Where to Stay in Jacksonville, Florida (COOLEST Areas!)

FIRST TIME IN JACKSONVILLE

FIRST TIME IN JACKSONVILLE

Downtown

The Downtown area is the heart of the city. It’s one of the best places in Jacksonville to stay if you want to be close to everything and have easy access to public transport.

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ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Southpoint

Southpoint is the best neighborhood in Jacksonville to stay in if you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the center.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Neptune Beach

If you want to be close to the beach, then Neptune Beach is the best neighborhood to stay in Jacksonville. One of the biggest draws of this city is the beach proximity,

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COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

San Marco

If you don’t want to stay in the Downtown area, then try San Marco. It’s just a quick water taxi ride across the river and close to the Southbank area, where there’s a tree that’s older than the city itself!

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Jacksonville’s neighborhoods are incredibly diverse. They range from historic to ultra-new and modern, to suit every travel taste and style. And everywhere you go, you’ll be treated to Jacksonville’s unique blend of charm and Southern hospitality. You’ll find everything from dining districts to funky shopping areas and sleepy surfer towns in Jacksonville. And the best areas to stay in Jacksonville are the ones that suit your personality and travel style.

The first area to consider when you’re trying to find the best area in Jacksonville to stay in is, of course, the Downtown. This is where you’ll find everything you would expect from a city center, from skyscrapers to shopping malls, and it’s well connected to everywhere via public transport.

But if you’re looking for a quieter area, then check out the hotels in budget-friendly. Southpoint. This is one of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods for families as it has lots of attractions aimed at keeping the kids busy and happy.

For beach lovers, you can’t go past Neptune Beach. This is one of the quieter beaches, with a laidback feel, but it’s still close to more active beaches as well as to natural areas where you can explore.

Five Points is one of the best places to stay in Jacksonville for close proximity to the city center while still enjoying a more residential feel.

And the final area to consider is San Marco, where you’ll enjoy the upscale, trendy feel. If you love to eat, this is the area for you as it contains some of the best restaurants in the city. It’s also close enough to the Downtown area that you can easily head in there to explore.

You’re most likely to end up in Jacksonville on a Florida road trip. When you’re preparing for your trip to this city, make sure you keep this handy Jacksonville neighborhood guide close by so you know exactly where to go. 

1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Jacksonville First Time

The Downtown area is the heart of the city. It’s one of the best places in Jacksonville to stay if you want to be close to everything and have easy access to public transport. Jacksonville’s Downtown is pleasingly unique. It’s filled with high rise buildings and shopping malls and yet is close to the city’s beaches as well, offering the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jacksonville for nightlife, for shopping, or for eating, this is the best area to choose. It has a fresh, modern atmosphere and lots of events and activities to keep every member of your travel group happy for days. And you’ll find a nice range of Jacksonville accommodation options in this part of the city as well.

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Top Things to Do in Downtown

1. Spend a day on the beach, relaxing and trying some watersports.
2. If you’re in the city at the right time of year, make sure you see a Jacksonville Jaguars game.
3. Head over to see a show at the Ritz Theater.
4. Just wander the streets to appreciate the friendly vibe and find hidden local gems.
5. Make sure you visit the city’s best restaurants for great eats.
6. Head out after sunset to experience the city’s nightlife.
7. Get a bit of education into your trip at the Jacksonville Contemporary Museum.
8. Check out Sweet Pete’s, the local candy factory.

Best Airbnb in Downtown: Contemporary City Condo

This condo in the heart of Downtown has everything you’ll need, with a homely feel, this is perfect for a staycation or a vacation. Michael and Rahkiah are generous hosts, from tips and tricks to jacksonville to little complimentary toiletries, you’ll feel well cared for. This Jacksonville Airbnb is centrally located so you can walk to all the hot sights and sounds of Downtown Jacksonville.

Best Hotel in Downtown: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jacksonville for one night or for longer, this is a good choice. It’s located right in the city center and offers a Jacuzzi, rooftop pool, sauna, and free shuttle services. The rooms are elegantly decorated and contain everything you’ll need during your visit.

Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown: Marriott Jacksonville

This hotel in Jacksonville is close to the center of the city and surrounded by popular restaurants, shops, and public transport options. It has a rooftop terrace, with a pool overlooking the city.

There’s a bar, and a gym that you can use during your stay to stay fit on vacation. As well as all this, the rooms are contemporary with all the essentials, including private bathrooms and air conditioning.

2. Southpoint – Where to Stay in St. Jacksonville on a Budget

Southpoint is the best neighborhood in Jacksonville to stay in if you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the center. It’s a residential area with a peaceful, local feel that’s still well connected to the Downtown area via buses and the metro. You will probably need to have a car if you’re staying in this part of the city, just to make it easier to get around.

Southpoint is also the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Jacksonville for families. In this area, you’ll find a lot of attractions aimed at children, particularly if you’re visiting in the summer. And there are also a range of hotels available to suit every budget point and travel taste.

Top Things to Do in Southpoint

1. Take the metro or a taxi into the Downtown or other parts of the city to explore.
2. Wander around your local area and eat, drink, and hang out with the locals.
3. Take the kids to ride go-karts at the Kart Circuit.
4. Head over to the water park at Adventure Landing.
5. Check out what’s on at the Autobahn Indoor Speedway & Events.
6. Take the kids to the indoor play area at Flight Fit N Fun Jacksonville.

Best Airbnb in Southpoint: Jacksonville Lake House

Matts place is fun for the whole family, especially the kids – whether they’re big kids or little kids. That pool and that jungle gym scream a good time and with room for up to nine people, there’s fun for all!

This house is huge and full of amenities to make your stay more than comfortable. With a responsive host who is always striving to make this stay better, you’re in good hands booking a stay at this lake house.

Another Great Hotel in Southpoint: Courtyard Jacksonville Butler Boulevard

Just off highway 95, in the heart of Southpoint, this Courtyard hotel by the Marriott Chain is a foolproof option. The rooms are clean and spacious, and despite being so close to the highway, they’re quiet.

If you’re here on business, it’s a great place to unwind, with a TV tucked away to binge Netflix once you’re done for the day. There’s a market in the lobby so if you want a late night snack, get down there and enjoy not having to leave your hotel.

Best Hotel in Southpoint: Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Butler Boulevard

Located in the center of Southpoint, the best area in Jacksonville to stay in, this hotel is ideal for families, couples, or singles. It has free Wi-Fi, a spa and wellness center, an outdoor pool, and a beauty center. You can use the hotel’s gym while you’re there or hire a car at the rental desk or just relax in your spacious and fully equipped room.

3. Neptune Beach – Best Neighborhood in Jacksonville for Families

If you want to be close to the beach, then Neptune Beach is the best neighborhood to stay in Jacksonville. One of the biggest draws of this city is the beach proximity, and small built-up areas have sprung up around the most popular beaches. These residential villages offer accommodation, places to eat, cafes, and bars, so you don’t have to leave the beach region at all if you don’t want to!

Neptune beach is filled with funky cottages and trendy shops. There are building height restrictions in place, so your views of the beach from your hotel are unobstructed, and the whole area has a charming, relaxed vibe. Neptune beach is one of the quieter beaches in Jacksonville, which makes it a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Jacksonville with kids.

Top Things to Do in Neptune Beach

1. Spend an afternoon exploring the hip shops in the Beaches Town Center.
2. Go for a bike ride along the coast.
3. Relax in the shade in local cafes and recover from a day spent in the sun with a meal and a great cup of coffee.
4. Spend a day on the beach swimming and trying watersports.
5. Have a meal where the locals eat and enjoy fresh, local fare.
6. Head down to the Dutton Island Preserve and check out the wildlife.
7. Spend a day in the Downtown area to explore the attractions of the city.
8. Find a quiet spot nearby to go camping and enjoy the pristine natural landscape around the city.

Best Hotel in Neptune Beach: Courtyard by Marriott

Located right on the beachfront, this is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Jacksonville for families. It offers rooms of varying sizes as well as a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool. There are also lots of restaurants and shops nearby where you can grab snacks and souvenirs!

Best Airbnb in Neptune Beach: Beach Getaway

This sweet Airbnb is a 30 second walk to the beach – that’s what you want for a vacation! There are two dedicated parking spaces for you to use, perfect for if you’re on a Road Trip through the USA. There’s even an outdoor shower for a rinse off after the beach.

Christopher is a responsive host and provides everything you need to enjoy your stay. There’s a full kitchen to use if you want to cook your own meals – maybe even take dinner to the beach?!

Best Luxury Hotel in Neptune Beach: 11 North Jacksonville Beach Hotel

Come on, Barbie, let’s go party! Despite the bright exterior, this homely hotel is welcoming and pristine, bright and light on the inside. This beachfront property is the perfect place to stay to relax and unwind.

You’ll have your own apartment with a private bathroom and private balcony with a sea view. There’s free wifi if you’re here for work and there are beach towels for when you need to lsip down for an ocean refresh.

4. Five Points – Best Area to Stay in Jacksonville for Nightlife

Jacksonville is already one of the best places to live in Florida, but as a party animal, I’d say Five Points is my favourite area of Jacksonville to live or stay in. Five Points is officially part of the Riverside-Avondale Historic District and it’s one of the most vibrant urban cores in the city. This is surprising because this area began as a commercial district, but it’s now filled with hipsters and bohemians who have given it an irrepressible vibe. Expect to see tattoo parlors next to boutique stores in this area, and to be part of the city’s evolving heart.

Five Points is the best neighborhood in Jacksonville to stay in if you want to be close to the center of the city but in a more urban area. It’s well connected to other parts of the city via public transport and yet contains enough attractions to keep you entertained for days.

Top Things to Do in Five Points

1. Check out what’s on at the Sun-Ray Cinema, Jacksonville’s first independent film house.
2. Wander down the commercial strip and enjoy the unique architecture and colorful buildings.
3. This area is a great choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jacksonville for nightlife, so grab some friends and spend some time in the local bars.
4. Spend some time at the Park Arcade Building for shopping and the city’s first indoor-outdoor mini-golf course.
5. Get out of the city and spend some time in nature at Memorial Park.
6. Check out one of the finest collections of art at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.

Best Airbnb in Five Points: Lorraine’s Home Away From Home

This hundred year old home in Jacksonville has been lovingly restored to provide the perfect retreat on your trip to Florida. When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jacksonville on a budget, you can’t go wrong with this historic home. Sleeping up to six people, with five beds across three bedrooms, it’s cheap as chips.

The living areas are spacious, the rooms light and give off a warm vibe with the leather furniture. There’s a full kitchen here if you want to cook your meals, it’s always a treat for me once i’ve been on the road for awhile.

Best Apartment in Five Points: The White Len

This joint is centrally located in one of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods and offers a charming and unique stay. It’s close to local Jacksonville attractions like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and Memorial Park. This accommodation offers contemporary rooms with all the essentials you’ll need for a fabulous stay.

Enjoy feeling like a local at this home in Five Points. There’s a self check in so you can come and go as you please, but the hosts are never too far.

5. San Marco – Coolest Place to Stay in Jacksonville

If you don’t want to stay in the Downtown area, then try San Marco. It’s just a quick water taxi ride across the river and close to the Southbank area, where there’s a tree that’s older than the city itself! San Marco is a very popular residential area and its trendy feel and close proximity to everything make it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Jacksonville for your first time.

This isn’t the most budget-friendly part of the city to stay in. In fact, you’re likely to spend more money than you’d like because of the upscale restaurants and boutiques. But what’s really cool about this area is that, if you’re careful, there are plenty of cheap or free attractions you can enjoy. You just have to look for them.

Top Things to Do in San Marco

1. Head over to see the 250-year-old Treaty Oak at Jesse Ball duPont Park.
2. Make sure that you’re in Riverpoint Park at sunset, for the most amazing colored sky.
3. Check out the Museum of Science and History.
4. Check out what’s on at the San Marco Theater.
5. Go upscale and enjoy the best restaurants in the city in this area.
6. Spend a few hours in the local art galleries and check out the upcoming talent!

Best Luxury Hotel in San Marco: Homewood Suites by Hilton

This hotel in Jacksonville offers clean, comfortable accommodations close to everything. It’s close to the metro station and to local restaurants and each room has a fully equipped kitchenette that you can use during your stay. The hotel offers indoor and outdoor recreational activities as well such as billiards, scuba diving, and fishing tours.

Best Airbnb in San Marco: Cozy San Marco Retreat

Three rooms to spread out in and self check in for ultimate independence, this Airbnb in San Marco is sweet. The perfect place for a relaxing retreat or a work trip, you can do both in this lush home. It’s around a hundred years old, yet in immaculate, restored condition, a very comfortable stay.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Jacksonville and where to stay.

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Great food, amazing shopping, beautiful outdoor areas, and lots of adventure activity options, Jacksonville has it all. Really, the only question you should be asking yourself is why more people don’t spend time in this exciting city. With this guide, you can fix that. It will help you find the coolest places to stay in Jacksonville and make your stay that much better.