Holiday
Magic Awaits
November 2026
Season’s Greetings, friends!
The holidays have us thinking of you right now and there’s so much to love about Amelia Island this time of year. If you’ve ever asked us where to eat, what to see, or how to spend a perfect day on Amelia Island, you know we could talk about it for hours! So we’re putting our favorites in writing with The Barefoot Edit, an occasional note to keep the island close between visits, starting with the holiday season.
From Thanksgiving week straight through New Year’s, downtown Fernandina glows. The old oaks along Centre Street are wrapped in twinkling lights, the lampposts shine against the evening sky, and the historic storefronts look like a holiday card come to life. There’s a lighted parade, carolers in Victorian dress, and on New Year’s Eve, a giant shrimp that drops from the sky. (Yes, really.)
We think the island is at its coziest this time of year. The traditions are small-town and sincere, the crowds are festive and friendly, and there’s always a reason to bundle up and head downtown. Here’s what we’d put on your calendar.
Warmly,
Matt & Jenny
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Local Dining
A chef’s tasting at David’s
Between the lighted parade and the shrimp drop, treat yourselves to one long, slow dinner. Chef David Echeverri, Miami-born and Medellín-raised, and his team curate a seasonal five-course dining experience shaped by his Colombian roots and global flavors. Each plate pairs the finest ingredients with inventive technique and bold flavor, a true journey for the senses in the heart of historic downtown.
Good to know: $100 per person, prepaid when you reserve, with a wine pairing available. Offered every night through Jan. 31 except Tuesdays, when David’s Restaurant & Lounge is closed. You’ll find them at 802 Ash St.
Our tip: it’s a dress-up kind of dinner, so slip into your island best and make it a night to remember. |
Photo: David’s Restaurant & Lounge
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This or That?
Two festive ways to gather, one incredible island
Picture the perfect beach sunrise, the table set for everyone, and the warmth of twinkling lights throughout the island. Whether you’re dreaming of a spacious oceanfront retreat for the whole clan or a cozy cottage for quiet, together time, we have a home ready for your holiday traditions.
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Driftwood Dunes
Together when you want it. Space when you need it.
Two big dining tables for the holiday feast, a game room for after-dinner showdowns, an elevator to every floor, and an oceanfront deck and hot tub give every generation a spot to land.
6 Bedrooms · 5 Baths · Sleeps 17
Best for: the whole clan at one holiday table.
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Ebb Tide Cottage
A cozy home base for the holidays.
Bright, open living spaces and a fully equipped kitchen set the scene for a cozy holiday feast, while the ocean-view deck and outdoor hot tub are made for slow mornings and starry evenings.
4 Bedrooms · 4 Baths · Sleeps 12
Best for: bringing the family a little closer together.
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Dec 31 · New Year’s Eve
Ring in 2027 on Amelia Island
It’s one of our favorite ways to end the year: a giant, light-covered shrimp drops from the sky above the downtown waterfront at 7 p.m. (midnight in Greenwich, close enough for us), followed by fireworks. Early enough for little ones and grandparents to join in.
| Good to know: the party runs 5–8 p.m. on the downtown waterfront. |
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Experience
Amelia Island
the Barefoot Way
The lights are up, the traditions are in full swing, and the island is ready when you are. Bring the family, pack your coziest (light) sweater, and kick your shoes off at the door. When you’re ready to talk dates, we’re always a call or click away, and booking direct gets you our best rate.
(904) 775-7375
office@barefootamelia.com
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