Over the past five years of running our beloved Williams House, I’ve helped countless guests navigate our beautiful coastal paradise, and I’m excited to share my transportation tips with you. Our historic inn is nestled at 103 S 9th Street in the heart of Fernandina Beach’s charming downtown, making it the perfect home base for your island adventures. Whether you’re still in the planning stages or have already booked your stay with us, this guide will help you map out how to get here and explore like a local.
Getting to Amelia Island
By Air
While Amelia Island doesn’t have its own commercial airport, you have several convenient options:
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is your best bet, located about 30 minutes south of our inn. From JAX, you can:
- Reserve a car rental from Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, or National
- Book a rideshare service (Uber or Lyft) for approximately, $45-60 one-way
- Schedule an airport shuttle with Advanced Transportation (904-834-0484)
- Take a taxi, which typically costs $70-90 one-way
For guests flying private aircraft, Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (FHB) is just a 10-minute drive from our inn.
By Car
If you’re driving to us, Amelia Island is easily accessible:
- From I-95, take exit 373 (A1A East)
- Follow A1A for about 15 miles until you reach the island
- Continue on 8th Street about 2.8 miles, then turn RIGHT on Ash Street, and right onto 9th Street
- The Williams House will be on your right at 103 S 9th Street
We have complimentary parking available for all our guests.
Getting Around Amelia Island
One of the joys of staying at The Williams House is our central location in Fernandina Beach’s historic district. Here are your transportation options once you’ve arrived:
Walking
My personal favorite way to explore! Our inn is just a 5-minute stroll from:
- Centre Street’s charming shops and restaurants
- Fernandina Harbor Marina
- The historic downtown district with its Victorian architecture
Many of our guests find they don’t need a car at all during their downtown explorations.
Bicycling
Amelia Island offers 13+ miles of bike paths and relatively flat terrain, making cycling a delightful option:
- We have complimentary bicycles available for guest use (first come, first served)
- Prefer a specialized bicycle? Several rental companies deliver directly to our inn, including Beach Rentals & More and Amelia’s Wheels
- The 6-mile trail from Main Beach to Amelia Island State Park offers gorgeous coastal views
Golf Carts
A fun way to buzz around the historic district and neighboring areas:
- Several local companies offer rentals, including Amelia Golf Cars and Fernandina Beach Golf Carts
- Rates typically range from $60-100 per day depending on the season
- Golf carts can be driven on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less
Island Trolley
The Amelia Island Anchor Trolley offers narrated tours of the island:
- Tours run daily from 10 AM to 4 PM
- Tickets are approximately $25 per person for a full-day pass
Rideshare and Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate throughout Amelia Island, though availability can be limited in the evening hours. Local taxi services include Daniel Transportation and Tom’s Island Transportation.
Rental Cars
If you didn’t rent a car at the airport but later decide you need one:
- Enterprise offers pickup service from our inn
- Several local car rental agencies operate in Fernandina Beach
Day Trips From Amelia Island
If you’re looking to explore beyond our island paradise:
- Cumberland Island, GA – Ferry service available from St. Marys, GA (about 30 minutes north)
- Jacksonville – 45-minute drive, offering big-city amenities and attractions
- St. Augustine – 90-minute scenic drive south for Spanish colonial history and architecture
Special Transportation Needs
For guests with mobility concerns:
- Our inn has two ground-floor rooms with accessibility features
- I can arrange wheelchair-accessible transportation with advance notice
- Several island tour companies offer accessibility accommodations
My Personal Recommendations
After years of helping guests navigate our island, here’s what I suggest:
- If staying 2–3 days focused on downtown: Skip the car rental and use our bicycles or walk
- If staying 4+ days or exploring the entire island: A rental car or golf cart provides the most flexibility
- Consider a hybrid approach: Walk/bike downtown, then use rideshare for evening dining or beach visits
Please don’t hesitate to ask me for directions, transportation advice, or assistance with arrangements. Your comfort and convenience are my top priorities during your stay with us at The Williams House.
