Located along the northeastern corner of Florida, Amelia Island is a beautiful and quiet seaside resort island. The picturesque destination boasts emerald water, sandy beaches, as well as plenty of golf courses and attractions. This popular getaway spot also features a wealth of stately homes and impressive vacation rentals for an unforgettable stay. Once you’ve booked your Amelia Island vacation rental, consider these top 15 things to do while on vacation.
1. Attend a Fort Clinch Demo
On the first weekend of every month, Fort Clinch provides a reenactment of 19th-century life on the island. Watch as blacksmiths and masons do their thing, or stand by as they fire the cannons. This 1,400-acre park has a half-mile fishing pier for fishing, or you can bring your hiking boots and walk the six-mile nature trail.
2. Explore the Historic District
Stroll along the brick-lined streets of Amelia’s historic district and browse the antique markets, or sample some delicious meals at one of the fine restaurants. Take lunch at The Salty Pelican with a view of the Atlantic, or hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a tour of the city.
3. Fish from the George Crady Fishing Pier at the Amelia Island State Park
Catch a variety of fish on the one-mile long fishing pier in the Amelia Island State Park. Located on over 200 acres of unspoiled wilderness, this pedestrian-only bridge provides plenty of room for large groups. Bring chairs and equipment from your equipment rental, or stop by Amelia Island Bait and Tackle shop for everything you need.
4. Visit the Amelia Island Light
The Amelia Island Light is the oldest lighthouse in the state of Florida. Commissioned in 1839, this structure is located on the northern end of Amelia Island. The grounds are opened to the public on Saturdays, and twice a month you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for views of the island.
5. Tour the Amelia Island Museum of History
Learn about the history of Amelia Island with a tour of the Museum of History. There’s a hands-on discovery ship for children, and a small rendition of a Timucuan Village complete with a Timucuan Chief. Read through the outline that details the island from the 16th century to present day, and view artifacts from some of the Spanish missions throughout Florida.
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6. Learn Something New at the Maritime Museum
If you enjoy tales of pirates and Spanish treasure fleets, stop by the Maritime Museum for a lesson on local maritime history. Tour the museum and view various artifacts from sunken ships, a Soviet-era KGB diving suit, and there are also a few pieces from an expedition to the Titanic.
7. Enjoy the Sculptures on Centre
Browse a collection of beautiful artwork at the Art on Centre gallery. There are several mesh sculptures of the human body as well as beautiful paintings to view. Learn about the various artists and their techniques, and you can even purchase some of the pieces to take home with you.
8. Sample the Beverages at the Marlin and Barrel Distillery
Watch and learn how Venture Vodka is hand-crafted, distilled, and bottled by hand. Take a tour of the distillery, sample a few blends, and then stop by the shop for t-shirts, merchandise, or even grab a bottle of your favorite beverage to take back to your vacation rental.
9. Ride a Speed Boat Tour with Backwater Cat Adventures
If you enjoy speed, get your adrenaline pumping with a speed boat tour around the island. The spacious Craigcat boats hold up to two people and are safe and easy to drive. Tours last two to three hours long, and you will see a variety of wildlife and waterways. Drivers must be at least 18, and passengers should be at least five years old.
10. Play a Round of Mini Golf at the Island Falls Golf Course
For an afternoon of fun and laughs, challenge family or friends to a game of mini golf at the Island Falls Golf Course. The course is lush with plenty of shade, waterfalls, and a tropical theme to keep you cool on hot days. After your game, stop by the shop for an ice cream cone.
11. Sample the Wares at the Fernandina Farmer’s Market
If you enjoy cooking or simply crave fresh fruit and vegetables while staying in your vacation rental, you can stop by the Fernandina Beach Farmer’s Market and pick up fresh items from local vendors. Purchase everything from fresh fish and eggs to art from local artists. If you’re hungry for a quick snack or meal, be sure to grab a bite from one of the food vendors.
12. Take a Trolley Tour with Amelia Island Trolleys
Sign up for a short tour of Fernandina Beach and see all the popular hot spots in one trip. The trip only lasts a little more than an hour, and the drop-off and pickup point is near the beach, so you can spend the rest of your day enjoying the sun and sand.
13. Get a Massage at the Amelia Island Plantation
Relax and forget the stress of work and daily life with full spa treatments at the Amelia Island Plantation. From manicures to yoga classes, the spa has everything you need to unwind. Schedule treatments for small groups, schedule a solo haircut and styling appointment or opt for a couple’s spa session.
14. Get Spooked with Amelia Island Ghost Tours
Experience the mystery surrounding Amelia Island with an after-dark ghost tour. Walk through cemeteries and view some of the oldest buildings on the island. The tour details some of the history and legends behind the ghosts that dwell in the area. The tour is ideal for individuals of all ages, including families with children.
15. Dance the Night Away at the Locals’ Cocktail Lounge
Escape your vacation rental at night and grab a drink at the Locals’ Cocktail Lounge. The club offers live music, and a beer pong tournament every Tuesday. The staff is extremely friendly, and if you want a bite to eat, check out the local foods trucks that set up in the parking lot.
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