10-Day Adventure Itinerary in Jacksonville

  1. Day 1: Little Talbot Island State Park
    30 minutes (28 miles) from Jacksonville Beach

    Explore protected sandy beaches with dunes, forests, and marsh. Campsites, hiking, and bicycle trails are available.

  2. Day 2: Kingsley Plantation
    20 minutes (14 miles) from Little Talbot Island State Park

    Visit the historic plantation built in 1798 and tour the slave quarters, barn, plantation house, and explore scenic nature trails.

  3. Day 3: American Beach
    20 minutes (12 miles) from Kingsley Plantation

    Relax and play on the beautiful sandy beach with clear waters. Snorkeling spots and seafood dining are available nearby.

  4. Day 4: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
    30 minutes (22 miles) from American Beach

    Explore over 2,000 exotic animals and botanical gardens with interactive exhibits, a train ride, and numerous playgrounds.

  5. Day 5: Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
    15 minutes (8 miles) from Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

    Discover the natural wonders and rich history of the area through trails, boardwalks, historic forts, and a visitor center.

  6. Day 6: Amelia Island State Park
    30 minutes (25 miles) from Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

    Enjoy pristine beaches, coastal forests, dunes, and salt marshes with abundant wildlife. Camping, fishing, and horseback riding available.

  7. Day 7: Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
    40 minutes (18 miles) from Amelia Island State Park

    Get up close to exotic big cats and feed them on guided tours of this non-profit sanctuary, which rescues and cares for animals in need.

  8. Day 8: Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
    30 minutes (17 miles) from Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

    Experience a variety of outdoor activities such as surfing, fishing, hiking, biking, and camping in a beautiful natural setting.

  9. Day 9: St. Johns River Ferry
    20 minutes (13 miles) from Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

    Cross the St. Johns river on a historic ferry that takes you to Mayport Village and Fort George Island Cultural State Park for more outdoor adventures.

  10. Day 10: Big Talbot Island State Park
    30 minutes (22 miles) from St. Johns River Ferry

    End your trip with stunning views of talbot islands, abundant wildlife. The Boneyard Beach is an iconic location with drifted trees; don't forget to capture your memories!

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Little Talbot Island State Park (6 hours, $5 per vehicle)
  • Kingsley Plantation (2 hours, free)
  • American Beach (4 hours, free)
  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (4 hours, $25 per adult)
  • Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve (3 hours, free)
  • Amelia Island State Park (6 hours, $4-5 per vehicle)
  • Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, $20 per adult)
  • Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park (6 hours, $5 per vehicle)
  • St. Johns River Ferry (2 hours, $6 per vehicle)
  • Big Talbot Island State Park (4 hours, $5 per vehicle)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $81 per person (excluding meals and accommodations)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a day trip to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge or visit the Jacksonville Beach Pier and try surfing. For a shorter trip, you can skip the zoo and plan a half-day trip to Hanna Park or American Beach instead. Remember to check the weather and avoid visiting outdoor activities during rainy days.

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