10 Things to Do in Jacksonville Beach

If it’s a nice weekend in town, you’re sure to hear your friends and coworkers talking about heading to Jacksonville Beach. With so many things to do and a beautiful beach to enjoy, it’s no wonder why so many people want to spend their free time hanging out in this area. While Jacksonville is not as touristy as other parts of Florida, Jacksonville Beach also brings in some travelers and is a great spot for those looking for a not-so-crowded beach experience with city amenities nearby. Whatever the reason is that brings you to Jacksonville Beach, here are 10 things to do while you’re there!

1. Ride Bikes

Both locals and visitors enjoy long bike rides around the beaches. The residential feel of Jacksonville Beach makes it a very pleasant area to bike, and with so many shops and restaurants nearby you can get to many places on just two wheels, and better yet, avoid having to park the car! Bring your own bike or check out one of the many bike rental options in the area.

2. Check Out Deck the Chairs

This seasonal event can only be enjoyed during the holiday season, but it is so popular that it makes this list for one of the top things to do in Jacksonville Beach. Organizations, businesses, and more decorate lifeguard chairs with unique light displays in the heart of Jacksonville Beach at the Seawalk Pavilion. Bring the whole family to walk around and enjoy this free event!

3. Go to the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier

Last year the pier reopened after years of construction to rebuild from hurricane damage. Now, pedestrians and fishermen can once again enjoy the pier for recreation. Although this is called a “fishing pier” and many do fish here, it is also a wonderful place to just take a stroll or look in the water for turtles and dolphins. There is something about being so far out in the ocean with water all around you and a clear view of the shoreline that is hard to replicate anywhere else but on a pier. At the time of writing this post, day passes for walking are $1 for locals and $2 for non-locals. Day passes for fishing are $4 for locals and $5 for non-locals.

4. Visit a 904 Pop Up

Also at the Seawalk Pavilion you will find 904 Pop Ups happening on select days. These pop ups feature local vendors and food trucks that set up booths around the Seawalk Pavilion for the public to walk around and stop by the businesses they are interested in. Plus, with it being located right by the beach, you can take a look at the vendor displays before dipping your toes in the water.

5. Take a Surf Lesson

Most weekends you’ll see plenty of surfers out in the water at Jacksonville Beach, especially around the pier. While it may look like a lot of fun, it’s not the easiest sport to just pick up. Consider having a local teach you the proper way to start learning with a surf lesson!

6. Ride a Beach Buggy

Grab a complimentary ride on an environmentally-friendly Beach Buggy! A unique (and inexpensive) way to get around Jax Beach. Download the Beachside Buggies app to request rides which are available late afternoon Thursday through Sunday until Midnight. These rides are free of charge, but riders are encouraged to tip!

7. Dine at Casa Marina Restaurant for Brunch

While there are so many options for food in Jax Beach, one of the best is Casa Marina. When we think of Casa Marina, the first thing that pops to mind is brunch! Enjoy Sunday Brunch with a large menu from 9am to 1pm or the Penthouse Brunch with a smaller menu on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday from 10am-2pm. 

8. Play Sand Volleyball

By the pier you will also notice the sand volleyball courts at Jacksonville Beach. Many who love the sport will take a weekend to give it their all in a tournament, and have a ton of fun doing so. What’s better than playing volleyball? Playing volleyball with soft sand under your feet and waves crashing in the background.

9. Visit the Beaches Museum and History Park

Maybe it’s a rainy day on vacation, or you are just a history buff; the Beaches Museum and History Park may be just the attraction for you. Check out their website to find the current exhibit and scroll through the event calendar to see if any events during your trip peak your interest!

10. Enjoy the beach!

While there is so much happening just off the sand, the main attraction at Jax Beach is, you guessed it, the beach! Many are surprised when they first visit Jacksonville by just how wide the beaches are and how soft the sand is. Our beaches tend to be less crowded than some other vacation hot-spots, making it a great place to getaway and enjoy a more peaceful beach experience.

Whether you are in Jacksonville Beach for a day, or you’re moving here full-time, we hope this list gives you some new ideas for things to do in the area. From events, to shopping, to sport, and restaurants, Jax Beach offers a wide variety of options for everyone to enjoy. Did we miss one of your favorite attractions? Send us an email and let us know! We are always on the lookout for fresh things to do in one of the most popular locations here in Northeast Florida.

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