A sweep of Atlantic Coast beach awaits along the southern tip of Amelia Island, where the sand glistens and the surf is frequently up. Amelia Island State Park protects 200 acres along the island’s shore.
American Beach
Home to the largest dune system on the Atlantic Coast in Florida, American Beach has a rich history as a vacation destination that served the African-American community during the days of segregation in the South.
Big Talbot Big Pine Trail
The southernmost trail on Big Talbot Island is the 0.8-mile Big Pine Trail, a short walk out to a bluff above the estuary through a maritime hammock riffled by breezes
Big Talbot Bluffs Beach Walk
At low tide, a walk along Bluffs Beach from the Bluffs Picnic Area of Big Talbot Island State Park brings rewarding views of the unusual black “rocks” and shimmering waters
Big Talbot Island State Park
For a taste of tidal pools and black rock beaches in Florida, get out of your car and walk down to the unique shoreline of Big Talbot Island State Park.
Black Rock Trail
An unusual and picturesque geologic anomoly, Blackrock Beach at Big Talbot Island is covered with formations that look like black lava rocks but are made of sand
Campground Nature Trail
At Little Talbot Island State Park, the 0.8-mile Campground Nature Trail offers a side of Little Talbot that the whole family can enjoy—along the estuary
Fernandina Plaza State Park
At Fernandina Plaza State Park, civilizations have made their mark here for more than 4,000 years, with the Spanish touch reaching these shores in the mid-1600s. This unassuming open space marks the spot of Plaza San Carlos, a parade ground for the fortress that protected a fledgling city known as Fernandina.
Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park offers camping by the sea, and extensive bike trails along a slender peninsula. But the main reason to visit is its namesake. Fort Clinch is one of the largest brick structures in Florida, and a must-see for architecture buffs.
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park
Once a piece of A1A from Amelia Island to Big Talbot Island, the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier is one of several former highway segments now under the care of Florida State Parks. Open 24 hours, it’s popular for sport fishing as well as bringing home a catch for dinner.