Day Trips from Jacksonville, Florida

Location:

Amelia Island, FL

Highlights:

If you're looking for an easy day trip or a relaxing coastal escape near Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a gem we always tell our friends about. Think breezy beach days, charming downtown strolls, and endless natural beauty.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, beachgoers, history buffs, families, and couples looking for a laid-back yet enriching getaway.

What I Love: ♥

13 miles of uncrowded beaches, a lively historic downtown, maritime forests, and a wealth of outdoor activities from horseback riding to kayaking.

• Stay in everything from quaint B&Bs to upscale beachfront resorts—plenty of choices to suit every traveler.
• Explore the 50-block National Historic District in downtown Fernandina Beach, packed with shops, cultural spots, and Southern charm.
• Feast at over 90 local restaurants, where seafood reigns supreme—don’t miss the fresh catch of the day.
• Play in nature with kayaking, biking, horseback riding through scenic trails, or simply sunbathing on a pristine shoreline.
• Discover unique ecosystems, including maritime forests and abundant local wildlife both on land and at sea.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 1 hour by car, depending on traffic.

How to Get to Amelia Island:

From Jacksonville, drive north on I-95, take exit 373 for FL-200/FL-A1A toward Callahan/Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, and follow signs for about 15 miles. The island is connected by bridges, making access by road a breeze.

Location:

St. Augustine, FL

Highlights:

If you’re craving coastal beauty mixed with history and outdoor adventure, Anastasia State Park is our go-to recommendation from Jacksonville. It’s the kind of place where you can swim, hike, and soak in the past all in one trip.

Recommended For:

History lovers, outdoor adventurers, beachgoers, and campers who enjoy scenic nature without leaving the Sunshine State.

What I Love: ♥

Four miles of white-sand beaches, a peaceful campground, and loads of water activities—all within Florida’s oldest city.

• Explore natural trails through sand dunes and coastal hammocks, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
• Swim, surf, or paddle your way through the Atlantic with kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach access right inside the park.
• Camp at the park’s full-service campground, which includes modern shower facilities and a beachside camp store for essentials.
• Relax on soft white sands or enjoy a quiet picnic in designated areas after a day of exploration.
• Note: The park is not pet-friendly—dogs are not allowed on beaches or in public areas.

Distance from Jacksonville:

Roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes by car.

How to Get to Anastasia State Park:

From Jacksonville, head south on I-95 to Exit 311 for FL-207 East toward St. Augustine Beach. Continue until you reach Anastasia Boulevard, then follow signs to the park entrance at 300 Anastasia Park Road.

Address: 300 Anastasia Park Road, St. Augustine, Florida, 32080 | Phone: 904-461-2033

Location:

Jacksonville, FL

Highlights:

If you want to get out in nature without going far from the city, Big Talbot Island is a hidden gem we always suggest to friends. It’s wild, peaceful, and perfect for a day of beachcombing, kayaking, or just soaking up Florida’s coastal magic.

Recommended For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, families, photographers, and anyone craving a natural escape near Jacksonville.

What I Love: ♥

Driftwood-strewn beaches, quiet salt marshes perfect for kayaking, and shaded trails with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Explore by kayak—rentals and guided tours are available for scenic paddling through salt marshes and estuaries.
• Stroll the 2.9-mile paved trail, great for wheelchair users, cyclists, and skaters, with educational stops along the way.
• Wander to Boneyard Beach, famous for its hauntingly beautiful driftwood remains and sunrise photo ops.
• Enjoy activities like birdwatching, geo-seeking, shelling, hiking, and peaceful picnicking under live oaks.
• Fish from the shore or the boat ramp—open 24/7 for anglers looking to catch a sunrise or sunset bite.

Distance from Downtown Jacksonville:

Around 35–40 minutes by car.

How to Get to Big Talbot Island State Park:

Head east on FL-105 (Heckscher Drive) along the coast. The entrance is located along State Road A1A North, just past the bridges connecting the barrier islands.

State Road A1A North, Jacksonville, Florida, 32226 | Phone: 904-251-2320

Location:

Orange City, FL

Highlights:

If you’ve ever wanted to see manatees up close in their natural habitat, this is *the* spot. Blue Spring’s crystal-clear waters and peaceful trails make it one of our favorite Florida day trips from Jacksonville.

Recommended For:

Wildlife lovers, families, photographers, and anyone who dreams of seeing manatees in a spring-fed oasis.

What I Love: ♥

Manatees by the dozens, warm spring waters, bald eagle sightings, and a relaxing mix of boardwalk strolls and water tours.

• See hundreds of manatees in the winter months—numbers grew from 14 in 1970 to nearly 500 by 2018!
• Stroll boardwalk trails and spot birds of prey like ospreys, kingfishers, and even bald eagles nesting overhead.
• Take a guided boat or kayak tour for a peaceful float through the spring run and St. Johns River.
• Explore two main trails with scenic views and interpretive signage on local ecosystems and wildlife.
• Arrive early: The park often reaches capacity, even in winter—mornings are best!

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Blue Spring State Park:

From Jacksonville, take I-95 South to I-4 West toward DeLand. Exit at Orange City and follow signs to 2100 W French Ave. The park entrance is well-marked and parking is available near the spring head.

2100 W French Ave, Orange City, Florida, 32763

Location:

Cedar Key, FL

Highlights:

If you and your favorite person are looking for a quiet, quirky, and charming Florida escape, Cedar Key is one of our top picks. It's like stepping back in time—think stilt houses, cozy cafes, and sunsets over the Gulf.

Recommended For:

Couples, slow travelers, seafood lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone craving a peaceful getaway with Old Florida vibes.

What I Love: ♥

Uncrowded beaches, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, historical intrigue, and laid-back charm in every corner.

• Wander the streets of this fishing village dotted with houses on stilts, art galleries, and waterfront eateries.
• Explore the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks.
• Visit the Cedar Key Museum State Park to learn about the area’s fascinating past.
• Dine or stay at The Island Hotel & Restaurant, a historic inn known for its hospitality and Gulf Coast cuisine.
• Walk the Shell Mound Trail—this ancient Native American site is about 1,800 years old and offers both history and stunning views.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Cedar Key:

Take I-10 West to US-301 South, then merge onto FL-24 West at Archer and continue until it dead-ends at the Gulf—you’ve arrived in Cedar Key.

Romantic Day Trips from Jacksonville:

Location:

Cocoa Beach, FL

Highlights:

Looking for a family-friendly spot that blends beach vibes with out-of-this-world experiences? Cocoa Beach is where sandcastles meet space shuttles—and it’s always a blast.

Recommended For:

Families, space lovers, surf fans, and anyone wanting a laid-back coastal trip with plenty to explore.

What I Love: ♥

Easy access to Kennedy Space Center, amazing surf culture, lively beach piers, and the charm of historic Cocoa Village.

• Visit the Kennedy Space Center for astronaut encounters, rocket exhibits, and interactive space tours.
• Watch live rocket launches right from the beach—an unforgettable experience for all ages.
• Walk the Cocoa Beach Pier, home to oceanfront dining, shopping, and entertainment.
• Surf and shop at Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf store and an icon of beach culture.
• Stroll through Cocoa Village, a historic riverside district packed with over 50 boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
• Stay at one of many beach resorts that offer great access to both the Atlantic coast and nearby Orlando attractions.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 2 hours and 30 minutes by car.

How to Get to Cocoa Beach:

From Jacksonville, take I-95 South toward Titusville, then head east on FL-528 (the Beachline Expressway) straight to the coast. Exit onto A1A South and follow signs to Cocoa Beach.

Location:

St. Marys, GA (via Jacksonville, FL)

Highlights:

If you want to completely unplug and let the kids roam wild in nature, Cumberland Island is the place we always suggest. It’s a short hop from Jacksonville but feels like a world away—untouched, mysterious, and full of discovery.

Recommended For:

Adventurous families, hikers, wildlife watchers, campers, and anyone seeking a true back-to-nature experience.

What I Love: ♥

Unspoiled landscapes, wild horses, maritime forests, and a ferry ride that makes the adventure feel extra special.

• Begin your journey at the Mainland Visitor’s Center, where you’ll check in and learn about the island’s unique history and ecology.
• Ride the ferry across scenic waters to the largest barrier island in Georgia.
• Wander miles of untouched beaches, moss-draped forests, and dunes—no cars, no crowds, just nature.
• Watch for wild horses, armadillos, sea turtles, and an incredible variety of birds and coastal creatures.
• Stay overnight with a camping permit—primitive sites mean you’ll truly be off the grid.
• Visit the small Mainland Museum for added context about the island’s natural evolution and human history.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 45 minutes to the St. Marys ferry terminal.

How to Get to Cumberland Island:

Drive north on I-95 to Exit 3 in Georgia. Follow signs to St. Marys and head to the Mainland Visitor’s Center to check in and catch the ferry. Advance reservations are recommended.

Family Day Trips from Jacksonville:

Location:

Daytona Beach, FL

Highlights:

Got a need for speed? A trip to Daytona International Speedway is a must—even if you’re not a die-hard racing fan, the energy, history, and scale of this place are unforgettable.

Recommended For:

Motorsport enthusiasts, families with teens, thrill seekers, and anyone interested in iconic American experiences.

What I Love: ♥

The roar of the engines, the massive stadium upgrades, behind-the-scenes tours, and year-round events that go far beyond racing.

• Visit the “World Center of Racing”, home to the legendary Daytona 500.
• Experience a facility transformed by a $400 million renovation—featuring 101,500 stadium seats, three massive levels, and a one-mile-long front stretch.
• Enjoy upgraded concessions, modern amenities, and panoramic views of the action.
• Join other events hosted here, from car shows and concerts to photoshoots, motorcycle training, and corporate gatherings.
• Take a track tour to see the pits, start/finish line, and even Victory Lane—it’s the ultimate behind-the-scenes peek.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

How to Get to Daytona International Speedway:

Take I-95 South to Exit 261 (US-92/International Speedway Blvd) in Daytona Beach. Follow the signs to One Daytona Boulevard—the Speedway is impossible to miss.

One Daytona Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL, 32114 | Phone: 800-PITSHOP

Location:

Gainesville, FL

Highlights:

If you're craving college-town charm with an artsy soul and a love for the outdoors, Gainesville is one of our favorite hidden gems. It’s got just the right mix of culture, craft beer, and Spanish moss-draped trails to win your heart.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, artists, students, boutique shoppers, and craft beer fans looking for a vibrant yet laid-back North Florida escape.

What I Love: ♥

Springs and waterfalls nearby, the spirited vibe from the University of Florida, live music at local breweries, and galleries tucked between mossy oaks and indie cafés.

• Experience Gainesville’s unique blend of outdoor adventure, creative spirit, and warm southern hospitality.
• Explore local springs, sinkholes, and state parks—perfect for hiking, swimming, and nature photography.
• Visit The University of Florida, a central part of the city’s youthful energy, events, and sports culture.
• Stroll downtown’s shaded streets filled with art galleries, antique shops, and refined boutiques.
• Unwind at hip local breweries offering live music, small-batch beers, and a relaxed, creative vibe.

Distance from Jacksonville:

About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Gainesville:

Take I-10 West to US-301 South, then connect to FL-24 West into Gainesville. The downtown area and nature parks are all within easy reach once you arrive.

Visitors Bureau: 33 N. Main Street, Gainesville FL, 32061 | Phone: 352-374-52601

Location:

High Springs, FL

Highlights:

If crystal-clear water, tubing under a canopy of trees, and camping under the stars sound like your idea of a perfect weekend, Ginnie Springs is calling. It’s one of those magical Florida places where you can truly dive into nature—literally.

Recommended For:

Outdoor adventurers, divers, paddlers, spring lovers, and anyone who enjoys water-based fun with a relaxed camping vibe.

What I Love: ♥

Seven sparkling springs, year-round 72-degree water, riverside campsites, and underwater cave systems you have to see to believe.

• Swim in natural freshwater springs that stay refreshingly cool—even on the hottest Florida days.
• Kayak, paddleboard, or float down the scenic Santa Fe River—rentals available on-site.
• Camp among 200 acres of wooded landscape, with options for tent and RV sites near the water.
• Dive into three epic freshwater sites: the Devil’s Spring System, Ginnie Ballroom, and the Santa Fe River.
• Note: Divers must be certified to carry lights in the Devil’s Spring System—safety is a top priority here.

Distance from Jacksonville:

Around 1 hour and 40 minutes by car.

How to Get to Ginnie Springs:

Take I-10 West to US-301 South, then follow FL-24 and local roads west to High Springs. From there, follow signs to Ginnie Springs Road—it’s well-marked and easy to find.

7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL, 32643 | Phone: 386-454-7188