Terrance writes blogs for Addison on Amelia Island, highlighting the best events, activities, and attractions around the area.

Fernandina Beach is the calm kind of coastal town that makes it easy to slow down and explore the sights. At the center of Amelia Island, this charming locale offers beautiful beaches, historic, walkable streets, scenic parks, and more! Explore local shops, tour a fort, and try out amazing local restaurants before heading back to your rental for a relaxing evening. Whether you’re here for a family trip, a couples vacation, or just a quick, quiet weekend, there are plenty of things to do in Fernandina Beach!

Whenever you plan to head to Amelia Island, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Get our curated top picks of Ameia Island’s best local events, restaurants, attractions, activities, and so much more!

Explore Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach

Start on the harbor-front, where shrimp boats and waterfront views will give you that classic Florida coastal feel. From there, make your way to Centre Street as you take a dive into the cutesy Fernandina Beach Downtown. Walk around more than 50 blocks filled with antique shops, art galleries, cozy cafes, and restaurants. All around you, charming Victorian-era buildings add to the historic feel. Browse local shops, grab a delicious meal, and end your day by the water. It’s a calm but lively part of town with plenty to explore.

Visit Fort Clinch State Park

Travel back in time at this well-preserved fort from the Civil War era, surrounded by natural beauty that makes up Fort Clinch State Park. See the fort’s history with daily tours at Fort Clinch, or simply enjoy the park, which offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and relaxing at the shoreline, and overnight camping. If you want to keep things more relaxed, there are plenty of trails and picnic areas to enjoy, making this an essential stop for history lovers and anyone else looking to explore more of Fernandina Beach.

Spend Time on the Beach

No trip to Fernandina Beach is complete without spending time on the sand. The city’s beaches sit along the Atlantic side of Amelia Island, with several public access points near North and South Fletcher Avenue. Main Beach Park is one of the easiest places to start, with its parking, beach access, and nearby dining spots. North Beach Park and Seaside Park are also convenient options; Seaside Park offers fewer parking spaces but still features picnic pavilions, bathrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal lifeguard towers. If you plan to visit the beach during the busier summer season, we suggest arriving early to beat the crowds and find a spot.

Plan Your Escape to Amelia Island!

Featured: Room 3

Ready for historic local charm, combined with a friendly, walkable environment? Plan your next trip to Amelia Island today! Enjoy the island’s coastal scenery and local attractions with the best in lodging and amenities at The Addison on Amelia Island. Tucked off in the heart of Downtown Fernandina for your convenience, our classical-style inn is sure to put you in proximity to all of the best sites around town without the headache of travel. Book direct and get in on our latest specials and packages.

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Terrance writes for The Addison on Amelia Island, highlighting some of the best events, activities, and sites on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, and beyond.

Looking for a premier and relaxed fine dining option on Amelia Island? Check out the Burlingame Restaurant. Located in the Historic District of Fernandina Beach, these talented, young chefs create seasonal menus with creative dishes that are sure to wake up your palate. Read on to explore why Burlingame stands as one of the best dining establishments on Amelia Island.

Looking for more dining and things to do? Get our curated top picks of Ameia Island’s best local events, restaurants, attractions, activities, and so much more!

A Cozy, Upscale Atmosphere in Downtown Fernandina Beach

Upon arrival at the restaurant, you’ll be greeted by a beautifully restored 1940’s home sitting at 20 S. 5^th Street in Fernandina Beach. Rather than a flashy dining room, enjoy this unique and comfortable experience that puts you right at the center of what Florida’s Coast has to offer.

Seasonal New American Cuisine with Local Flavor

Explore the ever-changing menu at Burlingame for some of the most creative offerings on Amelia Island. Try out starters like their fried brussels sprouts with roasted mushrooms and bacon vinaigrette, raw oysters, or the garganelli pasta. Entrées include halibut with braised leeks and wild rice, topped with chive beurre blanc; cioppino; duck confit; and wagyu steak, served with potato pave. The chef also prepares a different vegetarian entrée each day for guests with dietary restrictions.

Explore the comprehensive wine list, featuring selections from Italy, France, the Western United States, and even New Zealand. Going further, the drink menu also includes both signature and classic cocktails, giving you the option to try something new or stick with an elevated rendition of a favorite. Some of our favorites include the Coffee & Spice with rum, black coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice, as well as the Camellia, with Japanese whisky, Lillet, and green chartreuse. Whichever you decide, you won’t be disappointed with a drink from this bar.

Thoughtful Service and a Relaxed Fine Dining Experience

What sets Burlingame Restaurant apart is its excellent staff, who pay close attention to detail and customer requests. Enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere while being served by friendly faces like Jill, David, Tanner, and Anthony. While it’s clear the food is divine, it’s the service that keeps Burlingame’s customers coming back for more.

Make Burlingame Part of Your Amelia Island Dining Plans’

Looking to round out your trip with one of the best dining experiences in the area? Make your way over to Amelia Island to explore the best of what Fernandina Beach has to offer. Aside from excellent fine dining, the walkable area keeps you close to historical sites, beaches, and a dense, Victorian-style downtown filled with local shops, galleries, and a beach not too far. Make your stay in Fernandina Beach and book your stay with Addison on Amelia Island. Enjoy a classic bed and breakfast tucked right in Downtown Fernandina, keeping you close to all the area’s best attractions and sites. Book direct with us and save big on service fees on your next escape to Amelia Island!

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Ahead of your shark tooth expedition, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Get our curated top picks of Ameia Island’s best local events, restaurants, attractions, activities, and so much more!

In this blog:

• Why Amelia Island is Great for Shark Tooth Hunting
• What Kinds of Teeth Are Found on Amelia Island’s Shores?
• Best Shark Tooth Hunting Spots
• Tips for a Better Beachcombing Adventure
• Book Your Stay on Amelia Island!

Why Amelia Island is Great for Shark Tooth Hunting

The island and its many shark teeth are due to its unique geography and ancient history. For hundreds of thousands of years, sharks in the area and beyond have shed thousands of teeth that eventually become fossilized after settling into offshore sediments.

Over time, those fossilized teeth get moved through the St. Mary’s River and deposited through channels near the northern part of the island.

What Kinds of Teeth Are Found on Amelia Island’s Shores?            

Sharks are among the oldest animals still alive, and because of this, many different types of fossils from various species have washed up on shores. Here’s a quick run-through of just some of the types of teeth present and how to spot them!

• Lemon Sharks: Short, flat, and t-shaped with no serrations
• Tiger Sharks: Very triangular, short, and unevenly shaped with serrations
• Great White Sharks: Long, wide, triangular, and serrated
• Bull Sharks: Short, wide, and serrated
• Sand Tiger Shark: Long, narrow, pointy

Best Shark Tooth Hunting Spots

As we stated before, a lot of the shark tooth fossils come in through St. Mary’s and end up on the northern side of the island. Beyond that, there are quite a few popular sites for shark tooth harvesting.

The area near Fort Clinch State Park will provide you with the best experience in terms of finding shark teeth, as the St. Mary’s River deposits onto the nearby beach.

The undeveloped Cumberland Island sits just across the inlet from Amelia Island. This area is great for finding shark teeth, as fossils can be found throughout the roads and paths on Cumberland Island. To get these, simply head over to St. Mary’s, across the Georgia State line, and you will be able to take a ferry at the Cumberland Island National Seashore Visitor Center.

How to Hunt for Shark Teeth

This will probably be the most surprisingly simple part of your journey. All you really need to do to have a good time beachcombing for shark teeth is simply find a beach and look around for black triangular objects!

The best places to look will be around the edge of the water and at low tide. You can also see more teeth after a storm, since they cause fossils to be hurled back onto the beach. Just make sure the beach is safe before heading out.

The best times of year to search for teeth are winter and spring. The beaches are often less crowded, so you get the first pick!  

Book Your Stay on Amelia Island!

Featured: Room 3

Whenever you’re ready to make your shark tooth excursion on Amelia Island, we’ll be waiting for you! Book your stay with The Addison on Amelia Island for a classical and relaxing island getaway experience. Enjoy a quality breakfast at our inn, with rooms to accommodate every type of guest. Book direct and get in on our latest offers and special deals!

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Before you go off on your summer getaway, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Get our curated top picks of local events, restaurants, attractions, activities, and so much more!

Beach Days on Amelia Island

Among Amelia Island’s standout features are its beaches and 13 miles of coastline. Topped with white quartz sand and diverse wildlife, with enough space for the typical swimming, shelling, and sunbathing that you’d come to expect from a day at the beach. There are other unique activities for you to enjoy, like horseback riding and beach volleyball! No matter what your ideal beach day looks like, you can make it a reality on Amelia Island.

Amelia Island Beach Access

With over 40 public beach access points on its vast coastline, deciding on which to choose can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most notable entrances:

Main Beach Park: Your ideal access point. Perfect for families due to its parking, picnic areas, playground, and nearby restaurants. Adding to this spot’s convenience is its ADA accessibility and restrooms.

Seaside Park: Another popular family spot, it is also often the site of area festivals. Seaside Park lies in the central portion of the coastline, and its proximity to restaurants and accessibility make this another great spot to park and head to the beach.

Peters Point Beachfront Park: Another access point with a central location, Peters Point offers plenty of parking and bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, making washing off the sand a breeze. If you happen to know a Nassau County resident with a 4-wheel drive, you can also park directly on the sand for even easier access!

American Beach: This historically significant beach served as a refuge for African American vacationers who were denied from visiting other beaches and public pools during the Jim Crow segregation. To this day, the access point still offers plenty of free parking and sits very close to the nearby Burney Park.

Florida’s Coastal Breeze and Summer Weather

The ocean breeze felt along Amelia Island’s beautiful coastline balances out the summer heat throughout your time at the beach. The effect is intensified as you get closer to the beach, patios, and waterfront areas.

Summer Weather on Amelia Island

The weather in the summertime on Amelia Island is typically hot and humid, with highs in the low 90s and lows in the mid 70s. Ocean temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to the low 80s, making it ideal for a relaxing swim. Rainfall is also common in June, July, and August, with roughly 10 days of rainfall per month.

Walkable Streets in Downtown Fernandina Beach

One of the most pleasing and unique features of the area is Fernandina Beach and its 50 blocks of historic downtown on the island’s northern end. While walking around the highly compact layout of the city, you’ll be surrounded by the coastal small-town charm along with local stores, coffee shops, and art galleries. Centre Street serves as the main visitor area, and the city’s atmosphere makes it perfect for family outings, group adventures, or a date night with easy access to the marina.

Amelia Island Dining

With the summer heat and long days on the beach, you’re sure to build up an appetite! Why not settle that stomach with some of the best dining options around town?

Salt

The clear fine-dining pick on Amelia Island, this eatery offers a refined yet relaxing atmosphere with creative dishes under the direction of head chef Okan Kizilbayir. Enjoy delicious selections like the grilled beef tenderloin with mashed potatoes, cipollini, and bacon jus, or the slow-cooked celery root with orange, a vegan option. When you’re done, there are plenty of dessert and cocktail options to keep you satisfied for a nice, slow date night at one of the most exquisite dining experiences in the area.

• Address: 450 Amelia Island Parkway
• Hours: 5 PM – 9 PM
• Menu

T-Ray’s Burger Station

Take a trip to this local favorite for one of the best burger spots in the country (according to USA Today)! Enjoy a delicious casual meal at this spot inside a former gas station that’s been serving locals since 1988. Swing by for daily specials like fried shrimp and enjoy an unforgettable island breakfast and lunch.

• Address: 202 South 8^th Street
• Hours: 7 AM – 2 PM | Closed on Sundays
• Menu

Relax in the Evening at the Inn

After a long day at the beach and exploring the local area, enjoy a relaxing evening at the inn. With sunlit evenings, the Addison on Amelia Island is the perfect place to unwind and decompress at your own pace. The historic home tucked in the historic Downtown Fernandina Beach puts you within walking distance of all of the best sites, attractions, and dining.

Enjoy the outdoor seating area in our courtyard, with views of the fountain and a series of historic homes along Ash Street, as a perfect end to your family trip or romantic getaway.

Book Your Summer Trip to Amelia Island!

Featured: Room 8

Whenever you’re ready to make your way to Nassau County, we’ll be waiting! Enjoy a classical feel and a delicious breakfast when you book your stay directly with the Addison on Amelia Island. Our comfortable rooms and beautiful courtyard offer an unparalleled sense of peace. Our locally based staff works to ensure you make the most of your stay. Be sure to sweeten the deal with our luxury add-ons. Book direct and get in on our latest offers and specials.

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Most Instagrammable Spots on Amelia Island 

Amelia Island is a vacation destination that’s as beautiful as it is fascinating to explore. Travelers are treated to beach vistas, historic landmarks, and wildlife viewing in every season. When you’re on the hunt for Amelia Island Instagram-worthy destinations, grab your camera and add the following spots to your list. 

Make sure your scenery-seeking trip to Amelia Island this year begins with requesting a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find a curated lineup of local events, attractions, and activities to check out when you want to tailor your stay even closer to your travel style.  

Amelia Island Lighthouse 

As one of the oldest lighthouses in the state, the Amelia Island Lighthouse is must-visit when you’re looking for Instagrammable spots. To enhance your view further, consider heading this way around sunrise or sunset for golden-hour photo opportunities of this structure, which was originally built in 1838. 

• Address: 215 O’Hagan Lane, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: Limited tour hours; exterior views accessible daily 

• Phone: (904) 310‑3350 

Fernandina Beach Historic District 

When you’re hoping to frame your photos with vintage signage, brick storefronts, and Victorian architecture, make sure to spend time in the Fernandina Beach Historic District. This vibrant and charming area spans 50 city blocks. With so much to see and enjoy, don’t be surprised to find others Instagramming their way through an afternoon here too! 

• Address: Centre Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: Shops and restaurants vary 

• Amenities: Dining, boutiques, historic landmarks 

Fort Clinch State Park 

Immersive shots pairing nature and history are within easy reach at Fort Clinch State Park. This is a one-stop hub for setting up your photos in front of driftwood beaches, maritime hammock, tidal marsh, sand dunes, and mossy trails. Within the park’s 1,100 acres of terrain, you can also get up close to remnants of 19^th-century Fort Clinch. 

• Address: 2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: 8 a.m.–sunset daily 

• Phone: (904) 277‑7274 

Egan’s Creek Greenway 

Capture a peaceful moment complete with marsh views, winding boardwalks, and wildlife when you visit Egan’s Creek Greenway. Spanning 300 acres of protected terrain, this greenway opened in 2000 and remains a top destination for Intagrammable moments. This is thanks to a network of scenic trails and habitats supporting wildlife like marsh rabbits, alligators, snakes, and birds.  

• Address: 2201 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: Dawn–dusk daily 

• Phone: (904) 310‑3350 

Main Beach Park 

Quintessential beach moments await year-round at Main Beach Park. Here, visitors can take photos in front of colorful umbrellas, wide beaches, and lifeguard stands that set a truly idyllic scene. There are also picnic areas, a skate park, and large grassy areas for setting up a perfect shot.  

• Address: 32 N Fletcher Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: 24/7 

• Phone: (904) 310‑3350 

Bosque Bello Cemetery 

For a moodier take on your Instagram photos, consider spending some time strolling the grounds of Bosque Bello Cemetery. This is one of the island’s oldest historic cemeteries, dating back to Spanish settlement in 1798. From the moss-covered oaks to the elegant headstones, the scenery is simply otherworldly.  

• Address: 1321 N 14th Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily 

• Phone: (904) 310‑3350 

Amelia Island Marina 

Lean into boat culture by framing your Instagram reel around views you’ve captured at the Amelia Island Marina. We recommend arriving at sunset to capture boats on the waves, pastel skies, and colorful reflections. 

• Address: 251 Creekside Drive, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32250 

• Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily 

• Phone: 904-277-4615 

The Addison on Amelia Island Courtyard 

When you book your stay at The Addison on Amelia Island, your home base for vacation will also double as one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Here, guests can enjoy capturing the beauty of their elegant guest rooms, our property’s gorgeous exterior, or the lush courtyard as well. From the wraparound porches to the detailed architecture, setting up an idyllic photo here isn’t hard to do.  

• Address: 614 Ash Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Phone: (904) 277‑1604 

Book Your Stay Today 

Make your Amelia Island getaway truly unforgettable by booking a room at The Addison on Amelia Island. Reach out today to learn more about our special packages as well as our luxury add-ons that take your trip to the next level of excellence. 

Book Your Stay on Amelia Island

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4^th of July Activities and Events on Amelia Island 

When you’re looking for a place to explore where summer traditions are celebrated in coastal style, Amelia Island is a must-visit this 4^th of July. Amelia Island 4^th of July activities showcase historic surroundings and beautiful scenery, all topped off with a festive small-town atmosphere. Whether you only have a few days to spare or you’re planning an extended stay this July, it’s an idyllic place to be when Independence Day comes around. 

Before your Amelia Island 4^th of July adventure gets underway this summer, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find our top picks of local events, restaurants, attractions, activities, and so much more.  

GET THE vacation GUIDE

Take a Cumberland Island Tour 

Your Amelia Island 4^th of July journey is the perfect time to get out on the water and experience the thrill of Cumberland Island for yourself. Book your place on a family-friendly river excursion through Amelia River Cruises when you’re ready to explore more. The Cumberland Island Tour departs daily from Fernandina Beach and lasts around 2.5 hours total. With a focus on wildlife and history, this tour offers sights of Old Town, Fort Clinch, Fernandina’s shrimp boats, and the wild horses of Cumberland Island. It’s an excursion that’s educational and engaging for guests of all ages. Feel free to bring snacks and drinks along for this holiday outing. 

• Departure Time: 10:00 AM 

• Onboard Amenities: Restrooms, comfortable seating 

• Pet Friendly: Yes 

Participate in the Firecracker 5K 

4^th of July adventurers looking to build some friendly competition into their Amelia Island vacation will want to be sure to sign up for the Firecracker 5K this year. Hosted on Saturday, July 4, 2026, this annual Independence Day event is open to runners of all ages. The race is built around fun, fitness, and festivities, and everyone who participates gets a medal at the finish line. Pick and choose from a 1-mile or 5K route with races broken up into various age groups so everyone can have a blast. 

• Race Location: 102 Racquet Park Drive, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Start Time: 8:00 AM 

• Registration Cost: $23.70 – $44.30, depending on age group 

Gather for a Beach Day at Main Beach Park 

Locals and visitors typically come together each 4^th of July at Main Beach Park to celebrate the holiday and the sunny summer weather. This beautiful beachfront park is home to wide stretches of soft sand as well as picnic shelters and play structures for the little ones. Whether you’re swimming, enjoying a game of sand volleyball, or wandering the beach trails alongside your dog, customizing your holiday here is a breeze.  

• Address: 32 N. Fletcher Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: Open 24 Hours 

• Phone: 904-310-3350 

Add a Sunset Tour to Your Lineup 

Topping off your 4^th of July in truly scenic style begins with adding a sunset tour to your itinerary. The team at Amelia River Cruises offers a family-friendly and pet-friendly sunset tour that’s beautiful and memorable. Once you’re settled on board, you’ll enjoy time exploring the Cumberland Sound as the sun goes down. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the landscapes and dolphins in the distance as you sail along. 

• Departure Point: 1 N. Front Street, Ste #3, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Duration: 1 hour 

• Cost: $32 per adult 

Enjoy the Fireworks Downtown 

For many travelers, an Amelia Island 4^th of July experience wouldn’t be complete without fireworks. The best place to see the show is downtown Fernandina Beach, where the display can be viewed overhead from the harbor front. This event typically features vendors, food trucks, and DJs to check out before the show gets underway. 

• Location: Marina Parking Lot B 

• Show Start Time: 9:00 PM 

• Cost: Free 

Book Your 4^th of July Accommodations Today 

Make sure your Amelia Island 4^th of July vacation includes the elevated standards of comfort and luxury you deserve by booking your stay at The Addison on Amelia Island. Our 14 guest rooms blend elegant and modern amenities seamlessly to ensure every day of your stay is unforgettable. Reach out today to learn more about our special packages and luxury add-ons, and to begin planning your next trip. 

Check our availability 

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Discover Main Beach Park on Amelia Island

A trip to Amelia Island is a dream come true for those who love spending time outdoors. While there’s always a lot to explore and enjoy here, Main Beach Park is a must-add to your itinerary no matter when you arrive. This inviting destination is ideal for making the most of a great beach day, and comes with stunning views included, just about everywhere you turn. 

When you’re looking forward to experiencing Main Beach Park for yourself, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide ahead of time. Inside, you’ll find our carefully curated list of local events, activities, and attractions built to boost the fun of your getaway further. 

Enjoy Natural Beauty and Access to Fun 

There’s nothing more refreshing than the classic shoreline experience that awaits when you visit Main Beach Park. You’ll find this family-friendly stop at 32 N. Fletcher Avenue, enjoying a place at the north end of Amelia Island. Understandably, it’s the park’s wide, sandy shorelines that keep visitors lingering for longer than they originally planned. Here, facilities are well-kept, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the beach is open for walks, swims, or waterside picnics. 

There’s Something for Everyone to Enjoy 

Whether you’re traveling to Main Beach Park on your own, as a couple, alongside friends, or with the kids in tow, you’ll be delighted to find there’s something for everyone to love here. This hub of recreational fun is outfitted with a great playground for little ones and two sand volleyball courts for guests who are excited to build a little friendly competition into their visit. Beach access is seamless at Main Beach Park, and there’s a thrilling skate park on-site as well. Be sure to take time to enjoy the large grassy areas for lounging, or the multipurpose court when you’re ready to put your athletic skills to work. If you do plan on swimming here, it’s important to note that lifeguards are on duty between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. 

A Convenient Place to Spend the Day   

When you add time at Main Beach Park to your lineup, you’ll quickly discover it’s packed with amenities that make your visit even more convenient. A visit here includes access to clean restrooms, free public parking, and outdoor showers as a follow-up for your time on the sand and in the waves. You don’t have to travel far from the park to find local shops and eateries, making it simple to customize your day according to your preferences and travel style.  

Park Regulations to Note 

Before you head out to explore Main Beach Park, it’s good to take note of some local regulations that are in place. Above all, swimmers are advised to remain firmly in designated areas where lifeguards can assist in the event of trouble. If you’re planning a park picnic, it’s important to dispose of all trash properly to keep the area pristine for your fellow visitors. Additionally, Main Beach Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and it’s vital to respect them and keep your distance at all times.  

Book Your Amelia Island Adventure Today 

When vacation calls you to Amelia Island, ensuring it’s an incredible stay begins with booking your accommodations at The Addison on Amelia Island. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting guest rooms, world-class amenities, and top-tier service standards to make your stay one-of-a-kind.  

BOOK YOUR GETAWAY

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Planning a Trip? Here’s What to Know About the Cumberland Island Ferry

Taking time to relax is a gift when The Addison on Amelia Island is your vacation destination of choice. That said, Amelia Island is within easy reach of many other fun destinations, and when you’re looking to explore more, Cumberland Island is a great place to discover. The next time you’re here, consider taking a daytrip on the Cumberland Island Ferry. It’s an easy way to reach a place that truly feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of life. 

Before you head out to enjoy a ride on the Cumberland Island Ferry, be sure to request a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find great information on local attractions, activities, and events that you can add to your itinerary and make your stay even more memorable.  

Set Your Sights on a Scenic Adventure 

Cumberland Island might be the inviting day trip destination you’re after, but your time on the Cumberland Island Ferry promises to be equally inspiring. Passengers are invited to step aboard this welcoming vessel and make their way gently across the St. Mary’s River. The journey is smooth, and the views are one-of-a-kind. In total, the ride only takes about 45 minutes, but it’s magical if you’re lucky enough to spot dolphins along the way. From the seabirds overhead to the sweeping marsh views, it’s a trip you’ll likely want to take a time or two.  

Step into the Wild 

The modern comforts of the Cumberland Island Ferry bring you right to the docks of secluded Cumberland Island. This is a wonderful place to land, whether you’re hoping to connect with nature, seek solitude, or just treat yourself to incredible views. Cumberland Island is a protected space, only accessible by boat, where guests can stroll the shoreline, watch for wild horses, visit historic sites, and explore nature trails. There are bike paths and moss-draped oaks, setting a gorgeous scene for an afternoon of outdoor adventure in the wild.  

Plan Your Visit 

Cumberland Island is a popular destination in peak travel seasons, and space on the Cumberland Island Ferry can fill up fast. Be sure to plan ahead to secure your place on board and make the most of an exceptional journey from start to finish. Guests are welcome to book their tickets online ahead of time to make the journey more stress-free and streamlined.  

Book Your Amelia Island Adventure Today

When you return from your Cumberland Island getaway, enjoy the elevated standards of comfort and style you deserve by booking your accommodations at The Addison on Amelia Island. Reach out today to learn more about our 14 guest rooms, incredible amenities, and world-class service standards that are designed to make your stay unforgettable.  

Book Your Amelia Island Getaway

FAQS

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Sun, Sand & Adventure: Outdoor Activities to Enjoy on Amelia Island

When you make your way to Amelia Island, you’ll have plenty of time and opportunity to relax and unwind in style. This is also a scenic place that inevitably inspires travelers to get out and explore more! If you’re an adventurer who loves to expand their itinerary as much as possible when you set off to discover new places, the following outdoor activities Amelia Island offers are must-adds to your lineup. 

The many outdoor activities Amelia Island provides are thrilling, but there’s always more to see and do here. That’s why we recommend requesting a copy of our Free Vacation Guide ahead of your next trip. Inside, you’ll find the one-of-a-kind events, attractions, and activities you can add to your itinerary to make your stay even more meaningful. 

Linger Under the Sun at Main Beach Park 

Amelia Island has rightfully earned a reputation for excellence around its incredible shorelines. When you’re looking for outdoor activities to add to your day of fun, lingering under the sun at Main Beach Park is a must. 

This popular stop in town is home to spacious beaches, family-friendly amenities, and great views to capture on camera. There are volleyball courts to enjoy and splash pads for little ones, as well as outdoor showers and picnic areas. From the skate park to the grassy spaces for lounging, Main Beach Park makes it easy to customize your day outdoors exactly to your travel style. 

• Address: 32 N. Fletcher Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: Open 24 Hours 

• Lifeguards on Duty: Yes, exclusively between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day 

Spend Time Birdwatching on Egans Creek Greenway  

Matching great scenery and wildlife watching with outdoor adventure is easy to do when you take a stroll along the Egans Creek Greenway. This area is easy to navigate thanks to the network of trails on-site that are suitable for all skill levels. 

The Egans Creek Greenway is part of more than 300 acres of protected wetlands across northern Amelia Island, providing a prime habitat for a variety of bird species. If you arrive with binoculars in hand, you’ll have a good chance of spotting herons and egrets along the way. This area is also home to alligators and turtles, so it’s worth your while to take your time and observe your surroundings closely.  

• Address: 2555 Jasmine Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Types of Exploration on the Trails: Biking and Hiking 

• Hours: Open dawn to dusk daily 

Explore Local Waterways with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions 

While there’s a lot to do on land when you visit Amelia Island, there’s just as much to enjoy on the water. When you could use some local insight on your adventure, we highly recommend booking a guided tour with the team at Amelia Island Kayak Excursions. 

This local outfitter offers paddling routes and tours for beginners and experienced kayakers, too. If you book one of their Amelia River tours, you’ll enjoy two hours on the water in either a single or tandem kayak. These tours can also be customized to include wildlife watching on request.  

• Address: 3 S. Front Street, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 32034 

• Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily 

• Phone: 904-557-5307 

 Book Your Amelia Island Getaway Today

After a day exploring the great outdoors, make sure you have a luxurious retreat to return to at The Addison on Amelia Island. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting accommodations, great location, special packages, and amenities that take your trip to the next level of memorable fun. 

Book Your Amelia Island Stay

The post Sun, Sand & Adventure: Outdoor Activities to Enjoy on Amelia Island appeared first on ADDISON ON AMELIA ISLAND.

Amelia Island Nature Center: A Guide to Exploring the Island’s Natural Beauty

Time spent enjoying Amelia Island is especially inspiring for those who love nature. When you’re looking to learn more about your natural surroundings during your stay, the Amelia Island Nature Center is a great place to start. Connecting local waterways, maritime forests, and island marshes, this educational center provides visitors with a place to connect with the great outdoors. There are also opportunities to make the most of hands-on learning experiences along the way.   

When you’re looking to match your time at the Amelia Island Nature Center with even more local fun, we suggest requesting a copy of our Free Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll enjoy access to our curated lineup of local events, activities, and attractions to add to your itinerary and make your stay one-of-a-kind. 

Activities to Try at the Amelia Island Nature Center   

There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy at the Amelia Island Nature Center. This family-friendly destination has activities to participate in on-site that are suitable for guests of all ages, in every season. 

A top-rated activity to add to your own list is a guided nature tour. Alongside a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll take a stroll through shoreline habitats, maritime forests, and local salt marshes. Along the way, your guide will point out fascinating wildlife like turtles, herons, egrets, and dolphins. They’ll also offer up unique insight on local ecosystems. 

Some of the other activities you can enjoy at the Amelia Island Nature Center include: 

• Biking along the miles of paved pathways and trails that surround the center 

• Kayaking through surrounding waterways 

• Exploring on-site wildlife exhibits that dive deep into the area’s natural history 

Whether you choose to do one or all of the above-mentioned activities, you won’t have to worry about overpacking for your visit. There are bikes, helmets, and safety gear rentals offered conveniently on-site. Guests can also easily rent kayaks and paddleboards at the center when they want to enjoy time on the water.  

Seasonal Programs to Attend 

No matter when you make your way to the Amelia Island Nature Center, you’ll find it’s a place with an event calendar that’s designed to impress. Throughout the year, the center hosts programs such as: 

• Eco-tours by kayak or paddleboard 

• Educational talks focused on wildlife conservation 

• Guided family-friendly nature walks 

• Guided birdwatching sessions in the early mornings 

These events vary by season and are updated regularly, so it’s important to check the lineup before you arrive.  

Plan Your Visit 

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Fernandina Beach by car, the Amelia Island Nature Center is within easy reach of The Addison on Amelia Island. It’s a great day trip stop to enjoy, whether you’re traveling on your own, with friends, or alongside the entire family. Whether you come for the hiking, the wildlife watching, or to participate in a tour, this nature center is one that often has visitors lingering longer than they originally planned. 

• Address: 6800 First Coast Highway, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034 

• Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily 

• Phone: 904-321-5082 

Book Your Amelia Island Getaway Today 

When you’re heading to Amelia Island to enjoy the beauty of nature, make sure you have a luxury retreat to return to each evening by booking your stay at The Addison on Amelia Island. Close to the places you can’t wait to explore, and filled with inspired amenities at every turn, our accommodations are designed to have you feeling right at home. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next Amelia Island getaway in comfort and style. 

Book Your Amelia Island Getaway

The post Amelia Island Nature Center: A Guide to Exploring the Island’s Natural Beauty appeared first on ADDISON ON AMELIA ISLAND.