As Labor Day weekend approaches, the scenic Amelia Island beckons with a myriad of activities and attractions to engage in. From exploring local markets to experiencing the best Amelia Island tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
After a day of new experiences and adventure, come stay with Amelia Vacations in one of our Amelia Island vacation rentals! Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Amelia Island, Florida, over the long weekend.
Visit a Local Market
Fernandina Beach Market Place Farmers Market
Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this weekly Amelia Island farmers market brings together farmers, growers, and local entrepreneurs to showcase an array of locally grown and produced goods. Set against the backdrop of live music and friendly faces, the market offers an eclectic selection of offerings, including seasonal produce, fresh baked goods, flowers, poultry, handcrafted items, and specialty food products.
Fernandina Beach Arts Market
For those visiting on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, the Fernandina Beach Arts Market presents an opportunity to explore an array of arts and crafts. Located adjacent to the farmers’ market, this market offers a unique shopping experience featuring quality pottery, glassware, woodworking, leatherwork, and much more. Visitors can indulge in the artistic expressions of local artisans and perhaps find the perfect, one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.
Wildlight Market Place
Amelia Island’s newest market, the Wildlight Market Place, located in Yulee, Florida, is a must-visit destination on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month. Combining the charm of a farmers market with the creativity of an arts market, it’s an ideal spot to discover an array of handmade arts and crafts. From watercolors and jewelry to woodworking and pottery, this market showcases the diverse talents of local artisans alongside a selection of fresh produce and other market goods.
Amelia Island Tasting Tour
Fernandina Beach Farmers Market Tour
Each Saturday, experience a 2-hour tour at the Fernandina Beach Farmers Market with the Amelia Island Culinary Academy. Join Chef Bill for a lively walkthrough of Historic Fernandina Beach to the Farmers Market, all while enjoying sample tastings from local farmers and culinary artisans. Sit back and relax as you watch Chef Bill’s cooking demonstrations, indulging in his creations afterwards.
Amelia Island Food & Bike Tours
Combine biking and food tasting on this delightful tour that takes you along the island’s flat, cycling-friendly bike path. Explore local restaurants and fresh produce stands while learning about the island’s history. Enjoy generous food tastings at four different stops, including popular eateries like Lagniappe, Pogo’s Kitchen, Cucina South, Bar Zin, and Marche Burette.
Private Tasting Tours
Seeking a more tailored experience? One of the best things to do on Amelia Island are their private group tasting tours. Join the Amelia Island Culinary Academy for a customized tour, designed for each group. Pick from a walking or biking tour while sampling local specialties and watching cooking demonstrations. Whether traveling with family or a work retreat, Amelia Island Culinary Academy will ensure your tasting tour is designed specifically for you. For larger groups, enjoy Amelia Island Tasting Tours’ private group tours. This special experience will last for 2.5 hours, visiting two local restaurants and two local bars, and includes tastings and specialty cocktails.
Outdoor Tours and Adventures
Amelia and Cumberland Islands Tour
Experience an exceptional 2 1/2-hour Amelia Island boat tour through the waterways surrounding the Cumberland Islands. Led by entertaining certified captains, this tour promises an immersive experience highlighting the captivating history and diverse wildlife of the area. With the chance to explore further north, this tour provides ample time to admire the scenic shorelines, historic landmarks, and the fascinating Fernandina shrimp boats.
Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
Navigate through the protected waters of Lofton Creek and encounter fascinating wildlife such as turtles, alligators, and even manatees. Enjoy the serene Blackwater channel with its lush marshes, towering bald cypress trees, and rare flowers – a truly unforgettable adventure for paddlers of all skill levels.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the best of Amelia Island? Browse our full inventory of rentals to find the ideal accommodations for your stay!
Romantic Evening Cruises
Private Sunset Cruise
Experience the breathtaking sunsets of Florida on an exclusive private sunset cruise along the Amelia River. As the sun sets behind the horizon, casting brilliant hues of burnt orange, pink, and red, you’ll be treated to a peaceful and enchanting experience. Cruise past the historic waterfront, Fort Clinch, and Cumberland Island National Seashore, where you may have the chance to spot the iconic wild horses grazing on the dunes.
Adult-Only Twilight Cruise
Set sail on Friday and Saturday evenings for an enchanting adult-only twilight cruise across the pristine waters of Amelia Island. As the setting sun paints an unforgettable sky, enjoy live music and stunning views of the island’s charming shrimp boats, historic landmarks, and maritime forests. With playful dolphins, curious sea turtles, and the majestic wild horses of Cumberland Island as your companions, this two-hour journey into the twilight promises to be a celebration of nature’s beauty and serenity.
Explore Our Amelia Island Rentals
Imagine a perfect retreat during your stay on Amelia Island, where luxury meets comfort to create an unforgettable vacation experience. Our Amelia Island condo rentals offer a wide range of amenities that are meticulously designed to enhance your stay and provide a relaxing sanctuary where you can fully unwind. Our 24-hour check-in service ensures that your arrival is hassle-free and stress-free, regardless of your time of arrival. Fully equipped kitchens in our rentals provide you with an opportunity to feel right at home while on vacation. Our Amelia Island rentals come with spacious patios or balconies where you can step out to soak in the island breeze and enjoy the stunning views that surround you. We even have pet friendly rentals on Amelia Island so your furry friend can join in on the fun. At Amelia’s Vacations, we understand that every guest is unique, and that is why we offer a selection of vacation rentals tailored to your preferences. Secure your spot today!
