Florida’s First Coast is a gorgeous stretch in northeastern Florida consisting of Jacksonville and its surrounding areas. Named the First Coast due to its incredible coastline and fascinating history, this region was the first to undergo European colonization. Now, it is ripe with historical buildings and top-notch museums.
There is much to love about the First Coast, whether you are dropping in for a quick visit or looking for a long-term home. Let’s explore aspects of the First Coast that contribute to making it one of the premier getaway regions in Florida.
Sun-Soaked Destinations with Vibrant Culture
Home to several large cities, the First Coast is a cultural destination with a compelling history, and it is filled with communities famous for its diverse attractions. Nearly every community along the First Coast is just a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean, but there are plenty of activities inland as well.
Jacksonville: Jacksonville is a major city in the First Coast region. Visitors and residents can spend endless hours exploring the city’s excellent museums, including the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Jacksonville also houses a world-class zoo, an eclectic food scene, and the nation’s largest urban park system.
St. Augustine: St. Augustine is a small city with a fascinating history. It was founded in 1585 and is considered the country’s oldest continuously occupied European settlement. It has magnificent Spanish colonial architecture, preserved buildings, and monuments that date back hundreds of years.
Fernandina Beach: Fernandina Beach, near the border with Georgia, is the northernmost city on Florida’s coast. It is a significant Civil War site with a famous historic downtown area. Fernandina Beach was named the “Isle of Eight Flags” for the many nations that inhabited it, including France, Spain, Mexico, Great Britain, and more.
Beachy Communities with Endless Outdoor Fun
Several beachfront communities on the First Coast are perfect for taking advantage of the summer heat and relaxing by the water. See some highlights below:
Palm Coast: South of Jacksonville, Palm Coast is famous for its golf resorts and scenic nature preserves. It is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with gorgeous waterways inhabited by animals such as manatees and dolphins.
Flagler Beach: Flagler Beach, a neighboring community of Palm Coast, is a smaller, quiet beach town with gorgeous stretches of soft-sand shores. It is a surfing destination with a large fishing pier and restaurants by the water.
Ponte Vedra Beach: Ponte Vedra Beach, a Jacksonville suburb, has some of the best golf courses in Florida and is known for hosting The Players Championship on the PGA Tour. It is an affluent community with a pristine beach and luxurious homes along the water.
Fleming Island: Fleming Island is a quiet Jacksonville suburb known for its unspoiled natural scenery. It is surrounded by lakes and trails and has a charming downtown area.
Neptune Beach: Neptune Beach is a gorgeous community east of Jacksonville that offers a chilled-out beach environment with an expansive waterfront. On a typical sunny day in Neptune Beach, you’ll spot surfers, sunbathers, and anglers seeking to enjoy the gorgeous setting. Also, Neptune Beach has a bustling downtown with independent businesses and delicious local eateries.
