The Jacksonville Beaches area, known simply as “The Beaches”, consists of three separate oceanfront communities: Jacksonville, Neptune, and Atlantic Beaches. The Beaches is included in the Jacksonville municipality, yet each of these three cities has its own mayor, city council, police and fire departments. Perched between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, The Beaches are approximately 30 minutes from downtown Jacksonville and 45 minutes from the Jacksonville International Airport. Collectively, the Beaches offer sun-drenched streets, glittering waters, and a small-town, laid-back feel. Each of the three communities, however, has a distinctive personality.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a sophisticated, charming seaside community that stretches north of Atlantic Boulevard to Kathryn Abby Hanna Park. With pristine natural surroundings and a number of restaurants and specialty boutiques, Atlantic Beach is the perfect place to spend a pleasant day or evening. One Ocean Resort Hotel & Spa combines bold South Florida style with attentive North Florida hospitality, offering gourmet dining options, lavish spa treatments, and access to Queen’s Harbour Yacht & Country Club’s 18-hole Mark McCumber Royal Course. Ocean 60 offers an upscale dining experience, live music, and an extensive martini menu. Al’s Pizza, a casual local favorite, has been voted Best Pizza by Folio Weekly readers since 1996.
Atlantic Beach hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Dancin’ In the Streets festival, Campouts Under the Stars, Twilight Movies, Mid-Week Market and the North Beaches Art Walk. To the north of Atlantic Beach is the Mayport Naval Station, the third largest naval facility in the United States. Big Talbot Island State Park is a favorite escape for biking, boating, and kayaking. The preserve boasts expansive, unspoiled beaches bordered by sea-bleached pieces of driftwood.
Neptune Beach
South of Atlantic Beach is Neptune Beach, stretching from Atlantic Boulevard to Seagate Avenue. Neptune Beach is noticeably lively, with residents cruising to and fro on skateboards and bikes. Many of the Beaches’ most popular restaurants and bars are located in Neptune Beach. Sliders Seafood Grille, Caribbee Key Island Grille & Cruzan Rum Bar, and Sun Dog Steak & Seafood all boast colorful menus and inviting, casual interiors. Pete’s Bar, a spirited, no-frills watering hole, has been entertaining locals for more than 75 years. The bar was even featured in the John Grisham novel The Bretheren. The Lemon Bar, an oceanfront patio bar, is the perfect place to enjoy a frosty Summer beverage after a long day of beach cruising.
