Jacksonville beaches cover 22 miles of white sand, active surf, and deep water fishing off a city pier that’s an especially lovely spot to watch sunrises. More than 20 million people visit the area every year, and many of them are choosing to stay. Jacksonville’s population is growing more and more every year, and one of the reasons people are flocking to “JAX” is the beach. Census data from 2020 shows that this Northeast Florida city is the 12th most populous in the entire country.
This is an area with pleasant weather all year long, which is perfect for beach dwelling. There’s also an abundance of art and culture as well as championship golf, rugged hiking trails, and stunning state parks. Residents can find five-star dining, craft beer, and even local wineries.
Jacksonville beach homes for sale can be found in a number of diverse neighborhoods and active lifestyle communities. Nearby areas like Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, Ponte Vedra, and St. Augustine are also known for their pleasant seaside energies and opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and sunning.
We’re taking a look at four of the best 55+ communities on the beach in this fast growing part of Florida.
Low $500s - Mid $500s
Just north of Jacksonville is Fernandina Beach, which is home to Natures Gate, an intimate community of only 42 single-family homes. A sprawling conservation area provides greenspace to residents who enjoy walks, bike rides, and bird watching. Shops and restaurants are close to the community, and it’s only a few minutes away from Amelia Island, where there are bars, breweries, and locally owned stores.
Homes are spacious, with models ranging from 1,560 to 2,402 square feet. Floor plans have three or four bedrooms, two or three bathrooms, and an attached two-car garage. Many of the homes at Natures Gate include a wood-burning fireplace, skylights in high ceilings, a primary suite with walk-in closet space and expansive bathrooms, and a private outdoor patio or deck. Yards can be fenced, which is great for pets.
All the natural greenspace is a huge benefit to Natures Gate. Residents can be found walking, taking bike rides, and simply admiring the plants, butterflies, and wildlife that’s often spotted in the community.
Living in Fernandina Beach provides access to historic landmarks and natural environments, including Amelia Island and Fort Clinch State Park.
High $200s - Mid $300s
An affordable option for anyone hoping to live near Jacksonville beaches, Vista Cove is a gated condominium community situated along the St. Sebastian River in St. Augustine, Florida. Buyers will find 310 condo homes in low-rise buildings, close to the water.
Low-maintenance condos have between 1,393 and 1,642 square feet, with two or three bedrooms, two or three bathrooms, and a detached one-car garage. Open floor plans include an eat-in kitchen with dual sinks and a breakfast bar. There’s recessed lighting, tile floors, stainless appliances, and plenty of storage in cabinets and cupboards. Primary suites have double vanities and walk-in closets. Screened or covered outdoor patios and balconies provide views of the community or natural space throughout the residential neighborhood.
Vista Cove offers residents a number of amenities as well. There’s a community clubhouse, with plenty of gathering space and multipurpose rooms for social activities or club meetings. Homeowners will also find a fitness center with all the strength training and cardiovascular equipment they need. Outdoor pools and patios are also available, as well as walking paths and scenic lakes throughout the community.
St. Augustine is full of history and only 45 minutes from Jacksonville beaches. Residents can visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and do some shopping and dining along the lively St. George Street. The St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park is not far from the community, and it’s a great starting point for residents who want to canoe, kayak, or fish on the St. Sebastian River.
Low $700s - Mid $1Ms
Active adults interested in Jacksonville beach homes for sale on a golf course will want to consider Golfside at Summer Beach, a gated community of single-family homes. Bordering The Golf Club of Amelia Island, which is a semi-private course of 18 holes, residents have access to golf and sprawling views of the course.
In addition to the golf course, residents at Golfside at Summer Beach enjoy a pool with a patio that includes seating. The neighborhood is well-landscaped, making it a pleasant place to walk, jog, and bike.
With 150 single-family homes in the community, buyers have a choice of floor plans and models. Construction began in 1987, and there are still new construction opportunities available for buyers who want to put their own personalized style on their homes. Each model home is spacious, with options of between 2,000 and 5,200 square feet, three or four bedrooms, three or four bathrooms, and an attached two- or three-car garage.
Single-family models have open floor plans and primary suites on the first floor. Many homes include optional upgrades such as fireplaces, breakfast nooks, and a den or home office.
In addition to the semi-private course where they live, homeowners who love to golf are close to impressive courses like Fernandina Beach Golf Club, Trident Lakes Golf Course, and The Amelia Island Club at Long Point.
Low $400s - Low $600s
Found on a lake in Ponte Vedra, Fisherman’s Cove is close to Jacksonville beaches, and it’s a desirable neighborhood for people who love being on or near the water. In addition to the lake, there are numerous lagoons and smaller lakes around the community. Many residents own boats, and the waterways in the community offer easy access for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
There are 85 attached homes at Fisherman’s Cove, and one- and two-story models are available. Homes were constructed in the early 1980s, and many of them have been recently updated and renovated. They have 1,350 to 1,800 square feet, with two or three bedrooms and two or three bathrooms. Open floor plans, spacious bedrooms, and in some cases a small office or den can be found in each home. Residents will love their balconies as well as the screened porches on their homes.
Boat launches can be found at the lakes throughout the community. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and patio as well as a playground, which is ideal for children and grandchildren. There are no age restrictions at Fisherman’s Cove, which encourages intergenerational living. Homeowners will enjoy the natural spaces with paths and sidewalks for walking and biking.
Ponte Vedra is located between Jacksonville beaches and St. Augustine. It’s known for serene beaches, championship golf, and spas. Locals can be found on the boardwalk at Bird Island Park or having a beer at Mulligan’s Pub.
If you’re looking at homes for sale near the Jacksonville beaches, we can help. Contact 55places.com to find your perfect community in the Jacksonville area.
