Atlantic Beach FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Atlantic Beach, Florida.
1. Atlantic Beach
CLASSIC OCEANFRONT RETREAT
Atlantic Beach stretches for more than two miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering wide, sandy shores bordered by grassy dunes and beach bungalows. The hard-packed sand is ideal for biking, jogging, and beach games, while the waves attract surfers and swimmers of all ages. With over 20 public beach accesses and a laidback yet upscale community vibe, Atlantic Beach is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the surf and sun.
2. River Branch Preserve
SERENE MARSHLAND PADDLE TRAIL
River Branch Preserve features lush marshlands and tranquil waters, offering a peaceful retreat ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The preserve connects to the city's renowned two-mile paddle trail, winding through scenic waterways rich with local wildlife. Its natural setting invites birdwatching, quiet exploration, and a unique perspective on the area's coastal landscape.
3. Sunset Pier Park
RIVERFRONT RELAXATION SPOT
Sunset Pier Park boasts stunning views of tidal rivers and is a favorite for fishing, sunset watching, and waterfront picnics. The wooden pier extends over calm water, providing a vantage point for spotting aquatic wildlife and enjoying the breeze. It's a tranquil, family-friendly spot perfect for winding down after a day at the beach.
4. Tide Views Preserve
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY ESCAPE
Tide Views Preserve encompasses over 400 acres of marshlands along the Intracoastal Waterway, with boardwalks, fishing areas, and kayak launches. Visitors can paddle the winding water trails, spot egrets and ospreys, or simply enjoy the peaceful marsh vistas from shaded observation decks. Its unique blend of land and water environments makes it a haven for nature lovers and paddling enthusiasts.
5. Howell Park
SHADED CREEKSIDE OASIS
Howell Park offers a lush, creekside environment with walking trails and wooden bridges winding through native foliage. Although not a swimming hole, its freshwater stream and shaded groves create a cool retreat on hot days, perfect for picnicking and birdwatching. The park's tranquil setting attracts families and anyone seeking a peaceful escape near the water.
6. Dutton Island Preserve
PADDLE AND NATURE HAVEN
Dutton Island Preserve features expansive salt marshes and tidal creeks, offering miles of kayak trails and waterfront boardwalks. Visitors can fish from the shore, picnic under large oaks, or hike through scenic nature trails that hug the water's edge. It's a favorite for outdoor adventurers looking to experience the wild beauty of coastal north Florida.
7. Donner Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPOT
Donner Park sits adjacent to a freshwater pond, providing an open space for play and relaxation in a natural setting. The pond is a focal point for fishing and watching local birds, while surrounding fields support a variety of community sports. Its easygoing atmosphere makes it ideal for families, casual gatherings, and light water activities.
8. Beaches Town Center Beach Access
LIVELY SOCIAL BEACHFRONT
Beaches Town Center Beach Access marks the boundary between Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach, offering direct entry to the oceanfront alongside a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. This access point is popular with both locals and visitors thanks to its central location and lively atmosphere. It's perfect for combining a beach day with dining, shopping, or an evening stroll.
9. Hanna Park Beach
SECLUDED SURF AND SWIM SPOT
Hanna Park Beach lies just south of Atlantic Beach and is renowned for its undeveloped shoreline, prime surfing waves, and freshwater lake. This city park features camping, mountain bike trails, and both ocean and lake swimming options, creating a true outdoor adventure destination. Its natural setting, free from high-rises, appeals to those seeking a more secluded waterfront experience.
10. Guana River State Park Beach
WILD BARRIER ISLAND SHORE
Guana River State Park Beach, located just north of St. Augustine, features miles of pristine Atlantic coastline backed by dunes and maritime forest. The park's public beach access invites swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing, with boardwalks and trails leading to quiet, uncrowded shores. Its untouched landscape and diverse habitats make it a unique escape for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.