Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Downtown Fernandina Beach
Morning: Arrive at Amelia Island and check into your hotel or vacation rental. Consider staying at a family-friendly resort like the Omni Amelia Island Resort or a cozy beachside cottage. Start your trip with a stroll through Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. The fall weather makes it perfect for walking around the quaint streets filled with Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and local restaurants.
Lunch: Have lunch at Timoti’s Seafood Shak, which offers delicious local seafood options and kid-friendly menus.
Afternoon: Visit the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s rich history, from Native American cultures to pirates and Victorian-era development. They also offer kid-friendly tours. Enjoy some sweet treats at Fantastic Fudge or the Amelia Island Coffee Shop.
Evening: Dinner at The Crab Trap offers a variety of local seafood dishes that cater to both adults and kids. Head to the Fernandina Beach Marina to catch the sunset and watch boats enter and out of the harbor. https://www.crabtrapameliaisland.com/menu?menu=seafood-feast
Day 2: Beach Day and Nature Exploration
Morning: Spend the morning at Main Beach Park or Peters Point Beachfront Park. Both locations offer clean, family-friendly beaches with restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Rent bikes and explore the Egan’s Creek Greenway, a protected area with trails where you can spot local wildlife such as alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
Lunch: Enjoy a beach picnic with grazing items from Sue’s Market.
Afternoon: Visit Fort Clinch State Park. Explore the Civil War-era fort, and take a guided tour to learn about its history. Afterward, hike or bike the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the beach and natural dunes. Go shelling or beachcombing along the shore near the fort; it’s a great activity for kids.
Evening: Return to your accommodation to freshen up. Dinner at Arte’ Pizza, offers a delicious Italian fare that kids and adults will enjoy.
Day 3: Adventure Day and Wildlife Encounters
Morning: Start the day with a kayaking tour through the island’s salt marshes. Companies like Amelia Adventures offer family-friendly tours where you can spot dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Alternatively, enjoy an electric skateboard tour on the beach with Amelia Island Board Rental—a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.
Lunch: Grab lunch at T-Ray’s Burger Station, a local favorite known for its burgers and casual dining atmosphere.
Afternoon: Head to the Amelia Island Nature Center at the Omni Resort. The center offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and guided nature tours. Visit the Amelia Island Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida. You can’t climb it, but it’s still a great spot for family photos.
Evening: Dinner at Pogo’s Kitchen, a family-friendly restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. After dinner, enjoy a family bonfire on the beach or take part in a ghost tour through downtown Fernandina Beach, where you’ll hear spooky stories about the island’s haunted history.
Day 4: Relaxation and Departure Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing with some downtime. Consider visiting the Amelia Island Farmers Market (on Saturdays) to pick up some local goods, or just enjoy a slow breakfast at Garden Street Bistro. Explore the island’s unique shops or art galleries, such as the Blue Door Artists gallery.
Lunch: Have a final meal at 4th Street Deli for a delicious and quick lunch.
Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, consider a Segway tour of the Omni Resort property or one last trip to the beach for a swim or some beach games. Depart for home with wonderful memories and souvenirs from your family trip to Amelia Island!
