Beach Hotels in Jacksonville Beach, FL

Known as the “Bold New City of the South”, Jacksonville is deemed as Florida’s first coast, sitting about 40 minutes south of the border of Georgia. With the St. John’s River flowing throughout, it’s also known as the “City of Bridges” with nine just in the city limits.

To understand how Jacksonville came to be, take a stroll through any of its historic districts. Springfield was founded in 1869 and named after President Abraham Lincoln's birthplace of Springfield, Illinois. The neighborhood was originally developed as a streetcar suburb for wealthy residents who worked in downtown Jacksonville. The district encompasses roughly 5 square blocks containing a variety of Victorian-era homes built between 1882 and 1910 as well as some bungalows built in the 1920s.

Founded in 1887 by a group of investors, the Avondale neighborhood is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Jacksonville and home to many historic buildings. The neighborhood has an eclectic mix of residential, commercial and industrial properties. Avondale was home to hundreds of businesses during its heyday as an industrial center in the early 20th century. Situated on the banks of the St. John’s River is Memorial Park, this park is home to an impressive bronze sculpture titled “Spiritualized Life”, featuring a man with angel wings holding an olive branch. It’s one of the best places to decompress, under the shade of oak trees and quiet ambiance. And if you’re looking for something a little more eclectic, be sure to visit the Five Points neighborhood not far from downtown. A bohemian cluster of boutiques, restaurants and museums, some of Jacksonville’s best food and cocktails can be found here.

Jacksonville Beaches offer an array of activities, from surfing to paddle boarding. Given Jacksonville’s location on the border of Georgia, there are plenty of low-lying waterways that are ideal for kayaking as well. One of the most popular beachside neighborhoods is Ponte Vedra Beach, located south of downtown Jacksonville. This exclusive seaside neighborhood is also home to the TPC Sawgrass, where the PGA tour stops every year. Play a round of golf here and keep your eyes peeled for snakes and alligators.

If you're interested in history, there are many historical sites located around the top Jacksonville beach hotels including St. Augustine Lighthouse and Fort Clinch State Park. There are also several shops and restaurants that offer live entertainment throughout the week. Just off the coast of Jacksonville lie some unspoiled barrier islands, including Blackrocks Beach, Boneyard Beach and Little Talbot Island, all of which are accessible by ferry or taking a scenic drive up Heckscher Drive. If you’re looking for a break from the city, these islands are the perfect place for some solitude. The shoreline boasts 30-foot bluffs and an impressive collection of washed-up driftwood. Regardless of where you stay, beach hotels in Jacksonville will leave you on island time.

Don't forget to check out our beach hotels nearby in Jekyll Island, Daytona Beach and St. Augustine