What is the best way to get to your destination?

The most convenient international airport is Orlando, with a transfer time by car of around two-and-a-half hours. The nearest international airport is Jacksonville, 25 minutes from downtown Fernandina Beach. This airport is well-served from several airports in the US but not international flights from Europe. Most major airports in the UK have direct regular flights to Orlando, as does Dublin.

What are the must-see sights or must-do activities?

Watersports; wildlife tours to see marine life and nesting sea turtles; and searching for prehistoric sharks’ teeth from the beach are some must-do activities on Amelia Island. There are also golf and wildlife trails; walking and cycling; and the island’s history is great for families – including visiting the state parks and Fort Clinch. There are some really special festivals such as the annual shrimp festival and the Charles Dickens-themed Christmas extravaganza Dickens on Centre in Fernandina Beach. Food and drinks are of the highest standard, and spending time at the luxury resort hotels is ideal.

What are the accommodation options?

There are many accommodation options, from five-star resorts to unique antebellum-style bed and breakfasts run by local families. The Omni and the Ritz Carlton have all of the amenities that you would expect from luxury resort accommodation, with beachfront spa options and high-class dining. Hotels such as the Courtyard by Marriott and the Springhill Suites are great mid-range options. Many of the more traditional offerings, such as Amelia Schoolhouse – which is a certified national historic structure – hark back to a more traditional and elegant time. The Island also excels in having so many wooden, southern-style inns such as the Amelia Island Williams House and the Fairbanks.

When should clients visit?

Florida is blessed with year-round sunshine and therefore there is no specific time to travel. As the island has many festivals and events during the year, it is recommended that agents encourage visitors to check the calendar of events on the Amelia Island website to see what takes their fancy. The most cost-effective time to travel from Europe is August-September or May-June time.

How long should clients stay? 

The island measures just 13 miles by two miles, and visitors could easily spend an entire holiday on the island. However, for visitors from the UK it is more appropriate to include between three and five nights in the destination as part of a fly-drive through Florida, or even arriving or departing from Atlanta, Georgia, as the island is right on the Georgia border.

What tools can agents use? 

Cellet Marketing & Public Relations can supply images, brochure information and incentives on request at info@cellet.co.uk

Where can agents find out more?

Further information about the island can be found at ameliaisland.com

Trade team contact details 

Name: Yolanda Fletcher

Email address: yolanda@cellet.co.uk