ABoUT


Tourism is Nassau County's largest job creator and a leading driver of its economy. Our vision is to position Amelia Island as one of North America's top 10 island destinations, maximizing the return on tax dollars invested, increasing demand, and enhancing the visitor experience. Our programs are funded by a 5% tourist tax on short-term accommodations. We dedicate 65% of that revenue to advertise and promote Amelia Island using a variety of channels.


Created by the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners in 1988, the Amelia Island Tourist Development Council (AITDC) oversees the development and marketing of Amelia Island as a world-class tourism destination. As provided by Florida law, the AITDC is responsible for the expenditure of revenues received from the levy and imposition of the tourism development tax. Below are in depth reports expanding on tourism performance and value the industry provides to the local economy and residents.


2023 Year in Review


2023 Amelia Island's Value of Tourism


HOW WE WORK

The goals of the AITDC are to generate visitation to Amelia Island and its attractions/special events, thereby increasing tax revenues, including sales taxes and those imposed on the hospitality industry. In turn, those tax revenues may be used to improve the quality of life for the citizens of the community, provide support for beach renourishment, and ensure a viable hospitality industry.


Benefits we provide include:

  • The AmeliaIsland.com website, newsletters, and social media channels that continuously bring the story of Amelia Island to life to travelers around the world
  • Partnership with local organizations and special events
  • State-of-the-art Welcome Center on Centre Street in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, staffed by destination experts, restored with care, and outfitted with the latest technology
  • Availability of market research based on traveler interviews
  • Marketing programs including print and digital cooperative advertising opportunities