Amelia Island Tourist Development Council

Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is easy to reach, but hard to forget.

With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, and pristine waters, this barrier island has long been a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike.

The southernmost jewel in the Sea Island chain, Amelia Island beckons with 13 miles of uninterrupted, pristine Atlantic beach, arrayed with the lush natural beauty of giant oak trees draped in Spanish moss that highlight the maritime forest canopy.

Just over 18 square miles (the size and shape of Manhattan) it is the only place in America that has lived under the dominion of eight different flags. Along the way, this barrier island has drawn lively characters including adventurers, pirates, princesses, robber barons, and artists of all varieties. When you visit, you’ll understand why this small island has exerted such a powerful pull throughout the centuries.

The island is home to Civil War-era Fort Clinch, the refuge from segregation that is American Beach, and to a 50-block National Historic District that is a thriving neighborhood rich with eclectic shops and restaurants. The modern shrimping industry began here and shrimpers still ply these waters. To taste the difference, ask for wild-caught shrimp, available at many Amelia Island restaurants and grocery stores.

Amelia Island accommodations include luxury resorts, charming B&Bs, welcoming hotels, a variety of vacation rentals, and campsites. World-class golf, spas, and restaurants stand at the ready. It’s easy to create a trip for any interest. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, an unforgettable wedding, or just the chance to reconnect on the beach or under the live oaks, you’ll return with great stories (and do keep your eyes open for the wild residents: dolphins, sea turtles, egrets, deer, manatees, and more).

Throughout the seasons, the island is alive with theatre, dance, open-air art walks, and its acclaimed Chamber Music Festival. Among the events that draw international crowds are the Amelia Concours d’Elegance vintage car show and week of auctions, Pétanque Amelia Island Open, the legendary Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival, and Dickens on Centre.

Amelia Island is located 30 minutes from JAX International Airport, 90 minutes north of historic St. Augustine, 2 hours south of Savannah, 3 hours from Orlando, and 4 hours from Charleston.

With a culture of hospitality, Amelia Islanders love welcoming travelers and sharing in their enjoyment of the special place they call home. See for yourself, and, just like the sea turtles who hatch here on summer nights, you’ll find yourself drawn back to this enchanted island time and time again.

Come Make Memories.