Looking for a beach escape with your favorite person without leaving the Jacksonville area? These beaches in Jacksonville, Florida offer sun, surf, and just the right touch of romance for a perfect coastal day together.
Highlights:
Affordable Tours in Jacksonville, Florida:
- The Avondale Tour (Jacksonville) – Discover area history and great food. Price: From $135 per person.
- Jacksonville: 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour – Enjoy a sweet, affordable adventure. Price: From $9 per person.
Recommended Beaches in Jacksonville, Florida:
1. American Beach
★★★★★
© Courtesy of Diane Macdonald - Fotolia.com
- What is American Beach?
- American Beach is a historic beach located on Amelia Island, founded in 1935 during a time when African Americans had limited access to beaches.
- Why is American Beach historically significant?
- The beach became a popular destination for African Americans from all over the country in the 1930s and 1940s, and it is now part of the Florida Black Heritage Trail.
- What can visitors expect at American Beach?
- The beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere, away from the noise of traffic, offering beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding sand dunes.
- What activities are available at American Beach?
- Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, shelling, and surfing, all while experiencing the historical significance of the beach.
2. Atlantic Beach
© Courtesy of lunamarina - Fotolia.com
- What is Atlantic Beach?
- Atlantic Beach is a charming coastal community located near Jacksonville, Florida.
- What is the historical significance of Atlantic Beach?
- Many historians believe that Atlantic Beach was the first year-round Native American settlement in North America.
- What is the vibe like at Atlantic Beach?
- The beaches at Atlantic Beach are laidback with a relaxed vibe, making it a great place to unwind.
- What activities are popular at Atlantic Beach?
- Popular activities include surfing, cycling, shelling, and enjoying the local parks. The area also has several excellent golf courses.
- Why do visitors keep returning to Atlantic Beach?
- Many visitors love the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of the area, often returning year after year.
Romantic Beaches in Jacksonville, Florida:
3. Fernandina Beach
© Courtesy of daskleineatelier - Fotolia.com
- Where is Fernandina Beach located?
- Fernandina Beach is the northernmost city on the coast of Florida, situated on Amelia Island in Nassau County near Jacksonville.
- What is Fernandina Beach best known for?
- Fernandina Beach is famous for its annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival and is also known as a popular golfing destination.
- What activities take place at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival?
- The festival features a variety of activities, including shopping for seafood, arts, handicrafts, antiques, enjoying live music concerts, beauty pageants, and fireworks.
- What is the atmosphere like in Fernandina Beach?
- The town is charming, with interesting boutiques, shops, and restaurants. The beach borders the historic town center and is perfect for families, offering a playground, plenty of parking, and great spaces for picnicking and relaxing.
4. Fort Clinch State Park
© Courtesy of steveottie - Fotolia.com
- Where is Fort Clinch State Park located?
- Fort Clinch State Park is located on Amelia Island, a barrier island off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida.
- What activities can you do at Fort Clinch State Park?
- The park offers a range of recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, shelling, and sunbathing. It also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- What is the centerpiece of the park?
- The centerpiece of the park is a historic fort, where actors dressed in Civil War-era clothing bring the history to life. The fort also features a number of historical artifacts.
- What is the beach like at Fort Clinch State Park?
- The beach at Fort Clinch State Park is a natural beach with few amenities, providing a more rustic, nature-filled experience.
- What wildlife can you see at Fort Clinch State Park?
- Visitors may have the chance to see various species of wildlife, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and alligators.
Family Beaches in Jacksonville, Florida:
5. Jacksonville Beach
© Courtesy of atlantic advert - Fotolia.com
- What makes Jacksonville Beach a great destination?
- Jacksonville Beach is beautiful and offers a range of nearby activities and amenities, including a popular fishing pier that extends into the Atlantic Ocean.
- What amenities are available at Jacksonville Beach?
- In addition to the beach, there is a well-known golf course nearby, as well as plenty of restaurants and fun activities available close by.
- Why do surfers flock to Jacksonville Beach?
- Jacksonville Beach is famous for having some of the best waves on the East Coast, attracting surfers from around the country.
- Where is the best place to surf in Jacksonville?
- The Poles near Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is considered the best spot for surfing in Jacksonville, according to experienced surfers.
6. Little Talbot
© Courtesy of Jackie DeBusk - Fotolia.com
- Where is Little Talbot State Park located?
- Little Talbot State Park is located a short drive from Jacksonville on Little Talbot Island.
- What makes Little Talbot State Park's beaches special?
- The park boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in this part of the state, featuring clean, white-sand beaches that are postcard-perfect.
- How much coastline does the park have?
- The park features more than 5 miles of pristine beaches, along with beautiful sand dunes.
- What other ecosystems can visitors explore at Little Talbot State Park?
- The park also contains salt marshes and coastal forests, providing opportunities to explore additional ecosystems.
- What wildlife can visitors expect to see in the park?
- While walking through the park, visitors may spot river otters, bobcats, rabbits, and a variety of bird species.
Unique Beaches in Jacksonville, Florida:
7. Mayport
© Courtesy of Nicholas - Fotolia.com
- What makes Mayport a great beach getaway?
- Mayport is a quaint historical village known for its beautiful beach, seafood restaurants, and a variety of activities like biking, hiking, and enjoying the beach. It also has casino boats for those looking for a bit of excitement.
- Can I visit Mayport with kids?
- Yes, Mayport is family-friendly with plenty of activities for all ages. You can enjoy the beach, go biking, hiking, or visit places like Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, which offers trails and campgrounds.
- What is Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park known for?
- Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is known for its excellent trails and campgrounds, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and overnight stays.
- What type of food is Mayport known for?
- Mayport is known for its seafood, especially Mayport shrimp, which is a local specialty. Many seafood restaurants in the area offer these delicious dishes.
- What is the atmosphere like in Mayport?
- Mayport has a historical charm that adds to the overall relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere of the area. It’s perfect for a beach getaway with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Can I try my luck at gambling in Mayport?
- Yes, Mayport is home to several casino boats, so if you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at blackjack or slots while enjoying the views.
8. Neptune Beach
© Courtesy of Diane Macdonald - Fotolia.com
- What makes Neptune Beach a great destination?
- Neptune Beach is a peaceful, coastal community perfect for those looking to unplug, relax, and enjoy the serenity of a quiet beach getaway. It is known for its breathtaking sunsets and sunrises on the Atlantic coast.
- Is Neptune Beach a good place for nightlife?
- No, Neptune Beach is more laidback with no bustling nightlife. However, it does offer a range of boutique shops and delicious restaurants for visitors to enjoy during the day.
- Are there good accommodations in Neptune Beach?
- Yes, there are several oceanfront accommodations available, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.
- What can I expect after a visit to Neptune Beach?
- Visitors to Neptune Beach leave feeling recharged, relaxed, and fulfilled, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful coastal views.
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Ponte Vedra Beach
© rouda100/stock.adobe.com
- Where is Ponte Vedra Beach located?
- Ponte Vedra Beach is a beautiful resort community located on the seaside in St. John’s County, about 18 miles down the coast from Jacksonville.
- Who typically visits Ponte Vedra Beach?
- This beach is most popular among higher-end luxury travelers and golf enthusiasts, particularly those who come to play at the renowned courses in the area.
- What notable events are held at Ponte Vedra Beach?
- The area is famously home to the Players Championship and the esteemed PGA Tour, making it a key destination for golf lovers.
- What is special about the beach's sand dunes?
- The sand dunes that flank Ponte Vedra Beach are among the highest in the state of Florida, adding to the beauty and natural charm of the area.
- Is Ponte Vedra Beach a good spot for families?
- Yes, the beach is family-friendly, and it's perfect for those who don’t mind spending a little extra for a classy, comfortable, and relaxed vacation experience.
10. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
© Norm/stock.adobe.com
- When is Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park open?
- Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park welcomes visitors starting at 8 am, seven days a week, making it a great destination for daily activities.
- What activities are available at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park?
- The park offers a variety of activities, from exploring nature to exercising, relaxing, and playing in a recreational hub designed for all kinds of fun.
- What is special about the beach at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park?
- The park features a 1.5-mile sandy beach that is the home to Northeastern Florida’s most popular surfing spot, The Poles. Visitors can enjoy surfing, sunbathing, water sports, or simply a relaxing dip in the ocean.
- Can you host events at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park?
- Yes, there is an oceanfront event space called Dolphin Plaza available for rent, making it a perfect venue for special occasions like weddings or parties.
500 Wonderwood Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32233, Phone: 904-255-6767
Plan Your Trip