09/09/2026
Welcome to Amelia Island, Florida ❤️
We’ve been to Amelia Island many times over the years, usually just for the beach or a quick visit. But last weekend, my wife and I got the privilege of spending the whole weekend on the island and actually exploring Fernandina Beach and more of Amelia Island. And what we discovered made us appreciate this beautiful place in a whole new way.
Located in Northeast Florida, about 30 minutes from Jacksonville and close to the Georgia line, Amelia Island is only about 13 miles long and 2 miles wide—yet there’s so much packed into this little island.
One thing I didn’t realize before visiting is that Fernandina Beach is the city on Amelia Island—and its historic downtown is at the heart of the island. With 13 miles of Atlantic beaches, you can swim, fish, kayak, surf, walk the shore, or even hunt for fossilized shark teeth. Add Fort Clinch State Park, historic buildings, museums, 99 holes of championship golf, tennis, pickleball, boating and cycling, and there’s definitely no shortage of things to do. The island also hosts popular events throughout the year, including Amelia Island Concours Week, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, and Dickens on Centre.
Tourism is a huge part of the local economy. Amelia Island welcomed approximately 1.03 million visitors in 2024, generating about $949 million in economic impact and supporting roughly 12,700 jobs in Nassau County.
And apparently we aren’t the only ones who think this place is special. Amelia Island has recently been ranked #1 Best Island in the U.S., #7 Best Island in the Continental U.S., and #2 Best Historic Small Town in various 2026 rankings.
After spending the weekend here, I can understand why. ❤️🌴
