Ponte Vedra Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach Florida 32082

Hours

Beach is open 24/7 *Dogs allowed on leashes. No vehicles allowed on beach.

Cost

Visiting Ponte Vedra Beach is free, but you may need to pay for parking:

Daily parking at public beach access: $10

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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.

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.

Location

Ponte Vedra Beach Florida 32082

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine is located minutes off of I-95 between Jacksonville Beaches and Palm Coast. If flying, the closest airport to St. Augustine is Jacksonville (JAX) about 30 minutes away.

When is the best time to visit St. Augustine?

The best times to visit are March–May and September–November. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and access to the area’s top events, including Sing Out Loud Festival and Founder’s Day. Spring is ideal for beach lovers and garden tours, while fall is perfect for history buffs, culinary travelers, and ghost tour enthusiasts.

What's the best way to explore the historic district in St. Augustine?

The Old Town Trolley Tours are a favorite for first-time visitors, offering hop-on/hop-off convenience and guided narration through the city’s landmarks.

Where can I find authentic local seafood in St. Augustine?

Try local favorites like Aunt Kate’s, Cap’s on the Water, or Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille for fresh coastal fare with a St. Augustine twist.

What is St. Augustine known for?

St. Augustine, Florida is known as the nation’s oldest capital and oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. It was founded in 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez and Spanish settlers 50 years after Ponce de León claimed Florida for the Spanish crown. The majestic Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., remains a central attraction for visitors to St. Augustine.

What are the biggest events in St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine provides a rich calendar of events at any time of the year. The city’s Nights of Lights (Nov – Jan) is listed by National Geographic as among the top 10 holiday light displays in the world. Come spring, The Players Championship takes place at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra just minutes from St. Augustine. The city is also home to several festivals showcasing historic reenactments, Spring bird watching, film, food, and pirates.

What's the best way to spend one day in St. Augustine, FL?

Any trip to St. Augustine should undoubtedly include a visit to the monumental Castillo de San Marcos on the western shore of Matanzas Bay. The national monument, built by the Spanish over 300 years ago, remains a steadfast reminder of the area’s colonial past.

In addition, one of the best ways to catch all the must-sees in St. Augustine in just one day is to hop on the Old Town Trolley. This will take you to iconic spots including the Old City Gates, the famed Fountain of Youth, and across the Bridge of Lions.

Closer to the coast, step into the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum where you can climb up into the historic 165-foot-tall lighthouse for a view of the area. Stop over for lunch at Salt Life Food Shack near St. Augustine beach for the laid-back vibe and eclectic seafood dishes.

Be sure to take time during the day to explore the shops, boutiques, and cafés along St. George Street in the historic center. This pedestrian-only street was historically the heart of the city and continues to be a thriving hub of activity lined with restaurants, shops, and history galore.

Wind down the evening by treating yourself to dinner at Columbia in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. Named as one of Florida’s top restaurants since 1967, the Columbia is the largest Spanish restaurant in the world and family-owned and operated since 1905.

How is parking handled in downtown St. Augustine?

Downtown has metered street parking, garages, and park-and-ride options. During peak times (especially Nights of Lights), it’s best to arrive early or use public shuttles.