5 Hidden Treasures You Can't Afford to Miss on This Florida Barrier Island

While Amelia Island is renowned for its 13 miles of gorgeous beaches, this Northeast Florida paradise offers much more than just beautiful coastlines and serene salt marshes. Its peaceful, dune-lined shores provide the perfect setting for relaxation, whether you choose to spend your day on the water or simply enjoy the sand beneath your toes. Expect an exciting blend of lesser-known adventures that make Amelia Island a fantastic getaway for adventurers, families, and nature enthusiasts.

Explore the backwaters in pursuit of manatees and dolphins. Savor the island’s award-winning culinary scene with a guided tasting tour. Spend leisurely hours on historic beaches. Whether you desire a relaxing retreat or an action-packed escape, here are five hidden gems to discover.

Unearth Amelia Island’s Black Heritage

Amelia Island plays a significant role in history as the birthplace of American Beach, a refuge for Black beachgoers during the era of segregation and Jim Crow laws. Established by African American entrepreneur A.L. Lewis, American Beach and nearby Franklintown were featured in The Negro Motorist Green Book and served as a vibrant resort for Black Americans until Hurricane Dora struck in 1964. Today, visitors can explore the A. L. Lewis Museum to delve into Amelia Island’s African American heritage through Coast One Tours, a historical tour company led by local historian Ron Miller.

Indulge in artisanal spirits along the Florida Distillery Trail

For those who appreciate fine spirits, a visit to Marlin and Barrel is a must. Nestled in a quaint old Florida residence, this distillery is a key stop on the Florida Craft Spirits Association’s Florida Distillery Trail, showcasing the top 39 distilleries throughout the Sunshine State. Guests can take a tour and enjoy complimentary tastings of handcrafted rum and vodka. Don't miss the Venture Craft Vodka, crafted from local molasses; the smooth Bearing Light Rum; and the Blossom Orangecello, featuring Florida’s signature fruit.

Embark on a backwater adventure

With its lush woodlands, intricate marshes, and tranquil beaches, Amelia Island is a treasure trove of nature waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to experience it? Backwater Cat Adventure Tours. These two-person mini catamarans, often likened to water-based go-karts, are both exhilarating and easy to handle, ensuring that even novice drivers can enjoy a guided tour through Amelia Island’s picturesque waterways. Discover historical landmarks, enjoy a fun beach stop, and take in the natural splendor while watching for wildlife like manatees and dolphins.

Dive into a lively culinary scene downtown

With over 90 independent eateries, Amelia Island offers an abundance of dining options. Experience the culinary delights with Amelia Island Downtown Tasting Tours, where you'll meet the chefs, owners, and bartenders behind the island’s dynamic food scene. Choose between the Booze & Bites Tour, which includes visits to two restaurants and two bars while learning the history from the chefs or owners, or the Cocktail Tour featuring four locations to savor craft cocktails from skilled bartenders.

Explore Fort Clinch State Park

Home to one of the best-preserved Civil War forts in the nation, Fort Clinch State Park offers a glimpse into 1864 with a soldier reenactment program that fires cannons and showcases battlefield skills on the first weekend of each month. Daily tours allow visitors to explore the fort's expansive grounds and rooms. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the park’s 1,400 acres, featuring hiking and biking trails beneath grand live oaks and three miles of coastline perfect for swimming, fishing, and fossil hunting.