Where to Stay in Jacksonville, FL 🇺🇸: Guide to the 8 Best Areas

Deciding where to stay in Jacksonville, FL, can shape your entire trip to explore popular Jacksonville. This guide to the best neighborhoods will help you find the perfect hotel in Jacksonville. The sprawling city, defined by the winding St. Johns River and miles of Atlantic coastline, isn’t a single experience but a collection of distinct districts. Whether you’re looking for historic charm or a classic beach town, Jacksonville offers the perfect place to stay for any traveler.

Best Hotels in Jacksonville🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
• 🏨 4-Star: Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville Town Center
• 💸 Cheap: SureStay by Best Western Jacksonville Airport
• 🏢 Apartament: Downtown Jacksonville Studio with City Views!
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville South
• 🏩 For Couples: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Quick Guide to the Best Areas 📃

1. San Marco: For Culture and Romance

This historic area south of downtown exudes a unique, European-inspired charm. San Marco is known for its Venetian-style central square, complete with a landmark fountain depicting three lions, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere perfect for couples.

A Sensory Snapshot:
The gentle splash of the fountain in Balis Park mingling with the aroma of roasting coffee from a nearby café. It’s a polished yet relaxed environment, ideal for an evening stroll after dinner.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
San Marco Square is the district’s heart, encircled by art galleries, upscale boutiques, and some of the city’s best restaurants. Beyond the square, take a walk along the river to see some of Jacksonville’s grand, old mansions. For an authentic local evening, catch a film at the historic San Marco Theatre, an art deco gem.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Highly walkable and atmospheric, with top-tier dining and shopping in one concentrated, beautiful area.
• Con: It can feel quiet later at night. For more energy, you’ll need to venture to another neighborhood.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for couples and those who appreciate fine dining and a historic, upscale vibe. Skip if you’re looking for energetic nightlife or immediate beach access.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank — On the Southbank by the river, offering easy access to San Marco dining and the Riverwalk, with comfortable rooms and a solid breakfast for a balanced price point.
• Hampton Inn Jacksonville Downtown I-95 — Reliable comfort just across the river from San Marco, including breakfast and quick access to the neighborhood’s restaurants and Balis Park.

2. Riverside & Five Points: The Best Area for Nightlife and Gastronomy

A vibrant mix of history, art, and bohemian energy defines Riverside and its buzzing commercial heart, Five Points. The area is celebrated for its stunning historic architecture, from grand riverfront homes to classic bungalows, all coexisting with a modern, creative pulse.

The Authentic Detail:
The sight of colorful, large-scale murals on brick walls, just a block away from the serene riverfront gardens of the Cummer Museum of Art. It’s a place of compelling contrasts.

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Five Points is the epicenter of activity, known for its eclectic mix of indie shops, vintage stores, and lively bars, making it a top choice if you want to stay in Jacksonville for nightlife. For a more relaxed pace, explore the King Street District, which has become a hub for craft breweries. Don’t miss the Riverside Arts Market on Saturdays, held under the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge, for local crafts and produce.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: A fantastic concentration of local art, independent restaurants, and craft beer; for walkability, it’s one of the best.
• Con: Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends in Five Points. Consider using a rideshare service for an evening out.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for foodies, art lovers, and anyone seeking a dynamic, culturally rich neighborhood. Skip if you prefer the quiet of a suburban or purely residential area.

Best Hotels in Riverside & Five Points

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville Downtown — Suite-style rooms with kitchens on the edge of the urban core, a short drive to Five Points and King Street breweries, great for longer stays.

3. Jacksonville Beach: For Classic Beach Relaxation

For those who want sun, surf, and an active coastal vibe, Jacksonville Beach is the quintessential Florida beach town. It offers a lively atmosphere with direct access to miles of sand, the iconic Jacksonville Beach Pier, and a steady stream of surfers catching waves.

A Signature Moment:
The salty spray and sound of the waves crashing as you walk the length of the pier at sunrise, watching fishermen cast their lines. It’s an invigorating start to any day.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The area is a hub of activity centered around the Seawalk Pavilion, which hosts concerts and festivals. You’ll find a dense collection of bars, casual eateries, and surf shops, making it easy to walk to the beach and spend a whole day here without a car. For a classic local experience, grab a bite at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Everything you need for a beach vacation is right here: sand, surf, food, and entertainment.
• Con: It’s the most bustling of the beach communities, which can mean more crowds, especially during peak season.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for travelers looking for an active, classic beach experience with plenty of nightlife options. Skip if you’re seeking a quiet, secluded beach retreat.

Best Hotels in Jacksonville Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

• Margaritaville Beach Hotel — Embodies a fun, upscale beach vibe with direct oceanfront access and a lively pool scene. This resort-style hotel offers bright, cheerful rooms and is perfect for those seeking a playful and high-energy luxury stay.
• Element Jacksonville Beach — A modern, stylish hotel focused on wellness, offering spacious studios and suites with kitchenettes. Its clean design and health-conscious amenities provide a refreshing and sophisticated take on the classic beach hotel.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront — This hotel by Marriott Jacksonville features contemporary rooms, most with private balconies overlooking the Atlantic. A large outdoor pool and direct beach access make it a solid choice for travelers who want quality amenities.

4. Southside: For Shopping and Transport Links

As a vast and modern commercial hub, the Southside area of Jacksonville is defined by convenience. It is home to the St. Johns Town Center, an upscale open-air shopping mall that draws visitors from all over the region, and offers easy access to major highways.

The Defining Scene:
The energetic buzz of shoppers navigating the palm-lined walkways of the St. Johns Town Center, bags in hand from both high-end boutiques and major retailers.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The vibe is contemporary and often business-focused, with many hotels located here, including various suites Jacksonville options. While it lacks historic charm, its central location with access to the airport and nearby areas like Jacksonville Orange Park is a major advantage. Insider tip: traffic can be intense; plan shopping trips for weekday mornings.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Unmatched access to shopping and dining, with a central location that’s convenient for exploring the wider Jacksonville area.
• Con: The area is very car-dependent and lacks a distinct, local character.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for business travelers, serious shoppers, and those who prioritize convenience and easy highway access. Skip if you’re looking for a walkable, historic, or atmospheric stay.

Best Hotels in Southside

💎 Luxury hotels

• Hyatt Centric Jacksonville Deerwood Park — A chic and modern hotel overlooking a serene lake, offering a boutique feel. Its rooftop bar provides stunning views, and the location is ideal for those looking to be near the St. Johns Town Center.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Marriott Jacksonville — A reliable and comfortable choice, the Marriott Jacksonville has both indoor and outdoor pools. This hotel is consistently praised for its excellent service and convenient location, making it a great all-around option for business or leisure travelers.
• Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel — Offers spacious rooms and strong amenities, including a popular on-site restaurant and bar. Its proximity to major highways makes it a strategic and comfortable base for exploring the entire Jacksonville area.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Jacksonville-South/St. Johns Ctr. — For those visiting Jacksonville on a budget, this Hilton Jacksonville property offers suite-style rooms with full kitchens. Similar to other popular hotels like Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville, it offers great value.

5. Neptune Beach: For a Boutique Beach Scene

Nestled between Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach offers a more relaxed and upscale beach experience. It’s known for its beautiful residential areas and the compact, walkable Beaches Town Center, which it shares with Atlantic Beach.

A Sensory Snapshot:
The clinking of glasses and lively chatter from an outdoor patio at the Beaches Town Center on a warm evening, with a gentle sea breeze carrying the scent of salt and gourmet food.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
The heart of Neptune Beach is the Town Center, a charming hub of boutique shops, excellent restaurants, and sophisticated bars just steps from the ocean. This area is more laid-back than Jacksonville Beach but still has a vibrant energy. For a quiet morning, grab a coffee and take a walk through the peaceful, tree-lined residential streets.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: A perfect blend of relaxed beach town and upscale amenities, with a highly walkable town center.
• Con: It’s a smaller area, so options are more limited compared to its larger neighbors.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for travelers who want a relaxed but refined beach experience with great food and shopping. Skip if you’re on a tight budget or want a wide array of nightlife options.

Best Hotels in Neptune Beach

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Seahorse Oceanfront Inn — A classic, family-owned hotel with an unbeatable oceanfront location and a popular tiki bar. It offers a laid-back, authentic beach experience right in the heart of the Neptune Beach and Beaches Town Center action.

6. Downtown: Best for Events and Riverfront Views

The urban core of the city, Downtown Jacksonville is a district of impressive contrasts, with modern skyscrapers reflecting off the surface of the St. Johns River. It’s the city’s business hub and the best place to stay for events at venues like the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena or for watching the Jacksonville Jaguars play.

The Authentic Detail:
Walking the Jacksonville Riverwalk at dusk, watching the city lights begin to sparkle across the water as the Acosta Bridge glows blue. It’s a striking urban waterscape.

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The Northbank and Southbank Jacksonville Riverwalk offer scenic paths for a stroll, especially during events like the annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival. While the downtown area is quieter on weekends, it’s home to key cultural spots near the former site of the Jacksonville Landing and offers access to attractions like the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Excellent for business travelers and those attending events, with beautiful river views and central location.
• Con: Can feel deserted after business hours and on weekends compared to other neighborhoods.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for business travelers, event-goers, and first-time visitors who want a central base. Skip if you’re looking for a neighborhood with bustling weekend energy and boutique charm.

Best Hotels in Downtown

💎 Luxury hotels

• Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront — A major landmark on the Jacksonville riverfront, this hotel boasts stunning views from its rooms and rooftop pool. It is one of the top hotels in Jacksonville for event attendees due to its central location.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Marriott Jacksonville Downtown — This Marriott Jacksonville hotel offers modern comfort for those who want to stay in downtown Jacksonville. Guests appreciate the clean rooms, reliable service, and easy access to the Jacksonville Riverwalk.
• Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk — Located on the quieter Southbank, this hotel provides spectacular skyline views and a resort-like pool deck. It offers a great balance of relaxing atmosphere and easy access to downtown via the river taxi.

7. Avondale: For Historic Charm

Adjacent to Riverside, Avondale is one of Jacksonville’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods. It’s characterized by quiet, oak-canopied streets, magnificent historic homes, and a strong sense of community.

A Signature Moment:
Strolling down a quiet, shaded street and admiring the diverse and immaculate architecture, from Mediterranean Revival mansions to charming Prairie School homes.

Navigating the Neighborhood & Insider Knowledge:
The neighborhood’s commercial heart is The Shoppes of Avondale, a stretch of locally-owned boutiques, cozy restaurants, and cafes that feels like a small town main street. It’s a highly walkable and pleasant area for an afternoon of browsing and dining. For a relaxing break, head to Boone Park.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Incredibly charming and serene, with beautiful architecture and a tight-knit, upscale community feel.
• Con: The nightlife is very low-key, and it is almost entirely residential outside of the main shopping district.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for those who appreciate historic architecture, a quiet atmosphere, and upscale local shopping. Skip if you want to be in the middle of the action or close to the beach.

Note: Hotel options are not available directly within the residential neighborhood of Avondale. Visitors are best served by staying in the adjacent Riverside area to explore Avondale’s charm.

8. Atlantic Beach: For Laid-Back Family Beach Days

Atlantic Beach offers a friendly, residential beach-town feel that’s perfect for families. It’s more laid-back than Jacksonville Beach but still offers plenty to do, with a beautiful, wide shoreline and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Defining Scene:
Families riding bikes along shady residential streets, towels and beach chairs in tow, heading for a relaxed day on the sand.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The northern part of the Beaches Town Center, shared with Neptune Beach, provides a great selection of restaurants and shops. For a more natural escape, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is nearby, offering freshwater lake kayaking, hiking trails, and a splash park for kids in addition to its beach access.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: A safe, family-friendly atmosphere with a beautiful beach and easy access to amenities.
• Con: It’s quieter than Jacksonville Beach, with fewer nightlife options.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for families and anyone seeking a low-key, relaxed beach vacation. Skip if you’re looking for a lively party scene.

Best Hotels in Atlantic Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

• One Ocean Resort & Spa — The premier luxury hotel in the beaches area, offering elegant oceanfront rooms and dedicated butler services. Its spa is considered among the best in the area, providing a perfect escape for those seeking pampering and top-tier amenities.

FAQ

What’s the difference between Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach?

Jacksonville Beach is the most active and commercial of the three, with the most nightlife, restaurants, and events. Neptune Beach is the upscale middle ground, known for its boutique shopping and dining at the Beaches Town Center. Atlantic Beach is the most residential and laid-back, making it a popular choice for families.

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Jacksonville?

Riverside, San Marco, and Downtown are considered the most walkable neighborhoods for visitors. Riverside offers a mix of parks, shops, and restaurants, while San Marco’s activity is centered around its charming square. The Beaches Town Center in Neptune and Atlantic beaches is also highly walkable.

Where is the best area to stay for nightlife?

For nightlife, the top choices are Jacksonville Beach and the Riverside/Five Points area. Jacksonville Beach offers a classic “beach bar” scene with many venues clustered near the ocean. Five Points and the surrounding Riverside area have a more eclectic mix, from craft breweries in the King Street District to trendy cocktail bars and live music venues.

Where should I stay for a first-time visit?

For a first-time visitor wanting a bit of everything, booking a stay in the Jacksonville Beach area provides a classic Florida experience with plenty of amenities and things to do in Jacksonville. If you prefer culture and history, Riverside or San Marco are excellent choices that showcase the city’s historic charm.

Is it better to stay at the beach or near downtown?

Your decision on the best spot to stay in Jacksonville is key and depends on your travel style. Stay at the beach if your priority is a relaxed, vacation-oriented atmosphere. Choose a neighborhood near downtown, like Riverside or San Marco, if you are more interested in exploring the city’s history, architecture, and food scene.