April 30, 2021
Amelia Island has three distinct areas — North, Central and South. We talk a lot about historic downtown Fernandina Beach or the northern end of the island and we frequently mention the southern end resort district. But, the central part of the island, known as Seaside Park located at the most eastern edge of Sadler Road, often gets overlooked and it’s where kids of all ages come to play! Here you’ll find a collection of family-friendly restaurants, ice cream shops, a variety of accommodations, and everything else you need to create memorable family moments. Take in a round of miniature golf, shop til you drop, or build sandcastles on the beach. Welcome to central Amelia Island — AKA The Fun Zone!
Located just 3 blocks from the ocean, The Residence Inn Amelia Island is easy walking distance from a day at the beach or a hike on Egan’s Creek Greenway right next door. Home2 Suites by Hilton is Amelia Island’s all green hotel featuring a breakfast buffet, fitness and business centers, and an outdoor saltwater pool with handicap accessibility. For complimentary breakfast, beach accessories AND afternoon cookies, look no further than the Hampton Inn Amelia Island at Fernandina Beach, while pet-friendly Ocean Coast Hotel at the Beach offers a poolside bar, tennis and volleyball courts, and family barbecue area. Looking for something unique in a natural setting? Sea Cottages of Amelia fits the bill with studio or one bedroom suites sitting under a majestic tree canopy. All come with oversized decks and kitchenettes. Fall asleep with the sound of the surf in your ears at Amelia Hotel at the Beach, located directly across the street from the ocean and Sliders Seaside Grill.
Just north of Sadler Road on 14th Street, you’ll find the island’s movie theater. The reclining seat theater offers first-run movies and, on occasion, Retro Night, an evening of movie classics. The whole family can be sleuth-sayers as they unleash the mysteries and unlock the puzzles in one of the island-themed rooms at Amelia Island Escape Room. If a day at the beach or exploring Amelia Island is on your agenda, Beach Rentals & More has you covered with everything from beach chairs, umbrellas, and shelters for the sand to body boards, kayaks, surf boards, and stand up paddle boards for playing in the ocean. They also sell fishing licenses, bait and tackle for all your fishing needs and rent beach cruiser bicycles to sight see and explore. It’s literally a one-stop beach shop. Speaking of exploring, Egans Creek Greenway, nestled by the Residence Inn, is a network of trails suitable for walking, bicycling and nature viewing. Rent a bike and hit the trails!
Sliders Seaside Grill has a little bit of everything for everyone. It’s smack on the ocean with an outdoor Tiki Bar for the adults and a playground for the kids. Kids love the chicken tenders or fried fish and mac & cheese while adults crave the fresh seafood, burgers, wraps and more. For a delicious ocean front breakfast or lunch, head upstairs to Tortuga Jack’s where you can get authentic Baja Mexican food overlooking the Beach! Just across the street from Slider’s is Hammerhead Beach Bar to enjoy a delicious adult beverage on their multi-level outdoor deck. If the weather’s not so great, head inside for a game of pool or darts! Looking for good seafood in a casual atmosphere? Check out Cedar River Seafood for daily specials and fast, friendly service. Top off your meal or start your day with a healthy fresh, made-to-order juice or smoothie from Go Juice or hand-dipped ice cream cone from Denucci’s. Both are equally refreshing and delicious! If your taste buds are craving something else, venture further away from the beach to several shopping centers that house such international cuisine as Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, Italian and good ol USA Barbeque.
Check out ALL that our island has to offer everywhere by visiting ameliaisland.com. Then, pack your bags and come see us!
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