Last Updated on December 31, 2023
Fort Clinch State Park is located along the north end of Amelia Island in Fernandina Beach, near the Florida-Georgia State Line.
Approximately 37 miles northeast of Jacksonville and 73 miles north of St. Augustine, the Northeast Florida park is in Nassau County and is known for its historic, well-preserved Civil War fort.
These are the top places to visit near Fort Clinch State Park, including great places to eat, stay, and shop during your trip.
From award-winning tacos and historic accommodations to upscale shops, check out all the places you can see on a visit to this beautiful park and historical site.
Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park stretches along Florida coasts, with Amelia River and St. Mary’s River on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on another.
The Florida State Park boasts sand dunes, maritime hammock, and beach access, amongst many other features.
Stop by the visitor center when you first arrive to learn more about this great place and its environment.
In addition, there are picnic areas where you can sit at a picnic table and enjoy packed lunches.
Things to Do at Fort Clinch State Park
There are tons of things to do at Fort Clinch State Park.
Popular activities include hiking the park’s miles of trails, fishing by St. Mary’s Inlet, shelling along the Atlantic shoreline, and of course, seeing historic Fort Clinch.
Willow Pond Nature Trail
The Willow Pond Nature Trail is a good, centrally located trail with two loops that take hikers past a few freshwater ponds.
There is also a 6-mile multi-use trail for hikers and bicyclists that parallels the park drive.
Shelling
The park’s beaches are great shelling spots, known for having an impressive amount of shark teeth that wash up on the shores.
This is the perfect place to grow your shell collections. There are all sorts of treasures just waiting to be discovered.
The Fort at Fort Clinch
19th-century Fort Clinch dates back almost 300 years with its first fortifications. In 1847, the fort defaulted to Confederate control.
It was not yet completed without cannons mounted on the outer walls. Still unfinished, the fort was left empty in 1869.
Fort Clinch became a Florida state park in 1935 – one of the first in the state! Today, park visitors can tour the fort, which includes guard rooms, a hospital, a prison, and more.
There are staff and volunteers who wear period outfits and reenact daily life in the fort.
Fort Clinch State Park Camping
Fort Clinch State Park has two campgrounds visitors can stay at – the Amelia River campground and the Atlantic River campground.
The Amelia River campground is located by the St. Marys River, with a view of oak trees and the Amelia River.
The Atlantic Beach campground is located by the northeast section of the park, right by the ocean.
Both campgrounds have potable water, use of dump station facilities, electric hookups, and a bath house with hot showers.
TIPS:
- Fort Clinch State Park is open daily from 8 am to sunset. The ranger station is open from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm, the fort is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the visitor center is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm.
- Park entrance admission fees are $6 per vehicle (two to eight people), $4 per single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
- Admission to the fort is $2.50 per person.
- Camping costs $26 per night plus tax and a $6.70 reservation fee. RVs are also charged a $7 utility fee per night.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Fort Clinch State Park Address: 2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Where to Eat Near Fort Clinch State Park
Salty Pelican Bar & Grill
Salty Pelican Bar & Grill is located about 2 miles away from Fort Clinch State Park. It is the best spot in Fernandina Beach to go for river views and delicious tacos.
The restaurant has been around since 2012 and is located right on the water overlooking Amelia River.
The menu at Salty Pelican is loaded with tasty options! Starters include nachos, wings, handmade Loaded Potato Spring Rolls, and more.
Try one of the restaurant’s award-winning tacos. They are served with a choice of protein, cabbage, pico de gallo, and spicy garlic sauce.
The menu also has soups, salads, entrees, sandwiches, seafood, sides, and desserts.
TIPS:
- Salty Pelican Bar & Grill is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.
- There are daily specials and happy hours on weekdays.
- Brunch is offered on Sundays.
- Vegetarian options are available.
- The restaurant has a “Little Pelicans” kid’s menu.
- This restaurant also serves cocktails and a selection of wines.
For more information, visit the official Salty Pelican Bar & Grill website.
Salty Pelican Bar & Grill Address: 12 N Front St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Additional Places to Eat Near Fort Clinch State Park
T-Ray’s Burger Station
Are you looking for the best breakfast and lunch in town? Locals suggest T-Ray’s Burger Station as a must-visit. We agree.
Make sure to try out a burger as it is what they are famous for. If you aren’t in the mood for a burger, choose the fish fry of the day.
T-Ray’s Burger Station Address: 202 S 8th St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Wicked Bao
Wicked Bao is so popular that you are sure to find a line when you get there. In fact, they won’t even let you take a table until you’ve placed an order.
If you are looking for a local favorite, you can choose between the bao sampler and the ramen.
Don’t forget to add on an order of potstickers as well.
Wicked Bao Address: 232 N 2nd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Moon River Pizza
This local favorite makes a variety of fresh salads, pizza, calzones, and bread sticks. Pizza is available by the slice or you can also order a whole pie.
The house special pizzas are all so tasty here – we have a hard time choosing between them!
Moon River Pizza Address: 925 S 14th St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
The Sandbar & Kitchen
The Sandbar is the perfect place to go to pair delicious food with amazing scenic views.
Located right on the beach, this restaurant has a covered patio and picnic tables in the sand in additional to indoor dining.
The Grouper Sandwich is a great option here. If you visit during the weekend, make sure to partake in the restaurant’s brunch menu, which includes omelettes, waffles, and more.
The Sandbar & Kitchen Address: 2910 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Cafe Karibo
For a relaxed dining option in Downtown Fernandina Beach, we enjoy Cafe Karibo, which has a shaded patio that offers garden seating.
You can’t go wrong with the Crabby Fish and Chips. The entree includes fried flounder, crab cakes, coleslaw, fries, and tartar sauce.
Cafe Karibo Address: 27 N 3rd St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Where to Stay Near Fort Clinch State Park
The Florida House Inn
The Florida House Inn offers guests a great stay less than 2 miles away from Fort Clinch State Park.
The house is in Downtown Historic Fernandina Beach and is known for its vintage style and history that dates back to 1857.
There are a variety of different-sized and themed rooms on the inn’s two floors.
On site, there are a couple of places where guests can order food and drinks. There is Leddy’s Porch, which is open on Saturdays and Sundays for brunch.
The Mermaid Ba is open evenings from Thursday through Saturday. They serve a selection of craft cocktails.
The inn’s convenient location in the downtown area also means various restaurants and cafes are just a short walk away!
TIPS:
- The Florida House Inn is open daily. The front desk is staffed from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Check-in starts at 3 pm. Check-out is at 11 am.
- Weekends are especially in demand here – one of the best ways to ensure availability is to book early when possible.
- There are a limited number of ADA-accessible guest rooms. Call before booking to make sure you get a room that is best suited for your needs.
- The inn is not suited for guests under the age of 16.
- Pets are not permitted on the property.
For more information, visit the official Florida House Inn website.
The Florida House Inn Address: 22 S 3rd St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Additional Places to Stay Near Fort Clinch State Park
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Just minutes away from Downtown Fernandina, Amelia Hotel is a great place to stay by the beach.
This affordable spot offers cozy accommodations and a fantastic location for your trip to Fort Clinch State Park.
Amelia Hotel at the Beach Address: 1997 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Seaside Amelia Inn
Another option by the beach, Seaside Amelia Inn is a boutique hotel perfect for relaxing and enjoying the coast.
Make sure to book in advance and get an ocean view room. The private balconies here provide a peaceful experience and gorgeous views.
Seaside Amelia Inn Address: 2900 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
The Surf Beach Motel
The Surf Beach Motel is a surfer’s top choice in Fernandina Beach. This beachside motel has 1, 2, and 3 bedroom suites and a restaurant on site, which is fantastic for longer stays.
Enjoy delicious meals, cozy accommodations, and great waves at this spot.
The Surf Beach Motel Address: 3199 S Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Sea Cottages of Amelia
The Sea Cottages are a romantic place to stay in Fernandina Beach, offering lovely cottages located along a boardwalk.
We enjoy the amenities offered here, like the spacious sitting areas and practical kitchenette space.
Sea Cottages of Amelia Address: 2528 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Where to Shop Near Fort Clinch State Park
Palmetto Walk Shopping Village
Palmetto Walk Shopping Village is a great place to shop in Fernandina Beach!
It is 7 miles away from Fort Clinch State Park and has an intimate collection of shops and dining options.
If you like antiques and home décor, visit the Plantation Shop. The shop offers an assortment of English and French antiques, home accessories, and gifts.
Wine aficionados must stop by Amelia Island’s top wine shop, Amelia Island Wine Company.
The shop provides frequent tastings and classes in addition to a grand selection of different wines.
TIPS:
- Palmetto Walk Shopping Village hours vary by shop.
- There are two onsite dining options. Reservations recommended.
For more information, visit the official Palmetto Walk Shopping Village website.
Palmetto Walk Shopping Village Address: 4924 1st Coast Hwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Additional Places to Shop Near Fort Clinch State Park
Front & Centre
This conveniently located shop is right next to the marina. They sell souvenirs and other great items.
You can find fun and unique things within the store, like humorous kitchen towels – perfect for gifting or a great addition to your own home.
Front & Centre Address: 1 S Front St., Ste 1, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Color It Green
Visit Color it Green in Downtown Amelia Island for sustainable gifts and souvenirs.
The shop has a selection of items for little ones, like onesies and cute plush animals to take home.
Color It Green Address: 301 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Ship’s Lantern
If you are looking for nautical-themed items, look no further than the Ship’s Lantern.
This spot has gorgeous art and jewelry to remember your trip by. The one-of-a-kind options here are also great for gifting.
Ship’s Lantern Address: 210 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Colie’s Clothing + Gifts
For cute and feminine shopping options, we recommend checking out Colie’s.
Here you will find tasteful clothing, jewelry, and other items. It’s a very cool Fernandina Beach shop.
Colie’s Clothing + Gifts Address: 4 N 2nd St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
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