May 20, 2022
Still refining your plans for Father’s Day? It’s not too late. Give Dad, Grandpa, or another special man in your life the gift of a trip to Amelia Island. There’s an exceptional experience here for every style of dad.
For the dad that likes to live on the edge, head over to Skydive Amelia where a one-hour tandem parachute jump from 10,000 feet will provide unparalleled aerial views of our marshes and beaches like you’ve never seen before. Florida Adventure Sports will show off two famous coastlines from above when you power hang glide with them across the Florida/Georgia state line. Hang Gliders are with a FAA Certified flight instructor and Skydivers are harnessed to a certified U.S.P.A Tandem Instructor. If you’d rather be on water, head over to Backwater Cat Adventure for the thrill of touring the waterways surrounding Amelia Island on a mini-catamaran. This interactive 2.5 hour adventure will have you weaving through the marshlands, passing by Fort Clinch, and taking in majestic Cumberland Island – all from the water.
The cool dad will Hang 5 or 10 when he learns to surf or perfect his skills. Surf Asylum and Amelia Surf Company both offer individual lessons and instruction for all levels. They provide a high level of coaching that prepares students to become independent surfers and will have them catching waves in no time. He’ll be stoked.
The sporty dad will get into the swing of Amelia Island on one of our 109 holes of stunning, world class golf. Omni Amelia Island Resort boasts 36 championship holes, plus a new 10-hole short course named Little Sandy. Nestled around Red Maple Lake, Little Sandy ranges from 70 to 125 yards. The Golf Club Of Amelia Island features an 18-hole championship course that takes full advantage of the natural terrain offering spectacular views. The 27-hole Fernandina Beach Golf Club is considered one of the finest public courses in the Southeast featuring The Lighthouse driving range powered by Toptracer. This is the ultimate virtual golf experience on Amelia Island. Amelia River is an 18-hole, 6,823-yard Tom Jackson design in which ball control and accuracy are the keys to a great round.
The thirsty dad has many options to whet his whistle on Amelia Island. However, his special day may call for the cocktail tour from Amelia Island Tasting Tours where he will stroll historic Downtown Fernandina Beach and stop at four watering holes to meet the fun and creative people behind the bars. Hear about the art and craft of mixing cocktails while finding out about each bar’s history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of a specially prepared craft cocktail at each stop. Tours are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 – 7:30pm, rain or shine, $59/person. Or, bring your favorite BYOB beverages on board Amelia River Cruises’ booze cruise and listen to the best musicians around. This is the ultimate in fun and relaxation!
The salty dad will want to step away from the sandy beaches of Amelia and enjoy the island’s liquid assets. Lucky for him, we have lots to choose from. For a peaceful and picturesque aquatic adventure, visit Amelia River Cruises and Charters, or take a privately chartered sunset cruise with Windward Sailing. Those looking for a fishing adventure in the open sea can charter a boat from one of the island’s many charter boat companies for the opportunity to land red bass, trout, flounder, tarpon, and more. Amelia Boat Rentals provides boat rentals great for fishing, cruising or sightseeing as well as non-guided waverunner rentals.
The Zen dad will love to paddle to a front-row seat of one of nature’s most spectacular sights. Come face to face with egrets, herons and maybe even a dolphin, manatee or sea turtle with the fine folks at Kayak Amelia, Adventures Up The Creek, Amelia Adventures & Kayak, Amelia Island Kayak Excursions, and Amelia Island Adventures. These vendors allow their guests to tour various aspects of Amelia Island’s inland waters, including the tranquil salt marsh of Talbot Island State Parks, Timucuan Preserve and Egan’s Creek. Offering a variety of options for any experience level, guests can also find a number of additional excursions available.
Foodie dad will love it here. With more than 70 distinctive restaurants from which to choose, Amelia Island surrounds and satisfies visitors with a surprising variety of enticing dining options. This little barrier island is home to an eclectic and authentic mix of cuisine, ranging from the freshest Florida seafood, to authentic Italian and Spanish specialties. Choose from waterfront seafood hangouts, fine dining restaurants presided over by extraordinary chefs, or the quiet intimacy of a bistro. Amelia Island’s menu of restaurants provides a satisfying selection of dining encounters that will have dad wanting more.
Amelia Island’s natural beauty has long been both an inspiration for artists and a draw for talented creators from around the world who have relocated here. A great way for dad to sample the island’s art in a festive atmosphere is during the monthly Artrageous Artwalk, held downtown on the second Saturday of each month from 5:00 – 8:00 pm or by visiting Clay Times Art Center, featuring handmade gifts & home furnishings of clay, glass, oil, watercolor, and other fine works by local & nationally renowned artists. For a memorable night out, take in a show! Amelia Island is home to two prominent local theater organizations – Amelia Community Theatre and Amelia Musical Playhouse. Both host year round shows with a variety of musicals, plays and revues throughout the year.
Find a great place to stay on Amelia Island and make memories with that special guy in your life.