6 Top Local Approved Areas
Planning a holiday to sunny Florida? Then let’s start this guide on where to stay in Jacksonville!
I recently spoke with a Jacksonville local who gave countless tips on how to make the best out of your trip and combined all that with my own research on this destination, to make this guide as insightful as possible!
In short, Downtown is the best area to stay in Jacksonville, FL as that’s where you’ll find the main attractions and some of the coolest restaurants, but definitely check the other 4 areas, especially if you want to spend more time at the beach.
Since Jacksonville is such a big and popular tourist destination, I’d recommend booking your hotels here in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you’re not in the mood to go through the whole post, then have a look at the list below, it has the best hotels where to stay in Jacksonville, Florida:
Don’t worry if you can’t find all the places, the map below will help you visualize all the areas where to stay in Jacksonville, Florida:
1. Downtown – where to stay in Jacksonville for the first time
If this is your first time in Jacksonville then there’s no better than the Downtown area!
This is where you’ll find countless cultural attractions from museums to theaters, modern architecture and some stunning views of St. John’s River.
According to Alexandra, a local guide from Unation, this area is great for those who want to spend their time catching shows, attending theater plays and football games, rather than heading to the beach.
However, if you want to do that as well, the sandy shores are only a 20 min drive away.
PRO TIP: Our local guide also said that you’ll most likely need to rent a car to get around Jacksonville. This is a huge city and traveling by public transport would take you a long time (it takes 1h to get from here to the beach by bus).
However, if you’re planning to stay just in one area, you could get around easily on foot or by uber (since the distance wouldn’t be so big).
LOCAL INSIGHT: Downtown has an elevated monorail system that you can use to get around the neighborhood for free! You can learn more about the schedule from this website.
As for attractions that you should check out here, we have the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Florida Theatre which was opened back in the 1920s, and the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts where they have lots of Broadway shows on tour.
The local guide also mentioned that most concerts usually take place here, in spots like the Daily’s Place (map). She also mentioned that you should check out the Riverside Arts Market (map) which is held every Saturday.
As for cafes and restaurants, Alexandra raved about Chamblin’s Uptown Cafe (map) where you can also find countless used books as well, Cowford Chophouse (map) and Intuition Ale Works (map).
You’ll find lots of other places in the Murray Hill and Riverside areas, which are just a 10 min drive away from Downtown. One place you have to try is Buchner’s Bierhalle (map), a German speakeasy that you wouldn’t notice if you passed by it on the street!
Luxury hotel
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
Set near the St. Johns River, this Jacksonville hotel has modern rooms which are super spacious and offer great river views! The accommodation comes with a rooftop pool, an on-site gym, and a hot tub. Lots of things to try here, plus a lovely restaurant where you can dine at the end of your day!
Other accommodation options in Downtown
Mid-Range
This hotel offers an outdoor pool and contemporary rooms with free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom
Airbnb
You’ll love this stunning cottage which comes with an outdoor pool, a backyard, and free parking
Things to do in Downtown
- Buy cool stuff from the Riverside Arts Market
- Eat candy at Sweet Pete’s, a local candy factory
- Catch a Jacksonville Jaguars game at EverBank Stadium (map)
- Learn new things at the Jacksonville Contemporary Museum
- Catch a sunset by the River Walk (map)
- Grab a drink at Intuition Ale Works
- Take a trip to the Bulls Bay Preserve (map)
2. The Beaches – best place for nightlife
Although Downtown is super fun, there’s nothing like some good old, beach fun!
I’ve coupled the 3 beaches together in this section: Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach. All are set right next to each other and share a similar vibe.
Our local guide, Alexandra said that this area is perfect for those looking for day-to-night activities! During the day you’ll find countless restaurants and places where you can hang out and at night everything becomes even more alive, especially on Jacksonville Beach.
She mentioned that the beach is filled with bars, most of them pretty affordable as lots of students go there. So if you’re looking for a place where there’s always something to do no matter if it’s day or night, you’ve found it!
This area is pretty walkable so if you don’t have a car and you’re planning on only spending your time in one place, then the Beaches might be the spot for you.
Although the sandy shores are the biggest attraction here, there are some other spots that you should check out like the Adventure Landing amusement park, the Atlantic Beach Country Club (map) and the Beaches Museum.
If you’re looking for some spots where you can start the night, our local guide recommended Lynch’s Irish Pub (map) where you can listen to some live music and Pete’s Bar (map) which is the oldest bar in the city!
Luxury hotel
Set right on the beach, this hotel offers the most amazing views (especially from the balcony of your room, which is a great spot to drink your coffee). The accommodation comes with spacious suites, a spa center and a swimming pool! At night you can even chill by the fireplace with a wine glass!
Other accommodation options in The Beaches
Mid-Range
This hotel offers a private beach area, family rooms, a swimming pool and a daily buffet breakfast
Airbnb
Perfect for 4 people this place comes with a patio, a kitchen and a shared backyard
Things to do in The Beaches
- Enjoy the sun on Neptune Beach
- Party all night on Jacksonville Beach
- Grab some dinner at Casa Marina restaurant (map)
- Spend time in nature at the nearby Boneyard Beach (map)
- Have fun at the Adventure Landing amusement park
- Listen to some live music at Lynch’s Irish Pub
- Play some golf at the Jacksonville Beach Golf Club (map)
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3. Southpoint – best place to stay in Jacksonville on a budget
Southpoint is an area set between Downtown and the Beaches which has lots of affordable hotels.
This neighborhood is great for those of you traveling on a budget, although you’ll definitely need a car as there’s not much to do here and you’ll probably want to hit The Beaches (25 min drive away) or Downtown (15 min drive away) and relax there.
Alexandra, our local guide, mentioned that most people refer to Southpoint as Mandarin (especially those who are from Jacksonville), which can be confusing so make sure you make a mental note of that if you pick this neighborhood. This area is pretty tranquil and it doesn’t have lots of attractions. However you’ll still find some cool spots like the K1 Speed – Indoor Go Karts (map) and the Flight Adventure Park Jacksonville which is set right near Southpoint, this is a place that I’m sure all kids will love!
Luxury hotel
Simple, modern and equipped with all facilities you’ll need for your stay in Jacksonville, Florida! This luxury hotel has an outdoor pool, a fitness center and bar. Start your morning with a yummy breakfast in your cozy room and then head out to explore!
Other accommodation options in South Point
Mid-Range
A great spot that has family rooms, a swimming pool and it also offers free parking
Airbnb
Perfect for a family or friend group, this condo comes with a kitchen, free parking and a washer
Things to do in Southpoint
- Try go-karting at Autobahn Indoor Speedway
- Play some golf at San Jose Country Club (map)
- Grab dinner at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (map)
- Spend a fun day at Flight Adventure Park Jacksonville
4. San Marco – trendiest place to stay in Jacksonville
Looking for a place that’s different and has that quaint vibe? Then San Marco, which is located just a 7 min drive away from Downtown, may be for you!
Alexandra, our local guide, agreed that this is definitely the trendiest place to stay in Jacksonville and said it’s perfect for foodies who want to discover cool restaurants and those of you who want to be close to Downtown but still away from the business.
The architecture is pretty interesting here. There are a lot of old, unique houses that you can admire while exploring around. Some of them were even turned into hotels and Airbnbs so if you’re looking for a special place, definitely have a look at the hotel below.
It’s true, all that comes with a price, and you’re likely to spend a few bucks if you stay in San Marco, because you’ll be so tempted to eat at the most amazing restaurants and shop for unique stuff in all the stores, but hey, you’re on holiday after all!
She mentioned some fab spots to grab a bite like Gemma Fish + Oyster (map), Taverna (map) and European Street Cafe (map).
And now let’s check out all the gorgeous hotels here:
Luxury hotel
Relax by the pool at the best hotel in San Marco after a day of shopping and exploring! This accommodation is ideal for business travelers and it features suites with a small kitchenette, and a flat screen tv. Guests are welcome to work out in the fitness center and use the business center when they need to!
Other accommodation options in San Marco
Mid-Range
Feel at home in this stylish house that has 2 rooms, a kitchen and a washer
Budget
A fully-equipped studio that comes with a kitchen, a dining area and an outdoor space
Airbnb
Perfect for a bigger group or families, this house comes with a private patio, a kitchen and a parking space
Things to do in San Marco
- Grab dinner at Gemma Fish + Oyster
- Stop by the Theatre Jacksonville
- Shop for cool clothes at Meow and Barks Boutique (map)
- Explore the Riverside Avondale historic district
- Admire the art at Stellers Gallery (map)
5. Ponte Vedra Beach – where to stay in Jacksonville for luxury
If you want to go all out during this holiday then there’s no better place than Ponte Vedra Beach, which is located a 30 min drive away from Downtown.
Alexandra, the local guide explained that the main reason why this place is so expensive is because the PGA Golf Tournament takes place here, at the TPC Sawgrass and lots of the players buy their houses here too.
Plus, its proximity to St. Augustine (which is the oldest city in the US) and pretty expensive too, makes everything more costly here too!
Here, you can spend your days chilling on the beach, playing golf and enjoying some pampering time at The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club (map).
If you’re looking for some places to eat, Alexandra recommended the restaurant inside Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa (map) and the Foxtail Coffee Co & Kelly’s Ice Cream (map).
As for other places to check out, you have the Sawgrass Village Shopping Center (map) and the Bird Island Park (map).
Luxury hotel
This fabulous resort set right on Jacksonville beach offers lots of cool facilities including a kids’ club, a tennis court and water sports! Enjoy your stay in Jacksonville to the fullest and sunbathe by the 2 swimming pools, relax in the spa and eat delicious food at the 2 restaurants on-site.
Other accommodation options in Ponte Vedra Beach
Mid-Range
A modern hotel that comes with a pool, spacious suites and a bar
Budget
This hotel features elegant rooms with a private bathroom, a swimming pool and a snack bar
Airbnb
A big townhouse perfect for a family or group of friends that offers beach access and a kitchen
Things to do in Ponte Vedra Beach
- Spend your afternoon golfing at Marsh Landing Country Club (map)
- Admire the views at Bird Island Park
- Relax on the beautiful beach
- Shop until you drop at the Sawgrass Village Shopping Center
- Have fun at the Shipwreck Island Water Park
6. St Johns Town Center – best place for shopping
Want to do some shopping or stay close to none of the up-and-coming areas in town?
Then you should check out the area around St Johns Town Center, that’s home to a huge outdoor shopping center.
Our local guide said you can find countless stores there that sell everything from clothing to electronics, homeware and many other things.
PRO TIP: If you are thinking of staying here, maybe try to avoid the weekend. It’s super crowded here during that time, so if you’re not a fan of busy places maybe check some other areas.
St Johns Town Center is located a 20 min drive away from the Downtown area and besides the numerous stores, it also has lots of restaurants and some other attractions.
You should definitely check out the Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant (map) and the Escape Room Jacksonville. And if you want to spend some time out in nature, head to the University Of North Florida Nature Trails hiking area (map).
Luxury hotel
Chill by the outdoor pool of this amazing hotel that comes with free parking, 2 restaurants and a fitness center. Their rooms have contemporary designs and a flat-screen TV.
Other accommodation options in St Johns Town Center
Budget
This hotel offers a free breakfast, free parking and family rooms with a flat-screen TV
Airbnb
Feel at home in this apartment that offers a kitchen and access to a shared pool
Things to do in St Johns Town Center
- Shop until you drop at St Johns Town Center
- Eat a yummy dinner at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
- Have fun at the Escape Room Jacksonville
- Explore the University Of North Florida Nature Trails hiking area
BONUS 1: Best hotels on Amelia Island
Thinking of taking a short trip to the beautiful Amelia Island while you stay in Jacksonville? It’s only a 30 min drive away from Jacksonville and it has an amazing beach scene, luxury hotels and lots of green areas to explore like Fort Clinch State Park.
It’s definitely one of those place you can’t miss while you’re in town, and if you’re thinking of staying there overnight, here are some awesome hotels for you:
Luxury (US$300 and up)
- The Ritz-Carlton – class, elegance and what a location! Located on the beach, this beautiful hotel has such a lovely decor! The rooms are spacious and some of them even come with a balcony overlooking the beach.
- Elizabeth Pointe Lodge – a stunning lodge that offers the perfect mix of classic decor, historic charm and modern facilities! This accommodation is also set on the beach and it offers rooms with the most amazing sea views plus a fabulous porch with rocking chairs where you can admire the sunsets!
Mid Range (US$200 – US$300)
- Hampton Inn & Suites – this Victorian-style hotel is set on Fernandina Beach and it offers super large suites that have a fireplace and super comfortable beds!
- SpringHill Suites – if you’re looking for a place where you can relax and enjoy the Southern hospitality then this hotel is for you! The accommodation offers yoga classes, a hot tub, and lots of fun activities like cooking classes, tours and fishing.
Budget (up to US$150)
- Home2Suites – for those who are looking for something a bit more affordable, I’ve found the perfect option! A modern hotel with super comfortable rooms that have a small kitchenette and a private bathroom. The accommodation also features an outdoor pool with lots of sun loungers!
BONUS 2: Top places to stay in St. Augustine
You can’t take a trip to Jacksonville and not make a stop in St. Augustine too, which is only a 50 min drive away from the city!
This is the oldest town in the US and it’s a place you shouldn’t miss out if you’re coming to this part of Florida.
If you decide to head there and even spend a few days, here are some amazing hotels for all budgets, and if you’d like to learn more about the town check our post with the best places to stay in St. Augustine.
- Luxury: Casa Monica Resort & Spa – such a unique place with beautiful architecture, stylish rooms and a restaurant. Enjoy the sunny days by the outdoor pool and relax all day at the spa.
- Mid-range: Cedar House Inn – you’re going to love this inn that looks straight out of a fairytale. The accommodation boasts a hot tub, breakfast and free parking.
- Budget: The Pirate Haus Inn – who loves pirates? If that’s you then check out this place that comes with a cool decor and family rooms.
FAQs about hotels in Jacksonville
🤩 What is the nicest area in Jacksonville?
Downtown is the nicest area to stay in Jacksonville, Florida. Here you’ll find some of the best hotels around, and lots of attractions!
⛔ What are the bad areas of Jacksonville, FL?
Avoid staying in any of the following dangerous parts of Jacksonville: Hogan’s Creek, College Gardens and East Jacksonville, as these have a higher crime rate.
🏖️ What are the best hotels on the beach in Jacksonville?
🔝 Is Jacksonville, Florida, worth visiting?
Yes! Jacksonville in Northeast Florida is an amazing place that’s super modern and has that urban city vibe but also has lots of fabulous beaches.
👪 Where is the best place to stay in Jacksonville, FL for families?
San Marco and Ponte Vedra Beach are some of the best areas to stay in Jacksonville, FL for families as these are tranquil neighborhoods that are close to cool attractions.
☮️ What are the safest areas to stay in Jacksonville?
San Marco, Avondale and Jacksonville Beach are some of the safest areas in Jacksonville.
🤔 What is the best area to stay in Jacksonville without a car?
Downtown and The Beaches are some of the best areas to stay in Jacksonville, FL without a car as they’re walkable areas that have all you need within reach.
🚶 Is Jacksonville a walkable city?
No, Jacksonville is the biggest city land-wise in the US, so it’s very spread out! You’ll definitely need a car if you want to explore multiple areas and not stay just in one neighborhood.
📆 What is the best month to visit Jacksonville, Florida?
The best time to visit Jacksonville is from March to May and September to November. The weather is great during those months and there are few tourists around (which means lower prices).
Final thoughts on where to stay in Jacksonville
Already dreaming about spending some time on the Jacksonville Beaches? Me too!
I hope this guide on where to stay in Jacksonville, FL, helped you decide which area and hotel to pick! I included lots of tips from our local guide so make sure to check those out!
If you’re still not sure which hotel to pick, here are my top 2 favorite ones, both set in Downtown:
Don’t forget to book your favorite accommodation in advance! Especially if you’re staying in Downtown or on the beaches! The good hotels always go first!
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to drop me a comment below! I’d be happy to help you out.
Happy Exploring,
Victoria
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