If you’ve cruised I-95 in Florida, chances are you breezed through Jacksonville without a second thought. Often overlooked by travelers rushing to other Florida destinations, Jax (as locals call it) deserves a closer look. Its downtown and nearby beach communities offer a blend of vibrant urban energy and a relaxing coastal retreat.
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Florida, where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Jacksonville is a major city offering a diverse coastal experience. With 22 miles of wide white-sand beaches, this multidimensional destination encompasses more than just the city of Jacksonville. The area known as the Jacksonville Beaches includes the shoreline communities of Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Mayport.
The Jacksonville area lives up to its reputation as a magnet for enjoying the great coastal outdoors, with activities ranging from surfing, kayaking, and shelling to sunset cruises, piers, and beachfront parks. While these amazing “beachy” experiences serve as the big draw for most visitors (and rightly so), there’s plenty to do beyond the water and sand, too.
Here's how to make the most of a 48-hour getaway in the Jacksonville area.
Day 1
Morning
Start your day in Neptune Beach, taking a peaceful morning stroll along the shore before the crowds start trickling in. Then, fuel up at Southern Grounds, where locals gather in the courtyard with craft coffee and fresh pastries in hand. Afterward, explore the charming Beaches Town Center—a pedestrian-friendly district that spans parts of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. Dotted with local businesses, the Center’s quaint brick-lined sidewalks lead past unique boutiques (such as Bali Cargo Company and Fig & Willow), The BookMark (a quaint independent bookstore), a jewelry store, gift shops, and restaurants.
Afternoon
For lunch, pop in to Poe's Tavern—a gastropub in Atlantic Beach known for its Edgar Allan Poe theme—for fresh fish tacos and a Veterans United Raging Blonde Ale, a locally produced craft beer. Before leaving the area, stock up on snacks at Makenu Chocolate and Café, a bean-to-bar chocolate shop featuring handcrafted goodies made with ethically sourced cacao. Next, get ready for an urban adventure in “the city.”
Begin your downtown exploration with a visit to the Cummer Museum in historic Riverside. It boasts an impressive permanent collection of more than 5,000 works, including pieces by Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer, and Peter Paul Rubens. For a peaceful retreat, meander the museum's formal gardens that overlook the St. Johns River—a gorgeous setting recognized in the National Register of Historic Places.
Evening
Take a leisurely stroll to Memorial Park to admire Life, a striking bronze sculpture honoring Floridians who died in WWI, a must-see when you visit Jacksonville. Symbolizing aspiration, resilience, and triumph, it’s not only an iconic landmark but also a fantastic photo opportunity against the scenic St. Johns River. Next, head to the eclectic Five Points neighborhood for an early dinner at one of its trendy eateries. Make sure to book well in advance for a picturesque sunset cruise along the St. Johns River, where you can take in the city skyline from the comfort of a pontoon boat. End the night with craft beer tasting at Aardwolf Brewing Company or Bold City Brewery, two local favorites known for their innovative brews and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 2
Morning
Indulge in a hearty breakfast at the charming Jax Beach Brunch Haus, a local spot in Jacksonville Beach known for its fluffy crepes and enormous pancakes. Fueled up, explore the region's fascinating history at the Beaches Museum. Don't miss the docent-led outdoor tour across the street, where you can tour original buildings (including the 1903 chapel and post office and 1873 Cracker Cabin) and climb aboard a historic steam locomotive. A short drive away, you’ll find the Atlantic Beach Arts Market, a creative space featuring dozens of local artisans showcasing pottery, wall art, jewelry, glasswork, and handcrafted gifts. It’s also home to a vintage market, which is open year-round.
Afternoon
You can’t visit Jax without a toes-in-the-sand experience. Switch to flip-flops (if you aren’t already wearing them), grab some to-go sandwiches, and choose your beach. The area’s beaches offer pristine coastline, ample public parking, and pet-friendly shores. Hop on the free Beach Buggy to explore the iconic surf spots of Atlantic Beach, the laid-back ambiance of Neptune Beach, or the bustling expanse of Jacksonville Beach. Or discover the hidden gem of Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, where $5 per car grants access to scenic trails, secluded beaches, and water activities.
Evening
For dinner, treat yourself to an ocean-facing booth at Azurea, located within One Ocean Resort & Spa in Atlantic Beach. The fresh seafood and sophisticated ambiance promise an unforgettable dining experience to cap off your final night. Afterward, satisfy your sweet tooth at Cookies and Creme Jax Beach, a late-night haven for dessert lovers where made-from-scratch cookies and ice cream sandwiches provide the perfect conclusion to your coastal escape.