Guide to Jacksonville Beach's Best Beaches
Where to Catch the Waves
Steps From The Sand
Jacksonville Beach
The most famous beach in Jacksonville Beach is, well, Jacksonville Beach. This 3.7-mile-long shoreline is one of the best Jacksonville Beach attractions, and it’s perfect for every beach lover. Do a little fishing off the Jacksonville Beach Pier, surf the waves, try your hand at boogie boarding, or simply soak up the sunshine. At Margaritaville Beach Hotel, you are in the perfect location to explore Jacksonville Beach. Stay just steps from the sand!
Even if you’re not staying at our beachfront hotel, you can still visit Jacksonville Beach. Parking is easy enough at one of four paid parking locations at 14 1st Street North (Latham Plaza), 422 1st Street North, 503 1st Street North (Pier), or 450 2nd Street North.
And, when you need a bite to eat, there are lots of options for you to choose from. Savor tasty small plates at The G.O.A.T. Tapas & Bar, eat as many biscuits as you like at Maple Street Biscuit Company, or get a casual burger and beer at LandShark Bar & Grill.
Neptune Beach
Just north of Jacksonville Beach lies Neptune Beach. This beautiful shoreline is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter beach that’s still not too far from the town. If you’re an early riser, we highly recommend going to Neptune Beach for the sunrise. With the stunning colors and calming waves, you’ll feel absolutely at ease.
If you prefer to sleep in, simply head to Neptune Beach a little later, snag your own little slice of paradise, and enjoy it all day long.
Regardless of what time of day you decide to visit, street parking is your friend at Neptune Beach. And since you won’t want to lose your coveted parking spot, Hawkers and Doro are two incredible restaurants within walking distance of this Floridian beach.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is another one of the best beaches in the Jacksonville Beach area. Situated in a town of the same name, Atlantic Beach has quite a lot of history behind it. Many historians believe that the first year-round Native American settlement was located here.
Today, you can visit this gorgeous golden shoreline. After finding a street parking spot, Atlantic Beach is the perfect place to shell, surf, kayak, and swim to your heart’s content. And when you’re ready to go, spend a bit of time exploring the historic town that’s just steps away. Shop for vintage finds, pop into one of the art galleries, or devour delicious meals at Simply Tasty Thai or Casa Leon.
Little Talbot Island State Park
If you want a Jacksonville beach that’s a little more off-the-grid, Little Talbot Island State Park will not disappoint. Past the park’s scenic trails, salt marshes, incredible wildlife, and dedicated paved parking lots, you’ll find a fantastic five-mile stretch of shoreline. That’s a lot of space to surf, shell, swim, and suntan, making Little Talbot Island State Park quite a treat.
If you plan on staying at Little Talbot Island State Park, you may want to pack a picnic, as there aren’t really any nearby restaurants. That said, if you’re cool with driving a bit, you can head up to Amelia Island for a whole host of great restaurants, like KP’s Restaurant or the Sunrise Cafe.
Ponte Vedra Beach
Ponte Vedra Beach is a special gem. Located about 10 minutes South of Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach is known for its shark teeth! That’s right, when you visit this beach, you can find loads of black fossilized shark teeth in the sand. Be sure to keep an eye out!
But shark teeth aren’t the only thing that make Ponte Vedra Beach special. It’s also home to 40-foot-tall sand dunes! These towering sand hills are some of the highest in the state and are definitely worth a visit.
While the shark teeth and sand dunes are absolutely amazing, Ponte Vedra Beach’s parking situation can be a little tricky. Mickler’s Landing has a few spots, but those are snatched up quickly. For your best bet, head to one of the public parking lots on the east side of the A1A Highway and prepare for a bit of a walk.
Last but certainly not least, we can’t forget to mention the nearby food options. After all, you’re bound to be hungry after spending a day at this Jacksonville area beach. Grab a slice at Biggie’s Pizza, slurp on tasty Japanese dishes at I Noodle Ramen and Dumpling, or get your fill of barbecue at Valley Smoke.
Plan your ultimate beach vacation with Margaritaville Beach Hotel Jacksonville Beach. Discover our comfortable guest rooms, iconic grill and chill vibes, and signature Margaritaville style.
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