Finest Day Journeys From Jacksonville Florida (By a Metropolis Native)

Due to its wonderful location, there are tons of enjoyable day journeys from Jacksonville, only a brief 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 dwelling 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 automotive, and also you’ll be a brief drive away from many unbelievable 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 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 So, count on a ton of wealthy historical past, an outdated fort/monument, museums, parks, eating places, and extra.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 top-of-the-line locations to go to close to Jacksonville, FL. Regardless of in the event you’re a frequent customer or a first-time vacationer, it’s a metropolis that’s at all times price trying out. Simply by turning a unique nook, you’ll discover one thing new.

St. Augustine can be house to numerous nice retailers, breweries, parks, and low 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 all the way down to St. Augustine from Jacksonville, your greatest guess is to lease a automotive. You may also take the bus if a automotive isn’t an choice.
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. Should you occur to be visiting through the holidays, I extremely advocate the Nights of Lights Pirate Ship Tour.
The place to Eat: Llama is certainly one 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 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 situated 45 minutes northeast of downtown Jacksonville and is one other implausible choice for a day journey from Jax. The family-friendly island has a pristine seaside, an lovable downtown space/most important avenue, and nice eating places and bars. To not point out an nearly limitless listing of outside/nature-centric actions as properly.

Amelia Island can turn into crowded through the summer time months, so I favor 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 really 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 automotive. 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 most important avenue in Fernandina Seaside is a blast. There’s tons of purchasing, a brewery, and many eateries to check out. Renting an electrical bike to cruise alongside the seaside is a good 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 brief rib sandwich dishes are tremendous scrumptious. One other nice choice for a enjoyable surroundings 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 really like 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 choice if you wish to sleep underneath the celebs. What’s nice about Little Talbot Island is that it’s solely half-hour outdoors 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 approach to get to Little Talbot Island State Park. You may also take the automotive 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 get away 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 identified for having some of the spectacular pure habitats on the earth with gorgeous, 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 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 have to drive and take a ferry from St. Mary’s, Georgia.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Cumberland Island Strolling Tour
Should-Do Actions: It’s all about nature and historical past on Cumberland Island. Go 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 your entire 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 in all probability not the most suitable choice for a day journey. You may need 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, however it’s a small payment and so price it. This lovely island options quiet, attractive seashores, nice eating places, golf programs, museums, and extra.

Every time I am going to Jekyll Island, going to Driftwood Seaside is a necessity. I at all times make time to go to Tortuga Jacks for a waterside drink and a chunk, and I like to recommend you do the identical! You possibly can 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 automotive is your only option. You may also take a bus from the Jacksonville airport.
Finest 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 certainly one 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 lovely geological options. The Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park is simply outdoors 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: Satan’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Millhopper Highway, Gainesville, FL
Getting There: Driving to the state park is the simplest and best choice.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Day by day ranger-led excursions
Should-Do Actions: The principle level of the go to is to admire the fantastic 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 numerous eating choices. I normally at all times 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 lovely gem is the proper place to go while you’re searching for a peaceable day in nature. It’s additionally a terrific 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 capturing and trails for OHV driving. Though situated 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 automotive is your only option.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: There aren’t any excursions accessible, however try 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 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 lovable city has some yummy choices for meals, like Jessica’s Bistro, Marion Avenue Bistro, and Cedar River Seafood of Lake Metropolis.

8. Gainesville

Gainesville is an excellent enjoyable choice for a day journey from Jacksonville. The College of Florida faculty city is vigorous, and hip, and presents 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, in my view, seems to be 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 essentially the most handy and quick approach to get to Gainesville. You may also take the bus from Jacksonville.
Finest 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 likely one of the greatest locations to go to close to Jacksonville. It’s been named certainly one 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 proper day journey to hang around on the seaside, stroll the oceanside most important 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 automotive is the most effective journey choice.
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 lately visited, I cherished Porch, Barrier Island Brewing, and Mallery Avenue Cafe. I’d advocate any of those spots.

10. Daytona Seaside

It’s just a little little bit of a drive from Jacksonville, however in the event you’re up for it, head south for a day to Daytona Seaside. This world-famous seaside 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 a whole bunch of 1000’s of vacationers annually; not just for the race – but additionally for its vibrant seaside 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 choice, nonetheless, you can additionally take a bus.
Finest 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 seaside’s boardwalk has a Ferris wheel and different rides and video games, and it’s also possible to drive your automotive on the seaside, 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 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 couple of month in the past and was blown away by how lovely 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 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 automotive is the most effective and best choice.
Finest Tour from Jacksonville Florida: Guided excursions are supplied by the park.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll the 1.8-mile paved highway via the breathtaking ravines with lovely views. Try 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 Touchdown, and Velchoff’s Nook.

12. Ginnie Springs

Should you’re searching for a singular spot to chill off through the scorching summer time months, Ginnie Springs is such a enjoyable day journey choice. It’s just a little little bit of a distance from Jacksonville, however belief me after I inform you that it’s completely price it.

Kayak, paddleboard, or float the crystal clear waters of the Sante Fe River. You may also lease a snorkel and a masks to discover the waters crammed with giant bass, catfish, and turtles. It’s for sure, 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 sixtieth Ave., Excessive Springs, Florida 32643
Getting There: Touring by automotive is the most suitable 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 possibly can relax on an internal tube, take pleasure in a extra energetic day on a paddleboard, or play a sport 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, 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 seems to be like one thing out of a postcard. It’s an oasis underneath 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 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 automotive
Should-Do Actions: Merely soaking within the good, clear waters is sufficient to make the day journey price 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 individual snacks and a picnic.

14. Savannah

Certainly one of my favourite issues about dwelling in Jacksonville is its shut proximity to the wonderful metropolis of Savannah, Georgia. Should you stand up early and hit the highway, you may spend all day in Savannah and be again house earlier than it will get too late.

Savannah is understood 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 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 will get to Savannah both by automotive, prepare, 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 Home, Alligator Soul Restaurant, and The Odd Pub.

15. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

One other day journey from Jacksonville, that’s just a little additional afield, however completely price 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 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 choice for yummy meals. I’d advocate Blue Gill High quality Meals, Pink Rice Kitchen, or Yummy Home.

Finest Day Journey Excursions from Jacksonville Florida

If you wish to take the guesswork out of planning a day journey from Jacksonville, you may at all times 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 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 on right here for extra particulars.

2. Huge Talbot Island Self-Guided Tour with Sensible Helmets: Discover Huge Talbot Island at your individual tempo on this 2-3 hour tour. You’ll cruise on electrical bikes with sensible helmets that will let 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 can 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 properties, and native figures are coated subjects. 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 the most effective day journeys from Jacksonville, FL:

In Conclusion

Jacksonville’s geographical location makes it a terrific place to have some glorious day journey excursions. That’s one of many largest causes I really like dwelling right here a lot. Inside a brief drive, you might 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.