Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Atlantic Beach, FL

Located at the northern end of Jacksonville Beaches, Atlantic Beach is a coastal community that borders Jacksonville yet is approximately 25 minutes from downtown.

This section of the coastline was first developed in the early 20th century following the introduction of the railroad.

Atlantic Beach quickly gained recognition as a premier tourism destination, exemplified by a grand luxury resort that was destroyed by fire in 1919.

Today, it serves as a location for serene days by the sea, featuring numerous access points along the beach, while nature thrives in Hanna Park to the north.

A notable aspect of the city is its strong sense of community, evident during the weekly farmers’ market at Jack Russell Park and at the Atlantic Beach Arts Market, which hosts vibrant educational initiatives.

1. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Situated in Mayport along the northern boundary of Atlantic Beach, this area offers 1.5 miles of captivating coastline to explore. The beach remains largely undeveloped, featuring only walkovers across the dunes and the expansive ocean beyond.

The inland portion of Hanna Park presents a rare stretch of mature coastal hammock, a feature that is becoming increasingly uncommon along Florida’s bustling Atlantic shoreline.

While the beach is the primary attraction, the park offers a wealth of additional amenities including over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, a freshwater lake, 300 campsites, kayak rentals, and a splash area for children.

Moreover, the park is recognized as an excellent surfing destination, which will be detailed later in this article.

2. Beaches Town Center

At the point where Atlantic Boulevard meets the ocean, there is a vibrant shopping and dining area that extends into Neptune Beach.

Beaches Town Center features pedestrian-friendly palm-lined streets, an array of boutiques, a yoga studio, a fitness center, a watersports outfitter, and two oceanfront hotels.

Primarily, it is the premier dining destination in Atlantic Beach, offering diverse culinary options that could satisfy any palate.

While fresh local seafood dominates the menu, visitors can also indulge in Filipino cuisine, steaks, subs, breakfast items, pan-Asian street food, barbecue, and various fast food chains.

3. Atlantic Beach Access

Along the coastline of Atlantic Beach, there are a total of two miles of pristine sandy beaches accessible at 14 public entry points.

Consequently, those seeking a tranquil ocean retreat beyond Hanna Park are presented with numerous options.

According to my observations, at least half of these access points are equipped with amenities such as showers and parking areas. If convenience to restaurants and shops is desired, Ahern Street is an ideal choice.

Further north, 10th Street offers a more tranquil environment, featuring several parking spaces next to the dune walkover. This location also holds historical significance as the former site of the expansive Continental Hotel owned by tycoon Henry Flagler from 1901 to 1919.

4. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

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Crossing the St. Johns River takes you into a National Preserve encompassing nearly 50,000 acres of marshes, dunes, and hardwood forests.

This expansive area is named after the Timucua people, Native Americans who inhabited this region for centuries, extending into the Early Modern Age.

In addition to its untouched natural settings, the preserve hosts several historical landmarks, including the Kingsley Plantation (circa 1797) and the 16th-century Fort Caroline, both of which provide unique insights into the local history.

The staff within the preserve organizes a variety of historical and ecological tours, programs, and activities. Additionally, there are volunteer opportunities available for those interested in assisting with the park’s maintenance.

5. Dutton Island Preserve

This is the largest public park in Atlantic Beach, situated within a salt marsh ecosystem along the Intracoastal Waterway.

On the elevated areas, visitors can traverse more than three miles of trails, meandering through live oak hammocks and pine flatwoods. Proceeding north within the preserve leads to a fishing pier and observation deck that offers breathtaking views of the marshlands.

On the southern end, kayaks or canoes can be launched to follow a two-mile trail through the salt marsh. Pets are permitted on a leash, with picnic facilities available among the pines and oaks.

6. Atlantic Beach Arts Market

Opened in a quaint clapboard structure in 2018, the Atlantic Beach Arts Market serves multiple purposes. Encompassing over 5,000 square feet, it is a creative haven for nearly 100 local artists and vendors.

The market provides an opportunity to purchase a diverse range of handcrafted goods.

Personally, I found numerous items enticing, including handblown glass, unique pottery, ocean-themed artworks, and ceramic garden ornaments.

Moreover, it functions as a learning center, featuring a robust schedule of workshops and classes, whether attendees wish to hone their painting skills or craft their own coffee mugs.

7. Tide Views Preserve

Occupying eight acres, this preserve provides additional access points to the Intracoastal Waterway.

At Tide Views Preserve, visitors can explore approximately 2,500 feet of trails and elevated boardwalks equipped with educational signage regarding wetland wildlife, presenting an exceptional vantage point by the water.

During my visit, I observed herons, ospreys, ibises, a snowy egret, various snakes, and numerous crabs. At the far west end, a covered observation platform offers a prime view of the sunset in the evening.

8. Jack Russell Park

As the principal public park for recreation in Atlantic Beach, Jack Russell Park is located on the west side of City Hall. Facilities for baseball, basketball, tennis, and soccer are available within the park.

Notably, the most scenic part of the park is the cluster of tall pines located on the north side, which encompasses the main playground and a series of picnic shelters.

On the southern side, the Oceanside Rotary Skateboard Park is open for skateboard and inline skating, featuring various structures including a half-bowl with a 12-foot vertical drop. On Sundays, Jack Russell Park hosts the farmers’ market, which will be detailed next.

9. Atlantic Beach Farmers’ Market

Every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, a vibrant farmers’ market takes place under the trees at Jack Russell Park.

Initiated in the early 2020s, the market attracts up to 1,000 shoppers weekly, centered primarily around seasonal fresh produce from local farms.

During my visit, I noted items such as spices, non-GMO chicken, eggs, grass-fed beef, plants, local seafood, and a variety of handmade crafts including candles, leather bags, jewelry, and assorted soaps and lotions.

In the distinct style of quality markets, visitors can also enjoy a selection of prepared foods, ranging from wood-fired pizzas to acai bowls.

10. St. Johns River Ferry

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After traversing over 300 miles, Florida’s longest and most renowned river ultimately meets the ocean just north of Atlantic Beach.

The simplest way to cross the expansive lower sections of the St. Johns River when traveling along the shore is via ferry.

Connecting the historic village of Mayport to Fort George Island, the ferry has been an essential transport service since 1874.

While it is an economical option ($7 per vehicle during my visit), it is also incredibly scenic. During the five-minute journey, passengers can admire the river mouth and possibly observe the resident dolphin pod.

Ferries operate every half-hour from Monday to Friday during daylight hours, with extended service available on Fridays through Sundays.

11. The Mayport Poles

Lastly, I would like to highlight the premier surfing location in the Jacksonville region. Located at the northern limits of Hanna Park, the Poles is an exposed beach and pier break that consistently delivers good surf year-round.

The optimal surfing conditions occur when winds blow from the west and collide with an east swell. This phenomenon typically manifests most frequently during July, though it can be anticipated throughout any season.

Another notable surf venue in the vicinity is Jacksonville Beach Pier, situated a few miles further down the coast.

12. Seafood Kitchen

Having been a local favorite for over three decades, the Seafood Kitchen on Atlantic Blvd was recently renovated during my time in town.

This establishment is known for generous portions of freshly caught seafood. It was striking to learn that many menu items feature fish sourced directly by the restaurant’s own fishing team.

If you are visiting The Beaches and happen to catch some fish, you can bring your catch here for preparation in a range of styles.

Some recommended dishes include stuffed flounder, blackened grouper, blackened triggerfish tacos, and, undeniably, Mayport shrimp. The latter is available fresh throughout the year, with larger specimens typically found between November and December.

13. Howell Park

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Located along a creek, Howell Park is accessible from across the roadway from Jack Russell Park. What struck me about Howell Park was its sense of seclusion, despite its proximity to the city hall.

Visitors will enter a swampy subtropical paradise, characterized by bald cypress trees, live oaks, and saw palmettos.

Wildlife is abundant, making it a perfect location for nature lovers, with turtles frequently seen in the ponds and majestic birds like wood storks in the vicinity. Picnic tables are available amidst the lush greenery, along with informative signs that identify the wildlife inhabiting the ponds.

14. Pho Viet

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With a vibrant but somewhat hidden community, the Jacksonville area is an unacknowledged destination for genuine Vietnamese cuisine.

Many would agree that pho serves as an excellent introduction to this culinary tradition. For those unfamiliar, it is a hot noodle soup that typically features bean sprouts, strips of beef, lime juice, and chili peppers.

While the soup is the signature attraction, Pho Viet also provides a range of substantial subs (banh mi) and a variety of options including rice vermicelli, fried rice, and stir-fries. This establishment is renowned for generous portions and reasonable prices.

15. Adventure Landing

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Adventure Landing features an extensive water park, mini-golf, laser tag, and a lazy river designed for tubing, making it a popular attraction in Jacksonville, especially during the sweltering summer months.

The Shipwreck Island Play Village serves as the centerpiece of the park, primarily attracting families and their children. However, for those with shorter attention spans, there are batting cages, go-cart tracks, and a multitude of arcade games to enjoy.

On-site concessions provide a selection of food and beverages, and the park hosts adults-only events during closed hours for families.