North Florida beaches

Fernandina Beach

You'll see the word "pristine" a lot when reading about Amelia Island’s beaches. That’s because it’s hard to describe them in any other way. Picture 13 miles of undulating, sugar-sand dunes. See what we mean? Rent a horse, kayak or personal watercraft; trod trails through maritime woods; explore historic Fernandina Beach; stay at a charming inn or palatial resort – you can do it all here.

380 Pablo Ave., Jacksonville Beach

The wide, mileslong beaches east of Jacksonville could turn anybody into a professional loafer. Stay the weekend at one of the middle-of-the-road hotels that hides behind the sand dunes and indulge in slowing your pulse. After the beach, visit “The Corner” --  where the cities of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach bump against each other. Shops are locally owned, and restaurants and bars buzz with funk and fun. Don’t miss having a slice of melt-in-your-mouth pie at Al’s Pizza in Atlantic Beach. In the evening, dress in your Jimmy Buffett best and head to Sun Dog Steak & Seafood in Neptune Beach or The Homestead in Jax Beach.

2106 A1A S., St. Johns County Pier, St Augustine Beach