Because of its superb location, there are tons of enjoyable day journeys from Jacksonville, only a quick drive from downtown. Jacksonville is situated subsequent to attractive islands and seashores, nature preserves, and historic websites. I by no means get sick of exploring this space – there are such a lot of enjoyable day journeys from Jacksonville available.
After visiting the realm for 5 years and residing south of Jacksonville for over a yr, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing dozens of day journeys. The most effective half? I do know there are nonetheless so many locations to go to close to Jacksonville that I haven’t found but!
Finest Day Journeys From Jacksonville Florida
From seashores and kayaking to historic websites and museums, simply hop within the automobile, and also you’ll be a brief drive away from many unbelievable day journeys from Jacksonville. It’s onerous to decide on the “greatest” excursions close to the Daring Metropolis as a result of there are such a lot of implausible ones. I’ve narrowed down this listing to my favourite day journey locations; there’s one thing for everybody;
1. Saint Augustine
Only a 45-minute drive from downtown Jax is the attractive metropolis of Saint Augustine. What makes this such a special occasion journey from Jacksonville is that St. Augustine is the oldest city in the nation – based in 1565. So, count on a ton of wealthy historical past, an previous fort/monument, museums, parks, eating places, and extra.
I stay midway between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, so I’m fortunate sufficient to go to the “Historic Metropolis” very often. To me, it’s by far among the finest locations to go to close to Jacksonville, FL. Irrespective of in case you’re a frequent customer or a first-time vacationer, it’s a metropolis that’s all the time value testing. Simply by turning a special nook, you’ll discover one thing new.
St. Augustine can be house to numerous nice retailers, breweries, parks, and occasional retailers. Personally, nonetheless, I discover merely strolling across the historic downtown space enjoyable to do by itself. The structure and cobblestone streets are simply unbelievable.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 45 minutes – 40 miles/64 kilometers from downtown Jacksonville
Location: Downtown St. Augustine
Getting There: If you wish to head right down to St. Augustine from Jacksonville, your greatest wager is to rent a car. You can too take the bus if a automobile isn’t an possibility.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: St. Augustine: Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour with Museum Entry
Should-Do Actions: Taking a trolley tour is an absolute should in St. Augustine. Stroll via the grounds of Castillo San Marcos. For those who occur to be visiting through the holidays, I extremely advocate the Nights of Lights Pirate Ship Tour.
The place to Eat: Llama is one among my favourite eating places on the planet – and I’ve been to 25 nations! It’s Peruvian and the meals is to die for. The Conch House is a enjoyable restaurant and bar proper on the water. And River and Fort has an superior rooftop bar with an unbelievable view.
2. Amelia Island
Amelia Island is situated 45 minutes northeast of downtown Jacksonville and is one other implausible possibility for a day journey from Jax. The family-friendly island has a pristine seaside, an cute downtown space/principal avenue, and nice eating places and bars. To not point out an virtually countless listing of out of doors/nature-centric actions as effectively.
Amelia Island can change into crowded through the summer time months, so I choose visiting through the shoulder seasons months of April and Could or September and October. It’s nonetheless heat sufficient to sunbathe on the seaside, however the crowds have subsided.
I like going to Amelia Island to get some recent seafood, a craft beer, and stress-free within the solar for a few hours. It’s actually onerous to not love this space.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 45 minutes – 33 miles/53 kilometers
Location: Amelia Island
Getting There: Touring to Amelia Island is best by car. Sadly, there isn’t any public transportation to the island, until you are taking an Uber.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
Should-Do Actions: Taking a stroll down the charming principal avenue in Fernandina Seashore is a blast. There’s tons of buying, a brewery, and plenty of eateries to check out. Renting an electric bike to cruise alongside the seaside is a superb outing as effectively.
The place to Eat: Each time I go to Amelia Island, going to Amelia Island Brewing Co. is an absolute should. Their beer is nice, and the shrimp chowder and gouda quick rib sandwich dishes are tremendous scrumptious. One other nice possibility for a enjoyable atmosphere is the Salty Pelican Bar & Grill.
3. Little Talbot Island State Park
The Talbot Islands provide an amazing day journey from Jacksonville – and Little Talbot Island is my favourite. Right here, you’ll discover 5 miles of attractive seashores, bike trails, and wildlife-watching alternatives. I like mountain climbing the traditional dunes, searching for seashells, and taking a swim.
Many individuals don’t consider tenting in Florida, however this state park is a extremely enjoyable and exquisite possibility if you wish to sleep below the celebrities. What’s nice about Little Talbot Island is that it’s solely half-hour exterior of Jacksonville.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: half-hour – 26 miles/42 kilometers
Location: Little Talbot Island State Park, 12157 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226
Getting There: When visiting Jacksonville, it’s greatest to have entry to a automobile; driving is the best solution to get to Little Talbot Island State Park. You can too take the car ferry.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Talbot Island Kayak Tour
Should-Do Actions: Basking within the glory and fantastic thing about nature is what it’s all about at Little Talbot Island State Park. Take a kayak tour, go mountain climbing, or escape the binoculars to do some hen watching.
4. Cumberland Island
Georgia’s largest barrier island is Cumberland Island, and it’s situated an hour away from Jacksonville. It’s recognized for having one of the vital spectacular pure habitats on the planet with beautiful, undeveloped seashores.
The island is house to the most important nesting of loggerhead sea turtles, and there are additionally feral horses, armadillos, wild hogs, and plenty of species of birds. It’s really a wild and exquisite place to go to for a day journey.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: Hour and a half – 38 miles/61 kilometers
Location: Cumberland Island
Getting There: You’ll have to drive and take a ferry from St. Mary’s, Georgia.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Cumberland Island Walking Tour
Should-Do Actions: It’s all about nature and historical past on Cumberland Island. Go mountain climbing, swimming, or fishing. Visit the First African Baptist Church, tour the well-known Plum Orchard Mansion, and explore the Dungeness Ruins.
The place to Eat: There’s just one restaurant on your entire island on the famend Greyfield Inn, run by the Carnegie household. They solely provide one seating per evening at 7 p.m., so it’s most likely not the best choice for a day journey. You would possibly wish to pack a picnic and a few snacks.
5. Jekyll Island
A little bit over an hour from Jacksonville is Jekyll Island, Georgia. You’ll must pay a toll to get on the island, but it surely’s a small payment and so value it. This stunning island options quiet, attractive seashores, nice eating places, golf programs, museums, and extra.
Each time I am going to Jekyll Island, going to Driftwood Seashore is a necessity. I all the time make time to go to Tortuga Jacks for a waterside drink and a chew, and I like to recommend you do the identical! You’ll be able to simply spend your entire day exploring this enjoyable hidden gem.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and quarter-hour – 74 miles/119 kilometers
Location: Jekyll Island
Getting There: Touring by automobile is your best choice. You can too take a bus from the Jacksonville airport.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours
Should-Do Actions: Go to the Georgia Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, play mini golf, or go to the Summer Waves Water Park. There’s a lot to do!
The place to Eat: As talked about earlier, Tortuga Jacks is one among my favourite locations for a chew. Another nice choices are Harry’s Lounge, Salty’s Oceanside Bar & Grill, and The Anchor.
6. Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Florida is house to a number of the most stunning geological options. The Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park is simply exterior of Gainesville and makes for an excellent cool day journey from Jacksonville.
The principle attraction of the park is the 120-foot-deep sinkhole. Take a small hike to the staircase that leads you near the underside of the sinkhole with lush vegetation and cooler temperatures. It’s a pleasant respite through the summer time warmth!
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 20 minutes – 74 miles/119 kilometers
Location: Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Millhopper Road, Gainesville, FL
Getting There: Driving to the state park is the best and most suitable choice.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Daily ranger-led tours
Should-Do Actions: The principle level of the go to is to admire the great thing about the limestone sinkhole. Mountaineering down and up these stairs is bound to get your coronary heart pumping!
The place to Eat: Gainesville is only a quick drive away with numerous eating choices. I often all the time cease at The Social at Midtown, Satchel’s Pizza, or El Indio Mexican Restaurant.
7. Osceola Nationwide Forest
Lower than an hour from Jacksonville is the Osceola National Forest. This stunning gem is the proper place to go if you’re searching for a peaceable day in nature. It’s additionally an amazing day journey in Jacksonville for {couples}.
There are miles of trails for mountain climbing, seashores for swimming, and ponds for fishing. There’s additionally an space for goal taking pictures and trails for OHV driving. Though situated simply 45 minutes from town, you’ll really feel such as you’re hours away.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 48 minutes – 49 miles/79 kilometers
Location: Osceola National Forest, 24874 US-90, Sanderson, FL 32087
Getting There: Touring by automobile is your best choice.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: There aren’t any excursions out there, however attempt to time your go to with the annual Civil War reenactment.
Should-Do Actions: With over 200 acres of nature, you possibly can spend hours wandering the paths, swimming on the seaside, or simply conserving a be careful for wildlife.
The place to Eat: Lake Metropolis is the closest city to the park. This tiny however cute city has some yummy choices for meals, like Jessica’s Bistro, Marion Street Bistro, and Cedar River Seafood of Lake City.
8. Gainesville
Gainesville is an excellent enjoyable possibility for a day journey from Jacksonville. The College of Florida college city is energetic, and hip, and affords tons of the way to spend your day. There are attractive parks, scrumptious eating places, and enjoyable actions on this inland Florida city.
The proper day in Gainesville, in my view, seems like going to the Florida Museum of Pure Historical past or the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens earlier than heading to Swamp Head Brewery for an IPA. Though, there’s something to supply everybody – regardless of the age.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 22 minutes – 72 miles/115 kilometers
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Getting There: A automobile is essentially the most handy and quick solution to get to Gainesville. You can too take the bus from Jacksonville.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History
Should-Do Actions: Begin your day with a stroll in nature at Sweetwater Wetlands Park then head to the Harn Museum of Art. Take a stroll on the University of Florida campus earlier than discovering someplace to eat downtown.
The place to Eat: Gainesville has a ton of eating places to select from however a few of my private favorites embody Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grill, Alpin Bistro, and Underground Kitchen.
9. Saint Simons Island
Saint Simons Island, Georgia is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to close to Jacksonville. It’s been named one among Journey + Leisure’s World’s Finest Islands within the Continental U.S., and U.S. Information’ 16 Prime Romantic Getaways in Georgia, in addition to 15 Most Romantic Small Cities within the United States.
The small island is the proper day journey to hang around on the seaside, stroll the oceanside principal avenue, and eat some scrumptious seafood. I used to be lately in Saint Simons Island with my sister, and we couldn’t recover from how charming it was.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 13 minutes – 75 miles/120 kilometers
Location: Saint Simons Island, Georgia
Getting There: Driving by automobile is one of the best journey possibility.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll round Pier Village and stroll the grounds of Fort Frederica. Then, spend a couple of hours on the proper sandy seashores.
The place to Eat: This small island has a number of nice eating choices! Once I lately visited, I beloved Porch, Barrier Island Brewing, and Mallery Street Cafe. I’d advocate any of those spots.
10. Daytona Seashore
It’s a little bit little bit of a drive from Jacksonville, however in case you’re up for it, head south for a day to Daytona Seashore. This world-famous seaside city is bustling through the peak summer time months and the celebrated Bike Week.
Residence to the Daytona Worldwide Speedway and the famend Daytona 500, this metropolis welcomes lots of of hundreds of vacationers annually; not just for the race – but in addition for its vibrant seaside scene.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 28 minutes – 95 miles/153 kilometers
Location: Daytona Beach
Getting There: Driving your self is the quickest possibility, nonetheless, you might additionally take a bus.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Daytona Beach: Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour
Should-Do Actions: The Daytona Worldwide Speedway is a sight to behold, the seaside’s boardwalk has a Ferris wheel and different rides and video games, and you can too drive your automobile on the seaside, which is a extremely cool expertise.
The place to Eat: Ocean Deck Daytona Beach has an superior, relaxed vibe with unbelievable meals. Crabby’s Oceanside and Fratelli’s Pizzeria are additionally implausible.
11. Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka
Palatka is a quiet and charming inland, riverside city with a number of character. The Ravine Gardens State Park is a day journey from Jacksonville that’s severely underrated. I went right here a few month in the past and was blown away by how stunning it was.
Take a hike via the park and its lush vegetation, cross two suspension bridges, and marvel on the waterfalls. It’s a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of town.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Location: Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177
Getting There: Driving by automobile is one of the best and best possibility.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Guided tours are supplied by the park.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll the 1.8-mile paved highway via the breathtaking ravines with stunning views. Attempt to time your go to through the peak flowering season for azaleas – January via March.
The place to Eat: The downtown Palatka space has some nice eating choices. My favourite eateries are The Magnolia Cafe, Corky Bell’s Seafood at Gator Landing, and Velchoff’s Corner.
12. Ginnie Springs
For those who’re searching for a novel spot to chill off through the scorching summer time months, Ginnie Springs is such a enjoyable day journey possibility. It’s a little bit little bit of a distance from Jacksonville, however belief me once I let you know that it’s completely value it.
Kayak, paddleboard, or float the crystal clear waters of the Sante Fe River. You can too lease a snorkel and a masks to discover the waters full of massive bass, catfish, and turtles. It’s surely, a number of the most stunning water I’ve ever seen.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 37 minutes – 85 miles/133 kilometers
Location: Ginnie Springs, 5000 NE 60th Ave., High Springs, Florida 32643
Getting There: Touring by automobile is the best choice.
Should-Do Actions: It’s as much as you the way you’d prefer to spend your day at Ginnie Springs – it is determined by what actions you love to do! You’ll be able to sit back on an internal tube, get pleasure from a extra energetic day on a paddleboard, or play a sport of volleyball.
The place to Eat: You’ll wish to drive into north Gainesville for a meal after a day of swimming. Head to Northwest Grille, Country Foodly, or Las Margaritas.
13. Juniper Springs Recreation Space
One of many oldest and hottest recreation areas on the East Coast, the Juniper Springs Recreation Space seems like one thing out of a postcard. It’s an oasis below a dense cover of palms and oaks.
The crystalline pool of recent spring water is a magical place to swim, and you’ll take a brief stroll on the Juniper Run Nature Path. There are many picnic areas as effectively.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 50 minutes – 111 miles/178 kilometers
Location: Juniper Springs Recreation Area, 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Getting There: Attending to the springs is best and quickest by automobile
Should-Do Actions: Merely soaking within the excellent, clear waters is sufficient to make the day journey value it. There’s a shallow finish to loosen up and funky down in, and a deeper finish for leaping.
The place to Eat: Sadly, there aren’t any eating choices close to the park. It’s greatest to pack your individual snacks and a picnic.
14. Savannah
One in all my favourite issues about residing in Jacksonville is its shut proximity to the superb metropolis of Savannah, Georgia. For those who stand up early and hit the highway, you possibly can spend all day in Savannah and be again house earlier than it will get too late.
Savannah is thought for its historical past, French structure, large oak timber with hanging Spanish moss, and thriving arts and tradition scene. There’s one thing about this metropolis that oozes the epitome of Southern attraction. Plus, they’ve some implausible eating places and breweries.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 2 hours and a pair of minutes – 139 miles/224 kilometers
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Getting There: You will get to Savannah both by automobile, train, or bus.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
Should-Do Actions: There’s SO a lot to do in Savanna; stroll via Forsyth Park, spend a few hours on Tybee Island, stroll via the historic Bonaventure Cemetery, and admire the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
The place to Eat: Savannah is overflowing with scrumptious meals. My favourite eating places are The Olde Pink House, Alligator Soul Restaurant, and The Ordinary Pub.
15. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
One other day journey from Jacksonville, that’s a little bit additional afield, however completely value it, is to Cedar Lakes Woods and Garden. With over 50 backyard shows to admire, these botanical gardens have koi ponds, waterfalls, and beautiful views.
The paths take round an hour and a half to finish and every step is surrounded by pure magnificence. It’s one other peaceable and tranquil journey to get you out of town’s bustle.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 52 minutes – 96 miles/154 kilometers
Location: Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696
Getting There: Touring by automobile will likely be your greatest and best selection.
Should-Do Actions: The paths will information you thru backyard shows like Bamboo Island, Ginger Gardens, and others.
The place to Eat: Southern Gainesville will likely be your possibility for yummy meals. I’d advocate Blue Gill Quality Food, Red Rice Kitchen, or Yummy House.
Finest Day Journey Excursions from Jacksonville Florida
If you wish to take the guesswork out of planning a day journey from Jacksonville, you possibly can all the time take an organized tour. Listed here are some highly-rated, enjoyable tour choices to select from:
1. CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: Have a blast on Amelia Island by taking a CraigCat Boat Tour out of Fernandina Seashore. The two.5-hour tour could have you on the water on a CraigCat Boat, which is actually a go-cart on water. Spot wildlife resembling dolphins, manatees, and turtles. Click here for more details.
2. Big Talbot Island Self-Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: Discover Large Talbot Island at your individual tempo on this 2-3 hour tour. You’ll cruise on electrical bikes with good helmets that can help you talk with different riders. Click here for more details.
3. Jacksonville: Florida Wildlife Guided Airboat Adventure: Get an adrenaline rush by taking a guided airboat tour. The 1.5-hour tour leaves from northeast Jacksonville and also you’ll skim throughout the water with 500 horsepower – maintain onto your hats! Click here for more details.
4. Private Guided Boat Tour up to 6 passengers in Fernandina Beach: Discover Amelia Island by water by yourself non-public boat. The boat will likely be pushed by a USCG-certified captain and can take you round Amelia Island, Cumberland Island, and Fort Clinch State Park. Click here for more details.
5. Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: Downtown Fernandina is stuffed with wealthy tradition. Find out about 300 years of Fernandina historical past on this 1.5-hour guided strolling tour. Pirates, historic houses, and native figures are coated subjects. Click here for more details.
Day Journeys Round Jacksonville Florida: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to essentially the most generally requested questions on one of the best day journeys from Jacksonville, FL:
The most well-liked day journey from Jacksonville is the CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach.
I like to recommend spending at the least 3 days in Jacksonville, or ideally every week.
The most effective day journey from Jacksonville, Florida by practice is to go as much as Savannah, Georgia, to discover the realm. Tickets start from just $30.
Probably the most stunning place close to Jacksonville, Florida, in my view, is St. Augustine. Different stunning areas embody Amelia Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.
Sure! You’ll be able to take a day journey to Orlando because it’s lower than 2 hours away.
The favored vacation spot of Saint Augustine is simply 45 minutes from Jacksonville, Florida.
In Conclusion
Jacksonville’s geographical location makes it an amazing place to have some glorious day journey excursions. That’s one of many largest causes I like residing right here a lot. Inside a brief drive, you could be someplace completely totally different.
Whether or not you’re searching for a day on an island or a dip in some pure springs, Jacksonville has a day journey outing for each curiosity.
Trending Merchandise
