Beaches Near Jacksonville, FL – Best Local Beaches, Clear Water Spots & Day Trips

Jacksonville is surrounded by some of North Florida’s most beautiful beaches — wide sandy coastlines, soft surf, warm water, and laid-back beach towns. Whether you want family-friendly shores, lively surf spots, or peaceful nature beaches, the best beaches near Jacksonville are just minutes away.

Below are the closest, best-rated beaches within 10–60 minutes of Jacksonville.

Why Visit Beaches Near Jacksonville?

  • Wide sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing
  • Family-friendly boardwalks & lifeguarded areas
  • Great surfing, fishing & sunrise views
  • Parks, dunes & natural preserves
  • Quick day-trip options from the city

Best Beaches Near Jacksonville, Florida

These beaches range from 10 minutes to about an hour from downtown Jacksonville — perfect for day trips and weekend escapes.

Jacksonville Beach (10–15 min)

Lively beach town with soft sand, surf waves, a fishing pier, restaurants & nightlife.

Neptune Beach (15 min)

Chill, clean, uncrowded beach with small cafés, local shops & great swimming conditions.

Atlantic Beach (15–20 min)

Beautiful wide beaches, calm vibe, white sand, great for families & sunrise viewing.

Ponte Vedra Beach (25–30 min)

Luxury coastline, upscale resorts, quieter beaches & excellent shelling.

Mickler’s Landing Beach (30 min)

Pink-sand tint, shark teeth hunting, soft dunes & great family-friendly surf.

Little Talbot Island State Park (25–30 min)

Untouched natural shoreline with long beaches, wildlife, camping & hiking trails.

Big Talbot Island – Boneyard Beach (30 min)

Otherworldly driftwood beach, perfect for photography, walking & nature lovers.

Amelia Island (40–45 min)

Charming island with 13 miles of beaches, historic downtown & peaceful ocean views.

Fernandina Beach (45–50 min)

Family-friendly spot with soft sand, calm water, restaurants & a relaxed vibe.

Where to Stay Near Jacksonville’s Beaches

Jacksonville, Neptune & Atlantic Beach

  • Beachfront inns & boutique hotels
  • Mid-range family-friendly hotels
  • Vacation rentals steps from the sand

Ponte Vedra & Mickler’s Landing

  • Luxury resorts & private beachfront homes
  • Golf & spa resorts
  • Quiet oceanfront rentals

Amelia Island Area

  • Beachfront resorts & villas
  • Historic inns near Fernandina Beach
  • Private beach cottages & condos

Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Jacksonville

Season Beach Conditions
Spring (March–May) Perfect weather, warm water & great surfing
Summer (June–Sept) Hot, warmest ocean temps & best swimming season
Fall (Sept–Nov) Warm water, fewer crowds & comfortable weather
Winter (Dec–Feb) Cooler but peaceful; great for walks & sunrises

Best Beaches Near Jacksonville by Category

Closest Beaches

  • Jacksonville Beach
  • Neptune Beach
  • Atlantic Beach

Best for Families

  • Ponte Vedra Beach
  • Fernandina Beach
  • Jacksonville Beach

Most Scenic / Natural

  • Little Talbot Island
  • Big Talbot Island (Boneyard Beach)
  • Amelia Island

Best for Shelling

  • Mickler’s Landing
  • Ponte Vedra Beach
  • Little Talbot Island

FAQs About Beaches Near Jacksonville

What is the closest beach to Jacksonville?

Jacksonville Beach is the closest major beach, only about 10–15 minutes from downtown.

Which beaches near Jacksonville have the clearest water?

Amelia Island, Little Talbot Island, and Ponte Vedra Beach often have the clearest water.

What’s the best beach for families?

Fernandina Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Jacksonville Beach are great for families.

What is the prettiest beach?

Little Talbot Island and Amelia Island are the most scenic, natural beaches near Jacksonville.

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