About
Ponte Vedra Beach is a must-visit on your Jacksonville vacation. Offering natural beauty, history, top-tier restaurants, and landmarks, it's no surprise it is a top First Coast attraction.
Native American tribes were the first inhabitants of Ponte Vedra Beach, followed by Spanish explorers who settled here in the 16th century. When the railroad industry expanded to Florida in the late 19th century, it ushered in a new era of tourism and agriculture.
In the 1920s, tourism increased thanks to the construction of luxury hotels and sports venues, like the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, which is still in business. Over the decades, the community also set its sights on preserving Ponte Vedra Beach's natural wonders. You'll find nature preserves to explore, like Bird Island Park and one of golfing's premiere destinations, THE PLAYERS Championship course at TPC Sawgrass.
The picturesque landscape is complemented by thriving marine life, making it popular for eco-tourists and families. Additionally, Its elegant boardwalk and various dining options allow visitors to indulge in waterfront dining experiences while soaking up the sun.
Ponte Vedra Beach will enhance any First Coast vacation with its blend of history, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery.
Ponte Vedra Beach: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A fantastic feature that will appeal to nature and water sports lovers is the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. This 73,000-acre sanctuary offers hiking trails, waterways for kayaking, and opportunities for bird-watching.
As mentioned, a nationally recognized landmark is the TPC Sawgrass, renowned for its iconic 17th hole known as the "Island Green" and home to THE PLAYERS Championship. What will appeal to golfers is that non-professionals can play where the pros play! This makes for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you can't miss.
Another fantastic feature about this landmark is that it is home to marvelous restaurants, like Palm Valley Fish Camp, which offers picturesque Intracoastal Waterway views and fresh seafood. If you love live music, check out the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. This charming venue hosts performances throughout the year, showcasing various musical talents. It is also a hub for community events, creating a vibrant atmosphere for entertainment in the area.
Visiting Ponte Vedra Beach during a Jacksonville vacation is a fulfilling experience that offers something for everyone. Discover why it's a top vacation attraction, from tranquil beaches and rich history to unique attractions and outdoor adventures.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Ponte Vedra Beach from Jacksonville:
- Start on I-95 S from Downtown Jacksonville.
- Merge onto I-295 S via exit 344A toward Daytona Beach.
- Take exit 36 for FL-202 E toward Jacksonville Beach.
- Merge onto FL-202 E toward Jacksonville Beach.
- Continue on FL-202 E, then merge onto A1A S.
- Follow A1A S until you reach Ponte Vedra Beach.
Cost
Visiting Ponte Vedra Beach is free, but you may need to pay for parking:
- Daily parking at public beach access: $10
Local Tips
- Bring beach chairs and umbrellas to enhance your beach experience.
- Check local dining specials to save on meals, especially during happy hour.
- Use public beach access points to avoid expensive resort fees.
- Watch for local events and cultural experiences during your visit.