Have a Ball at Our Beaches (approx. time: 5 hours)

Twenty miles of wide, beautiful beaches await you on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Swimming, surfing, fishing and sunning can be found in the coastal communities of Mayport, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach and Jacksonville Beach. The shops and restaurants of the Beaches offer a wide variety of ways in which you can enjoy the laid back beach atmosphere.

Start the day with a group tour of Mayport Naval Base and marvel at the numerous frigates, destroyers and aircraft carrier that are housed in the Mayport Basin. View the Mayport Lighthouse, on the grounds of the base. The current lighthouse was built in 1859 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Head south on Old Mayport Road (A1A) for lunch and shopping at the beach where Atlantic Boulevard meets the ocean.

Continue south on A1A (3rd Street). Stop at the Beaches Visitor Center and Pablo Historical Park. Take a guided tour of historic Henry Flagler Railroad buildings that include the Section Foreman's House #93 and the Mayport Railroad Station. On the grounds you will be able to view a steam locomotive and peruse the treasure of donated antiques and memorabilia that recount the beginnings of the Jacksonville Beach.

Wind down the day and enjoy the ocean breezes while strolling past the Red Cross Lifesaving Station along the Sea Walk Pavilion. For some last minute shopping, stop by Avondale Antiques and Carriage House Antiques located on Beach Boulevard.