Arts & CultureDowntownItineraryNature & OutdoorsRestaurants & Bars
Escape the chill and fly south for a winter getaway on Amelia Island, where mild temperatures, ocean breezes, and stunning coastal scenery await! Whether you're strolling along the shoreline, exploring centuries-old forts, or savoring fresh seafood with a view, this island paradise is ready to welcome you with open arms. So pack your bags, trade snow boots for flip-flops, and get ready for the ultimate snowbird getaway!
Nestled by the beach and just steps from historic Fort Clinch State Park, the Courtyard/Springhill Suites by Marriott is your home away from home—offering the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. With thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, a resort-style pool deck with in-pool seating, fire pit for cool nights, multiple dining options, full bars, and a fitness room, this property is ideal for families, couples, and friends seeking an unforgettable island getaway.
Stroll through downtown Fernandina Beach, admiring the Victorian architecture and browsing unique boutiques, galleries, pubs.
Pick up some helpful information and brochures from the friendly staff at the Amelia Island Welcome Center. Located in the old train depot at the foot of Centre Street, the Amelia Island Welcome Center is where your vacation begins!
Grab a delicious dinner at the Tavern by Amelia Island Brewing Company (AIBC). They serve up tasty food to complement their craft beers. Try a seasonal brew or cider alongside a classic tavern burger, smoked wings, goat cheese/beet salad, or amazing blue crab ravioli. Whatever you order, the welcoming vibe makes it a great spot to start your getaway.
Wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a leisurely morning walk along Main Beach (right across the street from Courtyard/Springhill Suites). I’m thinking the beach is one of the reasons why you came here, so get out there and enjoy!
Lucky for you, the beaches aren’t crowded right now and you’ll seemingly have it all to yourself.
Kismet Coffee, nestled on the south end of Amelia Island, is a cozy spot for breakfast lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. This charming café offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for starting your day with a handcrafted coffee, tea, latte, or smoothie. Their house-made and dairy-free syrups add a unique touch to every sip, while their selection of toasts and bagels ensures there’s something for everyone.
INSIDER TIP: For a delicious combo of textures, try The Atlantic toast—topped with creamy avocado, radish microgreens, pickled red onion, and everything seasoning.Â
Spend the late morning exploring Fort Clinch State Park, where you can tour the historic fort, hike shaded trails, or relax on the beach.
If you love history, you will love walking the grounds of the old fort as soldiers reenact what life was like back in 1864.
Because morning beach and fort hiking can work up an appetite, Salt Life Food Shack is here to help. Located just outside the gates of Fort Clinch and across the street from the beach, Salt Life dishes out an eclectic menu perfect for all tastes and appetites. Everything from burgers, sushi, and southern fried shrimp to salads, oysters, and street tacos. Get a table upstairs on the rooftop for an amazing ocean view.
It wouldn’t be a visit to Fernandina Beach without going to the Amelia Island Museum of History. Housed in the former Nassau County jail (you can still check out one of the cells) in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach, the state’s first spoken history museum is an excellent place to get your introduction to the wild and wonderful history of the island.
It’s been a great day. Cap off the evening with a sunset cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, spotting dolphins and seabirds. The fine folks at Amelia River Cruises will be happy to help you with that.
After you’re back on dry land, Salty Pelican Bar & Grill would love to serve you some fresh shrimp or oysters. Take in the river sights from an upstairs table.
Begin your day with a lovely breakfast at Marche Burette Deli, located at the Shops of Omni Amelia Island Resort. This adorable shop not only features a delicious breakfast and lunch menu but also offers a wide selection of groceries, one-of-a-kind gifts, craft beers and wines.
Sit on the oversized waterfront deck and soak it all in. May I recommend the Cold Smoked Salmon Bagel served with cream cheese, tomato, capers, red onion and mixed greens? I think I just did.
A round of golf at Omni Amelia Island Resort is what’s on the morning agenda. Oak Marsh is a classic Pete Dye course with tight fairways, bulkheaded and seemingly tiny greens that follow serpentine salt marsh creeks all under moss-laden live oak trees. It certainly lives up to its name with stunning beauty all around. Don’t have time for 18, give 10-hole short course, Little Sandy a try. Nestled around Red Maple Lake, Little Sandy ranges from 30 to 125 yards and is a lot of fun to play. NOTE: Little Sandy is a walking course (no golf carts)
If golf isn’t your thing, maybe a scenic bike ride along Egans Creek Greenway is more your speed.
After your morning of golf, it’s time to chill outside by the ocean and enjoy a few apps and brews at Slider’s Seaside Grill.
With a gorgeous ocean view, a can’t-miss tiki bar and a diverse menu, there’s something for everyone.
Afterward, embark on a guided kayak tour through the marshlands with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions.
Come face to face with history and nature as you paddle the back waters, marshes, and creeks surrounding Amelia Island.
For a special evening and to end this day of adventure, venture over to David’s Restaurant & Lounge. This elegant, darkly-lit and upscale fine dining establishment specializes in steak and seafood with an extensive wine list. The comfortable roomy lounge with a full bar, appetizer bar menu, and special martini menu is always a nice place to begin your relaxing dining experience and talk about tomorrow’s activities.
Who would’ve ever thought the old Florida Public Utilities building could serve such a yummy purpose today! Welcome to David’s.
INSIDER TIP: Order the signature Prime Aged Ribeye, served with mashed potatoes, seasonal veggies, and finished with rosemary au jus on the side. Trust me…you’ll dream about it.
Before you depart, grab breakfast at iconic T-Ray’s Burger Station, a locally-owned Fernandina Beach favorite.
Located in a former Exxon service station, T-Ray Mullis and his family have been serving up breakfast and lunch to hungry diners for over 20 years. The breakfast menu is simplistic, eclectic and oh so good with everything from pancakes and loaded hashbrowns to French toast and sausage biscuits. But, order the Kitchen Sink Omelette. It’ll be just what you need to kickstart your day.
INSIDER TIP: Get there early!
These suggestions are just a sneak peek of all Amelia Island has to offer as you plan your Snowbirders’ Getaway. If you can’t get away in the wintertime, no worries. It just means that you’ll have a much warmer stay in the summer! Discover more and plan you perfect trip on WWW.AMELIAISLAND.COM for a complete list of places to stay, eat and play.