Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

So, you're on vacation and need a multipurpose attraction for the whole family. The challenge is that it must have a beach, a pond for fishing, bike trails, picnic tables, and not be crowded. You will find this and more at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. Before we discuss the park, let's explore its past. 

Had it not been for Mayor John Delaney, who, in 1999, started the Preservation Project Jacksonville to protect Florida's natural habitats, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park would be a neighborhood or shopping district. But thankfully, he acted and it has evolved into one of the best Jacksonville Beach things to do.

Vital ecosystems could be obtained and protected with the coalition of the City of Jacksonville, the National Park Service, and the Florida State Parks. Known today as The Preservation Project Jacksonville, the partnership created the largest urban park system in the contiguous United States, with over 80,000 acres.

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is north of Atlantic Beach, encompassing over 450 acres along the ocean. The park's activities and amenities are astounding and will appeal to people of all ages and interests.

Nature and bird lovers marvel at the 20 miles of trails meandering through lush forests, along the beach, and coastal hammocks and oaks. 

An off-road single-track trail attracts mountain bike cyclists. It has an easy section for beginners and challenging portions for seasoned riders with log crossings and steeper inclines. 

Additional activities include fishing and kayaking in the 60-acre freshwater lake, camping and cabin rentals, swimming, and surfing. 

As we stated at the beginning, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park has everything you'll need for a fun-filled day on the First Coast. Be sure to visit!

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features

So, who is Kathryn Abbey Hanna? In a nutshell, she was a turn-of-the-century pioneer from Chicago who fell in love with Florida's resources. She became an esteemed professor at what would become Florida State University and an accomplished author and historian. It is in her honor that the park bears her name when it opened in 1972.

A fun fact is that one of Florida's best surfing spots, The Poles, is in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. The natural breaker calms even the roughest waters into surfable conditions. 

A wonderful feature is the 60-acre pond. Anglers will enjoy the chance to catch freshwater fish, while kayakers and paddleboarders will enjoy cruising over the calm waters. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are on-site, so you don't have to hassle transporting yours.

The park is close to the quaint Village of Mayport on the St. James River. This sleepy fishing town is home to a quintessential fish camp, Singleton's Seafood Shack. The popular eatery offers stunning sunsets on its expansive rear deck, which has views of the nearby Atlantic.

When the kids tire of playing in the sand and surf, head to the splash playground. The restrooms and picnic facilities add to the enjoyment of being outdoors, and the park's proximity to Atlantic Beach eateries like Simply Tasty Thai offers plenty of dining options. 

So pack the cooler with drinks, grab the sunscreen, and head to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, one of the best Jacksonville Beaches things to do!

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park from Jacksonville:

• Head east on E State St toward N Liberty St.
• Merge onto I-95 N via the ramp to Savannah.
• Take exit 362A onto I-295 E toward Blount Island.
• Use the right two lanes to exit 48 for FL-10/Atlantic Blvd.
• Keep right to stay on FL-10 E/Atlantic Blvd, following signs for Atlantic Beach.
• Turn left onto Mayport Rd.
• Turn right onto Wonderwood Dr.
• Continue straight as Wonderwood Dr turns into Seminole Rd.
• Turn right onto Oceanfront Park Drive.
• Address: 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233.

Cost

Here are the costs associated with visiting Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park:

• $5 per vehicle, up to six people; $1 for each additional person.
• $3 for bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Contact the park for cabin, camping, and RV rates.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.