Fort Clinch is the ride we send almost everyone on first. The park sits at the north tip of the island, 2.2 miles from the store: 10 to 15 minutes on a beach cruiser, half that on an e-bike. Entry for a bike is $2 a person at the gate, which we'll go ahead and call the best two dollars you'll spend on the island.
Getting there
Roll out of the store, cross Fletcher and head north with the ocean on your right. You pass Main Beach, where you can drop onto the sand for a stretch if the tide is low, then turn in at the park entrance on Atlantic Avenue. The ride is flat the whole way. Inside the gate the road changes character completely: three miles of canopy road under live oaks and Spanish moss, cool and shaded even in August, winding out to the fort at the end.
What not to miss
The fort. Started in 1847, never finished, and held by both sides during the Civil War. Walk the brick ramparts for a view of Cumberland Island across the sound and the shrimp boats working the channel. The fort itself is open 9 to 5 and costs $2.50 a person on top of park entry.
The short walks. The canopy road is lined with pull-offs and short trails to overlooks, marsh views and the dunes. Stop at a few. There are bike racks all through the park, so you can lock up and wander; that's half the point of going by bike.
The pier and the jetty beach. The fishing pier at the north end looks across the St. Marys inlet to Georgia, and the beach by the jetty is where the island's shark teeth wash up. Bring a bag.
The beach itself. Bikes are allowed on the sand here, like everywhere on the island. At low tide you can ride the hard-packed beach along the park's Atlantic side and loop back on the road. Our beach-riding guide covers the tides.
When to go
Any time; it's beautiful morning, midday and evening, and the shade means it's never a sufferfest. The park opens at 8 AM and closes at sunset. For photographs, the first hour has the road to yourself. For the beach ride, check the tide: two hours either side of low is best.
Cruiser or e-bike?
Either works; it's 2.2 miles each way and flat. On a cruiser it's a relaxed morning: ride, fort, pier, back for lunch. On an e-bike you'll do the park and still have most of the day, which is how people end up adding downtown Fernandina or the full length of the island. Either way, every rental comes with a helmet, a lock and a bag for the shark teeth.
Quick answers
How far is Fort Clinch from The Beach Store?
2.2 miles. 10 to 15 minutes on a cruiser, 5 to 8 on an e-bike, flat the whole way.
How much does it cost to bike into Fort Clinch?
$2 per person on a bike or on foot at the gate. Going inside the fort building is $2.50 per person extra.
What are the park hours?
8 AM to sunset every day. The fort is open 9 AM to 5 PM.
Can you ride a bike on the beach at Fort Clinch?
Yes. Bikes are allowed on the beach everywhere on Amelia Island, including the park. Low tide is best.
Is there somewhere to lock the bike?
Yes, bike racks throughout the park, and every rental comes with a lock.
How long should I plan?
Two hours covers the ride, the fort and a couple of stops. Half a day if you fish, hunt for shark teeth or ride the beach.
