When you think of an island you probably picture white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and all being surrounded by miles of sparkling ocean waters. Well, Amelia Island, Florida certainly has the white beaches and palms. But it is close enough to the mainland of Florida that you can drive onto it and not completely realize you are on an island.

To the east of Amelia Island is the Atlantic Ocean; to the south is Nassau Sound. The northern part of the island is separated from the mainland by small rivers and big creeks and to the west of the island is the Amelia River and marsh land.

Amelia Island is a small island being just 18.2 square miles; 13 miles long and 4 miles wide at its widest point. It is the southernmost island in the chain of barrier islands known as the Sea Islands which run from the Carolinas to Florida.

Life is relaxed and slow paced on Amelia Island. Activities include boating, fishing, shelling, and swimming. There is also a historic shopping district downtown and plenty of good restaurants and shops. The mainland is just a short drive over the bridge and Jacksonville is about a 30 minute drive where you will find the hustle and bustle of a large city.

Amelia Island is a popular vacation spot for families because of its relaxed ambiance and pristine beaches. Amelia Island relies on tourism for its economy and most jobs on the island are in the hospitality industry. Many residents drive into Jacksonville or Georgia for employment. For them the long commute is a worthwhile trade off to live on such a picturesque island.

Amelia Island has many accommodations including bed and breakfast inns and luxury resorts. Choose a room right on the beach if you like, of course the island is so small you are never very far from the beach no matter where you stay.

The southern portion of the island is home to the Amelia Island Plantation which is a widely acclaimed 4 diamond luxury resort which is situated on 1350 acres and boasts four 18 hole golf courses and 23 clay tennis courts.