Duval County beaches are open in the morning, from 6 in the morning to 11 in the morning. Jacksonville beach seemed less crowded and it was easier to find parking, which can be a challenge in any coastal city during peak season. One of the best and busiest surfing spots is the Jacksonville Beach Pier. The wave can break on either side of the dock and result in barrels and open faces perfect for turns, wraps and antennas.
Although there were many options for milk alternatives at the coffee shop I frequented during my trip to Jacksonville Beach, I don't think the city offered the same variety of food. There are several beach access points throughout downtown Jacksonville Beach, each with their own parking lots. But if you're looking for a hamburger, a burrito and a beer, you'll be perfectly happy in Jacksonville Beach. Jacksonville Beach is slightly more pet-friendly than Santa Monica, as dogs are allowed on the sand of the beach.
That's about the same amount of time it took me to get to the beach from Jacksonville International Airport. In Jacksonville Beach, I really enjoyed spending time in Oceanfront Park, which also offers beautiful coastal views. In this Jacksonville Beach surf guide, we'll break down where to park, where to surf, and other information you need to know if you've never surfed there Before. Jacksonville beach itself is approximately 22 square miles, but most tourist spots are within walking distance of the pier.
I signed up for a surf lesson at the Thompson Surf School in Jacksonville Beach, and I didn't even need a wetsuit (something surfers usually do in the cold waters of Southern California). But I decided to visit Jacksonville Beach, Florida (or Jax Beach, as many locals call it) for a spring trip. As someone who spends quite a bit of time outside exploring Santa Monica, this Southern California city seems to have a much younger population than Jacksonville Beach. Honestly, the Jacksonville beach was quite accessible on foot for most of what I needed during my stay, so I didn't have to drive to many places.
Compared to other coastal towns in Florida, parking in Jacksonville Beach when you surf is easy and simple. Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach, a water park, also offers mini golf, go-karts, batting cages and a games room.