venue!
Shopping & walking around in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach or Amelia City
Relax on the beach: Fun fact this is a beach you can drive onto and park on, so no need to worry about the hassle of beach parking, just pull right up to the ocean!
State parks and hiking trails can be found both at the very North (Fort Clinch State Park) and very South (Amelia Island State Park) of the Island.
Spa! The Omni and The Ritz both have amazing spas for relaxation and pampering when you need it most.
Places to eat & drink on Amelia Island
The biggest fish tacos ever
I made it a point to try as much as I could in just a few short days here in Amelia and from myself and my clients who get married and live in the area, these are the spots you definitely can’t miss.
Palace Saloon: Florida’s oldest bar. It’s true, look it up!
Kismet Coffee: Located just around the corner from the Ritz Carlton, this quaint coffee shop in Amelia City is perfect for a morning cup of joe, catching up with friends, and even getting some work done in the afternoon. *Hint* try their espresso muffin!
The Loop has multiple locations throughout the region but is a great spot for a quick lunch.
The Amelia Island Brewing Company / Tavern by AIBC: This combined establishment has a corner spot restaurant with outdoor shaded seating, and an alleyway attached to the brewery to try their fresh draft beers and enjoy the beautiful weather.
The Spice & Tea Exchange is not a restaurant, but they have the craziest selection of fresh tea, spices, salts, sugars, and so much more. It’s a great place to stop in for a keepsake and bring some unique flavors back home! A must-see when visiting Historic Downtown Fernandina.
Sliders Seaside Grill: This amazing waterfront restaurant was just a few minutes walk from our stay at the Sea Cottages of Amelia and has tons of indoor and outdoor seating. Your typical Florida beach shack restaurant with some of the biggest fried fish tacos I have ever eaten in my life, and live music daily.
Need to know
Amelia Island caters to a slightly older demographic, with some bars and restaurants closing on the earlier side, and the population of people averaging above 50. It is perfect for anniversary trips!
Younger couples looking to go will be pleased to find some more rowdy establishments such as the Palace Saloon and the accommodations at the Ritz Carlton and Omni resorts allow for little venturing off property. These are by far the two resorts I always recommend when any client is looking at the destination, but specifically younger couples—as they’ll have the most to offer!
Travel Advisor
Alyssa Chitwood
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