Jacksonville Beach, FL: Travel Guide
By Jennifer Nelson
1. Recommend a hotel/motel in your town/city:
One Ocean Resort and Spa in the heart of the Jacksonville Beaches community (technically in Atlantic Beach) is an oceanfront staple for luxury getaways. With a top-notch spa, beach access and several bars and an award-winning restaurant on-site, the amenities are ample. Steps from the Beaches Town Center with additional bars, restaurants and boutique shops offer even more fun and adventure for your beach getaway.
2. Recommend a restaurant in your town/city:
Angie’s Subs, with several locations around the beach, is an eclectic mom-and-pop sandwich shop and local favorite for its signature sandwiches. Try the Peruvian! Culhane’s Irish Pub is a great stop for classics like fish and chips and Shepherd’s Pie. Dockside Seafood Restaurant, a local fish camp on the Intracoastal, is best for fresh shrimp and catch-of-the-day baskets with hushpuppies, fries and coleslaw. Salumeria 104 offers up authentic northern Italian dishes with rustic charm, intimate tables and excellent service.
3. Recommend a must-see in your town/city:
Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is an iconic stop for dolphin spotting and general beachcombing. It costs $2 to walk and $5 to fish. The pier was rebuilt in 2022 after two hurricanes in successive years damaged it. The Beaches Museum and History Center unlocks local facts, charm and architecture about the area. Adventure Landing, a local water slide park, mini golf and go-kart track is a great family spot.
4. What makes your town/city fun for tourists?
Take a beach ghost tour in the evening with US Ghost Adventures, where you’ll see the lifeguard station, the pier at night and other hot spots said to be haunted with paranormal activity. The North Beaches Art Walk is held on the third Thursday of each month. Visit local artisan booths for clothing, pottery, painting, sculpture and more at Beaches Town Center. Hit the sand from March through November for sun and fun.
5. What should you avoid when visiting your town/city?
August and September are the hottest months to visit, so make plans to visit air-conditioned attractions. Check the city’s annual festival schedule, as the beach and surroundings can be backed up with traffic and heavy crowds on
Jacksonville Beach fishing pier (Shutterstock)
