Amelia Island is easily one of my favorite places in all of Florida. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Jacksonville, it’s located on the northeast coast of the Sunshine State. Less than a 45-minute drive from Jacksonville, you’ll feel the romantic energy of the island before you ever even arrive at your hotel or AirBnB.
I’ve been visiting Amelia Island since I was a little kid with my family. It holds countless memories and I cherish the old-Florida feel of its beauty. I recommend Amelia Island for all kinds of trips.
I love this place so much that Amelia Island has been my destination for multiple girls’ trips. I even got married here (spoiler: I’m divorced now, but it was one gorgeous party that even got featured in the magazine, The Knot Florida). I used to be afraid that the end of my marriage would hold a gloom over my love for Amelia Island, but instead, I just have a lot of adoration for this town.
I would say this list pulls the best of the best for things to do in Amelia Island. Overall, the destination itself is very romantic. But every fun thing on this list would be great to do with friends or family, not just romantic partners. I’m positive that if you’re planning a trip to this Florida island, you’ll be leaving with some of the sweetest memories.
When it comes to romantic things to do in Amelia Island, where you choose to stay is number one.
I’m extremely partial to the Omni Resort at Amelia Island Plantation, and I’ll explain why, but I’ll also give you a couple of other sweet options just in case you’re not convinced.
The Omni at Amelia Island Resort is located on the Plantation. This means when you go through the gates to the Plantation, you’re officially on private property. Within this property are hundreds of acres filled with private homes and condos, miles of golf courses, tennis courts, natural marshland, quiet walkways, restaurants, shops, pools, and of course, the beautiful Omni Resort.
When it comes to romantic things to do in Amelia Island, convenience is key. If you stay at the actual hotel of the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort, you’re guaranteed an ocean view room. I don’t know about you, but there’s something about waking up to the sunrise over the ocean and the calming morning waves.
Alternatively, you can also stay in a condo or “villa” through Omni. This is an amazing option for groups, families, or someone that wants the luxury of a full kitchen and entertainment area. I always encourage visitors to book through Omni so that they have access to all of Omni’s amenities.
Omni’s amenities include a variety of romantic options. When you book with Omni, you’ll be smitten with options like:
- Sitting by the fire pits outside in the evening with a glass of wine or cocktail.
- Reserving a private cabana by the pool or on the beach.
- Lounging by the Adult Only pool with a designated server.
- Complimentary access to the Shuttle that will drive you to different areas of the Plantation (no need to worry about drinking too much champagne!)
On the Omni Amelia Island Plantation, there is so much to do that you wouldn’t even need to leave the private property for a weekend. From multiple, delicious restaurants to mini-golf and shops, there’s something for every couple to enjoy without ever getting back in their car.
This post isn’t sponsored by Omni Resort. I just feel passionate about staying in this area if you head to Amelia Island for a trip.
If you’re looking for even more luxurious accommodations, I strongly suggest staying at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. If you prefer a location closer to downtown Fernandina Beach, The Addison on Amelia Island is a great bed and breakfast.
Okay, now that you’ve narrowed down where you’ll be waking up in Amelia Island, let’s dive into the most romantic things you can do while visiting this charming town.
1. Watch the sunset at Walker’s Landing
This is easily a highlight of every trip to Amelia Island for me. Walker’s Landing is located on the Omni Plantation and is a popular spot for large weddings. Located right on the marshland, you can drive here with a rented golf cart from Wheels or take your own car. I suggest bringing a canned wine and setting up a spot on the dock about 15-20 minutes before the sun drops over the horizon. You’ll have a stunning view of a true Florida landscape as the sun sets.
2. Take a Twilight River Cruise.
There’s something about being on the water that makes any getaway feel extra special. The Adults Only Twilight Cruise is BYOB and features nightly musicians. Amelia River Cruises also has private charters if you’re looking for something even more intimate.
3. Spoil yourselves to a day at the spa.
When I think of romance, I dream of relaxation. What better way to dive into a deep de-stressor than a day at the spa? The Omni Resort Spa has an impressive list of facials, massages, nail appointments, and salon services.
Feel like going the extra mile? If you’re staying in a villa or local AirBnB, consider booking an in-home massage for the two of you!
4. Go horseback riding on the beach.
I like to think when you’re on a weekend getaway, you’re looking to do something you can’t do just anywhere. So, I think going horseback riding on the beach is such a fun and romantic thing to do on Amelia Island. A lot of Florida’s beaches don’t offer this kind of activity so take advantage of a sunrise or afternoon stroll. Maybe you’ll learn a thing or two about your partner while you watch them on horseback! 😉
Amelia Island Horseback Riding and Happy Trails are two popular facilities.
5. Stroll through Downtown Fernandina Beach.
Fernandina Beach is the main city of the actual island. In fact, you won’t see Amelia Island on addresses for Amelia. Instead, you’ll see Fernandina Beach. Downtown is as charming, walkable, and adorable as you’d expect. With everything from dessert shops to book stores, it’s truly a romantic stroll through downtown.
With the main street stretching all the way to the harbor, you can also choose to have water views during lunch or dinner. My girls and I love The Salty Pelican for a casual lunch and cocktails. I also highly recommend Les Clos for a romantic French dinner by candlelight.
Just a few minutes away from Main Street, you can pop into the Perfect Wick Candle Bar. This $38 experience allows you and your partner to create a custom scented candle together. During the one-hour candle-making class, you’ll mix a few scents to develop a smell that will always remind you of your romantic weekend in Amelia Island. I think it’s a sweet experience to bring home a souvenir that you make together!
6. Treat Yourselves to a Custom Picnic.
What’s more romantic than getting to just enjoy a picture-perfect moment? I’m talking no hassle of planning, prepping, or executing… just being present. Allow Luxe Picnics by Les to do all of the hard work for you so that you can arrive, kick off your shoes, and settle into a little moment of paradise. Their team will set up a beautiful and romantic picnic so that you and your partner can indulge in the most important thing of all – each other.
You can go big or simple with this picnic, but it’s truly created to be unforgettable. And if you’re visiting Amelia Island on a girls’ trip, let them set up the ultimate ladies’ lunch!
7. Explore the State Parks & Big Talbot Island.
Amelia Island is home to multiple State Parks including Ft. Clinch State Park and Amelia Island State Park. These are popular spots to experience the “real” Florida. Filled with untouched wildnerness, they’re great spots for picnics, walks, hunting for shark teeth, or collecting sea shells.
I also love recommedning Big Talbot Island. Mostly a natural preserve, it offers a beautiful backdrop for photos, bird-watching, and more sea shell collecting. Being outside and near the water is always a romantic setting.
8. Go to a wine tasting at Amelia Wine Co.
Just down the road from the Omni Amelia Island Plantation is the Amelia Wine Co. If your romantic weekend includes sipping on wines, head to their free wine tasting on Fridays from 5:00-7:00 pm. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with other visitors and locals while enjoying wines along with tasty hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants. If you’re looking for a dinner reservation after the tasting, I highly suggest Bar Zin right next door.
9. Splurge on a dinner at Ritz-Carlton’s restaurant, Salt.
I can’t talk about romantic things to do in Amelia Island without mentioning the award-winning restaurant, Salt. Located at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Salt’s beautiful views set you up for an evening of divine cuisine and world-class wine. Using salts from all over the world, you’ll be swept off your feet by this dining experience. It’s a popular spot for good reason. I highly recommend making a reservation a few weeks in advance.
10. Rent bicycles and see the island on two wheels.
Electric bicycles have become the newest hit in 2022. I always recommend experiencing a new place with a walking tour or getting out on a bicycle. Electric bicycles have become the newest hit in 2022. Pedego rents out electric bikes on the south side of the island, and it’s an adventurous and fun way to explore. From gorgeous pathways lined with huge oak trees to a lane dedicated to cyclists on A1A, you can ride for miles and miles around the island.
If you prefer to do all of the pedaling, check out bike rentals from Amelia’s Wheels right on the Omni Amelia Island Plantation. They also have options for Segway tours and golf-cart rentals.
11. Get out on the water together.
For my active couples out there, you know that doing a physical activity together is one of the most romantic things of all. With the marshland and water right at your toes, you can choose between kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing. You’ll be surrounded by nature and might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the water.
If you head to downtown Fernandina Beach, you’ll also find some boat and jet-ski rentals. Getting out on the water can be incredibly romantic and fun.
12. Walk the beaches.
You’ll find yourself exploring the coastline a lot in Amelia Island. Whether you’re walking down to the beach at sunrise or you’re searching for shark teeth at sunset, the beach is the perfect place to get wrapped up in one another.
13. Book a professional photo session to capture the memories.
If you’re reading about romantic things to do in Amelia Island, Florida, then chances are, you’re getting some alone time with your partner. The truth is, the time you get to spend together is the most romantic thing you can do of all. But why not capture this special trip with professional photos that you’ll actually want to frame?!
I am a huge fan of taking time during a trip to have professional photos taken. It doesn’t take much out of your day, maybe a couple of hours or so, at most. If you book the session early on in your getaway, you can spend the rest of the time extra present with your partner. You’ll know you already captured beautiful moments in Amelia Island!
I go through Flytographer for 90% of my destination photoshoots. They have a Jacksonville photographer that will travel to Amelia Island for a minimum 60-minute session. I’d say it’s totally worth it! The Amelia Island area is really popular for weddings, so if you want to find your own photographer, there should be plenty to choose from.
Use my Flytographer code: KATHERINEFOX for $25 off your first session!
And as I mentioned, Amelia Island is home to hundreds of weddings every year. If you’re feeling extra romantic, you can plan a proposal, elope, or renew your vows! 😉
So whether you’re planning a beautiful honeymoon or you’re meeting the girls for a weekend getaway, this list of things to do in Amelia Island will certainly fill up your time in all of the best ways. As always, feel free to email me or DM me on Instagram with any questions! Cheers.
