Here's how you can score a free night on Amelia Island

Craving a beach trip to break up the winter doldrums, but don't want to break the bank? Consider heading south to Amelia Island, which just launched its "Extra Day, Extra Play" special in honor of Leap Year to encourage visitors to extend their stay.

Located just off the coast of northeast Florida and only a five- to six-hour drive from Atlanta, the barrier island boasts 13 miles of beaches, more than 70 restaurants, 117 holes of world-class golf, plus shopping and a host of different events and festivals throughout the year (don't miss the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival coming up April 28-May 1, complete with Pirate Parade). Amelia Island also is home to Fernandina Beach, known for its charming downtown district. If that's not enough for you, there's also fishing and boating, spas and plenty of eco-tourism. Romance on your mind? Try horseback riding on the beach. Family in tow? Check out the handicapped-accessible Pirate Playground behind Fernandina Beach's Atlantic Recreation Center. You can even bring your furry, four-legged family member to Amelia Island, which offers numerous places for pets to stay and play (the Nassau County Humane Society Dog Park happens to be one of the top-rated dog parks in the country!).

The island-wide "Extra Day, Extra Play" special includes a variety of "extra night free" offers from award-winning hotels, resorts and inns — even some vacation rental properties, too! Check them out at www.ameliaisland.com/extra. Specials include fourth-night-free offers and third-night-free offers (depending on the property), and most must be booked directly with each individual property. Whether you're looking for a bed and breakfast experience, a full hotel/resort or a boutique property, enticing options abound on Amelia Island.