There are few places on earth better suited to lovebirds than Amelia Island. A place born of affection, Amelia’s shores, soft sea breezes and breathtaking scenery provide the backdrop to romances old and new. Whether exchanging vows, celebrating another year of wedded bliss, or just slipping away for an island adventure for two, couples looking to escape the every day find their heart’s desire on Amelia Island.
Centre of Attention
In the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach, Centre Street is a popular setting for romantic moments. Wandering in and out of a quirky mix of shops and restaurants, couples stroll hand in hand along the historic street, share shady park benches. At Fernandina’s Fantastic Fudge, visitors can grab a sweet treat for their sweetheart before heading down to the marina for a gorgeous view of the water. For those who want to sail off into the sunset, Amelia River Cruises or Windward Sailing will happily oblige with a tour of Cumberland Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Carriage Rides
Couples can also enjoy Fernandina Beach’s historic downtown district while snuggled up together in a horse-drawn carriage. Take in the sights while listening to a historical narrative of Fernandina’s past, punctuated by the leisurely clip-clop of hooves. Majestic, moss-draped oaks and Victorian Era architecture slip by to tales of the people and places that shaped Amelia Island’s colorful history.
Comfy, Cozy Inns
Amelia Island is graced with eight bed and breakfast inns, each offering a unique and inn-credibly romantic experience for their guests. In the downtown historic district, there are several inns to choose from, including the Fairbanks House, Amelia Island Williams House, Addison on Amelia, Hoyt House , Florida House Inn and the newly re-opened Blue Heron Inn . Not far away, the Elizabeth Pointe Lodge and Amelia Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast offer guests impeccable oceanfront accommodations.
Back in the Saddle
Located in Amelia Island State Park, where you can observe dolphins, shorebirds and other wildlife, Kelly Seahorse Ranch is one of only a handful of beach horseback riding opportunities in the nation. The gentle and well-trained horses and professional guides give visitors a fun and romantic way to enjoy Amelia's fantastic white-sand beaches and the beauty of the ocean. Stay ‘N Country Ranch is another option for horseback riding along the ocean.
Seaside
Stroll
Countless sets of footprints have traced Amelia’s quiet, undisturbed beaches, as couples wander off on long, private walks along the shore. In the cool of the morning, under a warm midday sun or by the light of the moon, Amelia Island’s shoreline has framed untold walks and talks between loved ones. Strolling between the sandy dunes, dotted with sea oats and the gentle Atlantic surf, many couples return to Amelia to discover far more valuable treasures than the perfect seashell or stunning sunrise.
Dinner for Two
From a quiet corner table at a quaint bistro, or a seat in the kitchen of an award-winning restaurant, where the chef shares his culinary secrets with guests, Amelia Island serves up a satisfying collection of dining options for lovers – food lovers. Salt, The Grill at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island offers guests “A Seat in the Kitchen,” which features a three-hour, five-course feast paired with a selection of wines, all prepared before your very eyes. From upscale to flip-flops, the island’s eclectic mix of restaurants features fresh local seafood and renowned chefs and restaurateurs who masterfully blend cuisine and atmosphere for a romantic meal for two.
A Walk Down the Isle
With such breathtaking natural beauty, it is no surprise that Amelia Island is a favorite hostess for destination weddings. For weddings large and small, the island has a venue to meet the needs and exceed expectations of any bride and groom. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Golf Club of Amelia Island at Summer Beach, and Omni Amelia Island Plantation all specialize in large, luxurious affairs, inside, on the beach, or a little of both. For smaller, more intimate beach weddings, couples can experience a blissful day at Amelia Hotel at the Beach.
For weddings away from the sand, Amelia Island offers a diverse selection of wedding and reception options, such as the oak-shaded courtyard at the Florida House Inn, or the lush gardens of the Williams House. Other popular options include Residence Inn Amelia Island, Addison on Amelia, and Hampton Inn & Suites.
For visitor information and online planning, visit www.ameliaisland.com.
# # #
