Florida Vacations - Jacksonville

Jacksonville Florida

144 miles from Tallahassee and 73 miles from St Augustine

Jacksonville has the best of two worlds with a thriving metropolis offering all the attractions and amenities expected of a modern city plus a wide Atlantic shoreline comprising 20 miles (32 km) of sandy white beaches. With a climate of year round sunshine and an average temperature 78 degrees F,  Jacksonville is a popular vacation destination.

The city attracts visitors wanting city entertainment, major sporting events and a variety of nightlife. Jacksonville Landing offers an abundance of shopping, dining and entertainment and hosts many of the events and festivals held throughout the year.

The city boasts an excellent zoo showcasing a variety of animals and educational exhibits. The St. Johns River meanders through the city and is flanked by the 1.2-mile (2 km) Southbank Riverwalk located opposite to Jacksonville Landing.

This popular venue attracts joggers, tourists, bench sitters, and hand-holding lovers all of whom can enjoy the passing riverboats, the local birds and the reflected city skyline. 

In sharp contrast to the city environment, rich rural landscapes comprise the area west of Jacksonville. Dotted with beautiful lakes and wooded terrain, this region is not widely known to many outsiders, but offers a respite for all who appreciate the peace and quiet of a rural countryside.

As with all parts of Florida, Jacksonville boasts some wonderful golf courses. Minutes away from the bustle of downtown lies Jacksonville Beach, attracting locals and visitors alike who seek the simple pleasures of swimming, sun-tans, beach and offshore fishing and water sports.

The nearby Amelia Island has an air of Southern influence and climate. Fernandina Beach, the only town on the island, is a popular destination and hosts over 450 stylish Victorian residences. 

Jacksonville accommodation consists of hotels, inns and bed 'n breakfasts in the downtown areas and city approaches with beach resorts, hotels, inns and vacation rentals servicing the Jacksonville Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach areas.

Getting There & Getting Around

Jacksonville International Airport is 12 miles from downtown. It's served by Air Canada, American, Continental, Delta, Midway, Northwest, Southwest, United, Metro Jet and US Airways.

Taxi cabs service the city and surrounding areas. Express Shuttles provides van services to and from hotels and resorts throughout the area.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority, operates the Skyway, an elevated and automated train running through downtown and across the river to the Southbank Riverwalk. The Trolley is a free service that connects with the Skyway and runs east-west through downtown. The authority also provides local bus services. 

Out at the beaches, the St. Johns River Ferry operates a 5-minute ride that greatly shortens the trip between the Jacksonville beaches and Amelia Island. Amtrak provides services to the Jacksonville rail station.

Jacksonville vacation highlights :: getting the best from a Jacksonville vacation

Jacksonville Guide
Jacksonville Scene
Jacksonville Vacations