Things To Do
in Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach is a vibrant coastal town on Florida's First Coast, famed for wide sandy shores and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The Seawalk and Jacksonville Beach Pier anchor a lively scene of cafes, casual eateries, and boutique shops along the oceanfront. Visitors can mix sun, surf, and shoreline strolls with easy access to nearby Jacksonville attractions and nature reserves.
With year-round warm weather and a maritime atmosphere, it’s a popular base for weekend escapes and coastal adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Jacksonville Beach and check into your hotel, taking in the vibrant coastal scenery. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring a delicious array of fresh seafood and southern-inspired dishes. Take a peaceful stroll along the shoreline, breathing in the salty air as you soak in the early morning sun.
Head to the beach for a fun-filled afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Explore the local shops and boutiques along Third Street, where you can find unique souvenirs and beachwear. While you're downtown, grab a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant with views of the ocean.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the breathtaking colors of the sky. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh catch and local favorites while listening to live music. Conclude your day by taking a moonlit walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping the shore.
Start the morning with a visit to the nearby Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve for some hiking and birdwatching. Enjoy the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife while enjoying a packed breakfast in the great outdoors. The tranquility of nature will invigorate you for the day ahead.
After a morning of exploration, relax on the beach or picnic in one of the scenic areas within the reserve. Take advantage of the tidal lagoons for kayaking or paddleboarding adventures. Treat yourself to lunch at a beach café, sampling local dishes and cold beverages.
Spend your evening at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, soaking in live music and local performances. Enjoy dinner at a popular seafood grill nearby, where fresh catch is the star of the menu. Wrap up the night at a cozy beach bar, sampling local craft beers and enjoying the sound of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,200-1,800 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $120-260 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere
- Strong dining and casual nightlife scene
- Walkable beachfront corridors and reliable public beaches
- Access to nature reserves and easy day trips to Jacksonville
- Seasonal crowds and parking can be challenging
- Summer heat and humidity with potential tropical storms
- Higher tourist-focused pricing in peak season
- Limited upscale dining options within immediate Beaches area
Places to Visit in Jacksonville Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic long pier with ocean views, sunrise/sunset opportunities, and silhouettes of surfers.
Colorful murals, palm trees, and expansive beach views ideal for golden hour photography.
Warm light, fishing boats, and dramatic skies provide classic coastal silhouettes.
Coastal piers and bridges offer dramatic foregrounds for horizon-wide shots.
Food in Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional coastal twist featuring southern-style grits with a bright, citrusy shrimp glaze; commonly found at seafood-backed eateries.
Must-Try!
Flaky fish seasoned with bold spices, served in soft tortillas with slaw and lime—great for a casual lunch near the beach.
A seasonal Florida favorite, often served chilled or with drawn butter at seafood spots along the coast.
A refreshing citrus dessert staple; look for it at waterfront diners and bake shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market offering local produce, seafood, prepared bites, and crafts; great for sampling fresh Gulf shrimp and citrus treats.
Rotating lineup of food trucks near the pier with coastal favorites like seafood tacos, lobster rolls, and tropical shaved ice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguards, leash dogs where required, clean up after pets, and observe quiet hours in residential areas.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow dune-protection guidelines to preserve habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Jacksonville Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15–20% at restaurants and bars; for large parties or exceptional service, consider more. In casual venues, a few dollars per round can be appropriate.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; carry cash for small vendors or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming coastal flora; birdsong and wildlife activity increase; early-season surfers appear.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; ideal for beach days, water activities, and vibrant outdoor scenes; hurricane season Jun–Nov; monitor local alerts.
Milder days and quieter beaches; great surf conditions and fewer crowds; comfortable for long coastal walks.
Typically mild with temps in the 50s–60s°F; occasional coastal storms; beachgoers enjoy brisk walks and off-season serenity.
Jacksonville Beach at Night
Hiking in Jacksonville Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal pine forests with nature trails, boardwalks, and creek views; great for hikers and wildlife watchers.
Historic plantation site with forested trails and marsh overlooks; abundant wildlife viewing.
Extensive loop trails through curated landscapes and wetlands near the Arlington area.
Airports
How to reach Jacksonville Beach by plane.
Major airport about 25–30 miles from Jacksonville Beach with easy access via I-95 and I-295; broad domestic and international flight options.
Small regional airport near St. Augustine; about 25–40 miles south; convenient for regional flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beach days, parks, and kid-friendly activities.
Proximity to Jacksonville's urban core draws professionals seeking a laid-back coastal base.
Seasonal residents enjoy quieter winters and ongoing community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core coastal activity with waves suitable for all levels; plenty of local shops offering lessons.
Public courts along the beach with pickup games and casual leagues during peak season.
Pier fishing and inshore charters are popular; seasonal catches vary by month.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacksonville Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie bowls and salads on menus; many places offer veggie-centric dishes and side options; ask to modify seafood dishes to skip meat.
Most seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free; request no breading and confirm cross-contamination practices.