InternationalItineraryStay
Where the journey slows down, the ocean takes over, and time together actually feels like time together.
International travelers typically arrive through Atlanta, Orlando, or Tampa, but the simplest route is often overlooked:
Atlanta to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is a quick 30-minute flight, running multiple times daily. Upon arrival in Jacksonville, you’ll want to rent a car. Although we’re not a big island (13 miles long, 5 miles wide), we’re big enough that you’ll need your own wheels. From JAX, it’s an easy, scenic drive—no theme park traffic, no long road trips, just a smooth, easy drive to the coast.
It’s time to settle in and let Amelia Island begin working its magic.
Check into The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – or – Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa for iconic oceanfront luxury or may we suggest a beachfront vacation rental – ideal for multi-generational families or groups wanting shared space, kitchens, living areas, and room to spread out.
Spend your first afternoon exactly as you want – with barefoot beach walks, ocean breezes, and zero agendas.
Dinner is casual and coastal—fresh seafood, sunset views, and an early night to reset after international travel. Head to Sliders Seaside Grill for all the things a lazy beach town can offer: good food, live music, and spectacular ocean views. After a bite to eat, walk down to the beach and get your toes in the sand.
Ease into island life with morning beach time —swimming, shell/shark tooth hunting, or simply doing nothing at all.
For the ultimate in relaxation, try a spa service at The Ritz-Carlton Spa or a beachside yoga session with Deb Cunningham Yoga.
Evening cocktails are always better when overlooking the Amelia River. Try a signature blood-orange margarita, followed by a fried shrimp and oyster plate at downtown’s Salty Pelican.
Yep. This is what island life is all about.
Swap beach sand for historic charm.
Explore downtown Fernandina Beach, where today’s vibes meet yesterday’s architecture. Shop local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty food shops. Then, enjoy a relaxed lunch, indoors or out, at The Patio at 5th & Ash. This downtown eatery has an eclectic menu with a variety of tasty options. If you’re feeling “spicier”, opt for Mezcal for a taste of traditional Mexican fare. Located right in the heart of downtown’s Centre Street, Mezcal serves up favorites including Chicken Enchiladas, Fish Tacos, and Camaron Diabla (sauteed shrimp in habanero sauce). I would totally be remiss if I didn’t mention their tequila drinks, because you literally can’t go wrong with any of them.
Amelia Island’s culinary scene consistently surprises international visitors with its quality and authenticity.
Choose your pace.
Golf enthusiasts can play world-class courses with ocean and marsh views.
Families and non-golfers may prefer kayaking, biking shaded trails, or hiking an old fort.
Be sure to take a tour of the island, whether it’s by land or by sea. Amelia River Cruises offers first-rate tours of the surrounding coastline, with a storytelling Captain to go with it. Spot the wild horses on Cumberland Island and a manatee or two in the water. A sunset cruise comes with live music and BYOB adult beverages! Landlubbers will want to visit the Museum of History and sign up for a Docent-led walking tour of historic downtown.
Savor the reason you came with a final beach morning or sunrise walk.
A casual brunch, a last-minute shopping spree, and one more dip in the ocean all await. Don’t forget to pick up some Amelia Island souvenirs!
Your farewell dinner is one for the books. Recognized with a AAA Five Diamond award, Salt, located at The Ritz-Carlton, is the crème de la crème in dining experiences. Oozing romance and class, the view over the ocean is just a hint of what’s to come. Serving fresh fish, aged steaks, and unique culinary creations, this fine dining restaurant uses more than 40 salts from around the world to add depth and flavor to its already wonderful dishes. Hit up The Lobby Bar after for a signature nightcap and live music.
An easy drive back to JAX, and hopefully, seamless flight(s) onward, gives you a refreshed feeling that lingers long after the journey home.
What are you waiting for? Give Amelia Island in northeast Florida a try and experience Mother Nature, eclectic dining, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life.
Amelia Island isn’t the trip you recover from; it’s the trip that restores you.
We’ll see you soon.
These suggestions are just a sneak peek of all Amelia Island has to offer as you plan your International Getaway. Discover more and plan your perfect trip on WWW.AMELIAISLAND.COM for a complete list of places to stay, eat, and play.