Situated on the Eastern coast of Florida between Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach is a charming seaside community known for its pristine shoreline and laid-back, small-town vibe. With its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and cozy cafes, Neptune Beach offers an escape for those seeking a quieter beachside lifestyle while still enjoying the conveniences of city life.
Where is Neptune Beach?
Neptune Beach is located in Duval County and is an eastern suburb of Jacksonville within the Jacksonville Metropolitan Area. Positioned along the intercoastal waterway, this charming town is one of several communities situated on San Pablo Island, facing the Atlantic Ocean. With Jacksonville just 17 miles away, residents and visitors can easily access metropolitan life nearby.
Bordering Atlantic Beach to the north and Jacksonville Beach to the south, Neptune Beach is conveniently surrounded by Atlantic Boulevard and Florida State Route A1A to the north and east. Its strategic location distinguishes Neptune Beach from its neighboring coastal towns and facilitates a smooth commute to surrounding areas.
| How one man turned his commute into a coastal town The name Neptune Beach dates back to 1922, when Dan Wheeler built his own train station next to his home and named it Neptune. Mr. Wheeler had been informed that if he were to build a station, the train would be required to stop there. So, he got to work! Constructing the station eliminated his walk to Mayport to take the train to work in Jacksonville. The station was located where the One Ocean Resort and Spa is today. |
The coastal lifestyle awaits
Neptune Beach boasts a small-town charm that makes it a unique place to live. Originally a part of Jacksonville Beach, the community became its own entity in 1931. Today, it is characterized by its friendly atmosphere, rich history, and many local businesses. Unlike some of the more bustling beach towns, Neptune Beach retains a laid-back, residential vibe. Living in Neptune Beach means embracing a life filled with sun, surf, and community.
Residents enjoy miles of sandy shores perfect for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as beach volleyball and biking along scenic paths. The Beaches Town Center is a local hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
| NEPTUNE BEACH FAST FACTS – Neptune Beach area: 6.85 square miles – Average commute to Jacksonville: 25 minute – Median age: 42.6Total housing units: 3,500 – Population: 7,217—much less than the population of other nearby areas such as Atlantic Beach (13,513), and Jacksonville Beach (23,830) |
Neptune Beach weather and climate
Neptune Beach enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers that reach up to 91°F. Expect plenty of sunshine with an average of 218 sunny days each year, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach days. However, residents should be prepared for the occasional rain shower and the hurricane season from June to November.
Activities and attractions
Neptune Beach offers an ideal environment for homebuyers seeking a relaxed and outdoor-oriented lifestyle, thanks to its well-maintained parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities. With approximately 30 nearby green spaces, residents can easily explore and enjoy the area’s natural beauty—often without the dull hum of traffic in the background.
A popular spot for locals is Jarboe Park, a neighborhood park featuring playgrounds, walking trails, a lake, a pavilion, and various sports courts for volleyball, tennis, and pickleball. It’s also home to a farmers’ market on Saturdays and a great place for outdoor activities or a family picnic.
Neptune Beach itself is perfect for activities such as surfing, biking, and sunbathing, complemented by picturesque views, warm sand, and a quieter, less crowded beach experience compared to nearby tourist spots like Jacksonville Beach.
Community spirit
The town hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Dancin’ in the Streets festival, where residents come together to celebrate local culture and arts. The community’s well-maintained parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities encourage an active, outdoorsy lifestyle.
With its beautiful beaches, vibrant local scene, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder that so many choose to call Neptune Beach home. If you’re considering a move to this coastal community, John Merrill Homes is here to help bring your custom home vision or renovations to life. We’d love to hear from you!
Home we’ve built in Neptune Beach: California Coastal
Find Neptune Beach news and events on the city’s official website.
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