Amelia Island: A family trip
Here is a fun, one-day Amelia Island itinerary designed for a family, balancing history, outdoor activity, and relaxation.
Morning: History and Nature
Breakfast & Shark Tooth Hunting Start your day with a casual breakfast or for something a little bit fancier, we love breakfast at the Omni or the Ritz-Carlton. If you’re there on a holiday like Easter, there are usually special event breakfasts. Afterward, head to the beach at Fort Clinch State Park to search for shark teeth, a popular activity on the island.
Explore the Fort Tour the well-preserved, Civil War-era Fort Clinch. The kids will enjoy climbing the ramparts and exploring the different rooms, while adults can learn about the history and potentially see soldiers in period uniform (on the first weekend of the month).
Bike the Trails Rent bikes from a local shop like The Beach Store to take a scenic ride through the park's lush, tree-lined trails or the adjacent Egan's Creek Greenway, keeping an eye out for wildlife like marsh rabbits, turtles, and various birds.
Afternoon: Lunch and Play
Kid-Friendly Lunch Head to The Patio at 5th and Ash Restaurant to find something for the whole family while enjoying the fresh air.
Downtown Exploration Stroll through the charming, Victorian-era streets of the Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach district. Browse the unique shops and enjoy sweet treats.
Playtime at Main Beach Park Transition to the ultimate family spot: Main Beach Park. This large oceanfront park offers a playground, a skate park, sand volleyball courts, restrooms, and outdoor showers, making it perfect for an afternoon of fun in the sun.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset
Oceanfront Dinner Dine at Sliders Seaside Grill for an oceanfront meal. Parents can enjoy the view while kids play in the onsite playground and sandbox.
Sunset River Cruise End your day with a memorable sunset tour with Amelia River Cruises. The family-friendly tours are a great way to spot dolphins, learn about the island's history, and potentially see the wild horses on nearby Cumberland Island as the sun sets.
