Jacksonville Beach Florida Map
If you’re planning a trip to Jacksonville Beach, Florida, you’re in luck! This coastal city offers something for everyone, from relaxing beach days to epic outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and even a vibrant nightlife scene. This comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit to Jacksonville Beach, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.
Top Attractions
When it comes to top attractions in Jacksonville Beach, you can’t miss the Jacksonville Beach Pier. This historic landmark offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for fishing, strolling, and taking in the scenery. Another must-visit spot is the Beaches Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the area. For a unique experience, head to Adventure Landing, an amusement park that features mini-golf, laser tag, and water rides.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t forget to explore some of Jacksonville Beach’s hidden gems. One such spot is the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, which offers hiking trails, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities. Another hidden gem is the Boneyard Beach, which features a stunning collection of bleached-out oak and cedar trees.
Food Scene
Jacksonville Beach has a thriving food scene, with options ranging from upscale restaurants to casual beachside eateries. For a taste of the local seafood, head to Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant, which offers fresh catches of the day and a laid-back atmosphere. Another popular spot is Gilbert’s Southern Kitchen and Bar, which serves up Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem! Jacksonville Beach offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, including free concerts and events at the Seawalk Pavilion, a public beach with no admission fee, and hiking and biking trails at the nearby Hanna Park. For affordable eats, check out TacoLu Baja Mexicana, which offers delicious tacos and other Mexican favorites at reasonable prices.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Jacksonville Beach has plenty to offer. In addition to the hiking and biking trails at Hanna Park, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding at the nearby Guana River State Park, take a surfing lesson with Jax Surf and Paddle, or take a sunset sail with St. Augustine Sailing.
Historical Landmarks
History buffs will love Jacksonville Beach’s rich cultural heritage. The Beaches Museum offers a fascinating look at the area’s past, while the Kingsley Plantation provides a glimpse into the region’s history of slavery. For a stunning example of historic architecture, head to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which features a collection of over 5,000 works of art and a beautiful garden.
Family-Friendly Activities
Jacksonville Beach is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Adventure Landing offers mini-golf, laser tag, and water rides, while the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens features over 2,000 animals and a range of interactive exhibits. For a unique experience, take a horseback ride on the beach with Kelly Seahorse Ranch.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Jacksonville Beach has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to explore. Take a guided eco-tour with Kayak Amelia, which offers kayaking and hiking trips through the area’s natural beauty. For a taste of local culture, head to the Riverside Arts Market, which features over 100 local artists and vendors.
Natural Wonders
Jacksonville Beach is home to some stunning natural wonders, including the Guana River State Park, which offers over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. Another must-visit spot is the Little Talbot Island State Park, which features stunning beaches, hiking trails, and campsites.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Jacksonville Beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Check out the Lemon Bar, which offers live music and views of the ocean, or head to Surfer the Bar, which features a laid-back atmosphere and a range of craft beers. For a more upscale experience, head to the Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar, which offers a range of seafood dishes and cocktails.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of the local flavor, be sure to check out some of Jacksonville Beach’s local markets. The Beaches Green Market offers a range of fresh produce and artisanal foods, while the Jax Beach Art Walk features over 60 local artists and vendors. For a unique shopping experience, head to the Five Points neighborhood, which offers a range of boutique shops and galleries.
Beaches and Mountains
Jacksonville Beach is known for its stunning beaches, but did you know that it’s also within driving distance of the mountains? Take a day trip to the nearby Ocala National Forest, which features stunning hiking trails, camping sites, and even natural springs. Or head to the nearby St. Johns River, which offers fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
Jacksonville Beach is a melting pot of cultures, with a range of cultural attractions to explore. Head to the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra for a night of classical music, or check out the Alhambra Theatre and Dining for a dinner and a show experience. For a taste of local history, be sure to visit the Ritz Theatre and Museum, which features exhibits on African American history and culture.
Art and Music Scene
Jacksonville Beach has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville for a look at cutting-edge modern art, or head to the Florida Theatre for a night of live music and entertainment. For a more intimate experience, head to the Blue Jay Listening Room, which features a range of local and regional musicians.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Jacksonville Beach is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a historic walking tour of the Riverside neighborhood, which features stunning architecture and a range of local shops and restaurants. Or head to the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens for a scenic hike through the area’s natural beauty.
Architectural Marvels
Jacksonville Beach is home to some stunning architectural marvels, including the historic Casa Marina Hotel and Restaurant, which features a Mediterranean Revival style and stunning ocean views. Another must-see spot is the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, which offers a glimpse into the area’s maritime history and features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Historical Sites
History buffs will love exploring Jacksonville Beach’s many historical sites. Check out the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which commemorates the first French settlement in the area, or head to the Kingsley Plantation for a look at the region’s history of slavery. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which features a range of historic architecture and a beautiful garden.
Biking Routes
Looking to explore Jacksonville Beach on two wheels? There are plenty of biking routes to choose from, including the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, which offers a scenic ride through the area’s natural beauty. Another popular route is the Baldwin Trail, which features over 14 miles of paved trails and stunning views of the St. Johns River.
Wellness Retreats
Jacksonville Beach is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of yoga studios, spas, and wellness centers to choose from. Check out the Salt Spa of Jacksonville for a range of salt therapy treatments, or head to the Yoga Den Studio for a range of yoga classes. For a more holistic experience, consider a retreat at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, which offers a range of workshops and programs.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Jacksonville Beach has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Take a surfing lesson with Jax Surf and Paddle, or head to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for a zipline adventure. For a unique experience, consider a skydiving or hang gliding adventure with Skydive Palatka.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Jacksonville Beach has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this beautiful coastal city.