Why You Should Take a Road Trip from Orlando to Amelia Island
Orlando is home to magic, wonder, excitement, but also a steady downpour of tourists, traffic, and no beaches. Looking for a change of scenery? Learn why a road trip from Orlando to Amelia Island is the perfect excuse to enjoy a little time at the beach for a relaxing getaway.
Looking to learn more about downtown Amelia Island and the surrounding areas? Request our free vacation guide to learn about the best restaurants, relaxing spas, and hidden gems in the area.
How to Plan a Road Trip from Orlando to Amelia Island
Driving to Amelia Island
A trip from Orlando to Amelia Island generally takes about three hours give or take 20 minutes depending on traffic. You start by jumping on I-4 E and following the road until you reach I-95N. Take the exit on the left onto I-95N towards Jacksonville. Stay on I-95N until you exit right at 373 for FL-200/FL-A1A toward Callahan/Fernandina Beach. This will take you to Amelia Island!
Exploring the Area
Now that you have arrived on Amelia Island, it is time to explore the area! Below are a few of our favorite things to do on vacation regardless of the season!
- Try a New Restaurant – The culinary scene on Amelia Island is quite extraordinary. From high-end experiences like David’s Restaurant to comfortably modern American food like Burlingame, there is always a reason to go out!
- Attend a Special Event or Holiday Party – Amelia Island is home to dozens of exciting events, fun-filled festivals, and happy holidays year-round. In the spring you can see vintage cars (Amelia Island Concours d’ Elegance) and snack on shrimp (Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival while the fall is home to the dulcet tones of jazz music (Amelia Island Jazz Festival) and the unique sport of petanque (Petanque Amelia Island Open).
- Take a Beach Day – The beaches of Amelia Island are warm, soft, and welcoming all year! While the water is a tad cold to swim in the wintertime, it is always a great time to walk or ride horseback down the Florida coast
- Hike / Bike / Kayak – The outdoors on Amelia Island are defined by our state parks, unique birdwatching opportunities, and abundance of hiking and biking trails. Prefer a paddle in your hand? You can experience the joys of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or kayaking in the calm intercoastal waters or the near shores of the beach.
- Shop locally – Whether you love collecting collectibles on your trips or want to support local businesses, there are plenty of cool hidden stores in downtown Fernandina Beach.
Staying at The Fairbanks House
Looking to escape the timeshares, vacation rentals, and hotel rooms? Enjoy a large, welcoming room at the historic Fairbanks House! Located in downtown Fernandina Beach, The Fairbanks House is the perfect way to cap off a quick drive up I-95 and enjoy the gentler side of the Florida coast
