Amelia Island State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Amelia Island State Park — 200+ acres of unspoiled coastal habitat at the southern tip of Amelia Island in Nassau County, Florida — the only Florida state park with horseback riding on the beach (guided rides via Kelly Seahorse Ranch), the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier (mile-long pedestrian bridge spanning Nassau Sound — whiting, jack, drum, tarpon), surf fishing, beachcombing, picnicking, 4WD beach driving (designated areas, permit + fees required), wildlife viewing + shorebirds, and access to the Intracoastal Waterway — near Fort Clinch State Park at the island’s north end.
Amelia Island State Park protects over 200 acres of pristine coastal habitat at the southern tip of one of Florida’s most charming barrier islands. It holds a unique distinction: this is the only Florida state park where you can ride horses directly on the beach. Combined with the mile-long George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier spanning Nassau Sound, excellent surf fishing, and the wild, undeveloped character of the shoreline, this park delivers an authentic Old Florida coastal experience just south of Fernandina Beach.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern tip of Amelia Island, Nassau County, FL |
| Size | 200+ acres — coastal habitat |
| Unique Feature | Only FL state park with horseback riding on beach |
| Fishing Pier | George Crady Bridge — mile-long, pedestrian-only |
| Beach Driving | 4WD — designated areas — permit + fees required |
| Camping | ⚠️ NONE — day use only |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Horseback Riding | Guided beach rides — Kelly Seahorse Ranch (on-site) |
| Fishing | George Crady Bridge pier (whiting, jack, drum, tarpon) + surf fishing |
| Beachcombing | Shells, shark teeth — undeveloped shoreline |
| Beach Driving | 4WD vehicles — designated areas — permit required |
| Wildlife Viewing | Shorebirds, wading birds, occasional dolphins |
| Picnicking | Day-use areas available |
| Kayaking | Access to Intracoastal Waterway + salt marshes (nearby outfitters) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own horse?
No — horseback riding on the beach is only available through the on-site guided outfitter (Kelly Seahorse Ranch). Private horses are not permitted. The rides offer a unique experience along the unspoiled shoreline.
What can I catch from the George Crady Bridge?
The mile-long pedestrian-only fishing pier spanning Nassau Sound is productive for whiting, jack crevalle, black drum, sheepshead, and even tarpon (summer months). No fishing license is required from the pier in Florida.
