October 10, 2025
No matter the season, the beach is always calling! Think peaceful walks along the shoreline, the rhythmic sound of the surf, and seabirds gliding overhead as you soak in the natural beauty of Amelia Island. Ahhh. This is what island life is all about.
Whether you’re splashing in the waves, collecting seashells, or simply relaxing in the sea breeze, here are a few tips to make sure your time by the ocean is as safe and enjoyable as possible. See you on the beach!
Amelia Island offers numerous beach access points, making it convenient for everyone to enjoy a day in the surf. The best way to stay safe while swimming at the beach is to swim near a lifeguard station. Lifeguards are trained in lifesaving techniques and first-aid as well as how to spot and rescue struggling swimmers in the water. In season, Lifeguards staff lifeguard towers 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays, and from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Visit these links to know where the beach accesses with lifeguard stations are located in the City of Fernandina Beach and Nassau County and what that day’s beach conditions are.
PLEASE NOTE: Amelia Island Lifeguards are seasonal and are only on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Pay special attention to the flags flying from the lifeguard stand. These beach warning flags are universal and will let you know quickly what the surf conditions are like.
PLEASE NOTE: Lifeguards are not typically stationed at the lifeguard towers during the off-season; therefore, flags will not be flying from the lifeguard stands, as there is no lifeguard present to raise them. Before entering the water, visit these links to know what that day’s beach conditions are. City of Fernandina Beach and Nassau County.
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that if caught in, will try and pull a swimmer out past the breakers. Panicked swimmers often try to counter a rip current by trying to swim back to shore—putting themselves at risk of drowning because of fatigue. If caught in a rip current, don’t fight it! Swim parallel to the shore and swim back to land at an angle. This will take you out of the current and danger. If you are unable to reach the shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arms and yelling for help.
The Florida sun is no joke. ALWAYS wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a head cover of some sort to protect you from the harmful UV rays and an ultimately painful sunburn. Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming, especially if you’re making a day of it. In addition to sunscreen, stay hydrated! That means drink water, water and more water! Dehydration is a real threat that can sneak up on you in the hot summer sun.
As a peninsula surrounded by water, Florida always sees weather disturbances. The heat, humidity, and winds create the perfect conditions for thunderstorms. Before heading out to the beach, pay special attention to any weather reports so you won’t get caught in a downpour. Afternoon pop-up showers happen frequently so if you hear thunder or see lightning, get out of the water and off of the beach until the storm passes.
Jellyfish are those alien looking sea creatures with dome-like bodies and long tenticles that can sting! They are found on all coastlines of Florida. Most are harmless and maintain the delicate balance of aquatic life. The Moon and Cannonball jellyfish are very common to northeast Florida waters and their sting is realtively mild. The most important thing to know if you get stung by a jelly is to get out of the water immediately and soak the area in hot water until the sting dissipates.
Whenever you’re in the water, always swim with a buddy, even if there is a lifeguard. Strong currents (riptides) make swimming alone in the ocean especially dangerous. Strong waves can also knock you down and keep you submerged for a long time. Always use the buddy system when you’re in the ocean.
While Amelia Island is a haven for relaxation, it’s essential to stay prepared during hurricane season (June 1 to November 30). Follow these guidelines to stay safe:
We want you and your loved ones to have only the best memories of your time on Amelia Island’s beaches… so get out there, play it safe, and enjoy our 13 miles of pristine coastline.
Please refer to our Safety & Emergency page and Nassau County’s weather, surf, public safety alerts, and beach conditions.
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