Neptune Beach Travel Guide

Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Neptune Beach, Florida with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Neptune Beach

Neptune Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in the First Coast region of Florida, United States. It is a part of Duval County, situated close to the Atlantic Ocean. The city is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and warm sunshine throughout the year.

List of Places to Visit in Neptune Beach

There are many culturally important and natural attractions to see in Neptune Beach. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beaches Museum & History Park: This museum offers an insight into the history of Neptune Beach and the development of the beaches in the Jacksonville area.

  • Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre: The theatre is a community-focused performing arts venue located nearby Neptune Beach.

  • University of North Florida Gallery: The gallery shows art by contemporary artists in a variety of styles and mediums.

Natural Attractions of Neptune Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: A beautiful 450-acre park, home to a freshwater lake, bike trails, and hiking trails.

  • Adventure Landing: A waterpark featuring a wave pool, water slides, and other outdoor activities.

  • Beaches Town Center: A charming shopping and dining district with a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Neptune Beach

There are some great hikes and bike routes to explore in Neptune Beach.

  • Neptune Beach is part of the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail-Trail. This trail is 14.5 miles long, and passes through several Florida communities and scenic natural areas.

  • Guana River State Park offers both cycling and hiking trails through its coastal ecosystems.

Best Things to Do in Neptune Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Beach Time Rentals: Rent a bike, beach equipment, or take a surf lesson.

  • Jax Surf and Paddle: Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or take a guided eco-tour.

  • Sea Serpent Tours: Learn about wildlife and local ecosystems on a boat tour of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Neptune Beach

Monday: Explore Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and go hiking.

Tuesday: Spend the day at Adventure Landing.

Wednesday: Visit Beaches Town Center for shopping and dining.

Thursday: Go on a guided eco-tour with Sea Serpent Tours.

Friday: Visit the Beaches Museum & History Park.

Saturday: Visit the Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre.

Sunday: Relax on Neptune Beach and watch the sunset.

Food and Drink Scene of Neptune Beach

Neptune Beach has a fantastic food and drink scene, including unique local dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gumbo: A local dish with chicken, sausage, and shrimp stewed together with spices and served over rice.

  • Fried Green Tomato BLT: A delicious sandwich made with fried green tomatoes, bacon, lettuce, and mayo.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: The area has several local microbreweries producing craft beer.

  • Sweet Tea: A popular drink in the South, most restaurants in Neptune Beach will have sweet tea on the menu.

Where to Stay in Neptune Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for lodging in Neptune Beach, from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels.

  • Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach: Affordable option for travelers on a budget.

  • One Ocean Resort & Spa: A luxurious oceanfront resort with stunning ocean views.

What to Buy in Neptune Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Seashell Jewelry: Made with natural seashells found on the beaches of Neptune Beach.

  • Key Lime Pie: A sweet dessert that is a local specialty.

Local Culture and Customs of Neptune Beach

  • In Neptune Beach, it is customary to say “hello” and “goodbye” to strangers.

  • The beach is a popular location for weddings, so it is common to see wedding parties at the beach.

Best Time to Visit Neptune Beach

The best time to visit Neptune Beach is from March to May and September to November when temperatures are milder, and the beaches are less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Neptune Beach

Do:

  • Bring sunscreen and plenty of water when visiting the beach.

  • Respect local wildlife and ecosystems.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in the parks.

  • Ignore local warning flags or signs at the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Neptune Beach

  • Always swim near lifeguard stations.

  • Watch out for jellyfish and other marine creatures in the water.

Health in Neptune Beach

  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect against sunburn and UV radiation.

  • Stay well-hydrated to prevent dehydration.

Getting to Neptune Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Neptune Beach

  • Jacksonville International Airport

  • St. Augustine Airport

Bus Stations Near Neptune Beach

  • Main Street Station

  • Greyhound Station

Other Options

  • Taxi

  • Rental Cars

How to Get Around in Neptune Beach

  • Walking is a popular option in the downtown area.

  • Biking is a great way to explore Neptune Beach and the nearby areas.

  • Car rentals are available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Neptune Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Jacksonville, Florida

  • St. Augustine, Florida

  • Amelia Island, Florida

Conclusion

Neptune Beach is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, and a fantastic food and drink scene. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped to plan your trip to Neptune Beach, Florida.