Famous for its white sand beaches
Jacksonville Beach, Florida, is a vibrant coastal community offering a blend of leisure activities, culinary delights, and educational opportunities. Here's a guide to what you can expect in this lively beach town:
Jacksonville Beach, originally known as Ruby Beach, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. In the 1880s, it became a popular destination for tourists and residents of Jacksonville, thanks to the construction of the railroad by the Jacksonville and Atlantic Railway Company. The area was officially incorporated as Pablo Beach in 1907, a name it retained until 1925 when it was renamed Jacksonville Beach to reflect its close ties with the city of Jacksonville.
Throughout the early 20th century, Jacksonville Beach grew as a seaside resort. The Seabreeze Amusement Park, which opened in 1915, attracted visitors with its roller coasters, dance pavilion, and other attractions. The construction of the Jacksonville Beach Boardwalk in the 1920s further cemented the area's reputation as a recreational hotspot.
Significant events that have shaped Jacksonville Beach include the Great Fire of 1901 in nearby Jacksonville, which indirectly boosted the beach's popularity as people sought new places to live and vacation. The opening of the Jacksonville Beach Pier in 1959 also played a key role in drawing tourists and fishermen alike. Today, Jacksonville Beach is known for its vibrant community, beautiful shoreline, and a blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
Jacksonville Beach is known for its idyllic beachfront setting, perfect for a range of activities. The 4.1-mile stretch of white sand beach is a hub for volleyball, surfing, and fishing. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is a popular spot, extending a quarter-mile into the ocean, ideal for fishing enthusiasts or those simply enjoying the view. Cultural attractions include the Beaches Museum & History Park, which offers insights into the area's rich history, and Players by the Sea, a community theater presenting a diverse range of productions. For golf lovers, the Jacksonville Beach Golf Club provides an 18-hole course near the Intracoastal Waterway.
When it comes to dining, Jacksonville Beach doesn't disappoint. V Pizza serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and Italian gelato, while JaxSpice offers a modern twist on classic Indian dishes. Green Room Brewing, the first microbrewery in the area, is known for its craft beers and seasonal specialties. For a casual atmosphere, Monkey’s Uncle Tavern and Hoptinger provide pub grub and a lively setting. Other notable mentions include Delicomb for all-day breakfast, Graffiti Junktion for burgers, Habibi Bar & Hookah Lounge for Mediterranean cuisine, and Joe’s Crab Shack for seafood lovers.
Jacksonville Beach neighborhoods offer a mix of residential, resort, and business communities. Some of the top neighborhoods include Acquilus, Atlantic Shores, Beachcomber, Costa Verano, Marbella, Ocean Cay, Paradise Key, Pelican Point, Rip Tide, Valencia, Vista del Mar, The Watermark, and Water's Edge. These areas are known for their beach-style living, close-knit community feel, and proximity to dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
The area is replete with various dining and shopping options, catering to all tastes. From seaside spots to trendy eateries and local breweries, there's something for everyone. The city’s boardwalk is a focal point for many restaurants and shops, and frequent festivals and events add to the vibrant local culture.
Apart from beach activities, Jacksonville Beach offers parks and recreational facilities. Huguenot Park is a serene green space with a fishing lake, basketball courts, and playground equipment. The Jacksonville Beach Tennis Center and public golf courses provide additional outdoor leisure opportunities.
Jacksonville Beach offers a range of educational options, catering to the diverse needs of its residents. The area is served by the Duval County Public Schools system, which includes several well-regarded institutions:
In addition to public schools, Jacksonville Beach is home to several private and charter schools:
For higher education, nearby Jacksonville hosts several institutions, including the University of North Florida (UNF) and Jacksonville University, providing residents with accessible options for advanced degrees and continuing education.
Jacksonville Beach is well-connected, making commuting and accessibility convenient for its residents. The area is primarily accessed via major roadways such as State Road A1A (3rd Street) and Beach Boulevard (US Route 90), which provide direct routes to Jacksonville and other surrounding areas.
For those commuting to downtown Jacksonville, the journey typically takes about 20-30 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. Interstate 295, located just a short drive from Jacksonville Beach, offers a quick connection to the broader highway network, facilitating easy travel to other parts of Florida and beyond.
Public transportation options are available through the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), which operates several bus routes serving Jacksonville Beach and connecting it to the greater Jacksonville area. The Beaches Trolley, a popular service during the summer months, provides a convenient and scenic way to travel along the coastal communities.
Cycling is also a popular mode of transport in Jacksonville Beach, thanks to the flat terrain and numerous bike lanes. The city encourages this eco-friendly commuting option, and many residents take advantage of the pleasant weather to bike to work or for leisure.
For air travel, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is approximately 35 miles away, offering a range of domestic and international flights. The airport is easily accessible via major highways, ensuring convenient travel options for residents and visitors.
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Jacksonville Beach is a dynamic and engaging community with plenty to offer in terms of leisure, dining, education, and neighborhood living. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, this beach town ensures a memorable experience with its diverse attractions and activities.
23,492 people live in Jacksonville Beach, where the median age is 41.9 and the average individual income is $65,452. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Jacksonville Beach has 10,655 households, with an average household size of 2.19. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Jacksonville Beach do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 23,492 people call Jacksonville Beach home. The population density is 3,210.35 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Steve has overseen the marketing and sales of literally thousands of residential, commercial, and land listings in Northeast Florida, including permitting and construction of many single-family residences.
