The Best Hotels In Jacksonville Florida

Situated on the northeast coast of Florida, Jacksonville serves as a popular destination for tourists looking for fun nightlife, amazing natural sites, and relaxing white sand beaches. Jacksonville, also known as Jax, is the most populated city in Florida, so it is loaded with hotels, all of which have some of their own benefits.

We reviewed Jacksonville hotels and came out with 10 of the best. We discuss location in relation to beaches, dining, and fun activities nearby. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each hotel, and what they offer.

Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

Notable Amenities: golf course, pool, private balcony, babysitting, free WIFI, ocean view, on-site dining options.

Overview

Right on Ponte Vedra Beach this hotel has a sister site, The Lodge & Club Ponte Vedra Beach, which is also accessible for guests of the Vedra Inn & Club. This resort offers some of the best hospitality, and with a AAA Five-Diamond rating, it’s sure to be a luxurious stay. It serves as a great hotel for a family vacation as well as offering plenty of space for events such as weddings and corporate gatherings.

The rooms in this resort all look out at the Atlantic Ocean, and the beach is walk-out accessible, which is great for the family that wants to be able to take a swim in the ocean whenever they please.

The Lodge & Club Ponte Vedra has twelve on-site restaurants and bars. From the more elegant and refined atmosphere of the Seahorse Grill to the more relaxed and casual atmosphere of the Surf Deck Grill you can find a restaurant that suits your tastes. We love the vast options and diversity of the dining available. There are plenty of opportunities to get beachside cocktails as well as exclusive drinking and snacking at The Tavern.

You will find the staff at this hotel very attentive, delivering room service to your specific needs and desires. They will help you plan and execute events such as weddings and anniversaries down to the smallest detail, all while being surrounded by the lush flora on the grounds, which are beautifully maintained.

The lush grounds are expansive so places tend to be spread out, but everything is still accessible by walking or by car. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to the beach.

The views and the opportunity to stay on the grounds for everything you need is what makes this particular hotel stand out. At a high price point Ponte Vedra Inn & Club delivers a luxurious atmosphere and high end customer service. Many people refer to it as a magical place that serves as a hideaway paradise.

Location

The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is located on Ponte Vedra Beach just southeast of Downtown Jacksonville and south of Jacksonville Beach. It is close to many golf courses, other resorts, and attractions such as the Marsh Landing Country Club and Bird Island Park, a waterfront park with native birds and beautiful trails.

Since it is directly on the beach, this hotel is a further drive from Downtown Jacksonville, about 23 miles and a 30 minute drive. This makes it the perfect hideaway for couples or families that don’t want to be too close to the city atmosphere.

The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is about a 40 minute drive from the Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), and about a 40 minute drive from the St. Augustine Airport (Northeast Florida Regional Airport).

Beaches Nearby

Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is located right on Ponte Vedra Beach, but is also located 3.5 miles south of Jacksonville Beach, which is only a 10 minute drive. It is also about 6 miles north of Mickler Beach, which is a 15 minute drive away.

Activities Nearby

The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is in the perfect location for folks who like to golf, play tennis, and shop, and the resort has its own activities to offer. For the golf lover in your family you will be right near the Lagoon Course and Ocean Course, which are located on the resort premises.

Plenty of shops are located within the resort like The Surf Shop and The Ponte Vedra Shop. One downside to being a resort that is on the beach is that you will need a car if you want to take park in what Jacksonville has to offer. .

• Beaches Museum - 14 minute drive (6 miles)
• Mind Bender Escape Rooms - 18 minute drive (7 miles)
• Bird Island Park - 6 minute drive or 34 minute walk (1.7 miles)
• Altitude Trampoline Park - 16 minute drive (6.5 miles)
• MOSH (Museum of Science and History) - 35 minute drive (22.6 miles)
• MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) - 30 minute drive (23.5 miles)

If folks are looking to watch some live sports, the TIAA Bank Field stadium, where the Jacskonville Jaguars play, is 22 miles away or a half hour drive away.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• With restaurants and shops you never have to leave the resort.
• Right on the beach so you don’t have to travel to surf or swim.
• On-site pools including an adult-only pool.
• Babysitting is available so adults can enjoy some alone time.
• Equal distance from both of the popular airports in the area.
• Free parking at the resort.

Cons:

• Costly
• A half hour drive from Downtown Jacksonville.
• Outside restaurants and activities are a longer ways away
• Extra fees for beach amenities
• Can’t pay for products on site unless you are a guest

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Notable Amenities: pool, fitness center, valet Parking, bicycle Rental, family Rooms, children’s Activities, breakfast Available

Overview

Located on Amelia Island, an island filled with pristine beaches just northeast of Downtown Jacksonville, The Ritz-Carlton is a high end luxury hotel on thirteen miles of beach

This hotel is ideal for those looking for a cozy and luxurious getaway since the rooms are furnished and designed with a modern taste with private balconies, an optional fireplace, and a roomy formal dining space. When the resort is full, it can feel crowded, so common holidays will be packed and you may experience a limit in services or a wait on certain amenities like beach chairs.

The Ritz-Carlton is designed for families in mind with various activities and treats throughout the premises to entertain and excite children, such as their Pirate Island and their Ritz Kids’ Night. There are also activities for adults like their Hook, Line, and Supper, their “fish-to-dish” interactive dining experience.

This location offers fine dining options on the grounds, which is helpful since there aren’t many restaurants on Amelia Island, or they require a substantial drive. Salt, one of the on-site restaurants, is a AAA 5-Diamond rated establishment serving local seafood. There are others including Coast and Tidewater Grill that are located on the premises.

This hotel is the most expensive in the Jacksonville area and the price may be excessive for what it has to offer. You’re definitely paying for its location right on the beach, which is understandable, but it essentially has the same amenities and services offered by hotels at half their price.

Location

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is located on Amelia Island, northeast of Downtown Jacksonville. Downtown is 36.6 miles from this hotel and is a 50 minute drive away. The nearest airport, Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (2.5 miles away) is a 6 minute drive, while Jacksonville International Airport (27.3 miles away) is a 40 minute drive away, and Northeast Florida Regional Airport (61.8 miles away) is over an hour long drive.

Beaches Nearby

• Peters Point Beachfront Park - 4 minute drive or a 10 minute walk away (0.5 mile)
• American Beach - 7 minute drive (2.1 miles)
• Fernandina Beach - 15 minute drive (6.1 miles)
• Fort Clinch State Park East Beach Access - 21 minute drive (8.2 miles)
• Boneyard Beach - 14 minute drive (7.6 miles)
• Black Rock Beach - 14 minute drive (8.5 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Fernandina Beach Golf Club - 5 minute drive (1.6 miles)
• Amelia River Club - 6 minute drive (2.1 miles)
• Amelia Island Lighthouse - 15 minute drive (6.3 miles)
• Egan’s Creek Greenway - 10 minute drive (4.8 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 52 minute drive away (37.4 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Large showers
• Rooms have separate living rooms for bedroom privacy
• Plenty of high end and casual restaurants on-site
• Has an adults-only pool

Cons:

• Costly
• Services and amenities aren’t 5-star
• Spa is limited in size and services

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Notable Amenities: room service, safe, VIP room facilities, shuttle bus service, pool with a view, coffee shop on-site, convenience store

Overview

Located in Downtown Jacksonville along the St. Johns River, this hotel is ideal for folks who want to enjoy what the city of Jacksonville has to offer over the beaches. This hotel is a drive from most beaches, but it has a heated rooftop pool with a pool bar if you are looking to take a dip.

The Hyatt Regency has a fitness center as well as conference facilities and a business center so you can work and workout. Rooms are spacious and the staff makes sure to keep the rooms and hotel clean. Rooms are also complete with air conditioning, a coffee & tea maker, and a flatscreen TV, which can play on demand movies.

This is a pet friendly establishment, allowing dogs up to 50 pounds (or two with a combined weight no higher than 75 pounds) for a nightly fee. A coffee shop and convenience store are on-site so you won’t have to leave the hotel for sundries or your morning latte.

If you are looking to enjoy the night but don’t want to step out, Tavern is an on-site bar and restaurant with cocktails and drinks while there is also SHOR Seafood Grill on-site for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Location

The Hyatt Regency is located right in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, and the nearest airport, Jacksonville International Airport (15 miles away), is a 21 minute drive away while Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (34.7 miles away) is a 45 minute drive, and Northeast Florida Regional Airport (37.6 miles away) is a 42 minute drive.

Beaches Nearby

• Kurzius Beach - 15 minute drive (6.1 miles)
• Atlantic Beach - 32 minute drive (16.7 miles)
• Seminole Beach - 36 minute drive (20 miles)
• Neptune Beach - 31 minute drive (17 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 28 minute drive (21 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Southbank Riverwalk - 5 minute drive or 16 minute walk (1.1 miles)
• Friendship Fountain - 4 minute drive or 14 minute walk (0.9 mile)
• Museum of Science and History - 4 minute drive or 15 minute walk (0.9 mile)
• Museum of Contemporary Art - 4 minute drive or a 12 minute walk (0.6 mile)
• Jaguar Stadium - 4 minute drive or a 20 minute walk (1.3 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• In the heart of Downtown Jacksonville
• Private parking and valet parking on-site
• Electric vehicle charging station on-site
• Pet friendly hotel (with limitations)
• Digital check in

Cons:

• Not within walking distance to many beaches
• Located in a unsafe area at night with little security

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

Notable Amenities: room service, refrigerator, allergy free room, breakfast buffet, spa on-site, free Parking, laundry on-site

Overview

Located southwest of Downtown Jacksonville, and right off the highway (I-295), the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is an affordable option for families and those on business. This is an affordable hotel option with prices usually averaging around $110 a night.

At this price you get a fair amount of amenities that include a small fitness center with some workout equipment to keep in shape as well as a free hot breakfast, which is always exceptional. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. Laundry is on-site for those with extended visits.

Rooms are very well taken care of, although they can be a bit dark as there isn’t enough lighting. The rooms also have modern furniture that isn’t very comfortable and the beds can be stiff.

This hotel caters to families since children stay for free and there are plenty of activities for kids. There is also a shared lounge area for those who want to relax and meet some other guests outside of their room.

Keep in mind, this hotel is far from many beaches and is still a drive away from downtown. Those who plan on visiting this hotel should be prepared with a vehicle to see what Jacksonville has to offer.

Location

The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is located southwest of Downtown Jacksonville. Downtown is 17 miles from this hotel and is a 23 minute drive away. The nearest airport, Jacksonville International Airport (26 miles away) is a 31 minute drive away, while Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (49 miles away) is a 56 minute drive, and Northeast Florida Regional Airport (35.6 miles away) is a 40 minute long drive.

Beaches Nearby

• Kurzius Beach - 15 minute drive(6.1 miles)
• Atlantic Beach - 32 minute drive (16.7 miles)
• Seminole Beach - 36 minute drive (20 miles)
• Neptune Beach - 31 minute drive (17 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 28 minute drive (21 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Jaguar Stadium - 24 minute drive (17.8 miles)
• Lake Smallz - 10 minute drive (3 miles)
• Ringhaver Park - 13 minute drive (4.6 miles)
• River Road Historic District - 10 minute drive (3.8 miles)
• Museum of Southern History - 18 minute drive (7.4 miles)
• Pinglehead Brewing Company - 4 minute drive (0.6 mile)
• Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve - 37 minute drive (31 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Free Hot Breakfast every morning
• Great location for business trips and conferences
• 100% Smoke Free Hotel

Cons:

• Right off the highway (I-295) and noisy
• Pets are not allowed
• No pool bar

Marriott Jacksonville Downtown

Notable Amenities: cable/satellite TV, refrigerator, room service, coffee/tea Maker, on-site paid public parking, electric vehicle charging Station

Overview

This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, and is in walking distance to many prime dining and cultural destinations.

The Marriott provides a vacation appropriate environment with a pool as well as a bar and lounge, J Bar and Juliette’s. Wake up in the morning and enjoy their breakfast buffet before you head out to the MOSH (Museum of Science and History) or MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), which are both a short walk away.

The beaches of Jacksonville are a drive away, though this isn’t an adequate hotel for those who are looking for a beach focused vacation since it isn’t walking distance from them. This hotel includes perks such as express check in and check out that all can be done with your smartphone. The key to your room can be mobile for a contactless service experience.

The hotel’s furnishings can really use an update as some seem a bit worn or outdated and the staff wasn’t as warm and welcoming as with other hotels in the area. This hotel is right along the St. Johns River where there are activities like canoeing and hiking available.

Location

The Marriott Jacksonville Downtown is located right in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, and the nearest airport, Jacksonville International Airport (15 miles away), is a 19 minute drive away while Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (34.6 miles away) is a 43 minute drive, and Northeast Florida Regional Airport (37.7 miles away) is a 45 minute drive.

Beaches Nearby

• Kurzius Beach - 16 minute drive (6.2 miles)
• Atlantic Beach - 32 minute drive (16.7 miles)
• Seminole Beach - 36 minute drive (20 miles)
• Neptune Beach - 31 minute drive (17 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 28 minute drive (21 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Southbank Riverwalk - 5 minute drive or 16 minute walk (1.1 miles)
• Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens - 5 minute drive or 26 minute walk (1.6 miles)
• Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts - 2 minute drive or 1 minute walk (0.4 mile)
• Friendship Fountain - 4 minute drive or 14 minute walk (1 mile)
• Museum of Science and History - 4 minute drive or 15 minute walk (1 mile)
• Museum of Contemporary Art - 3 minute drive or a 8 minute walk (0.4 mile)
• Jaguar Stadium - 7 minute drive or a 31 minute walk (1.7 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Digital check in and mobile key
• Very pleasant and helpful staff
• Close to the museums of Jacksonville
• Pets allowed
• Convenience store on-site

Cons:

• Not a safe location at night.
• Lacking room amenities

Omni Amelia Island Resort

Notable Amenities: housekeeping, additional Bathroom, coffee/tea maker, refrigerator, laptop safe, blackout curtains, bicycle rental, shuttle bus service

Overview

The Omni Amelia Island Resort is on Amelia Island, which provides a more secluded area away from downtown. This is what allows the resort to have amazing property amenities such as 3 golf courses, its own nature center, 23 tennis courts, and boutique shopping.

Being far from Downtown Jacksonville means you can’t as easily experience the nightlife, but The Omni offers 9 restaurants on-site like Bob’s Steak & Chop house, the Verandah which serves lighter Mediterranean-inspired fare, and Paloma a Pico, a more casual cuisine experience that is served poolside.

Other than its many restaurants, The Omni also has a full service spa on-site as well as a fitness center with an indoor pool and high end equipment. There are two pools on the premises, one for adults only, as well as two hot tubs. The common areas of the hotel are pristine and kept in lovely condition while the rooms themselves could use some updating on the furniture and design.

The hotel has programs for family activities and it is close to natural sites like the marshlands, a great place to tour. Since this hotel is so good for families, there are typically many of them, and for couples trying to get away it may be too much. In terms of getaways for the family, this is the best choice in Jacksonville, especially since it has so many activities on-site

Location

Omni Amelia Island Resort is on Amelia Island northeast of Downtown Jacksonville. The Resort is a 45 minute drive from Downtown (35.8 miles away), an 11 minute drive from Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (5.7 miles away), a 41 minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport (33.5 miles away), and a 1 hour drive from Northeast Florida Regional Airport (59 miles away).

Beach Nearby

• American Beach Access - 7 minute drive (2.3 miles)
• Peters Point Beachfront Park - 9 minute drive or a 1 hour walk (4.2 miles)
• Main Beach Park - 18 minute drive (8.9 miles)
• Boneyard Beach - 9 minute drive (5 miles)
• Black Rock Beach - 9 minute drive (5.8 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Fernandina Beach Golf Club - 10 minute drive (5 miles)
• Amelia River Club - 9 minute drive (4.1 miles)
• Amelia Island Lighthouse - 20 minute drive (9.7 miles)
• Egan’s Creek Greenway - 16 minute drive (8.3 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 43 minute drive away (35.1 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Can rent a private cabana poolside
• Has an adult-only pool
• Has 9 on-site restaurants
• Provides many activities for families

Cons:

• Costly
• Far from downtown
• Not in an area with many bars or restaurants

One Ocean Resort & Spa

Notable Amenities: refrigerator, housekeeping, air conditioning, private balcony, safe, laundry service, butler service, bicycle rental

Overview

Located on the beach the One Ocean Resort & Spa is perfect for those who want a beach focused vacation intended for relaxation and rejuvenation. This hotel has a spa on-site with a spa boutique.

The fitness center on the resort is open 24 hours a day and has high end cardio equipment as well as resistance machines, and free weights. There is a heated outdoor swimming pool, but the One Ocean Resort & Spa is also located right next to the Ahern Beach Street Access.

This hotel could use a fair amount of updating as the furniture and design is out of date with wear and tear throughout. The staff in the hotel and all of the restaurants are very accommodating and helpful.

Downtown Jacksonville is only a half hour drive away if you want more dining and shopping opportunities but there are plenty of restaurants nearby such as The Fish Company and The Fly’s Tie Irish Pub. On-site is Azurea, which offers an amazing brunch.

This hotel offers bicycle rentals, so you can travel the beaches or ride into Downtown.

Location

One Ocean Resort & Spa is located east of Downtown Jacksonville. The resort is a 27 minute drive from Downtown (16.4 miles away), an 52 minute drive from Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (45.1 miles away), a 33 minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport (25.5 miles away), and a 43 minute drive from Northeast Florida Regional Airport (37.3 miles away).

Beach Nearby

• Ahern Street Beach Access - 1 minute drive or 3 minute walk (0.2 mile)
• Atlantic Beach - 3 minute drive or 15 minute walk (0.8 mile)
• Neptune Beach - 3 minute drive or 21 minute walk (1.1 mile)
• Jacksonville Beach - 8 minute drive (3.3 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Atlantic Beach Country Club - 6 minute drive or 30 minute walk (1.7 miles)
• Howell Park - 3 minute drive or an 18 minute walk (1.1 miles)
• Castaway Island Preserve - 10 minute drive or a 2 hour walk (5.3 miles)
• Beaches Museum - 7 minute drive (2.8 miles)
• Dutton Island Preserve - 8 minute drive (2.8 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 25 minute drive away (15.7 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Pet friendly for a fee (pets less than 60 lbs)
• Contactless check in and check out
• Reasonably priced
• On-Site Spa
• Butler services are available

Cons:

• Far from the extensive dining and shopping downtown has to offer
• In room amenities are lacking for the price

Element Jacksonville Beach

Notable amenities: bicycle rental, separate living room, refrigerator, stove top, private balcony, safe, flatscreen TV

Overview

Element Jacksonville Beach is an affordable option close to Jacksonville Beach, but also a drive away from downtown. This hotel provides a lot of amenities for the price including a free buffet breakfast served every morning.

The rooms are clean with soft and comfortable furnishings, however there is no daily housekeeping. There are also multiple pools to choose from including a saltwater pool, a heated pool, and a shallow end pool for children. For the family traveling together they have a choice of interconnected rooms to give people their space.

Kids also stay for free at this hotel, which is a big plus if you are traveling with a family. Pets are also welcome on the property, which results in a lot of families and guests bringing their dogs. This can be a problem for people who have allergies or are uncomfortable around dogs.

Private parking is available on-site as well as an EV charging station, although you do have to pay for parking. Element also provides a lot of outdoor space, providing BBQ grills as well as an outdoor fireplace to relax.

As a newer hotel, the Element is beginning to make a name for itself with a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor. It has a modern looking room, which is loaded with amenities including a functioning kitchen so you don’t have to leave your room to eat.

Location

Element Jacksonville Beach is located east of Downtown Jacksonville. The Resort is a 26 minute drive from Downtown (22 miles away), an 56 minute drive from Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (47.6 miles away), a 35 minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport (28 miles away), and a 39 minute drive from Northeast Florida Regional Airport (34.8 miles away).

Beach Nearby

• Ahern Street Beach Access - 8 minute drive (2.9 mile)
• Atlantic Beach - 9 minute drive (3.6 mile)
• Neptune Beach - 5 minute drive or 33 minute walk (1.8 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 4 minute drive or 12 minute walk (0.7 mile)

Activities Nearby

• Atlantic Beach Country Club - 11 minute drive or 1 hour walk (4.2 miles)
• Howell Park - 8 minute drive or 1 hour walk (3.6 miles)
• Castaway Island Preserve - 7 minute drive or a 1 hour walk (3.4 miles)
• Beaches Museum - 2 minute drive or 3 minute walk (0.2 miles)
• Dutton Island Preserve - 13 minute drive (5.5 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 27 minute drive away (16.4 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Provide a free buffet breakfast
• A pet friendly location
• Have both light filtering and blackout curtains in the room
• Plenty of restaurants surrounding the hotel

Cons:

• Parking fee
• Still new and will need some more work

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront

Notable amenities: breakfast buffet, room service, safe, flatscreen TV, private balcony

Overview

Located in Downtown Jacksonville, the DoubleTree by Hilton is a prime location for a business trip or an event such as a wedding. The hotel provides a business center that’s open 24 hours that can hold up to 500 people. Catering as well as technical equipment are available for use as well.

With room service you will be able to eat breakfast in bed or you could head to the on-site restaurant, St. Johns Provision Co., for their southern breakfast buffet. The other restaurant on-site is Ruth’s Chris Steak House and both restaurants have a bar and lounge so you are always a short walk away from your room to a cocktail.

We found this location to need a room update as the furnishings and designs were out of date and there was some damage to furniture and rooms. Something that stands out is their river taxi that rides on the St. Johns River from the hotel to other locations in Downtown Jacksonville.

Location

The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is located right in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, and the nearest airport, Jacksonville International Airport (16 miles away), is a 22 minute drive away while Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (35.2 miles away) is a 42 minute drive, and Northeast Florida Regional Airport (37.3 miles away) is a 38 minute drive.

Beaches Nearby

• Kurzius Beach - 15 minute drive (6.7 miles)
• Atlantic Beach - 27 minute drive (17.3 miles)
• Seminole Beach - 33 minute drive (20 miles)
• Neptune Beach - 27 minute drive (17.7 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 25 minute drive (21 miles)

Activities Nearby

• Southbank Riverwalk - 2 minute drive or 1 minute walk (0.1 miles)
• Friendship Fountain - 2 minute drive or 6 minute walk (0.3 mile)
• Museum of Science and History - 2 minute drive or 6 minute walk (0.3 mile)
• Museum of Contemporary Art - 5 minute drive or a 20 minute walk (1.2 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 8 minute drive (2.1 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Connecting rooms available
• Business center with meeting rooms available
• Fun transportation downtown

Cons:

• Lacking in room amenities
• Not many options for different room types
• Must pay for parking
• Furniture is outdated

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville

Notable Amenities: cable/satellite TV, soundproof rooms, walk-in shower, free breakfast, refrigerator, safe, connecting rooms, free Wi-Fi

Overview

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites is located right off the highway and therefore provides easy access to Downtown Jacksonville, the various beaches, or the many natural sites Jacksonville has to offer. The hotel has free parking, which makes it easier to have a car during your stay.

This hotel is equidistant from both Ponte Vedra/Jacksonville Beach area and downtown so this is a prime location if you are interested in splitting your time between both activities. The hotel also has its own outdoor pool so you can swim right after a meeting or event. There is also a modestly equipped fitness center open 24 hours. It contains elliptical machines, a stationary bike, treadmills and free weights.

There are some cases where reservations have been lost, and there have been issues with staff. Also the breakfast tends to be on the unhealthy side and is not the highest quality.

This hotel offers an average amount of amenities, and the rooms are good for someone on a business trip since they contain a desk, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. On-site they also have conference facilities and meeting rooms, which makes it great for conferences and group business trips.

You will be sure to find comfort and relaxation after a long day of exploring Jacksonville with their pillow menu, walk-in shower, and cable/satellite TV.

Location

Holiday Inn Express & Suites is located east of Downtown Jacksonville. The Resort is a 17 minute drive from Downtown (13.8 miles away), an 46 minute drive from Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (42.1 miles away), a 26 minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport (22.6 miles away), and a 29 minute drive from Northeast Florida Regional Airport (26.5 miles away).

Beach Nearby

• Kurzius Beach - 19 minute drive (11.6 miles)
• Atlantic Beach - 21 minute drive (13.2 miles)
• Seminole Beach - 27 minute drive (17 miles)
• Neptune Beach - 20 minute drive (14.5 miles)
• Jacksonville Beach - 17 minute drive (12 miles)

Activities Nearby

• The Escape Game Jacksonville - 4 minute drive or 23 minute walk (1.4 miles)
• Prototype Escape Games - 5 minute drive (2.2 miles)
• Pump It Up Kids Birthdays and Summer Camps - 6 minute drive (3 miles)
• University of North Florida Nature Trails - 4 minute drive or 31 minute walk (1.6 miles)
• Deerwood Rotary Children’s Park - 7 minute drive (4 miles)
• Jaguar Stadium - 19 minute drive away (10.5 miles)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• They have a pillow menu
• Equidistant between Downtown Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach
• Breakfast Buffet included
• Have on-site self laundry facilities

Cons:

• Fitness center is limited
• Not pet friendly
• No local shuttle service to beach or downtown

What to Know Before Traveling to Jacksonville Florida

Jacksonville is becoming a popular destination because of its various and diverse sets of activities and landmarks to explore. Here are some things to do if you’re planning a trip to Jacksonville Florida:

• Check Out the Parks - Jacksonville has the largest urban system of parks in the nation. There are plenty of parks to visit as well as natural sites. Hiking through the state park and kayaking in the St. Johns River are both popular activities in Jacksonville.
• Fine Dining - Great cuisine is popular in Jacksonville and you’ll find amazing as well as diverse restaurants in the city. Some popular stops are Restaurant Orsay, which serves European and French inspired dishes or Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse, which is a go to for amazing atmosphere and delicious steak.
• Brewery Tours - There is a growing scene of breweries and taprooms in Jacksonville including Aardwolf Brewing Company, King Maker, and Ruby Beach. Some offer brewery tours and there are even some tours that incorporate walks through some of Jacksonville’s natural sites.
• Art and Culture - Jacksonville has a strong cultural element with great places to experience like the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), and the MOSH (Museum of Science and History).
• Golf - Like many places in Florida, Jacksonville serves as a destination for those who love golf. There are over 40 golf courses in the Jacksonville area, with 22 in Jacksonville and many others just outside. Hyde Park Golf Club is one of the most popular ones.
• Beaches - Florida is popular for its beaches and Jacksonville is a city that helps promote that. There are 22 miles of beach east of Downtown Jacksonville will plenty of beach activities like boating, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.

Top Restaurants in Jacksonville Florida

With its fine cuisine and convenient location right near some amazing seafood, Jacksonville Florida boasts popular and award winning restaurants. Here are some that are a must visit while you’re there:

• Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
• The Capital Grille
• Ruth’s Chris Steak House
• Restaurant Orsay
• Matthew’s
• Chart House
• Cowford Chophouse
• La Cena Ristorante
• Marker 32

All of these restaurants are a diverse pick of what Jacksonville has to offer, but the city boasts varied cuisines for different atmospheres. Jacksonville has plenty of upscale dining, but you will be comfortable in many of the more casual dining offered as well as various bars and cocktail joints.

Top Beaches in Jacksonville Florida

With 22 miles of pristine beaches, Jacksonville has a lot to choose from. Here are some of the top beaches that have plenty of space, beautiful water, and fun activities:

• Jacksonville Beach
• Neptune Beach
• American Beach
• Atlantic Beach
• Ponte Vedra Beach

All the listed beaches are part of one large beach where activities like surfing, kayaking, and boating are popular. Many hotels offer rentals for beach equipment, as well as boat rentals.

Closest Airport to Jacksonville Florida

The closest airport to Jacksonville Florida is the Jacksonville Airport (JAX), but there are further options that you could use if you choose to:

• Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - 17 minute drive - 15 miles away
• Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) - 1.5 hour drive - 75 miles away
• Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) - 1.5 hour drive - 92 miles away

There are also regional airports and private airports in the area such as Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport and Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Are Hotels in Jacksonville Florida?

Hotels in Jacksonville Florida can range differently based on where they are located, the class of hotel, and the amenities provided. Some hotels in Downtown Jacksonville can be $55 a night while others can be $449.

Beachfront hotels can be more costly since they are in a coveted area and you will usually see those hotels, on average, costing $150 to $700 a night as well.

The further south, west, or north you go from Downtown Jacksonville the cheaper hotels typically get on average and can even go as low as $50 a night.

What is the Oldest Hotel in Jacksonville Florida?

The oldest hotel in Jacksonville Florida is The Florida House Inn, which is located on Amelia Island and is also considered Florida’s oldest Inn still in operation today. This hotel was built in 1857 and housed famous Americans like Henry Ford and Ulysses S. Grant. It’s still in operation today with a wrap around porch and an English Pub.

What is the Weather Like in Jacksonville Florida?

Jacksonville experiences mild temperatures throughout the year with a chance for hotter days in the summer and cooler days in the fall and winter. Jacksonville is one of the few places in Florida that may get chilly. You will experience a fair amount of thunderstorms in the summer

• Summer - Highs up into the lower 90s and lows in the lower 70s
• Fall - Highs in the mid 80s and lows that can reach the lower 50s
• Winter - Highs in the mid to upper 60s and lows that reach the low 40s
• Spring - Highs in the upper 80s and lows in the lower 50s

Is Jacksonville Florida Safe?

Yes, Jacksonville is considered a safe city, but there are exceptions depending on where you are in the city. In terms of the national average and Florida state average for crime, Jacksonville ranks above both of them in crime. Jacksonville Florida is a sprawling area so it’s important to remember that different areas within Jacksonville will be safer than others. Jacksonville has a crime rate of 698 per 100,000 residents making it safer than only 8% of other U.S. cities, and you have a better chance of being a victim of a crime with a 1 in 146 chance.

What Hotels are on the Beach of Jacksonville?

There is plenty of beach to the east of Downtown Jacksonville, here are some that you can find for a beach vacation:

• Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront - Located on Neptune Beach, this hotel features a beautiful design around a grotto, and offers the largest swimming pool on that beach.
• Courtyard by Marriott Jackson Beach Oceanfront - Recognized as a Green Lodging Property and the Most Sea Turtle Eco-Friendly Hotel by The State of Florida, this hotel is right on Jacksonville Beach.
• Margaritaville Beach Hotel - This hotel is located on Jacksonville Beach with accommodations perfect for long stays.
• One Ocean Resort & Spa - Located on Atlantic Beach, this hotel provides easy access to Downtown Jacksonville.
• Best Western Oceanfront - This hotel is on Atlantic Beach and is great for families as kids stay for free here.
• Omni Amelia Island Resort - With 3 championship golf courses this hotel is great for golfers and is tucked away on Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island
• The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island - Located on Amelia Island, this hotel has its own private beach and has plenty of activities for children and families.
• Ponte Vedra Inn & Club - On the Ponte Vedra beach, this inn has 12 on-site restaurants and bars, and is within driving distance to Downtown Jacksonville.

What are the Hotels Near Downtown Jacksonville?

With popular nightlife, natural sites nearby, and fine dining Downtown Jacksonville is a wonderful spot to get a hotel, mostly along the St. Johns River.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront - This hotel is located in the San Marco district and is located on the St. Johns River.
• Hampton Inn Jacksonville-Downtown - I-95 - This hotel is conveniently located off of I-95 and is also one block away from the Jacksonville’s Skyway Monorail for easy transportation around the city.
• Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront - Located along the St. Johns River, this hotel is pet friendly and great for corporate events or conferences.
• Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk - Located in the Southbank neighborhood and on the St. Johns River, this hotel is cozy and close to plenty of Jacksonville dining and shopping options.
• Marriott Jacksonville Downtown - In the heart of downtown, this Marriott is a short walk away from attractions like MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and MOSH (Museum of Science and History).
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Downtown - This hotel offers beautiful views of the city from the Southbank area of downtown, and is a short walk away from the Museum of Science and History.
• Residence Inn by Marriott - A newer hotel, the Residence Inn is located near the Jacksonville Performing Arts Center and the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.
• Riverdale Inn - Also located near Cummer Museum, this riverfront hotel is located in the Five Points area of downtown. It’s also right near Memorial Park.

What are the Hotels Near Jacksonville Cruise Port?

If you are looking for close access to the Jacksonville Cruise Port, there is one hotel that is actually close to it:

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Blount Island - This hotel is located right near the Jacksonville Cruise Port as well as I-295 for easy access to the Airport and is close to Anheuser Busch Brewery.

What Are the Cheap Hotels in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is still an affordable option for vacationing or planning a business trip, and you will find most of the cheaper hotels further south, west, or north of downtown and far from the beach.

• Quality Inn & Suites Jacksonville - Baymeadows - For $54 a room this hotel is affordable and also offers a free breakfast and is pet friendly.
• Sonesta Simply Suites Jacksonville - At $90 a night this hotel features an outdoor dining area with BBQ grills, and is also pet friendly.
• Red Roof PLUS+ Jacksonville - At $76 a night this hotel is even more of a deal since children stay for free, and pets are also allowed here.
• Woodspring Suites Jacksonville I-295 East - At $74 a night, this hotel is good for long stays, providing amenities like a laundry room, and is pet friendly.
• Ramada by Wyndham Jacksonville - This hotel is $85 a night and is good for business trips since there is a conference center on-site and they provide evening entertainment.
• Best Western Premier Jacksonville Hotel - Only $74 a night, this hotel provides a free breakfast and has interconnect rooms while children get to stay for free.
• Best Western Southside Hotel & Suites - Located south of Downtown Jacksonville this $80 a night hotel is in OrangePark right next to the Jacksonville Naval and Air Station. Kids stay for free here and they provide a free breakfast.
• Red Roof Inn Jacksonville Airport - At $71 a night, the Red Roof Inn is close to the Jacksonville International Airport and right off of I-95.
• Developer Inn & Suites Airport JAX - With prices as low as $53 this hotel offers a free breakfast and has kids for free. It’s located right near the airport off of I-95.

What Is the Most Expensive Luxury Hotel in Jacksonville?

The most expensive luxury hotel in Jacksonville is The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, which made our list. With prices ranging from $600 to $800, on average, this hotel is the most expensive you will find in Jacksonville. It is conveniently located on the beach, has numerous high end amenities, and has The Ritz-Carlton branding.

What Are The Family Hotels in Jacksonville?

For a family trip Jacksonville has plenty of hotels that will be a good fit with your family. Some hotels contain amenities specifically for kids, like activities as well as babysitting services, and family friendly pools and restaurants.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront - This hotel is located in the San Marco district perfect for families to explore Downtown Jacksonville and enjoy the sights of the St. Johns River.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville - Blount Island - This hotel is located right near the Jacksonville Cruise Port as well as I-295 so the family can be outside of the city while also being a short drive away.
• Margaritaville Beach Hotel - This hotel is located on Jacksonville Beach with accommodations perfect for long stays as well as kid and family friendly activities.
• One Ocean Resort and Spa - This hotel is pet friendly and has a location right on the beach so your family won’t be far from the various activities on Atlantic Beach.
• Omni Amelia Island Resort - Hidden away from the city, this hotel offers quick beach access for the family and has 9 on-site restaurants so no one has to travel far for a bite.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows - Kids stay for free at this hotel, which is conveniently located off of I-95 close to many dining options and is only a 15 minute drive from Downtown Jacksonville.
• Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront - Located along the St. Johns River, this hotel is pet friendly and offers spacious and cozy family rooms as well as a heated rooftop pool.

This story was originally published October 2, 2023 at 12:30 PM with the headline "The Best Hotels In Jacksonville Florida."