JAX Staycation Ideas

Living in an area where people vacation means staycations are the perfect idea for a little weekend getaway! All seven counties in Northeast Florida have their own unique feel and offer a wide variety of activities and attractions.

To help with planning, here is a list of different places to stay and things to do throughout the region that everyone will enjoy.

 

Attention all nature lovers, Baker and Clay County are the perfect spots if you are looking for a staycation outdoors!

Baker County

Pack your bags and head out to Island Oaks RV Resort. Don’t have an RV? No need to worry. Apart from the RV slots this resort has, they also offer cabin rentals. Island Oaks Resort is located in a beautiful area and offers great amenities, such as a swimming pool/hot tub, arcade, mini golf, fishing area, fitness area… and our favorite: the Tiki Bar and Restaurant!

Clay County

Wanting to bring a unique experience to camping? Camp Chowenwaw Park offers treehouse camping at Treehouse Point! Each treehouse sleeps four and there is a kitchen area and bathroom that are shared between all the cabins. This fun and unique camping spot is in a park that also offers multiple amenities for their campers to utilize from hiking and fishing areas, kayaking along Black Creek, picnic spots and a nature center.

 

Wanting something more adventurous? Nassau and Flagler County offers a wide variety of activities that will make your staycation memorable.

Nassau County

From activities on the water to unique spots to shop, Nassau County has many activities that everyone will enjoy:

  • Amelia River Cruises: Amelia River Cruises offers multiple tours to choose from. From showcasing Cumberland Island to sunset booze cruises, this is a perfect way to see the area and spend some time on the water. (Please note that not all cruises are suitable for children. Visit the website to read more about the cruise options).
  • Amelia Island Horseback Rides: Make your staycation memorable with a horseback ride along the beach. From early morning to sunset rides, this is an experience you will never forget!
  • Centre Street: This historic street in Fernandina is the perfect spot if you are looking for somewhere to eat or to just walk around and explore. Along this street are multiple restaurants, pubs and places to shop. A tip from Find Your JAX: check out Florida’s oldest bar, The Palace Saloon!

Flagler County

While Flagler County also offers horseback rides on the beach, it also has its own unique attractions. If swimming with dolphins is on the bucket list, look no further than Marineland Beach! Marineland Dolphin Adventure offers different packages for you to choose from so you can find the best one for you and your group – this is definitely an activity that will make your staycation feel like an actual vacation!

 

Photo Credit: @VisitSt.Augustine

 

Looking to get off the grid? Putnam County is the perfect place for a weekend of rest and relaxation.

If a staycation spot with a small-town feel is right up your alley, check out The Sprague House Bed and Breakfast Inn. This house was built in 1892 and when you visit it will feel like you have stepped back in time. With a water view and vintage decorations and furniture, this bed and breakfast is a beautiful place to unwind.

Right outside of this inn are tasty spots to eat and local shops to visit during the day too.

 

Photo Credit: @PutnamCountyChamberOfCommerce

For anyone wanting a staycation by the beach, Duval County has multiple beaches and places to stay right by the water.

With four main beaches in Duval, there are numerous hotels, restaurants and shops right by the water that are fun for the whole family. A few hotels to choose from are:

  • Jacksonville Beach Margaritaville Hotel: Located right on the water is a Margaritaville hotel that will help you channel your inner Jimmy Buffett. This hotel also has a restaurant attached, LandShark Bar & Grill, that has live music and outdoor seating which overlooks the ocean.
  • One Ocean: Wanting something more elevated? One Ocean might be the perfect spot for adults wanting a special weekend away. This luxury hotel has multiple amenities, including a spa that overlooks the beach, and is pet friendly!

 

Photo Credit: @MargaritavilleResort

 

Can’t wait for Halloween for a good scare? St. Johns County is the perfect place to visit for all fright-seekers.

Located in St. Johns County is the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine. With this town’s rich history, there are tons of spots and overnight stays that are considered haunted:

  • Casa de Solana: Built in 1763, the Casa de Solana is one of the oldest buildings in St. Augustine. This bed and breakfast has 10 different rooms to stay in and they all come with a complimentary breakfast in the morning (and some ghosts too!). According to the Ghost Hunters University, this spot has some of “the most paranormal activity” in the city!
  • Francis Inn: This beautiful hotel was built back in 1791 and offers many amenities with an old world charm. During your stay, you might encounter a ghost named “Lily,” one of the old house servants… and you can even stay in her room during your visit!

There are also multiple ghost tours in the area. From walking tours to visiting historic landmarks, there are many choices to choose from.

Photo Credit: @USAToday

 

Although these were just a few ideas from each county, it’s clear that JAX has something for everyone. From camping in a treehouse to swimming with dolphins, the staycation possibilities in the region are endless.

Time to pack your bags and head out on your next adventure!

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