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An escape to warmer climes during Canada's cooler seasons is not only exciting because we get to get our beach bum on, it’s also a chance to take our taste buds on a journey. In a place like Amelia Island, it promises to be a flavour adventure you’ll never forget.
Amelia Island is renowned for its kilometres of pristine beaches, dunes, golf courses and picturesque natural vistas. But there’s more to get excited about than relaxing and soaking up the sun; this peaceful slice of paradise, with an endearing small-town vibe, is also a sparkling culinary gem with an unlimited supply of incredible eats pulled right from the Atlantic.
A gourmand’s wonderland, Amelia Island is primed for wandering. Discover over 90 diverse, independent restaurants and bars serving international cuisine, mouthwatering seafood and fresh ingredients. You’re spoiled for choice here; explore casual spots to grab Southern specialties after a round of golf, fine-dining establishments for a romantic meal with your boo, or even cozy bakeshops slinging homemade sweets.
You’ll savour unmatched, elevated farm-to-table and boat-to-table dining on Amelia Island. Many of the island’s skilled chefs proudly emphasize seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and freshly sourced shrimp in their dishes — each plate showcases the region’s bounty. The island’s food and drink scene reflects the destination’s coastal heritage and authentic Southern charm.
Downtown Fernandina Beach is a buzzy hotspot packed with food options, so it’s a great place to centre your culinary escapades on Amelia Island. The atmosphere here is always lively, and many restaurants host live music performances. Further afield, romantic beachfront restaurants offer sweeping views of the ocean that pair perfectly with the day’s fresh catch, and a refreshing cocktail or beer.
Amelia Island also boasts a growing craft beer and spirits scene waiting to be explored, with several local breweries, wine bars, cocktail haunts and a distillery on the Florida Distillery Trail.
Your meals will be some of the fondest memories of your trip, especially because al fresco dining on Amelia Island is always in season. There’s never a bad time of year to bask in views of the ocean, waterways or downtown Fernandina Beach. Even with the year-round temperate climate, many restaurants offer heated patios and cozy fire pits so you can stay comfortable on those cooler evenings after sunset.
Make sure you fill your camera roll first, then your belly — you’ll want to relive these moments and flavours later.
Wondering when to plan your trip to Amelia Island? Several upcoming foodie events will celebrate the flavours of the region, like Amelia Island Dining Month in September, October’s Amelia Island Cookout, Restaurant Week in January and The Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival in May.
The bountiful culinary scene on this small slice of paradise is waiting to be explored. Just make sure you pack your appetite.
To learn more about the delicious eats you'll find on Amelia Island, head to ameliaisland.com
