Things to Do in Amelia Island

(Local Favorites in Downtown Fernandina Beach)

Visitors come to Amelia Island for the beautiful beaches, historic charm, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, but many people quickly discover that some of the best things to do are right in downtown Fernandina Beach. From local restaurants and coffee shops to walking tours, shopping, and waterfront views, the historic district offers plenty to explore within just a few blocks.

A great way to start the day in downtown Fernandina Beach is with breakfast or coffee at a local café. In the heart of the historic district, Hola Cuban Café is a favorite stop for Cuban coffee, breakfast empanadas, pressed sandwiches, and fresh pastries. Known for its cozy atmosphere and courtyard patio, Hola is a popular place for both locals and visitors before heading out to explore Amelia Island.

After breakfast, many visitors enjoy walking Centre Street, one of the most photographed areas on Amelia Island. The street is lined with colorful historic buildings, locally owned shops, art galleries, and specialty stores. Visitors often stop into places like Ship’s Lantern for souvenirs, browse coastal boutiques such as Salty Local, Twisted Sisters, and Amelia Linen & Wood, or sample gourmet olive oils and vinegars at Olive Amelia. For those who enjoy a relaxed afternoon, Ash Street Cigar Parlor is a well-known downtown spot to unwind with a cigar and a drink.

For visitors looking for a fun and social activity, one of the most popular experiences in downtown Fernandina Beach is a guided food and cocktail walking tour with Amelia Island Downtown Tasting Tours. These small-group tours visit several locally owned restaurants and bars while guests enjoy tastings, signature drinks, and stories about the island’s history along the way. Tours run throughout the week and are a great way to experience the local food scene while meeting other visitors and discovering places you might not find on your own. Many tours begin right in the downtown area, making it easy to plan before or after a stop at Hola Cuban Café.

Of course, no visit to Amelia Island is complete without time at the beach. Main Beach Park is a favorite for visitors, offering beautiful ocean views, picnic areas, and easy access to the sand. Fort Clinch State Park is another must-see, known for its historic fort, scenic trails, and some of the best natural views on the island.

In the evening, downtown Fernandina Beach has a lively but relaxed atmosphere with live music, wine bars, cocktail lounges, and locally owned restaurants. Many visitors enjoy starting the night with dinner downtown, then exploring the area on foot, since everything is close together and easy to reach.

Whether you are visiting for a day or staying for a week, Amelia Island offers the perfect mix of history, food, beaches, shopping, and local character. Starting your day in downtown Fernandina Beach with great coffee, good food, and a walk through the historic district is one of the best ways to experience what makes the island special.