How to Unplug and Recharge This Holiday Season in JAX
The holiday season is the ideal time to unplug and recharge. Between the hustle of daily life and the craziness of the holidays, it’s easy to feel a little bit overwhelmed. That’s why this time of year is the perfect excuse to take a day to reset… and there’s no better place to do that than Northeast Florida! No matter if you need a day completely outdoors to soak in the sunshine or if a spa day is more up your alley, JAX has got you covered.
Take a look at some of the ways you can relax during the holiday season in Northeast Florida:
Escape Into Nature:
- Relax at One of JAX’s Parks
Did you know that Northeast Florida has more than 80,000 acres of parks? Whether you’re visiting Jacksonville’s Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to be surrounded by beautiful plants and nature or Big Talbot Island for a photo worthy view, exploring one of JAX’s amazing parks is a great way to reset. Take a book to read or pack a picnic lunch and spend some time in the sun!
- Outdoor Yoga Classes
Attention all yoga lovers! Take a break from the typical yoga studio and explore the multiple outdoor class options that are offered in Northeast Florida. Here are just a few that are offered:
Yoga Den: 9:30 AM at Memorial Park every first Sunday of the month.
Hot Spot Power Yoga: 7:00 AM sunrise yoga session at Hanna Park every Sunday.
Bold City Yoga: 10:30 AM at Sesquicentennial Park in Springfield every second and fourth Saturday of the month.
Amelia Island Beach Yoga: Multiple classes are offered throughout the month. Visit their site to see each month’s schedule.
- Spend a Night Outdoors
There are multiple camping locations in the Jacksonville region that gives residents the chance to unplug for the entire night! Parks like Little Talbot Island campgrounds and Fort Clinch State Park allows guests to take in the beautiful scenery of Northeast Florida and sleep under the stars.
FYJ Pro Tip: If you want a more unique experience, check out Camp Chowenwaw! This campground has multiple tree houses for guests to sleep in.
Nurture Your Mind, Body and Soul:
- Salt Spa in St. Augustine
Elevate your typical spa experience at the Salt Spa in St. Augustine, where relaxation reaches a new level. This spa offers a variety of services, including infrared saunas, massages and even a float tank, to help reduce stress (which is ideal for unwinding during the busy holiday season!).
- Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Spa
Whether guests are in the mood for a massage or to get their nails done, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Spa is the perfect excuse to relax and treat yourself. After your service, spend the day resting by the pool, while also enjoying delicious drinks and bites from their café.
Photo Credits: Florida’s Historic Coast
Unplugged Adventures:
- Horseback Riding on the Beach
If you’re craving a bit more adventure, why not experience a one-of-a-kind opportunity like horseback riding on one of JAX’s beautiful beaches?! Companies like Amelia Island Horseback Riding and Happy Trails Walking Horses offer a wide variety of ride options, such as sunrise and sunset tours.
- Kayaking Tours
JAX is known for its multitude of water sources. All of the region’s beaches, lakes and rivers have a unique feel and are great spots to decompress and unplug. Take a kayak tour with companies like PADL or Get Up and Go Kayaking to enjoy beautiful views throughout the region.
- Engage With the Community
Nothing feels better than getting out and making a splash in JAX! There are so many ways to get more involved in the community, such as local farmers markets or pop ups like Riverside Arts Market, and volunteering or networking groups. For more information on how you can engage with the community, click here.
Photo Credits: Amelia Island Horseback Riding
Treat Yourself:
- Local Coffee Shops
Need a quick way to decompress? Take an hour and visit one of Northeast Florida’s local coffee shops for a quick pick-me-up and a chance to relax your mind. Plus, you can stay in the holiday spirit by treating yourself to one of the shops’ holiday treats! For a list of different shops around the region, check out Find Your JAX’s coffee tour by clicking here.
- Farm-to-Table Dining Spots
Places like Congaree and Penn and Matthew’s offer delicious farm-to-table ingredients and unique dining experiences that are great spots to relax and step away from the hustle and bustle of the holidays for a night.
Photo Credits: Congaree and Penn
Taking some time for yourself is so important and Northeast Florida has multiple opportunities for day full of resetting and recharging. Spend a moment during the craziness of the holidays to #FindYourJAX.