February 18, 2026
With the Olympic spirit in full swing at the Milano Cortina Olympic Games, inspiration is everywhere. While we may skip the snow and ice, Amelia Island offers plenty of ways to channel your inner Olympian. Pedal scenic trails, surf the Atlantic, perfect your swing on championship golf courses, or serve it up on sun-soaked tennis courts—here, every day is a chance to go for the gold on an island that’s a decorated champion in her own right.
Let the games begin with these ten Olympic-inspired ideas for your next visit.
This Olympic sport is enthusiastically practiced every day on Amelia Island, where 99 holes beckon golfers of all abilities. LINKS Magazine dubbed Amelia one of the Top 25 Golf Islands in the World, find out where you can start having a gold-medal worthy round here.
Olympians have played the iconic live oak-shaded courts at the Omni Amelia Island Resort (Agassi, Navratilova, Sharapova, and the Williams sisters are among them.) Their tennis program, operated by Cliff Drysdale Tennis, has been recognized as one of the finest in the world, named the “No. 2 Tennis Resort on Florida’s East Coast”.
The unofficial epicenter of this increasingly popular pastime is Golf Pub Social, where, in addition to simulated golf on the inside, they also have a large outdoor turfed patio featuring multiple ping pong tables and even corn hole!
Main Beach Park is a recreation enthusiast’s place to be. In addition to a playground, picnic shelters, outdoor showers, and two sand volleyball courts, you’ll also find the ever-popular skate park where our very own Amelia Island Olympian, Poe Pinson learned to skate.
NOTE: There is also a Mobi-Mat that makes the beach more easily accessible for all.
There is no shortage of swimming opportunities on this barrier island. Over 25 Amelia Island accommodations have pools (take a look here), and the Atlantic Ocean always stands at the ready with 13 miles of easily accessible beaches. The Atlantic Recreation Center also offers day passes to its pool.
Did you know that Amelia Island is considered one of Florida’s best places to bike? From family-friendly beach rides to challenging off-road trails, Amelia Island offers a variety of biking options for every type of rider.
With flat terrain, open spans of beach, and shaded pathways, there are an infinite number of great running routes. Races from fun runs to triathlons are a regular occurrence on this fitness-loving island. The friendly Amelia Island Runners Club provides information on the latest events as well as weekly group runs that are open to the public.
There are few more beautiful backdrops to ride a horse than the beaches of Amelia Island, especially at sunrise. Bucket lists are constantly being checked off while gold rings are regularly being awarded during the ever-popular horseback beach proposal. Take a look at the options for setting up your next time in the saddle here.
If you’re ready to surf but don’t know how? Never fear. We have the best place to learn and some great instructors ready to teach you. Grab (or rent) your board and hit the waves, or sign up for a lesson/camp with Surf Asylum or Amelia Surf Company.
Award-winning Windward Sailing takes to the water all year long, offering lessons and charters. Captain Tony provides expert advice and a practiced eye for spotting wildlife. It’s really the best, most relaxing way to see Amelia Island. Try a 3-hour sunset cruise on a comfortable catamaran. Bring along snacks and beverages, and Follow That Dream Sailing will take care of the amazing scenery.
Are YOU ready to go for the gold?
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