St. Johns River

The mighty St. Johns River is an integral part of the Jacksonville landscape with rich history and opportunities for both recreation and transportation needs.

At 310 miles, the St. Johns is the state’s longest river and flows north from its headwaters of Blue Cypress Lake in Indian River County to its endpoint of joining the Atlantic Ocean in Jacksonville.

As the centerpiece of the city, the St. Johns River is home to watersports, fishing tournaments, a variety of “Dock & Dine” restaurants with fresh seafood and waterfront dining views. Outdoor lovers can enjoy exploring Exchange Island – a city park that is only accessible by boat and located in Downtown.

Whether strolling down the Riverwalk in Downtown Jacksonville, taking a tour on the River Taxi or fishing its unique ecosystems, the St. Johns River offers a variety of uses to visitors and locals here in Northeast Florida.

As the state’s longest river, the St. Johns River is a centerpiece connecting history, fishing, transportation and more into the personality of Northeast Florida.

In 1864, while traveling the St. Johns River, the Maple Leaf, a Civil War Union Transport ship, was sunk off the riverbanks of Mandarin Point by Confederate mines in the river. Today, the shipwreck site is said to be nation’s most significant repository of Civil War artifacts.

Also in the 1860s, author Harriet Beecher Stowe became mesmerized with the river, eventually purchasing a home along it in the Mandarin area. Her book, Palmetto Leaves, published in 1872 was written at the home and tells stories of life along the riverfront.

In today’s world, fishing, kayaking and boating are ideal along the St. Johns River waterways with public boat ramps, kayak launches and docks located throughout. With the river emptying into the Atlantic Ocean, it makes for a unique ecosystem where dolphins and manatees are seen frequently enjoying the river. Fishing is also popular with mullet, flounder, blue crab and Mayport shrimp as some of the most common fresh catch items. A staple in Northeast Florida for over forty years, the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament brings both professional and amateur anglers and those looking for a fun, family way to spend a week.

Transportation is a vital part of the St. Johns River, dating back to 1830s when trading posts lined the riverfront. In the 1920s, steamboats brought tourism to the area providing a welcoming boost to the city’s economy. Today, the St. Johns River Ferry connects Highway A1A across the river between Fort George Island to the Mayport community transporting cars, bikes and pedestrians on a 0.9-mile voyage. In Downtown Jacksonville, riders can hop aboard the St. Johns River Taxi connecting hotels to destinations along the riverfront and to EverBank Stadium on game days. Specialty cruises include sunset sailings, sightseeing cruises, a happy hour dolphin sailing and more.

The St. Johns River is an attraction within itself in Downtown Jacksonville as the Riverwalk lines the North and Southbank, serving as a popular spot for walkers, joggers, and Sip & Stroll held on the Southbank every third Thursday of the month. Those strolling the Riverwalk can also admire colorful murals and art installations along the riverfront. The river is also the backdrop for the popular Riverside Arts Market, held weekly in historic Riverside.

Riverfront dining offers a unique view of the St. Johns River Downtown at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse inside the DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront and the Charthouse offering fresh seafood. For views of the river from high above, visit River & Post’s rooftop lounge in Riverside to admire the twists and turns the river takes through the city. In the Mayport area, enjoy riverfront dining and watch the shrimp boats bring their fresh catches right into the kitchen at Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant and Singleton’s Seafood Shack.

Dock & Dine establishments are plentiful in Jacksonville – arrive by boat and enjoy a great dinner with waterfront views. Experience fresh seafood and exotic meats at Clark’s Fish Camp, then ride over to Wicked Barley to enjoy their local craft beers overlooking Goodby’s Creek. Palms Fish Camp on the scenic Heckscher Drive offers tacos, pizzas, fresh seafood and waterfront views. In Mayport, watch the shrimp boats bring in the daily catch straight to the kitchen and choose from fresh Mayport shrimp or fish in a casual, community setting.

The St. Johns River serves as the heart of the city providing both majestic views and purpose for both residents and visitors to Jacksonville.

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