Nassau County is Florida's most northern county on the east coast. Positioned south of Georgia's Cumberland Island, Nassau County's Amelia Island is a popular oceanfront getaway. The inland areas of Nassau County are characteristically more rural compared to the coastal areas on Amelia Island. The majority of the county has a small city appeal, and lacks a large metropolitan presence.

Outdoor enthusiasts and beach goers alike can appreciate a diverse spectrum of opportunities along the Amelia River and the Atlantic Coast. These activities include kayaking and canoeing on a section of The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, hiking, horseback riding on the beach, bird watching, bicycling, golfing and fishing.

The city of Fernandina Beach, on Amelia Island, is comprised of miles of sandy beach. Since 1963, Fernandina Beach has hosted the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival which occurs during the first weekend of May. The festival includes fine arts, traditional seafood, and live music. Fernandina Beach is a popular golfing destination. The Fernandina Historic District encompasses 50 blocks of the downtown area and showcases many beautiful homes which were constructed in the latter part of the 19th century.

Sprawling sand dunes and sea oats cover Nassau County's coastline. Boardwalks provide an abundance of beach access locations. Gopher tortoises and whitetail deer are frequently seen around Amelia Island. A variety of sea birds can also be found along the coastal and the interior riverside areas of Nassau County. Some of the birds commonly found in Nassau County include, but are not limited to pelicans, great blue herons, ospreys, mourning doves and red bellied woodpeckers.