By Isabel Prontes
Amelia Island is a barrier island that is part of Florida and the southernmost of all the Sea Islands. The island is home to picturesque Fernandina
beach, as well as Amelia City. If you are planning on visiting Amelia Island, there are plenty of exciting and relaxing things to see and do while you are there.
Amelia Island Museum of History
The Amelia Island Museum of History is located inside the former Nassau County prison and was constructed out of brick in 1878. This intriguing museums depicts the island's vibrant heritage and history, starting from the Timucuan Native American era all the way to the island's possession by Spain, France, the United Kingdom and then the United States. The museum also organizes walking tours of the island's historically rich Centre Street.
Amelia Island Museum of History
233 South Third St.
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
(904) 261-7378, ext. 105
Golfing
A great place to go golfing while on Amelia Island is at Amelia Island Plantation Golfing. This golf course spans 1,350 acres and provides 72 championship golf holes. The scenery at this sprawling golf course is stunning. The golf course features 23 tennis courts, several guided nature tours and youth activities .
Amelia Island Plantation Golfing
6800 First Coast Highway
Amelia Island, FL 32034
(800) 874-6878
Amelia Plantation Nature Center Programs
Amelia Plantation Nature Center Programs hosts a variety of exciting activities in which to partake while on Amelia Island, among them hikes, bicycle tours and exploring diverse creatures such as crabs, turtles, birds, edible flora and other types of wildlife. There are specific tours for children only and a nature center that is for public viewing.
Amelia Plantation Nature Center Programs
6800 First Coast Highway
Amelia Island, FL 32034
(904) 261-6161
Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is one of the United States' best maintained forts from the 19th century. There are guided daily tours of Fort Clinch featuring actors who re-enact the garrison lifestyle. A beach within the state park is a great place for activities such as sunbathing, swimming, cycling, surf fishing, hiking, camping and examining wildlife. This is a wonderful, beautiful and historical state park that people of all ages can enjoy while on Amelia Island.
Fort Clinch State Park
2601 Atlantic Ave.
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
(904) 277-7221
Kayaking
Kayaking is another recreational activity found on Amelia Island. Children will particularly enjoy kayaking with Kayak Amelia, as the company focuses mostly on beginners. Swimming, paddling and enjoying snacks in warm waters on a pleasant afternoon are all in a day's work with Kayak Amelia.
Kayak Amelia
13030 Heckscher Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32226
(904) 251-0016
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.