The soft white sand and glorious Florida sun are the most obvious attractions on Jacksonville beaches. But places like American Beach, Fort Clinch State Park and Jacksonville Beach also offer a glimpse into the area's unique history, culture, and flora and fauna. Why don't you head to Fernandina Beach for your next day by the sea? With incredible picnic spots and lots of shells to hunt shark teeth, all that's missing is you. You can even drive to the beach and park at your favorite spot. If you're looking for miles of relaxed coastline, head to Atlantic Beach.
This coastal community prides itself on its pristine beach. It's part of Jacksonville's three epic shoreline beaches, including Neptune Beach and Jacksonville Beach. The 400-foot-high Jacksonville Pier is a good place to watch locals while they dine; the kilometer-long boardwalk is a good place to walk or watch people go by, and the Sea Walk Pavilion hosts many concerts and events. The beaches are just a short drive from downtown Jacksonville, and each beach offers a unique personality and community.
Read more about all the things you can do in Jacksonville and check if there are any important events or festivals during your stay here. From the rustic, unspoiled beaches of the Jacksonville area to the bustling ports with piers and boardwalks, this area has a rich history. The city's four main beaches are Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Mayport Beach, and Atlantic Beach. Located between Jacksonville and Amelia Island, be sure to visit Boneyard Beach, with all its mystical dead trees and driftwood.
Every time I've been to Jax for work I've spent time at the beach at night and I've never had any problems (I've talked to a lot of amazing people and some of my best conversations were at 2 in the morning with people I met on the Jacksonville pier), but my co-workers have told me many times that the beaches are not safe and that I should limit my visits to the middle of the day. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the Jacksonville Beach Pier for unparalleled views of the Atlantic and watch anglers catch deep-sea species. Whether you're looking for a perfect long walk on the beach or want to catch some waves for surfing, Jacksonville and the surrounding area have a beach (or three) for You. Surfing is another favorite Jacksonville pastime and you can find local experts to coordinate surfboard rentals and classes for you.
It covers about 60 blocks along the Atlantic Ocean and is the busiest of all the beaches in the Jacksonville area. For more expert getaways, or to see local surfers enjoy themselves, head to Huguenot Park, or look for “the poles” at Hanna Park or the fishing pier from Jacksonville Beach.