Amelia Island Shrimping, Pirates, and Wild Horses . . . Oh My!
Where in the Bahamas is that? That was a question I was asked repeatedly after sharing pictures of my trip to Amelia Island. I couldn’t blame anyone for asking—after all, each image featuring crystal-blue waters, relaxed island architecture, and wild horses was more picturesque than the next. Hardly anyone believed that this special slice of serenity is actually located in Florida, just a short distance from Jacksonville near the Georgia border. Truth be told, the locals like that their secret spot still has some secrecy left to it.
With all the charm of a small Victorian-inspired town, diverse ecosystems, plenty of outdoor activities, a rich pirate history, and historical sites—they are home to the Palace Saloon, the oldest bar in Florida—you do truly feel like you are far away from it all. From sporting tournaments to music festivals and everything in between—we’re talking a Miss Shrimp pageant as part of the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival to celebrate the island’s shrimping industry—to the popular Amelia Concours d’Elegance, a showcase of rare cars from private collections around the world, plus Dickens-inspired streets during the holiday season, there is something for everyone.
Kick your getaway off to an adventurous start with the family-owned Amelia Island Kayak Excursions team. They were even named one of the top kayaking companies in the country by USA Today. Paddle through the scenic marsh and take shade under the trees as you learn about the area’s unique attributes.
Enjoy perfect scenery rich with native plants and wildlife as you gear up for a hike or biking excursion through Fort Clinch, one of the most well-preserved 19th-century forts in the country. Check out the museum or explore the park with views of the biggest sand dunes in Florida. The shoreline is also home to a vast array of shark teeth.
Despite its small size, this secluded spot houses a diverse selection of cuisine and fresh local finds. I highly recommend Wicked BAO, which features some incredible Asian street food bites and a friendly owner who will give you the inside scoop on all her authentic creations. After dinner, set sail on a sunset cruise with Amelia River Cruise and Charters, where you might just catch a glimpse of local shrimping boats, and what really piqued my excitement levels, the island’s wild horses. For an intimate and special experience with a loved one or even a group of friends, Luxe Picnics by LES curates personalized picnics with gourmet treats and décor right on the beach.
Over recent years, Amelia Island has become home to some very popular breweries, with favorites including Macoma, located in an old 1950s car dealership, downtown’s Amelia Island Brewing
Company, Marlin & Barrel, the island’s own distillery—this was a pirate town, after all—and family-owned First Love Brewing.
From upscale resorts to family friend stays, the island has a range of accommodations for getaways ranging from glam to casual, or both! Omni Amelia Island Resort, a five-star property with its own Pete Dye designed golf course and serene spa, also offers their unique Sprouting Dinner Project. Each themed dinner, from blooms to truffle, includes a tour of the resort’s state-of-the-art aquaponic greenhouse, expansive organic gardens, the barrel room, and large collection of beehives.
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is also home to world-class golf courses and the only AAA Five-Diamond rated restaurant in the state of Florida, Salt. After taking a Yoga Nidra class right in the midst of paradise, I am ready to sign up for their fall meditation retreat. Located just up the street from the beach, the latest Springhill Suites Amelia Island and Courtyard by Marriott Amelia Island, connected proper¬ties, both offer a clean, modern spot for couples or families. Their Luna gallery, which features dozens of local artists, is part of The Hive, the social responsibility program of Innisfree Hotels, where all gallery commissions are donated to local causes.
You will also find some unique shopping destinations, one of my favorites being the husband-and-wife-owned Story & Song Bookstore Bistro, where patrons donated their own money during the pandemic to ensure they were able to stay in business. Take a piece of your getaway with you when you sign up for kindergarten class at The Julie Delfs Gallery downtown or try your hand at miniature playing at Duck Pinz Fernandina, which becomes a fun hot spot at night.
Visiting this special spot is now easier than ever with Breeze Airways announcing direct flights to JAX from several major cities.
