The best beaches near Jacksonville, Florida — from Amelia Island to St. Augustine and the Atlantic Coast.
Jacksonville sits right on the coast, giving residents and visitors easy access to some of northeast Florida's finest beaches. From the historic charm of Amelia Island just north of the city to the ancient streets of St. Augustine Beach to the south, here are the best beaches within an easy drive.
| # | Beach | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jacksonville Beach | Moderate |
| 2 | Amelia Island | Quiet |
| 3 | St. Augustine Beach | Moderate |
| 4 | Daytona Beach | Popular |
| 5 | New Smyrna Beach | Quiet |
Atlantic Coast · 16 mi from Jacksonville
Jacksonville Beach stands out for 22 miles of wide, sandy atlantic coastline. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $1.50-2 per hour metered; lots $5-10 daily.
Atlantic Coast · 22 mi from Jacksonville
Amelia Island stands out for 13 miles of uncrowded, pristine beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast · 41 mi from Jacksonville
St. Augustine Beach stands out for minutes from historic downtown st. augustine. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast · 86 mi from Jacksonville
Daytona Beach stands out for only beach in florida where you can drive on the sand. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $20 daily beach driving pass; regular parking $10-15.
Atlantic Coast · 100 mi from Jacksonville
New Smyrna Beach stands out for surfing capital of florida with excellent wave conditions. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Jacksonville Beach offers 22 miles of wide sandy beaches with a casual, surf-friendly atmosphere and vibrant pier district. This accessible beach town combines excellent waves, family amenities, and a thriving local restaurant scene just minutes from Jacksonville's urban center.
Atlantic Coast
Amelia Island combines 13 miles of pristine beaches with Victorian charm in historic Fernandina Beach, offering an upscale yet laid-back barrier island escape. This northernmost barrier island on Florida's Atlantic coast delivers natural beauty, rich history, and Southern hospitality.
Atlantic Coast
St. Augustine Beach offers pristine Atlantic coastline just minutes from America's oldest city, combining historic charm with excellent surfing and family-friendly amenities. This laid-back beach community provides the perfect complement to exploring St. Augustine's colonial heritage.
Atlantic Coast
Daytona Beach is famous for its hard-packed sand that allows cars to drive right onto the beach, combined with a rich NASCAR heritage and 23 miles of wide, beautiful shoreline. This iconic destination blends motorsports history with classic Florida beach fun.
Atlantic Coast
New Smyrna Beach is known as the surfing capital of Florida, offering consistent waves and a charming small-town atmosphere. This artistic coastal community combines world-class surf breaks with a historic downtown and pristine 13 miles of beach.
