Explore Florida's Coastal Treasure and Beautiful Beaches, Salt Marshes and Maritime Forests.
Amelia Island State Recreation Area is a Florida State Park located 7 miles north of Little Talbot Island State Park on SR A1A, and 8 miles south of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, Florida. The park offering horseback rides down the beach, canoe and kayak rentals, fishing and acres of wildlife for Exploring. You'll find wide, expansive beaches, salt marshes and coastal maritime forests preserved in their natural beauty.
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Amelia Island State Park is a beautiful coastal park located on the southern tip of Amelia Island, Florida. Here's some information about the park:
Beaches
Amelia Island State Park offers over 200 acres of pristine beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy long stretches of sandy shoreline, go swimming in the ocean, sunbathe, and take leisurely walks along the coast. The beaches are known for their natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can spot shorebirds, seabirds, and migratory birds along the beach and in the dunes. The park is also an important nesting ground for sea turtles, and if you visit during the nesting season (May to October), you may witness the incredible sight of sea turtles laying their eggs or hatchlings making their way to the ocean.
Nature Trails
Amelia Island State Park features several nature trails that wind through the coastal forest and dunes, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography. The trails offer a chance to explore the unique coastal ecosystem and discover native plant species.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in designated areas within the park. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or the fishing platform and try their luck at catching a variety of fish species, such as redfish, trout, flounder, and more.
Picnicking
The park provides picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, allowing visitors to enjoy a picnic surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. It's a great spot to relax, have a meal, and spend quality time with family and friends.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The park offers access to tidal creeks and marshes, making it an ideal location for kayaking and canoeing. Exploring the waterways allows visitors to observe the local wildlife up close and enjoy the tranquility of the marsh environment.
Camping
Amelia Island State Park offers primitive camping facilities for those who want to spend the night immersed in nature. The campground provides tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, but there are no hookups available. It's a great option for nature lovers seeking a rustic camping experience.
Amelia Island State Park provides a serene and scenic coastal retreat, offering opportunities for beach activities, wildlife encounters, nature exploration, and outdoor recreation. It's a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Amelia Island.
State Road A1A
Jacksonville, FL 32226 904.251.2320
Amelia Island State Park is a short drive from Jacksonville or Fernandina Beach. The park protects over 200 acres of unspoiled wilderness along the southern tip of Amelia Island. Beautiful beaches, salt marshes and coastal maritime forests provide visitors a glimpse of the original, unspoiled Florida. Amelia Island State Park is one of the few locations on the east coast that offers horseback riding on the beach and riding tours along the shoreline. Fishermen can surf fish along the shoreline or they can cast their lines from the mile-long George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier which spans Nassau Sound. Visitors can stroll along the beach, look for shells and shark teeth or watch the wildlife. Beach driving is also permitted along designated routes providing shoreline access. Drivers should be aware of seasonal closures of certain park areas that are needed in the spring and summer to protect nesting shorebirds. The park offering horseback rides down the beach, canoe and kayak rentals, fishing and acres of wildlife for Exploring. For horseback tour reservations, contact Kelly Seahorse Ranch at 904.491.5166. Tours are given four times daily.
Turtle Crawl
Sea turtles are special summer visitors to many of Florida's shores. Female turtles come ashore to nest and return to the water after laying their eggs. The newly-hatched young follow 50-70 days later. Please follow posted rules concerning turtles, and if fortunate enough to see a nesting species, please do not disturb them or their nests.
Shorebird Haven
This beach provides critical habitat year round to several species of threatened shorebirds. During the cool, winter months, the piping plover, a threatened species protected by the Endangered Species Act, forages on these beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for these small brown and white shorebirds with pink legs, often sporting brightly colored ID bands. During the warmer spring and summer months, the beach dunes host nesting Least Terns and Wilson's Plovers. Be aware of seasonal closures affecting beach access from March – September in order to protect the tiny birds and their vulnerable young chicks.
Tee Times
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