Florida’s most populous city Jacksonville offers something for everyone with Southern charms, a beach town-feel and outstanding cultural attractions too. Visitors can enjoy beautiful stretches of sand and a host of water sports along the Atlantic as well as a thriving art scene, world-class museums, fabulous dining options and lively nightlife. The best place to base your stay really depends on what you hope to enjoy most, but you’re sure to find the perfect spot among these places to stay whether you’re looking for a city or seaside escape.
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
The storied Ponte Vedra Inn & Club has been around for nearly a century. This luxe beach resort is popular among both couples and families with a wide range of amenities that include everything from four oceanfront pools to a lavish spa, 15 tennis courts and two 18-hole golf courses. Ocean kayaks, beach bikes and stand-up paddleboards are available too. A wealth of dining options also await, ranging from casual cafes to gourmet eateries, and after a long day you’ll be able to return to your luxurious room, all of which come with an ocean view. The Deluxe Oceanfront Rooms add wet bars with mini-fridges and microwaves, while suites include kitchenettes or full kitchens.
Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park
Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park is a boutique-style hotel located less than a 10-minute drive from the University of North Florida. For those traveling with their four-legged friends, it’s a great choice as it’s more than pet-friendly. In fact, Fido or Fluffy will get a water bowl, dog bed, toys and treats. There’s also an outdoor saltwater pool to lounge around soaking up the Florida sunshine, and it’s a great place to be after dark with the WXYZ bar hosting frequent live music.
Omni Jacksonville Hotel
The Omni Jacksonville Hotel is ideal for a downtown stay, close to many major attractions, restaurants, shops and entertainment, right across from Jacksonville Landing. There’s a fabulous rooftop deck for enjoying views of the river, plenty of loungers for relaxing, a 24-hour gym and a great on-site restaurant serving international fare along with a bar serving light bites and cocktails. The spacious rooms come with bathrobes, Keurig coffeemakers, flat-screen cable TVs with movie channels and fully stocked minibars.
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
The Hyatt Regency is well-known for providing exceptional experiences and this downtown option is no exception. It boasts a great location with direct access to the four-mile-long boardwalk that winds alongside the St. John’s River along with a magnificent heated rooftop pool and Jacuzzi with spectacular river views. There’s also a 24-hour gym, a restaurant serving southern fare and the Jaxx Sports Bar. It’s worth the splurge to upgrade to a room with a river view, but no matter which room you book, you’ll get to enjoy the comfy Hyatt signature Grand Beds, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and a mini-fridge.
One Ocean Resort
The One Ocean Resort & Spa sits on a pristine white sandy beach just north of Jacksonville Beach offering an ideal stay for those who want to enjoy the sun and the sand while being just a short drive from downtown. The service is exceptional and includes unpacking your luggage, shining your shoes and bartenders who remember your drink and start making it before you even sit down. There’s a luxurious spa and host of shops, restaurants and galleries within a block of the property. The Docents also are available to create a personalized stay for the entire family, and can make reservations, assist with booking excursions or arrange private or small group nanny services. All of the rooms and suites come with a floor-to-ceiling window showcasing Atlantic Ocean views while featuring plush beds and flat-screen TVs.
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa
An ideal option for golf enthusiasts, this Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa sits across 65 acres of lakes and greenery while providing direct access to the renowned Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, which hosts The Players Championship each year. It also has an 18-hole miniature golf course the whole family will love along with trails for biking and jogging. There’s a private beach club; Vernon’s, a New-American restaurant that features ingredients from local farmers and the resort’s own microfarm, Bee Hill, as well as happy hour; and Alice & Pete’s Pub, along with outdoor pools, a volleyball court, 24-hour fitness center and the serene Sawgrass Spa. Rooms come with balconies (some have lake views), flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. Book a suite for a separate living room and sofabed.
Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel
The Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel is a popular spot for those who want to be in the city, close to area attractions like St. John’s Town Center and multiple golf courses while the beach is just nine miles away. It offers lots of amenities, including an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center and a business center while the onsite restaurant, Bold City Grill, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The rooms are simply furnished, but clean, comfortable and all come with custom beds. Free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, safes and minifridges, tea and coffeemakers are all included too. Book a suite and you’ll get a living room with a sofa. The club level rooms provide access to a lounge with continental breakfast, all-day snacks and afternoon appetizers.
Ritz Carlton Amelia Island
Just 30 miles from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is accessed via the Thomas J. Shave Jr. Bridge. It’s home to the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island which is often ranked among or at the top of the best resorts in the state. Right on the waterfront, it offers lots for both relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for everything from surfing lessons to paddleboarding tours and championship golf. It hosts gorgeous swimming pools and a wealth of dining options in addition to being child-friendly with perks like a game room, kids’ club, in-room treats, and even bedtime stories with a princess, pirate or the properties macaw mascot. Enjoy ocean views from your private balcony and bedding down in luxury with 400-thread-count Egyptian Frette linens and goose-down pillows.
