How to Get to Amelia Island

Your complete guide to flights, driving routes, and transportation options

30 min From Jacksonville Airport
5 hrs From Atlanta
2.5 hrs From Orlando

✈️ Airport Options

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is your gateway to Amelia Island, just 30 minutes away

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

⭐ Recommended
30 min Drive to Amelia Island
29 miles Distance
150+ Daily Flights

Jacksonville International Airport is the closest major airport to Amelia Island and serves as the primary gateway for most visitors. The airport offers direct flights from major hubs including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Chicago, New York, and more.

Major Airlines: Delta, American, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier

Directions: From JAX, take I-95 North to Exit 373 (A1A/Fernandina Beach). Follow A1A East directly to Amelia Island. The route is straightforward with minimal traffic.

Alternative Airports

Jacksonville Executive (CRG)
25 min
Private/Charter flights only
Closest option for private aircraft
Savannah (SAV)
1.5 hrs
90 miles north
Good alternative, scenic coastal drive
Orlando (MCO)
2.5 hrs
165 miles south
More flight options, longer drive

🔍 Search Flights to Jacksonville

Compare prices from all major airlines and find the best deals

🚗 Driving to Amelia Island

Easy interstate access from major cities throughout the Southeast

Atlanta, GA
5 hours
350 miles
I-75 S → I-10 E → I-95 N → Exit 373
Orlando, FL
2.5 hours
165 miles
I-4 E → I-95 N → Exit 373
Tampa, FL
4 hours
240 miles
I-75 N → I-10 E → I-95 N → Exit 373
Savannah, GA
1.5 hours
90 miles
I-95 S → Exit 373 (A1A)
Charleston, SC
3.5 hours
220 miles
I-26 W → I-95 S → Exit 373
Miami, FL
5.5 hours
370 miles
I-95 N all the way → Exit 373
Jacksonville, FL
30 minutes
32 miles
I-95 N → Exit 373 → A1A East
Daytona Beach, FL
2 hours
130 miles
I-95 N → Exit 373

💡 Pro Tip: The A1A Scenic Route

If you have extra time, take A1A (the coastal route) instead of I-95 for part of your journey. You'll pass through charming beach towns and enjoy ocean views. Add about 30-45 minutes to your trip but gain unforgettable scenery.

🚐 Ground Transportation

Options for getting from the airport to your Amelia Island destination

🚗 Rental Cars

  • Best Option: Rent at JAX airport for freedom to explore
  • All major companies: Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, Avis, National
  • 30-minute drive to Amelia Island
  • Recommended for exploring the island and day trips
  • Parking widely available at hotels and attractions

🚕 Rideshare & Taxis

  • Uber/Lyft: Available at JAX, ~$45-65 to Amelia Island
  • Taxi: Fixed rates available, approximately $70-90
  • Good for one-way trips if not renting a car
  • Limited availability ON the island - car recommended

🚐 Shuttles & Transfers

  • Resort Shuttles: Ritz-Carlton and Omni offer airport transfers
  • Private Car Service: Pre-book luxury transfers
  • Shared Shuttles: Limited options, book in advance
  • Contact your hotel for shuttle availability

🚌 Public Transit

  • Limited public transit to Amelia Island
  • JTA (Jacksonville Transit) serves downtown Jacksonville
  • No direct bus service to Fernandina Beach
  • Not recommended for airport transfers

🚗 Compare Rental Car Prices

Find the best deals on rental cars at Jacksonville Airport

Search on Booking.com Expedia Car Rentals

🚲 Getting Around Amelia Island

Once you're here, here's how to explore this 13-mile barrier island

🚗 By Car

  • Recommended: Best way to explore the whole island
  • Free parking at most beaches and attractions
  • Easy navigation - one main road (A1A/Fletcher Avenue)
  • 15 minutes from north to south end

🚲 By Bike

  • Excellent bike paths throughout the island
  • Bike rentals available at multiple shops
  • Great for downtown Fernandina Beach exploring
  • Many hotels offer complimentary bikes

⛳ Golf Carts

  • Popular within resort communities
  • Rentals available for getting around
  • Fun way to explore at a slower pace
  • Check local regulations for road use

🚶 On Foot

  • Downtown Fernandina Beach is very walkable
  • Beach walks are a highlight
  • Many resorts are self-contained walking communities
  • Great sidewalks and trails throughout

💡 Travel Tips

Make your journey to Amelia Island smooth and stress-free

📅 Best Time to Travel

  • Peak Season: March-May (book flights early)
  • Summer: More flights, higher prices
  • Fall: Great deals, fewer crowds
  • Winter: Mild weather, lowest prices

💰 Money-Saving Tips

  • Book flights to JAX 6-8 weeks in advance
  • Tuesday/Wednesday flights are often cheapest
  • Compare rental car prices - they vary widely
  • Consider flying into alternative airports for savings

🧳 Packing Tips

  • Pack light - casual beach attire is the norm
  • Bring sunscreen and bug spray
  • Comfortable walking shoes for downtown
  • Light layers for air-conditioned restaurants

📱 Useful Apps

  • Google Maps: Best for navigation
  • Uber/Lyft: For airport transfers
  • GasBuddy: Find cheap gas on the drive
  • Waze: Real-time traffic updates

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Now that you know how to get here, start planning your perfect Amelia Island vacation

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