The constant crashing of waves, the strong and salty breeze, toes in the sand-it’s not summer without an excursion to a scenic beach.
As you plan your next getaway, we suggest you put Amelia Island on your radar. The small barrier island off the coast of Northeast Florida not only offers long, white-sand beaches but tons of American history and lots to discover.
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As expected, the stretches of beach along the 13-mile-long island are just right for lounging, with the natural Appalachian quartz sand and dunes as high as 40 feet. If you’re not the type to just laze away the hours by baking beachside, go on an adventure with Kayak Amelia or Amelia Island Kayak.
Ten percent of the island is made up of park preserves just waiting to be explored by foot, bike, standup paddleboard or kayak. Either of the guides can bring adventurers up close and personal with the island’s wildlife-herons, sea turtles, manatees and more. Amelia is also home to a handful of surreal experiences like Air Amelia’s power hang gliders. True thrill seekers can hop into the airborne trikes for a breathtaking aerial view of the island-talk about enjoying the sunset! Then there’s horseback riding along the shoreline, courtesy of Kelly Seahorse Ranch, which is situated on a 200-acre preserve in view of dolphins and other local creatures.