Plan your next family trip to Fernandina Beach, an 18-mile stretch of beach located along the northeastern border of Florida’s Amelia Island. Well-known as a beloved family destination, Fernandina Beach has a variety of upscale shops, pristine parks with hiking and biking trails, world-class restaurants, and a wealth of outdoor activities to satisfy individuals of all ages. You can also find your new home away from home by booking a stay at one of many cozy vacation rentals in Fernandina Beach. Here are 10 popular family-friendly activities to put on your itinerary.
1. Go Fishing
Fishing is a popular family pastime for tourists at Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island. Fish from the long pier at Fort Clinch Park, or rent a fishing charter with Amelia Angler Outfitters. You never know what you might catch when you cast your line near Fernandina. At the end of the day, plan to take redfish, seatrout, flounder, or bluefish back to your vacation rental for a feast.
2. Take an Amelia River Cruise
Enjoy an Amelia River Cruise, and listen as your guide narrates the history of Amelia Island and the various landmarks you can see from the water. Kids enjoy the music and the passing dolphins. Take the sunset cruise for beautiful views of the island with the moon rising above, or sign up for a cruise to nearby Cumberland Island where you and the kids can spot the wild horses and take pictures.
3. Go Hang Gliding
Hang Glide USA takes you and your family members high above the shoreline to enjoy beautiful views below. Suit up in a flight suit complete with a helmet and an integrated communication system to talk to the pilot during your trip. Hang gliding is the perfect activity for older teens and thrill-seeking adults.
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4. Kayak the Lofton Creek
Lofton Creek is a serene black water canal system that flows through the forests and wetlands of Yulee. Because the water is so calm, it is the perfect place to learn to kayak, and it’s the ideal environment for children and young adults going out on their first excursion. Get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, birds, woodpeckers, and water turkeys. You can also choose from a variety of other tours.
5. Tour the Pinball Museum
If you have video game lovers in your clan, stop by the pinball museum in Fernandina Beach for a look. See machines dating back to the early 20th century as well as modern day arcade games. Kids can play 20 different machines to pass the time. The museum is centrally located and near a variety of restaurants, so grab a bite to eat before heading back to your vacation rental.
6. View the Animals at the Amelia Island Nature Center
Explore all Fernandina Beach has to offer at the Amelia Island Nature Center. Stop by the Sea Turtle Discovery to learn about these rescued sea creatures and how they are released back into the wild once they’ve healed, and make a turtle-themed bracelet as a souvenir. The center also provides education about the various shark teeth found around the island, where to go to collect seashells, and information on crabbing.
7. Learn to Surf
Beach lovers who have always wanted to learn to surf can head to the Surf Asylum for lessons. Children as young as four can learn how to stand on a surfboard, learn the parts of a surfboard, and take part in safety and ocean awareness. Older teens and adults who already know how to surf can improve their skills and learn a few advanced tricks before heading out into the water.
8. Learn the History of Amelia Island
Education doesn’t have to stop when you go on vacation. Take the children to the Amelia Island Museum of History to discover fascinating stories about the founding of the island and the individuals who played an important part in the planning and development of the area. Discover a variety of exhibits, including a discovery ship with hands-on activities and an ancient Timucuan Village that details what the island looked like more than 4,000 years ago.
9. Paint a PIcture
What better way to spend a rainy day than with someone you love creating art? The Red Crayon is a local boutique offering group painting. Located in the Fernandina Beach Historic District, The Red Crayon lets children express themselves through a variety of media, including art, music, and creative movement. Receive guided instruction on creating a painted masterpiece with a group, or create a beautiful clay pot on your own. Afterwards, stroll along the riverfront before turning in at your vacation rental.
10. Take a Stroll Along Main Street
Downtown Fernandina Beach is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon shopping. Ride on a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown with the family, then stop by one of the unique shops to purchase T-shirts as a memento of your stay. Several restaurants are on hand when you get hungry, and a statue of a pirate is an ideal spot to stop for selfies and photographs.
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