Amelia Island

Florida, United States

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Amelia Island is a geographical location situated at the northeastern tip of Florida, in the United States, along the Atlantic coast. It is part of the Sea Islands chain and lies just south of the Georgia border.12

Historically, the island was inhabited by the Timucua Indians before French and Spanish attempts at settlement. It has been under British, Spanish, and eventually U.S. control. The town of Fernandina Beach, located on the island, has a rich history involving pirates, smugglers, and military significance, including Fort Clinch.2

Today, Amelia Island's economy relies on tourism, with pulp and paper milling and fishing also being important industries. The island features a historic district and the Amelia Island Museum of History.2

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Sea Islands
Amelia Island, settled in 1735 by James Edward Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia colony, became part of East Florida; it became Spanish in 1783 and was ceded to the United States with the rest of Florida in 1821.
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Amelia Island, settled in 1735 by James Edward Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia colony, became part of East Florida; it became Spanish in 1783 and was ceded to the United States with the rest of Florida in 1821.
Read More