Due to its wonderful location, there are tons of enjoyable day journeys from Jacksonville, only a quick drive from downtown. Jacksonville is positioned subsequent to beautiful 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 12 months, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing dozens of day journeys. The perfect 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 automotive, and also you’ll be a brief drive away from many unimaginable day journeys from Jacksonville. It’s laborious 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 record 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 beautiful metropolis of Saint Augustine. What makes this such a big day journey from Jacksonville is that St. Augustine is the oldest city in the nation – based in 1565. So, anticipate a ton of wealthy historical past, an outdated fort/monument, museums, parks, eating places, and extra.
I reside 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 top-of-the-line locations to go to close to Jacksonville, FL. Regardless of if you happen to’re a frequent customer or a first-time vacationer, it’s a metropolis that’s all the time value testing. Simply by turning a distinct nook, you’ll discover one thing new.
St. Augustine can be house to numerous nice retailers, breweries, parks, and low retailers. Personally, nevertheless, I discover merely strolling across the historic downtown space enjoyable to do by itself. The structure and cobblestone streets are simply unimaginable.
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 guess is to rent a car. You can too take the bus if a automotive 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 by 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 in every of my favourite eating places on the earth – 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 unimaginable view.
2. Amelia Island
Amelia Island is positioned 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 seashore, an cute downtown space/essential road, and nice eating places and bars. To not point out an nearly infinite record of outside/nature-centric actions as properly.
Amelia Island can grow to be 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 stress-free within the solar for a few hours. It’s actually laborious 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 essential road in Fernandina Seashore is a blast. There’s tons of purchasing, a brewery, and many eateries to check out. Renting an electric bike to cruise alongside the seashore is a superb outing as properly.
The place to Eat: Every 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 setting is the Salty Pelican Bar & Grill.
3. Little Talbot Island State Park
The Talbot Islands provide an excellent day journey from Jacksonville – and Little Talbot Island is my favourite. Right here, you’ll discover 5 miles of beautiful seashores, bike trails, and wildlife-watching alternatives. I like 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 very enjoyable and delightful possibility if you wish to sleep beneath 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 automotive; driving is the simplest strategy 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 climbing, or escape the binoculars to do some hen 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 earth with gorgeous, 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 delightful 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.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Cumberland Island Walking Tour
Should-Do Actions: It’s all about nature and historical past on Cumberland Island. Go 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 all the island on the famend Greyfield Inn, run by the Carnegie household. They solely provide one seating per night time at 7 p.m., so it’s in all probability not the best choice for a day journey. You may need to pack a picnic and a few snacks.
5. Jekyll Island
Just a little 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 price and so value it. This lovely island options quiet, beautiful seashores, nice eating places, golf programs, museums, and extra.
Every 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 may 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 automotive is your only option. 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 in every of 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 among the most lovely geological options. The Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park is simply exterior of Gainesville and makes for a brilliant 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: Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Millhopper Road, Gainesville, FL
Getting There: Driving to the state park is the simplest and most suitable choice.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Daily ranger-led tours
Should-Do Actions: The primary level of the go to is to admire the great thing about the limestone sinkhole. Climbing down and up these stairs is certain to get your coronary heart pumping!
The place to Eat: Gainesville is only a quick drive away with numerous eating choices. I normally 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 lovely gem is the right place to go once you’re in search of a peaceable day in nature. It’s additionally an excellent day journey in Jacksonville for {couples}.
There are miles of trails for climbing, seashores for swimming, and ponds for fishing. There’s additionally an space for goal taking pictures and trails for OHV driving. Though positioned 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 automotive is your only option.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: There aren’t any excursions obtainable, however attempt to time your go to with the annual Civil War reenactment.
Should-Do Actions: With over 200 acres of nature, you may spend hours wandering the paths, swimming on the seashore, or simply protecting 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 a brilliant enjoyable possibility for a day journey from Jacksonville. The College of Florida college city is full of life, and hip, and gives tons of the way to spend your day. There are beautiful parks, scrumptious eating places, and enjoyable actions on this inland Florida city.
The proper day in Gainesville, for my part, 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 – irrespective of the age.
Distance from Jacksonville Florida: 1 hour and 22 minutes – 72 miles/115 kilometers
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Getting There: A automotive is probably the most handy and quick strategy 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 likely one of the greatest locations to go to close to Jacksonville. It’s been named one in every of Journey + Leisure’s World’s Finest 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 right day journey to hang around on the seashore, stroll the oceanside essential road, and eat some scrumptious seafood. I used to be just 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 automotive is the most effective journey possibility.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll round Pier Village and stroll the grounds of Fort Frederica. Then, spend a number of hours on the right sandy seashores.
The place to Eat: This small island has numerous nice eating choices! After I just lately visited, I cherished Porch, Barrier Island Brewing, and Mallery Street Cafe. I’d advocate any of those spots.
10. Daytona Seashore
It’s somewhat little bit of a drive from Jacksonville, however if you happen to’re up for it, head south for a day to Daytona Seashore. This world-famous seashore city is bustling through the peak summer time months and the celebrated Bike Week.
House to the Daytona Worldwide Speedway and the famend Daytona 500, this metropolis welcomes tons of of hundreds of vacationers every year; not just for the race – but additionally for its vibrant seashore 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, nevertheless, you can 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 seashore’s boardwalk has a Ferris wheel and different rides and video games, and you too can drive your automotive on the seashore, which is a very cool expertise.
The place to Eat: Ocean Deck Daytona Beach has an superior, relaxed vibe with unimaginable 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 numerous character. The Ravine Gardens State Park is a day journey from Jacksonville that’s critically underrated. I went right here a few month in the past and was blown away by how lovely 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 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 automotive is the most effective and best possibility.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Guided tours are provided by the park.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll the 1.8-mile paved street by the breathtaking ravines with lovely views. Try 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 Landing, and Velchoff’s Corner.
12. Ginnie Springs
For those who’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 somewhat little bit of a distance from Jacksonville, however belief me once I inform you 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 stuffed with massive bass, catfish, and turtles. It’s undoubtedly, among the most lovely 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 automotive is the best choice.
Should-Do Actions: It’s as much as you ways you’d wish to spend your day at Ginnie Springs – it will depend on what actions you love to do! You may relax on an inside tube, get pleasure from a extra energetic day on a paddleboard, or play a recreation of volleyball.
The place to Eat: You’ll need 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 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 Area, 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Getting There: Attending to the springs is best and quickest by automotive
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 chill out and funky down in, and a deeper finish for leaping.
The place to Eat: Sadly, there are not any eating choices close to the park. It’s greatest to pack your personal snacks and a picnic.
14. Savannah
One in all my favourite issues about residing in Jacksonville is its shut proximity to the wonderful metropolis of Savannah, Georgia. For those who 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, large 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 allure. 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 may get to Savannah both by automotive, 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 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 House, Alligator Soul Restaurant, and The Ordinary Pub.
15. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
One other day journey from Jacksonville, that’s somewhat 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 automotive can 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 can 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 may 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 reminiscent of dolphins, manatees, and turtles. Click here for more details.
2. Big Talbot Island Self-Guided Tour with Smart 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 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 personal boat. The boat can 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. Study 300 years of Fernandina historical past on this 1.5-hour guided strolling tour. Pirates, historic houses, and native figures are lined matters. Click here for more details.
Day Journeys Round Jacksonville Florida: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to probably the most generally requested questions on the most effective 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 a minimum of 3 days in Jacksonville, or ideally per week.
The perfect 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 lovely place close to Jacksonville, Florida, for my part, is St. Augustine. Different lovely areas embody Amelia Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.
Sure! You may 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 excellent place to have some wonderful day journey excursions. That’s one of many greatest causes I like residing right here a lot. Inside a brief drive, you could 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.
