A Guide to Jacksonville’s Beaches

Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of beautiful white sand beaches.

Find out everything you need to know about hitting the beach during your trip to Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Beach

What are the best beaches in Jacksonville, FL?

The city’s four main beaches are

Jacksonville Beach: Get a tan, catch a wave on a boogie board, or have a picnic on the beach. At night, grab a blanket and head to the Sea Walk Pavilion on Jacksonville Beach for movies and music. Spring and Summer events include music festivals, the Moonlight Movies Series and Summer Jazz concert series. Cap off the day with a pint from one of Jax Beach's local breweries or a beachy cocktail from any number of amazing craft cocktail bars in the area. Nightlife is also hot in Jacksonville Beach, with oceanfront clubs and intimate pubs.

Beach Buggy App provides FREE rides and recommendations to visitors of the beaches community.

Atlantic & Neptune Beach: North of Jax Beach are the communities of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. The intersection of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach is a hot spot called the Beaches Town Center. It's a perfect spot where you can enjoy casual and upscale dining, diverse shopping options, and a very happening nightlife scene.

Mayport: Farthest north, the quaint, historic village of Mayport is home to the ferry, seafood restaurants offering their freshest catch, fishing charters and the Marine Science Education Center. Dine on freshly-caught seafood, including the local specialty, Mayport shrimp. Then head over to near by Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park to enjoy the beach and explore what many consider to be Jacksonville's favorite biking and hiking trails. The park also offers camping and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding wilderness.

The beaches are just a short drive from Downtown Jacksonville and each beach offers a unique personality and community.

What are the top things to do on the beach?

If you are looking to do more than just relax with a favorite beach read, there are plenty of options for staying active while at the beach. Take a paddleboard out for a spin, go diving amongst beautiful reefs and marine life, or rent a beach cruiser and ride along the water’s edge. Surfing is another favorite Jacksonville past time and you can find local experts to coordinate surfboard rentals and lessons for you.

Where can I go surfing?

There are a couple of amazing surf spots in Jacksonville. For beginners, Atlantic Beach is a great option because the waves are good year-round and there’s plenty of room to ride. For more expert breaks, or to watch local surfers tear it up, head to Huguenot Park, or find “the poles” at Hanna Park, or the fishing pier at Jacksonville Beach. These are all local favorites.

What are the top attractions near the beaches?

Soak up the sun and dip into a little local history at the Beaches Museum, where exhibits include historic photography, artwork, and exhibits preserving the area’s unique culture. Visitors may also enjoy a walk on the Jacksonville Beach Pier for unparalleled views of the Atlantic and to watch anglers fish for deep-water species. Jacksonville’s beach communities are very walkable and offer plenty of shopping and dining options to explore too!

a little girl in a bright pink dress collects shells along the edge of water at Jacksonville beach

Are there dining and nightlife options near the beach?

Absolutely! From craft breweries and family dining, to fresh seafood and upscale restaurants and clubs, you will have tons of options to choose from near Jacksonville, Atlantic, and Neptune Beaches. Foodies won’t want to miss a visit to Mayport Beach’s historic Fish Camps for the freshest seafood and a taste of our famous Mayport Shrimp! Explore even more dining and nightlife choices on our website.

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My favorite local spot to eat on the beach is Singletons Seafood Shack. I am all about that fresh local Mayport Shrimp!
Amy KennellyVisit Jax Local Insider Tip

Where can you park near the beach?

There are several public parking lots near the beaches making it easy to find a spot and enjoy your day.

Are there restrooms and showers available?

Yes, there are multiple public restrooms and outdoor shower locations available. Visit the Jacksonville Beach website for more details.

a woman holds her yorkie at a dog-friendly beach in Jacksonville, florida

Is fishing permitted on the beach?

Yes, many visitors enjoy fishing on Jacksonville Beach Pier. There is no license required and the pier is wheelchair accessible. Learn more about all of the amazing fishing options throughout Jacksonville.

When is it common to see sea turtles on the beach?

Visitors are likely to see sea turtles during nesting season, which runs from early May through late October. If you are lucky enough to see sea turtles or nests on the beach, keep your distance and do not disturb them. You can find more information and tips on helping sea turtles thrive here.

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

You can bring your best friend with you on your beach trip! Here's a guide to the top dog-friendly beaches.

Jacksonville Beach: Dogs are allowed on the beach at any hour from October 1st through March 31st. From April 1st through September 30th, however, dogs are not permitted on the beach during peak hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Remember, dogs must be leashed at all times.

Atlantic and Neptune Beaches: Dogs are allowed on the beach at any time as long as they are on a leash.

Are there campgrounds near the beach?

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park offers 300 RV, tent, and rustic cabin sites with access to the beach. The park also boasts 15 miles of bike trails, a freshwater lake, a playground, sports facilities, kayak and bike rentals, and more! It’s a great choice for an outdoor family getaway.

Start planning your beach vacation in Jacksonville. Read more about all the things to do in Jacksonville and see if there are any big events or festivals happening while you’re here.

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