{"id":8793,"date":"2025-07-20T17:18:26","date_gmt":"2025-07-20T22:18:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?p=8793"},"modified":"2025-07-20T17:19:14","modified_gmt":"2025-07-20T22:19:14","slug":"the-best-day-trips-from-jacksonville-st-augustine-explore-more-of-northeast-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/the-best-day-trips-from-jacksonville-st-augustine-explore-more-of-northeast-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Day Trips from Jacksonville &#038; St. Augustine: Explore More of Northeast Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Northeast Florida is known for its sunshine, scenic coastline, and rich blend of natural beauty and historic charm. While Jacksonville and St. Augustine each offer endless things to see and do, one of the greatest perks of staying in either city is how many incredible destinations are just a short drive away. Whether you&#8217;re looking for a nature-filled escape, a quiet beach town, or a cultural adventure, this guide to the\u00a0<strong>best day trips from Jacksonville and St. Augustine<\/strong>\u00a0has something for everyone.<\/p>\n<p>This list is perfect for guests staying at\u00a0<strong>Joseph Ellen Properties<\/strong>\u2014whether you&#8217;re here for a weekend or a whole month, a quick getaway can add an unforgettable experience to your Florida vacation.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8794\" src=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ami-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"410\" height=\"410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ami-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ami-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ami-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ami.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>1. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ameliaisland.com\/\">Amelia Island<\/a> &amp; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fbfl.us\/\">Fernandina Beach<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 1 hour from Jacksonville \/ 1.5 hours from St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Amelia Island<\/strong>\u00a0is a picturesque gem nestled at Florida\u2019s northeastern tip, known for its charming historic district, upscale resorts, and uncrowded beaches.\u00a0<strong>Fernandina Beach<\/strong>, its main town, is rich with Victorian architecture, boutique shopping, and top-rated restaurants.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stroll Centre Street\u2019s shops and galleries<\/li>\n<li>Take a historic walking tour or ghost tour<\/li>\n<li>Explore Fort Clinch State Park<\/li>\n<li>Grab lunch at Timoti\u2019s Seafood Shak or Salt Life Food Shack<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Why it\u2019s a great day trip:<\/strong>\u00a0It\u2019s a perfect mix of beach, history, and small-town charm\u2014easygoing yet full of things to explore.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8795\" src=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cumberland-island-300x169.avif\" alt=\"\" width=\"501\" height=\"282\" srcset=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cumberland-island-300x169.avif 300w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cumberland-island-400x225.avif 400w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cumberland-island-600x338.avif 600w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cumberland-island.avif 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 501px) 100vw, 501px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>2. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/cuis\/index.htm\">Cumberland Island, Georgia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 1.5 hours from Jacksonville \/ 2 hours from St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p>For something a bit more adventurous, take a ferry from St. Marys, Georgia, to\u00a0<strong>Cumberland Island<\/strong>, a national seashore teeming with natural beauty, history, and wildlife\u2014including its famous wild horses.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Explore the ruins of Dungeness Mansion<\/li>\n<li>Hike scenic maritime forest trails<\/li>\n<li>Watch for armadillos, wild horses, and sea turtles<\/li>\n<li>Relax on untouched, crowd-free beaches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Travel tip:<\/strong>\u00a0Reserve your ferry ticket in advance and pack a picnic\u2014there are no restaurants or shops on the island.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Gainesville &amp; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/paynes-prairie-preserve-state-park\">Paynes Prairie Preserve<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 1.5\u20132 hours from both Jacksonville and St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Home to the University of Florida,\u00a0<strong>Gainesville<\/strong>\u00a0offers more than just college-town energy. Nature lovers will find their paradise at nearby\u00a0<strong>Paynes Prairie Preserve<\/strong>, a unique ecosystem where bison, wild horses, and alligators roam free.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8796\" src=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/devilsden-300x139.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"598\" height=\"277\" srcset=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/devilsden-300x139.webp 300w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/devilsden-1024x473.webp 1024w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/devilsden-768x355.webp 768w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/devilsden.webp 1448w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 598px) 100vw, 598px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>4. <a href=\"https:\/\/devilsden.com\/\">Devil\u2019s Den Prehistoric Spring<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 2.5 hours from Jacksonville \/ 2.5 hours from St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p>For a day trip that feels like stepping into another world, head to\u00a0<strong>Devil\u2019s Den<\/strong>, a unique underground spring located near Williston, Florida. This prehistoric spring is housed inside a dry cave and is one of the most memorable spots for snorkeling or diving in the state.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Snorkel or scuba dive in crystal-clear 72-degree water<\/li>\n<li>Experience one of the oldest natural attractions in Florida<\/li>\n<li>View ancient rock formations and fossils<\/li>\n<li>Great photo ops thanks to the light beam shining through the cave ceiling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Good to know:<\/strong>\u00a0Reservations are required for both snorkeling and diving, and children under 6 are not permitted in the water.<\/p>\n<p><strong>5. <a href=\"https:\/\/okeswamp.org\/\">Okefenokee Swamp<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 2 hours from Jacksonville \/ 2.5 hours from St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If you love off-the-beaten-path adventures, make your way to the\u00a0<strong>Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>\u00a0just across the Georgia border. This massive swamp ecosystem is home to alligators, black bears, otters, and over 200 species of birds.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Take a guided boat tour through cypress-lined waterways<\/li>\n<li>Hike boardwalk trails and observation towers<\/li>\n<li>Learn about swamp ecology at the Okefenokee Visitor Center<\/li>\n<li>Visit the recreated pioneer homestead at Chesser Island<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Why it\u2019s a hidden gem:<\/strong>\u00a0It\u2019s one of the most biologically diverse natural areas in the Southeast\u2014and it feels completely untouched.<\/p>\n<p><strong>6. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sawildreserve.org\/\">St. Augustine Wild Reserve<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccd\u00a0<em>Approx. 20\u201330 minutes from downtown St. Augustine<\/em><\/p>\n<p>This nonprofit sanctuary is home to exotic animals including lions, tigers, leopards, wolves, and even a liger. The\u00a0<strong>St. Augustine Wild Reserve<\/strong>\u00a0offers guided tours that are educational and inspiring, with a mission rooted in rescue and rehabilitation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>See rare and rescued exotic animals up close<\/li>\n<li>Take a guided walking tour through wooded enclosures<\/li>\n<li>Learn about wildlife conservation efforts<\/li>\n<li>Great for older children and adults interested in animal care<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong>\u00a0Tours must be reserved in advance\u2014this is not a walk-in zoo.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-8797\" src=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/savannah-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"475\" height=\"316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/savannah-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/savannah-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/savannah.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 475px) 100vw, 475px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"175\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/visitsavannah.com\/\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"126\" data-end=\"173\">7. Savannah, Georgia<\/a><\/strong><br data-start=\"175\" data-end=\"178\" \/>\ud83d\udccd Approx. 2 hours from Jacksonville \/ 2.5 hours from St. AugustineSavannah is one of the South\u2019s most charming and walkable cities, known for its oak-lined streets, Spanish moss, historic homes, and vibrant culture. It\u2019s a perfect day trip for guests who love history, architecture, food, or simply soaking up a beautiful setting.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"531\"><strong data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"529\">Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"591\">Wander through the 22 historic squares and Forsyth Park<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"591\">Take a guided trolley or haunted history tour<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"644\" data-end=\"713\">Explore River Street\u2019s shops, galleries, and riverfront restaurants<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"884\">Visit the iconic Bonaventure Cemetery or Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"884\"><strong data-start=\"802\" data-end=\"823\">Foodie favorites:<\/strong> The Grey, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, and Leopold\u2019s Ice Cream<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"884\"><strong data-start=\"886\" data-end=\"915\">Why it\u2019s worth the drive:<\/strong> Savannah offers a totally different vibe from Florida\u2019s coastal towns\u2014southern charm, rich culture, and a touch of mystery all rolled into one unforgettable day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"166\"><strong data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"166\">8. Historic Downtown St. Augustine<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"168\" data-end=\"208\">\ud83d\udccd Located in the heart of St. Augustine<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"210\" data-end=\"626\">Even if you&#8217;re already staying nearby, dedicating a full day to explore Historic Downtown St. Augustine is absolutely worth it. As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., this district is overflowing with charm, cobblestone streets, and centuries of stories. It&#8217;s perfect for history lovers, foodies, and anyone looking to experience the unique spirit of Florida\u2019s First Coast.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"628\" data-end=\"643\"><strong data-start=\"628\" data-end=\"643\">Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"646\" data-end=\"688\">Tour the iconic <strong data-start=\"662\" data-end=\"688\">Castillo de San Marcos<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"691\" data-end=\"771\">Stroll <strong data-start=\"698\" data-end=\"719\">St. George Street<\/strong> for shopping, street musicians, and handmade treats<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"774\" data-end=\"836\">Visit <strong data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"799\">Flagler College<\/strong>, housed in a former Gilded Age hotel<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"839\" data-end=\"924\">Sip a cocktail at <strong data-start=\"857\" data-end=\"874\">The Ice Plant<\/strong> or enjoy waterfront dining at <strong data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"924\">Harry&#8217;s Seafood<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"992\">Take a <strong data-start=\"934\" data-end=\"948\">ghost tour<\/strong> or horse-drawn carriage ride in the evening<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1133\"><strong data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1018\">Why it\u2019s a favorite:<\/strong> It\u2019s walkable, endlessly fascinating, and full of photo-worthy moments that blend the old world with modern flair.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Expanded Day Trip Tips from Jacksonville or St. Augustine<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>To make the most of your road trip or outdoor adventure, keep these extra tips in mind:<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u2728 Pack Smart<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Even for shorter trips, having a well-stocked day bag makes all the difference. Essentials include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Refillable water bottles<\/li>\n<li>Bug spray and sunscreen<\/li>\n<li>Beach towels or blankets<\/li>\n<li>Snacks and a cooler<\/li>\n<li>Phone charger or power bank<\/li>\n<li>Printed or downloaded directions (cell signal can be spotty in remote parks)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>\u2728 Choose the Right Transportation<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Some places are better explored on foot or bike, while others require a car. If you&#8217;re planning a day trip to a remote area like\u00a0<strong>Cumberland Island<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0<strong>Silver Springs<\/strong>, plan for parking, ferry schedules, and rental options in advance.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u2728 Make It Family-Friendly<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Traveling with kids? Choose destinations that have playgrounds, splash zones, or interactive exhibits. Great options include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jacksonvillezoo.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"4983\" data-end=\"5045\">Jacksonville Zoo &amp; Gardens<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/blue-spring-state-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"5057\" data-end=\"5156\">Blue Spring State Park<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(in warm months)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/ravine-gardens-state-park\"><strong>Ravine Gardens State Park<\/strong>\u00a0<\/a> (walking trails, gardens)<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/silversprings.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"5317\" data-end=\"5422\">Silver Springs State Park<\/a><\/strong> (glass-bottom boat tours)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>\u2728 Plan for Pets<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re staying at a\u00a0<strong>pet-friendly Joseph Ellen vacation rental<\/strong>, you\u2019ll likely want to bring your furry friend along. Beaches like\u00a0<strong>Flagler Beach<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0<strong>Amelia Island<\/strong>\u00a0welcome dogs, but always check leash laws and heat safety before heading out.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Making the Most of Your Joseph Ellen Properties Stay<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Every Joseph Ellen vacation rental is thoughtfully located near the best that\u00a0<strong>Northeast Florida<\/strong>\u00a0has to offer. Whether you&#8217;re relaxing at the beach, cooking meals in your fully equipped kitchen, or setting out for a new adventure, our homes give you the comfort and flexibility to explore with ease.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here&#8217;s why guests love staying with us:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prime locations in\u00a0<strong>Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and St. Augustine<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>A wide variety of homes\u2014from cozy condos to spacious family-friendly rentals<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pet-friendly<\/strong>\u00a0options so your whole crew can vacation together<\/li>\n<li>Responsive local team to help with recommendations, maintenance, or last-minute needs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Final Thoughts: Explore Beyond the Beach<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>One of the greatest joys of staying in\u00a0<strong>Jacksonville<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0<strong>St. Augustine<\/strong>\u00a0is how many unforgettable destinations lie within a short drive. Whether you&#8217;re craving an outdoor adventure, historical charm, or just want to see more of what makes\u00a0<strong>Northeast Florida<\/strong>\u00a0unique, these day trips let you do just that.<\/p>\n<p>Each of these destinations offers something different\u2014from secret springs to wildlife encounters to peaceful towns perfect for wandering. Best of all? You can return to the comfort of your\u00a0<strong>Joseph Ellen Properties vacation rental<\/strong>\u00a0at the end of the day, kick off your shoes, and relax.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ready to turn your Florida vacation into something truly memorable?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Book your stay with\u00a0<strong>Joseph Ellen Properties<\/strong>\u00a0and discover why guests return again and again to explore\u00a0<strong>Florida\u2019s First Coast<\/strong>\u00a0and beyond.<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udd17\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Browse vacation rentals<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udcf2 Follow us on Instagram\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/instagram.com\/josephellenproperties\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">@josephellenproperties<\/a>\u00a0for more day trip ideas, local tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at our homes!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Northeast Florida is known for its sunshine, scenic coastline, and rich blend of natural beauty and historic charm. While Jacksonville and St. Augustine each offer endless things to see and do, one of the greatest perks of staying in either city is how many incredible destinations are just a short drive away. Whether you&#8217;re looking [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":1302,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8793","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8793","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=8793"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8793\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8799,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8793\/revisions\/8799"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1302"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=8793"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=8793"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/josephellenproperties.com\/?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=8793"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}