Filed under Jacksonville Living on September 17th, 2008:
Head to the Beach in Jacksonville
One of the first things you’re going to discover about living in apartments in Jacksonville is that this is a major beach area. While the city itself isn’t necessarily known for beach life, the communities that surround it and make up the Jacksonville consolidated area are. Beaches near Jacksonville are plentiful enough, in fact, that it will take you some time to choose a favorite.
Some of the hot beaches near Jacksonville include:
Atlantic Beach – Found in Duval County, this beach community is technically consolidated into Jacksonville. The city maintains its own government, which oversees the beaches and parks in the area. Public beaches here allow leashed dogs, and pets and owners are allowed to swim together during certain hours.
Neptune Beach – Also a part of the consolidated Jacksonville, this beach community is a barrier island that is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. The city keeps lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Alcohol is not allowed on the city’s beaches, but leashed dogs are.
Photo by: Valeriano Della Longa
Jacksonville Beach – This Duval County city is part of the consolidated Jacksonville. The little city has more than 4 miles of beaches and has lifeguards on duty during peak season.
Ponte Verda Beach – Located in nearby St. Johns County, so it will be a short drive to check out this spot. Many of the beaches here are open to the public. The community itself is also famous for its golfing.
St. Augustine – Although this historic city is a short drive from Jacksonville proper, it is considered worth it by many Jville residents. In the St. Augustine area, you will find miles of pristine Atlantic Coast beaches, beautiful lighthouses, incredible dining and lots of historic sites to explore.
Other Hot Spots – Depending on your willingness to travel a bit away from your apartments in Jacksonville, you will find some other incredible spots along the East Coast of Florida. Nearby you will find the famous Fort Laderdale and Daytona Beach. If you’re interested in a trip to the Panhandle or the West Coast, the beaches of Destin and Tampa Bay are well worth the drive.
If you love visiting the beach, Jacksonville is a great place to live. The local beach guide alone should keep you busy enough, but within short driving distance you will also find some of the state’s most notable beaches.