From the golden beaches to the tranquil marshes, every corner of Amelia Island offers a canvas for nature’s beauty – especially at sunrise and sunset. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply someone with a cell phone seeking to capture moments of peace, here are the most picturesque locations to witness the awe inspiring winter sunrises and sunsets on Amelia Island.

1. Beach Bliss

Amelia Island’s pristine beaches serve as the quintessential backdrop for both sunrise and sunset enthusiasts. Early risers can catch the first light breaking over the Atlantic Ocean, casting a warm glow on the sandy shores. For sunset seekers, the beach transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Either way, you’ll be mesmerized.

Photo: American Beach at Sunrise

Photography Tip: Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Capture the reflection of the sky on the wet sand and in the water – or, with silhouetted beachgoers.

2. Marsh Magic

Witnessing the sunsetting over the marsh is something to behold and as luck would have it, we have a lot of marshy views here. As the sun sets, the marshes come alive with golden light, creating a picturesque panorama that’s nothing short of spectacular.

Photo: Sunset at Walker’s Landing – Omni Amelia Island Resort

Photography Tip: Utilize the marsh grasses and water reflections to add depth to your photographs.

3. Historic Perspective

Fort Clinch State Park is an awe-inspiring experience any time of the day but perched atop the old Civil War fortifications as the sun goes down is a treat like no other. The historic backdrop adds a layer of nostalgia to the moment, creating a memory to last a lifetime. NOTE: The park closes at sunset so you’ll have to leave quickly after.

Photo: Amelia River – perched atop a cannon at Sunset

Photography Tip: Frame your shots to incorporate the silhouette of the fort against the setting sun. This is also a great place to experiment with black and white photography lending historic perspective.

4. Sunset Serenity

Historic downtown Fernandina takes on a whole new view at sunset. The docks offer a front-row seat to nature’s nightly spectacle. As the sun sets over the Amelia River, the waterfront comes alive with hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the harbor.

Photo: Downtown Docks at Sunset

Photography Tip: Incorporate elements of the dock, such as boats and pier pilings, into your photos to add visual interest.

5. Elevated Elegance

For a unique perspective, head upstairs at downtown’s Salty Pelican Bar & Grill where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the sunset painting the sky in brilliant shades of red and gold. Sip on a beer or glass of wine and take it all in. Note: Brett’s Waterway Cafe (also downtown) is another great spot to view the sunset.

Photo: View from the top deck of the Salty Pelican

Photography Tip: Take advantage of the elevated vantage point to capture sweeping vistas of the port of Fernandina, Amelia River and surrounding landscape.

6. Waterside Wonders

Seeing the sunset whilst skimming along the water’s surface on a kayak should be a bucket list item for everyone. It’s a feeling of pure peace. Glide through tranquil waters as the sky transforms into a canvas of pastel colors, reflecting off the rippling surface below.

Photo: A kayaker’s view of the marsh and sunset along Egans Creek

Photography Tip: Secure your camera gear or cell phone in waterproof bags to protect against splashes.

7. Sunset Cruises

For the ultimate end of day adventure, embark on a sunset boat tour and drift along the tranquil waters surrounding Amelia Island. See Fort Clinch as well as the ruins of Dungeness mansion on Cumberland Island as the sun lowers on the horizon casting a golden glow over these historic landscapes.

Photo: Sunset on the Amelia River with Follow That Dream Sailing

Photography Tip: Consider the movement of the boat when composing your shots.

Each sunrise and sunset on the island is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. So grab your camera or phone and capture the magic!