Neptune Beach

Nestled between Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach presents visitors with a relaxed, beach atmosphere alongside plenty of local dining and shopping opportunities.

Home to the area’s oldest bar, visitors can experience Neptune Beach’s rich history while enjoying a cold beverage amidst the ocean breeze. Experience yoga on the beach, find the perfect surfing gear and even take lessons. Then, wrap up the evening at one of the many local hot spots for a night out under the stars. As a neighborhood community, Neptune Beach encourages visitors to enjoy the laidback, beach vibes. Experience the local charm of this oceanfront destination and discover what makes it a unique vacation destination.

Neptune Beach, a welcoming community located between Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach, offers visitors a touch of local shopping, dining and libations along the sandy beaches of Northeast Florida. Experience the beach atmosphere and activities along the sand creating a carefree vibe with plenty of ocean breezes.

Originally named “Neptune” by land dealer Eugene Gilbert in 1885, this area didn’t see growth until the 1930s when Jacksonville residents began purchasing summer cottages here. With the area now part of Jacksonville Beach, leaders and residents chose to secede due to a tax revolt and incorporated the area into Neptune Beach. Their planned business district never came to fruition in part because of neighboring communities providing same offerings for visitors. Today, Neptune Beach is known for its local flair with dining, shopping and activities. Where Atlantic Boulevard meets the ocean – you’ll find the Beaches Town Center and the heart of Neptune Beach, with the road serving as the line between Neptune and Atlantic Beaches. Stroll the courtyards and brick-lined sidewalks to discover a bit of ocean life among the palm trees. At the nearby Aqua East Surf Shop, grab a board and some gear and you’ll be ready to hit the waves.

At the areas most successful independent bookstore, The Bookmark, browse the shelves for the latest best sellers and take part in author events. Make your way over to Southern Grounds for fresh coffee, homemade desserts, wine and craft beers. At Slider’s Oyster Bar, guests can expect a no-frills experience with fresh seafood and a lively patio – perfect for a day at the beach.

Neptune Beach’s accommodations include the Seahorse Oceanfront Inn, where all rooms are oceanfront and have a private balcony or patio overlooking the pool and courtyard. The Inn is also home to the popular Lemon Bar, open seasonally offering frozen concoctions with ocean views. This is the place to see and be seen during summer weekends.

For a bit of local history and nostalgia, stop in at Pete’s Bar on First Street. In the early 1920s, resident Pete Jensen opened a market in Neptune Beach supplying residents with groceries and more. When prohibition ended in 1933, Jensen acquired what is said to be Duval County’s first liquor license and opened Pete’s Bar, which still serves guests today. Well-known for its annual Thanksgiving Day celebration with closed streets and festivities, Pete’s is a local landmark making you feel like a local during your time in Neptune Beach.

sailing under a full moon on the water in Jacksonville with Now and Zen Tours
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