Beach Hopping in Jacksonville: The Best Shores for Sun, Surf, and Sand
With more than 22 miles of white sandy coastline, Jacksonville, Florida is a beach lover’s paradise that often flies under the radar. Whether you’re a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a family looking for calm shores, or someone who just wants to relax with a book and the ocean breeze, Jacksonville has a beach for you.
Ready to explore the best sun-soaked spots in the area? Grab your sunscreen and flip-flops—here’s your ultimate guide to beach hopping in Jacksonville.
🌊 1. Jacksonville Beach (Jax Beach)
Vibe: Lively, Active, Family-Friendly
Best For: Surfing, fishing, beach volleyball, casual dining
Jax Beach is the city’s most iconic and popular shoreline. With a long, wide beach, a bustling pier, and a lively boardwalk full of restaurants and surf shops, it’s the perfect place to start your beach tour. The waves are great for beginner surfers, and there are volleyball courts, lifeguards, and clean facilities.
Local tip: Stop at Salt Life Food Shack for seafood and rooftop drinks after a long beach day.
🏄♂️ 2. Neptune Beach
Vibe: Laid-back, local, stylish
Best For: Quiet walks, boutique shopping, sunset cocktails
Just north of Jax Beach, Neptune Beach is more relaxed and residential. It’s ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for a quieter experience. The sand is soft, the vibe is friendly, and the nearby Beaches Town Center offers quaint shops and cafés steps from the shore.
Don’t miss: A sunset dinner at Ocean 60 or drinks at Lemon Bar right by the dunes.
🌴 3. Atlantic Beach
Vibe: Classy, artistic, peaceful
Best For: Morning yoga, paddleboarding, art lovers
A favorite among locals, Atlantic Beach is where nature meets community spirit. It’s common to see sunrise yoga sessions, local artists painting beach scenes, and families biking through shaded neighborhoods. It’s also close to Hanna Park for those who want to hike or bike before hitting the surf.
Traveler tip: Visit during a weekday morning to enjoy a near-private shoreline.
🐚 4. Huguenot Memorial Park
Vibe: Rustic, adventurous, natural
Best For: Beach camping, bird watching, off-road access
This is one of the few beaches in Florida where you can drive right onto the sand. Huguenot Park is great for those looking for a more rugged experience—you’ll find campers, bird watchers, and families grilling by the ocean. There’s also a cool view of the St. Johns River entrance where cargo ships pass by.
Important: Tide and park access can be restricted—check before you go.
🏕 5. Little Talbot Island State Park
Vibe: Wild, untouched, serene
Best For: Nature lovers, shell collecting, hiking
One of Florida’s few remaining undeveloped barrier islands, Little Talbot is a must for those who want to escape crowds. The beach is backed by dunes and maritime forest, with hiking trails and kayaking routes nearby. Bring a cooler, your camera, and expect pure tranquility.
Heads up: There are no shops nearby—come prepared.
🌅 Bonus: Mayport Beaches
Vibe: Authentic, old-school Florida
Best For: Local flavor, seafood lovers, exploring a working fishing village
Mayport is home to a small, often overlooked beach near the ferry landing. It’s not the widest or fanciest, but it’s charming, quiet, and close to some of the freshest seafood in town. You can also take the ferry to Fort George Island for even more exploring.
🚗 Beach-Hopping Itinerary Idea (Day Trip Style):
- Morning: Start with a coffee and walk at Atlantic Beach
- Midday: Head to Jax Beach for lunch and beach games
- Afternoon: Catch golden hour at Little Talbot Island
- Evening: Wind down with a seafood dinner in Mayport
🏖 Final Tips for Beach-Hopping in Jacksonville:
- Bring cash or card for state park entry fees (usually $5–6).
- Pack a cooler—some beaches have few dining options.
- Parking is free in many places, but can fill up fast on weekends.
- Always check the tide schedule if you’re planning to drive on the beach.
- Don’t forget bug spray if you’re visiting wooded beach parks.
Ready to explore Jacksonville’s coast like a local?
Find the perfect vacation rental just steps from your favorite beach and make your Florida beach-hopping adventure unforgettable.
