Due to its wonderful location, there are tons of enjoyable day journeys from Jacksonville, only a brief drive from downtown. Jacksonville is positioned 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 world for 5 years and residing south of Jacksonville for over a 12 months, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing dozens of day journeys. The very best half? I do know there are nonetheless so many locations to go to close to Jacksonville that I haven’t found but!
Greatest 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 exhausting to decide on the “greatest” excursions close to the Daring Metropolis as a result of there are such a lot of incredible 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 big day journey from Jacksonville is that St. Augustine is the oldest metropolis within 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 dwell midway between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, so I’m fortunate sufficient to go to the “Historical Metropolis” very often. To me, it’s by far probably the greatest locations to go to close to Jacksonville, FL. Irrespective of should you’re a frequent customer or a first-time vacationer, it’s a metropolis that’s all the time value trying out. Simply by turning a special nook, you’ll discover one thing new.
St. Augustine can also be house to a number of 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 lease a automobile. It’s also possible to take the bus if a automobile isn’t an possibility.
Greatest 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 by the grounds of Castillo San Marcos. Should you occur to be visiting through the holidays, I extremely suggest the Nights of Lights Pirate Ship Tour.
The place to Eat: Llama is one in every of 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 Home 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 positioned 45 minutes northeast of downtown Jacksonville and is one other incredible possibility for a day journey from Jax. The family-friendly island has a pristine seashore, an cute downtown space/important road, and nice eating places and bars. To not point out an virtually limitless listing of out of doors/nature-centric actions as properly.
Amelia Island can change into crowded through the summer time months, so I desire visiting through the shoulder seasons months of April and Might or September and October. It’s nonetheless heat sufficient to sunbathe on the seashore, however the crowds have subsided.
I like going to Amelia Island to get some recent seafood, a craft beer, and enjoyable within the solar for a few hours. It’s actually exhausting 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 automobile. Sadly, there isn’t any public transportation to the island, except you’re taking an Uber.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek
Should-Do Actions: Taking a stroll down the charming important road in Fernandina Seaside is a blast. There’s tons of procuring, a brewery, and many eateries to check out. Renting an electrical bike to cruise alongside the seashore is a good outing as properly.
The place to Eat: At any time when 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 brief 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 supply a terrific 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, in search of 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 beneath the celebs. 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 strategy to get to Little Talbot Island State Park. It’s also possible to take the automobile ferry.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Talbot Island Kayak Tour
Should-Do Actions: Basking within the glory and great thing about nature is what it’s all about at Little Talbot Island State Park. Take a kayak tour, go mountain climbing, or get away the binoculars to do some chook watching.
4. Cumberland Island
Georgia’s largest barrier island is Cumberland Island, and it’s positioned an hour away from Jacksonville. It’s recognized for having some of the spectacular pure habitats on the planet with beautiful, undeveloped seashores.
The island is house to the biggest nesting of loggerhead sea turtles, and there are additionally feral horses, armadillos, wild hogs, and lots of species of birds. It’s actually 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 must drive and take a ferry from St. Mary’s, Georgia.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Cumberland Island Strolling Tour
Should-Do Actions: It’s all about nature and historical past on Cumberland Island. Go mountain climbing, swimming, or fishing. Go to the First African Baptist Church, tour the well-known Plum Orchard Mansion, and discover the Dungeness Ruins.
The place to Eat: There’s just one restaurant on all the island on the famend Greyfield Inn, run by the Carnegie household. They solely supply one seating per evening at 7 p.m., so it’s most likely not the most suitable choice for a day journey. You may wish to pack a picnic and a few snacks.
5. Jekyll Island
Somewhat over an hour from Jacksonville is Jekyll Island, Georgia. You’ll need to 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.
At any time when I’m going to Jekyll Island, going to Driftwood Seaside is a necessity. I all the time make time to go to Tortuga Jacks for a waterside drink and a chunk, and I like to recommend you do the identical! You’ll be able to simply spend all the 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. It’s also possible to take a bus from the Jacksonville airport.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Jekyll Island Dolphin Excursions
Should-Do Actions: Go to the Georgia Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Middle, play mini golf, or go to the Summer season Waves Water Park. There’s a lot to do!
The place to Eat: As talked about earlier, Tortuga Jacks is one in every of my favourite locations for a chunk. 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 among 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 primary 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: Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Millhopper Highway, Gainesville, FL
Getting There: Driving to the state park is the best and most suitable choice.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Every day ranger-led excursions
Should-Do Actions: The primary level of the go to is to admire the great thing about the limestone sinkhole. Mountaineering down and up these stairs is certain to get your coronary heart pumping!
The place to Eat: Gainesville is only a brief drive away with a number of 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 Nationwide Forest. This stunning gem is the proper place to go whenever you’re in search of a peaceable day in nature. It’s additionally a terrific 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 using. Though positioned simply 45 minutes from the town, you’ll really feel such as you’re hours away.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 48 minutes – 49 miles/79 kilometers
Location: Osceola Nationwide Forest, 24874 US-90, Sanderson, FL 32087
Getting There: Touring by automobile is your best choice.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: There aren’t any excursions accessible, however attempt to time your go to with the annual Civil Struggle reenactment.
Should-Do Actions: With over 200 acres of nature, you may spend hours wandering the paths, swimming on the seashore, or simply preserving 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 Road Bistro, and Cedar River Seafood of Lake Metropolis.
8. Gainesville
Gainesville is an excellent enjoyable possibility for a day journey from Jacksonville. The College of Florida school city is full of life, and hip, and gives tons of how to spend your day. There are attractive parks, scrumptious eating places, and enjoyable actions on this inland Florida city.
The right day in Gainesville, for my part, appears 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 – irrespective 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 strategy to get to Gainesville. It’s also possible to take the bus from Jacksonville.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Pure Historical past
Should-Do Actions: Begin your day with a stroll in nature at Sweetwater Wetlands Park then head to the Harn Museum of Artwork. Take a stroll on the College 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 embrace 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 in every of Journey + Leisure’s World’s Greatest Islands within the Continental U.S., and U.S. Information’ 16 High 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 seashore, stroll the oceanside important road, and eat some scrumptious seafood. I used to be not too long ago 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 number of hours on the proper sandy seashores.
The place to Eat: This small island has a number of nice eating choices! After I not too long ago visited, I liked Porch, Barrier Island Brewing, and Mallery Road Cafe. I’d suggest any of those spots.
10. Daytona Seaside
It’s a bit little bit of a drive from Jacksonville, however should you’re up for it, head south for a day to Daytona Seaside. This world-famous seashore 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 a whole lot of 1000’s of vacationers every year; not just for the race – but in addition for its vibrant seashore scene.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 28 minutes – 95 miles/153 kilometers
Location: Daytona Seaside
Getting There: Driving your self is the quickest possibility, nonetheless, you may additionally take a bus.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Daytona Seaside: Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour
Should-Do Actions: The Daytona Worldwide Speedway is a sight to behold, the seashore’s boardwalk has a Ferris wheel and different rides and video games, and you can too drive your automobile on the seashore, which is a extremely cool expertise.
The place to Eat: Ocean Deck Daytona Seaside has an superior, relaxed vibe with unbelievable meals. Crabby’s Oceanside and Fratelli’s Pizzeria are additionally incredible.
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 couple of month in the past and was blown away by how stunning it was.
Take a hike by 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 the 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.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Guided excursions are supplied by the park.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll the 1.8-mile paved street by the breathtaking ravines with stunning views. Attempt to time your go to through the peak flowering season for azaleas – January by 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 Touchdown, and Velchoff’s Nook.
12. Ginnie Springs
Should you’re in search of a novel spot to chill off through the sizzling summer time months, Ginnie Springs is such a enjoyable day journey possibility. It’s a bit little bit of a distance from Jacksonville, however belief me after I let you know that it’s completely value it.
Kayak, paddleboard, or float the crystal clear waters of the Sante Fe River. It’s also possible to lease a snorkel and a masks to discover the waters crammed with massive bass, catfish, and turtles. It’s indubitably, among 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 sixtieth Ave., Excessive Springs, Florida 32643
Getting There: Touring by automobile is the most suitable choice.
Should-Do Actions: It’s as much as you ways you’d prefer to spend your day at Ginnie Springs – it relies on what actions you love to do! You’ll be able to relax on an interior tube, get pleasure from a extra lively 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, Nation 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 appears like one thing out of a postcard. It’s an oasis beneath a dense cover of palms and oaks.
The crystalline pool of recent spring water is a magical place to swim, and you may take a brief stroll on the Juniper Run Nature Path. There are many picnic areas as properly.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 50 minutes – 111 miles/178 kilometers
Location: Juniper Springs Recreation Space, 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 calm down 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 personal snacks and a picnic.
14. Savannah
Certainly one of my favourite issues about residing in Jacksonville is its shut proximity to the wonderful metropolis of Savannah, Georgia. Should you rise up early and hit the street, you may 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, huge oak bushes with hanging Spanish moss, and thriving arts and tradition scene. There’s one thing about this metropolis that oozes the epitome of Southern appeal. Plus, they’ve some incredible eating places and breweries.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 2 hours and a couple of minutes – 139 miles/224 kilometers
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Getting There: You may get to Savannah both by automobile, practice, or bus.
Greatest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
Should-Do Actions: There’s SO a lot to do in Savanna; stroll by Forsyth Park, spend a few hours on Tybee Island, stroll by 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 Home, Alligator Soul Restaurant, and The Atypical Pub.
15. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
One other day journey from Jacksonville, that’s a bit additional afield, however completely value it, is to Cedar Lakes Woods and Backyard. 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 the town’s bustle.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 52 minutes – 96 miles/154 kilometers
Location: Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE one hundred and eightieth Ave, Williston, FL 32696
Getting There: Touring by automobile will likely be your greatest and best alternative.
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 suggest Blue Gill High quality Meals, Pink Rice Kitchen, or Yummy Home.
Greatest Day Journey Excursions from Jacksonville Florida
If you wish to take the guesswork out of planning a day journey from Jacksonville, you may all the time take an organized tour. Listed below are some highly-rated, enjoyable tour choices to select from:
1. CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Seaside: Have a blast on Amelia Island by taking a CraigCat Boat Tour out of Fernandina Seaside. The two.5-hour tour may have you on the water on a CraigCat Boat, which is actually a go-cart on water. Spot wildlife corresponding to dolphins, manatees, and turtles. Click on right here for extra particulars.
2. Huge Talbot Island Self-Guided Tour with Good Helmets: Discover Huge Talbot Island at your personal tempo on this 2-3 hour tour. You’ll cruise on electrical bikes with good helmets that help you talk with different riders. Click on right here for extra particulars.
3. Jacksonville: Florida Wildlife Guided Airboat Journey: 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 on right here for extra particulars.
4. Personal Guided Boat Tour as much as 6 passengers in Fernandina Seaside: Discover Amelia Island by water by yourself personal 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 on right here for extra particulars.
5. Downtown Fernandina Historic Strolling Tour: Downtown Fernandina is stuffed with wealthy tradition. Study 300 years of Fernandina historical past on this 1.5-hour guided strolling tour. Pirates, historic houses, and native figures are coated matters. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Day Journeys Round Jacksonville Florida: FAQs
Listed below 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 Seaside.
I like to recommend spending not less than 3 days in Jacksonville, or ideally per week.
The very best day journey from Jacksonville, Florida by practice is to move as much as Savannah, Georgia, to discover the world. Tickets begin from simply $30.
Probably the most stunning place close to Jacksonville, Florida, for my part, is St. Augustine. Different stunning areas embrace 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 a terrific place to have some wonderful day journey excursions. That’s one of many largest causes I like residing right here a lot. Inside a brief drive, you may be someplace completely completely different.
Whether or not you’re in search of a day on an island or a dip in some pure springs, Jacksonville has a day journey outing for each curiosity.
