Wondering where to spend your time soaking in the sun and relaxing with the waves? We’ve got you covered.
Click to jump to our (local!) thoughts on these people-pleasing beaches on Amelia Island, and be sure to look into our restaurant guide and events guide as well:
Beaches | Beach Access Points | FAQs
(Oh, and don’t forget … we have amazing condos and homes to rent for your vacation! Explore them here)
Let’s get started:
Beaches
The actual beaches themselves. Access points are in their own section!
Main Beach
There are 13 miles of coastline on Amelia Island, and Main Beach comprises much of it. With white sand, plenty of waves, and lots of space to spread out, you’ll find somewhere to relax.
Local tip: If you’re using public beach parking, plan on walking for a minute or two from the access point once you’re on the beach. You’ll quickly find a spot with lots of room to spread out!
Main Beach Park
This beachfront park offers picnic shelters, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and convenient access to plenty of other things to do within walking distance. As there’s plenty of parking, this tends to be a popular spot and can be one of the more crowded areas in peak travel seasons.
Nearby activities include:
- Bike rentals
- Mini golf and arcade
- Watersport rentals
- Skate park
It does have multiple restroom areas as well.
American Beach
Much of the land is owned by private landholders, though the National Park Service owns the centrally-located 8 1/2 acre sand dune that’s the largest along the Atlantic coast.
The beach was originally established in 1935 by A.L. Lewis as a place where African Americans could enjoy a resort area, and features multiple plaques and buildings dedicated to preserving and educating about this history – including the American Beach Museum.
There is plenty to explore, with some swimming available. Public restrooms are also available.
Burney Park
Located along American Beach, Burney Park provides spacious parking options, restrooms with showers, and picnic tables. You can drive onto the sand (4WD only) as well – otherwise, you’ll have a bit longer walk from parking to the sand than other locations, but it’s not prohibitive.
Fernandina Beach
It’s actually not a beach at all! This is the downtown area (come say hi, we’re here!) that spans 30+ blocks and features a ton of eating, shopping, and relaxing. Boat tours, history, and a lengthy pier where you and/or family can watch the boats coming and going all await.
Just don’t plan on swimming 🙂
Beach Access Points
Technically not a beach on their own, but you’ll enjoy these spots to get to some primary beachfront areas!
Seaside Park
A popular destination for swimming, paddleboarding, collecting sea shells, picnics, and much more. This is maintained by the city of Fernandina Beach and is kept very clean by the city. You can drive onto it (4WD only) so it’s popular for sunrises and sunsets.
A favorite? The outdoor shower as you leave, letting you get some of the sand off before climbing into your vehicle.
Peters Point
Further south on the island, Peters Point Beachfront Park offers many similar benefits as Seaside Park: clean beach, lifeguards, security patrol, 4WD-accessible beaches for vehicles, and showers. If you stay in a property closer to the Omni then this may be more convenient.
Fort Clinch State Park
You’ll love it for the history (especially on re-enactment days, well worth planning ahead for!) and there’s a nearby campground for those looking for it. There is a beachfront area which is perfect once you’ve wandered the many areas, thus it makes our list 🙂
Restrooms tend to be very clean – they’re located near the gift shop area so stop when you first arrive and again as you depart. And as it’s a state park it’s well-maintained and quite safe for all ages.
You’ll pay a small fee for access, and it’s well worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Many we’ve been asked by previous guests, and we’re always happy to answer your questions and make your stay perfect.
What is the most secluded beach on Amelia Island?
We recommend trying the Scott Road Beach Access point. It’s further south on the island, so many staying elsewhere on the island will stop at other points.
Fort Clinch, if you catch it at the right time, can also have less crowding than other areas.
Is Amelia Island beach water clear?
The beach water can be quite clear with a blueish-green hue when the weather is calm. As we’re on a coast, it’s often windy and so that can be impacted.
Is Amelia Island a pretty beach?
Amelia Island is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous! Just look around at photos people keep posting on TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp, and more! Lots of beauty that makes it easy to relax.
Are Amelia Island beaches crowded?
The beaches can be crowded at peak times. Think June/July summer vacation travel and other common holidays, especially in the middle of the day when it’s prime beach-going weather. This is especially true close to public access areas and parks such as Main Beach.
However, if you come towards late Spring or early-to-mid Fall, you’ll find much more elbow room when you head out to the waves … and the weather is warm enough to enjoy the water.
Is the water calm at Amelia Island?
The water can be calm, but it also can be quite choppy. This is largely dependent on the weather, so check the local forecast before heading out.