13 Places to Avoid in Florida [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Sunshine State: Florida is a tropical haven that pulls in countless tourists annually with its dazzling beaches, lively nightlife as well as world-class theme park offerings. Like every major tourist destination, knowing the geography is crucial. For a safe and pleasurable vacation, knowing the places to avoid in Florida is crucial.

Avoiding areas with high crime rates is one element of traveling safely. Furthermore, steering clear of overhyped tourist traps which are frequently overcrowded and overpriced should enhance your traveling experience. Whether your worries are safety related, or you merely wish to dodge the standard tourist pitfalls, this list will guide you through the much less appealing areas of the diverse state.

Continue reading to learn much more about the social fabric of Florida. We have you covered – from high-crime cities to areas that do not measure up to the hype. In case you have this knowledge, you can quickly benefit from the very best of Florida and avoid the places that may ruin your vacation.

places to avoid in Florida

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1. Tallahassee

Tallahassee! Ah, indeed! The capital city of Florida, in which Southern charm meets college city energy. But do not be deceived by the vibrant culture as well as historical sites of the city. Tallahassee also features a darker side. The city was ranked among the most dangerous in Florida and has a crime rate that exceeds ninety-two % of all U.S. cities. Additional vigilance is necessary in areas like Perkins, The Gardens at Westlake, Providence, Terrance Heights, and Falls Chase. Thus, while you are soaking up the rich heritage and experiencing the lively student scene, remember to remain alert and conscious of your surroundings.

Address: Tallahassee, FL, USA

 

2. Orlando

Orlando, a city synonymous with family fun and top-notch entertainment, is next on our list. Orlando draws visitors from around the globe due to its famous theme parks and melting pot of overseas cuisines. But it is not simply about fables and roller coasters. The city experiences its fair share of shadows, particularly in the areas west of downtown for example Pine Hills & Malibu Groves. Although the community is alive with excitement, it is also a breeding ground for theme park ticket fraud. Keep your eye on the prize as you go over the excitement of the pulsating city with your senses. Safeguarding your vacation is crucial to an unforgettable experience, all things considered.

Address: Orlando, FL, USA

 

3. Panama City

Imagine the setting sun over the Gulf of Mexico, dazzling the white sandy beaches in a golden glow. Panama City is a little City in the Florida panhandle that’s a haven for beach lovers and seafood lovers. Whether you are enjoying the newly caught catch of the day or relaxing in the sun, remember that Panama City also has a less pleasant side. The city’s criminal activity rates, particularly violent crime, surpass the national average. The laid-back lifestyle and idyllic beach scenes are in stark contrast. Bear in mind to be cautious and alert while visiting the local shops, enjoying the beach vistas, or dining in the waterfront eateries. Even in a City so picturesque as Panama City, it’s usually preferable to be safe instead of sorry.

Address: Panama City, FL, USA

 

4. Lake City

Let’s travel to Lake City, a City situated in northern Florida and situated midway between Tallahassee and Jacksonville. Its unique position makes it a centralized hub, with highways linking in all directions. You can experience the slower pace of small-town living away from the bustle of the larger cities of Florida. Lake City conceals a shocking truth beneath its charming exterior. The crime rate within the town is among the highest in the state. Even with its lower cost of living when compared with nearly all of the Sunshine State, it’s a location in which you have to keep your guard up. Keep an eye out if you happen to be in Lake City – passing through or staying a while. Continually be conscious of your surroundings and take necessary safety measures. stay in well-lit areas and take your very own safety measures.

Address: Lake City, FL, USA

 

5. Riviera Beach, Florida

Riviera Beach is a town situated north of West Palm Beach on a seaside coast. Its sand shores and proximity to the Treasure Coast of Florida might help make it look like a great destination for a beach holiday. Nevertheless, since you are planning your itinerary, it is important to remember that Riviera Beach has some of the highest crime statistics in Florida. In Riviera Beach, individuals are 3 times more likely to be victims of a violent crime when compared with various other areas of the state. So while you are soaking up the sun and surf, be alert. Constantly research the safest places to visit and ensure your belongings are always secure.

Address: Riviera Beach, FL, USA

 

6. Cocoa

Cocoa will be the next city on our list, situated along the Atlantic Coast to the north of Melbourne, southwest of Orlando. Cocoa might sound like a charming location due to its proximity to the coastline. The property crime rate in the city is among the highest in both the nation and the state, however. In Cocoa, violent crimes have grown 18 % year over year. Remember to be secure and alert while you are going to local attractions or even taking in the coastal scenery. Even on vacation, it is usually best to be protected and ready.

Address: Cocoa, FL, USA

 

7. Lauderhill

Let us check out Lauderhill, a town situated in west Broward County, South Florida. Lauderhill might look like an excellent destination to check out due to its diverse culture as well as vibrant population. Nevertheless, Lauderhill also boasts a high crime rate beneath the surface. Here, you’ve more than twice the likelihood of being a target of violent crime when compared with various other areas of Florida and the nation. Remember to be alert while experiencing the South Florida sunshine or going to the local landmarks. Constantly research the safest places to visit and ensure your belongings are always secure.

Address: Lauderhill, FL, USA

 

8. Lake Worth

We next travel to Lake Worth, a city situated on the Atlantic Coast between West Palm Beach & Del Ray Beach. Lake Worth is a town with a distinct character characterized by its homes in the Key West bungalow style. Nevertheless, property and violent crime rates exceed those of the state and the greater Fort Lauderdale / Miami-West Palm Beach metro area. Areas of Lake Worth also have a great deal of homelessness. So, when you are taking pleasure in the coastal views or exploring the local culture, remember to remain vigilant. Continually be conscious of the place you are as well as take the required measures for your safety.

Address: Lake Worth, FL, USA

 

9. Homestead

South of Miami we arrive in Homestead. The city has a rich history and is the entry point to 2 national parks: Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. But do not let its natural beauty as well as proximity to these parks fool you. Homestead has a crime rate that exceeds the national and state averages. Keep in mind to exercise caution as you plan your outings in the nearby parks or even take in the local culture. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Visit Homestead for its unique history as well as appeal, but remember safety first.

Address: Homestead, FL, USA

 

10. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, the world center of racing, is our next stop. Motorsports enthusiasts are going to find this city a haven due to its hard-packed, sandy beaches which welcome motor vehicles. Daytona Beach is a lot more than just speed, though. The crime rates within the city surpass both state as well as national averages, particularly in areas further from the beach and near the riverside. Be alert – whether you are at the beach or racing for the day. Stay in well-lit, bustling areas and keep your belongings close. Daytona Beach is a thrilling location due to its unique blend of sunshine, sea, and speed, but safety should never be ignored.

Address: Daytona Beach, FL, USA

 

11. Opa-Locka

Then we arrive in Opa-Llocka, a town situated in Miami-Dede County. The Moorish architecture of Opa Locka is unique and it boasts just about the most comprehensive collections of Moorish Revival architecture in the Western hemisphere. But beneath its architectural marvels, Opa-Locka has a high crime rate, among the highest in the nation. Remember to exercise caution when you admire the distinctive buildings of the city. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Opa-Locka, with its distinctive architecture and charm, may be worth a visit, but safety must always be a high priority.

Address: Opa-Locka, FL, USA

 

12. Perry

Our adventure takes us next to Perry, a tiny city in Taylor County in northern Florida. Perry is a forest hub and is often called the “Tree City of the South.” Perry is a small town with a natural beauty and a crime rate that exceeds 86 % of the state’s cities as well as towns. Whether you happen to be here to see the nearby forests or simply take in the small-town atmosphere, remember to be alert. Stay in well-lit, bustling areas and keep your belongings close. Perry, with its unique combination of nature and small-town charm, provides a memorable experience, but safety should not be ignored.

Address: Perry, FL, USA

 

13. Homestead

We conclude our list by going back to Homestead. Natural splendor as well as historical appeal combine to make this city situated between the Biscayne National Park and also the Everglades National Park. Nevertheless, it’s also a city that will require caution. Vigilance is required since Homestead has higher crime rates than both the state and the national averages. While you explore the local attractions, like the Coral Castle or Fruit and Spice Park, keep in mind to remain alert. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Homestead has a unique appeal and is situated near 2 of probably the most beautiful national parks in the country – a place to visit despite the need for extreme caution. Always remember that safety should come first.

Address: Homestead, FL, USA

 

Conclusion

although Florida is a beautiful and diverse state with lots to offer, you must be aware of the places to avoid in Florida. Knowing about these places could make a trip safer and more pleasurable – from high-crime areas to overhyped places.

Florida is not an exception to the rule that each city has its positives and negatives. With a little planning and research, you can easily navigate your way through the Sunshine State, taking full advantage of its stunning beaches, bustling cities, and top-notch attractions.

We hope this guidebook has helped to highlight several areas to avoid during your visit. Remain safe, stay informed, and above all, enjoy Florida and all its fantastic experiences.

The 20 BEST Luxury Resorts in Palm Beach, Florida

Palm Beach is located on an island in Palm Beach County in Florida and is separated by the Intracoastal Waterway from West Palm Beach and Lake Worth Beach. The city is known as being home to at least 30 billionaires and was ranked the 27th-wealthiest place in the US in 2017. Besides its gorgeous beaches, Palm Beach is renowned for its upscale shopping districts, including Royal Poinciana Plaza and Worth Avenue, as well as the Royal Poinciana Way Historic District. Worth Avenue alone features around 250 high-end stores, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. The streets of the city are lined with exquisite mansions, as well as historic landmarks, such as Henry Flagler’s former residence – now a museum.

The city is also known for its culture, including the Four Arts Plaza, with an art gallery, sculpture garden, concert hall auditorium, and a botanical garden. Pan’s Garden is a worthy visit, located on Hibiscus Avenue, and features a statue of Pan, the ancient Greek god who protects flocks. The garden is also home to many endangered species of native Florida vegetation. Palm Beach has an eclectic selection of dining opportunities, featuring local specialties and international cuisine. When visiting this great destination, stay in one of the luxury resorts Palm Beach has to offer, outlined below.

See Also: Places to Avoid in Florida

 

1. Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa

Set on a pristine beach on the Atlantic Ocean, Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa is the perfect place for relaxation, romance, and sophistication. The pet-friendly resort features a fitness center and pool, as well as delicious fresh seafood and other dining options, including oceanside patio seating, indoor dining, and in-room meals. The boutique resort features 134 rooms, each stocked with designer bath products and luxurious Frette terry bathrobes. Free high-speed Internet is available throughout.

Phone: 844-631-0595
Address: 2842 South Ocean Boulevard, Palm Beach, FL 33480-6233
Website: www.marriott.com

 

2. Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach

Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach is the only five-star resort on the island, perfectly nestled on a private beachfront. Guests are treated to a full dining experience, including the first restaurant and bar in the US to partner with 3-Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco. Enjoy traditional Florida fresh dishes with live-fire cooking, French Riviera style, in Florie’s. Experience polo season at one of the best luxury resorts Palm Beach, accompanied by a chef-prepared picnic. At the end of the day, lay down your head in one of the resort’s suites, bedrooms, or accessible rooms, each with every possible comfort.

Phone: 561-582-2800
Address: 2800 South Ocean Boulevard, Palm Beach, FL 33480-6234
Website: www.fourseasons.com

 

3. The Breakers Palm Beach

Nestled in a historical building on a private beach, The Breakers Palm Beach is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds. The property features two championship golf courses and an on-site spa, four heated oceanfront pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, and five hot tubs. The resort has a choice of nine restaurants, offering fine dining, snacks, desserts, and late-night cocktails. Each room features free Wi-Fi, a minibar, and plush bathrobes and slippers. Several suites offer living areas and private balconies.

Phone: 561-655-6611
Address: 1 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480-4023
Website: www.thebreakers.com

 

4. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

This beautiful oceanfront resort is one of the best luxury resorts Palm Beach has to offer. The property features two swimming pools and a full-service spa. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is ideal for families as the property offers extensive children’s programs, including a game room, a puppet theater, and a teen center. Guests can enjoy fine dining Angles and Mediterranean cuisine at Temple Orange. Relaxed snacks and meals are also available at the lobby bar and pool grill in the resort. The beach spacious room features a balcony, a feather bed, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Select guest rooms offer a spa bath.

Phone: 561-533-6000
Address: 100 S Ocean Blvd, Manalapan, FL 33462
Website: www.eaupalmbeach.com

 

5. Palm Beach Shores Resort and Vacation Villas

Located on Ocean Avenue in Palm Beach, this beachfront resort offers activities for the whole family, including volleyball games, tennis, walking tours, yoga classes, and more. Guests can relax at the outdoor pool, take advantage of massage services or work out in the resort’s fitness center. Laidback dining is available at the Islander Grill and Tiki Bar. All-suite accommodations feature private balconies, free high-speed Internet access, and TVs with DVD players. Basic kitchen facilities are also available.

Phone: 561-863-4000
Address: 181 S Ocean Ave, Palm Beach Shores, FL 33404
Website: www.pbsr.com

 

6. The Chesterfield Palm Beach

This historic hotel offers great hospitality with old Florida charm, just three blocks from the Atlantic Ocean waterfront. Guests can relax in the hotel’s swimming pool or the hot tub, or rent a bike to explore the surrounding area. Dining is available at the Leopard Lounge and Restaurant, serving international cuisine backed by live music. Guests can relax with a cocktail in the neighboring Leopard Bar or enjoy outdoor relaxation at the Chesterfield Courtyard. Each room is individually decorated and features free Wi-Fi and cable TV.

Phone:  561-659-5800
Address: 363 Cocoanut Row, Palm Beach, FL 33480-4539
Website: www.chesterfieldpb.com

 

7. White Elephant Palm Beach

This pretty hotel is located a short walk from Palm Beach and the Esplanade Worth Avenue Shopping Center. The hotel features a pool set on a palm-lined deck and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy delicious meals in the hotel’s restaurant, Lola Palm Beach, and relax in the bar. Free bikes are available to guests to explore the surrounding area. Accommodation consists of King and Queen rooms and suites, each with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and an en-suite bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Phone: 561-832-7050
Address: 280 Sunset Ave, Palm Beach, FL 33480-3815
Website: www.whiteelephantpalmbeach.com

 

8. Ambassador Hotel and Residences

Ambassador Hotel is set on the sand in Palm Beach, offering amazing sunsets each evening. The hotel features a pool deck for sunbathing, as well as a spa and Pilates studio. Guests can also work out in the on-site fitness center. Delicious cuisine is available at Ambassador Grill and a complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning. Accommodation is offered in studio, one-, two- and 3-bedroom suites with large picture windows offering ocean and Intercoastal Waterway views.

Phone: 561-582-2511
Address: 2730 S Ocean Blvd, Palm Beach, FL 33480-5538
Website: www.theambassadorpb.com

 

9. Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Palm Beaches Resort

Set on a sprawling private beach, steps from all the attractions of West Palm Beach, Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Palm Beaches Resort is a family-friendly property. Guests can cool down in the large outdoor pool, while children can make a splash in their own separate pool. Those who enjoy water sports can rent jet skis and try their hand at snorkeling. Oceanfront dining is on offer at Coconuts on the Beach, serving local specialties. However, Clematis Street, with its popular restaurants and nightclubs is a short distance away. Spacious King and Queen rooms have en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

Phone: 561-848-3888
Phone: 3700 North Ocean Drive, Palm Beach Shores, FL 33404
Website: www.hilton.com

 

10. Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa

Nestled on a private beach, this property is one of the best luxury resorts Palm Beach can offer and is close to all the attractions. Guests have access to a large outdoor pool and separate children’s pool. While staying at the resort, snorkeling and jet-ski rentals are available for on-the-water fun. Oceanfront dining is available to guests, who can enjoy a selection of regional specialties. A range of spacious and comfortable King, Queen, and accessible rooms and suites are on offer, each with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and an en-suite bathroom.

Phone: 561-340-1700
Address: 3800 North Ocean Drive, Palm Beach Shores, FL 33408
Website: www.marriott.com

 

11. PGA National Resort and Spa

Among the best luxury resorts Palm Beach has on offer, PGA National Resort and Spa offers 90 holes of championship golf. The property is located in the prestigious Palm Beach Garden community. Guests also have access to professional golf lessons, a full-service spa, and tennis courts. Meanwhile, the on-site health club offers yoga classes and salt mineral pools. High-class dining is available at the resort’s three on-site restaurants. Spacious guestrooms feature an en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TVs, a coffee maker, and a small refrigerator.

Phone: 561-627-1800
Address: 400 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
Website: www.pgaresort.com

 

12. Sand Dune Shores, a VRI resort

Located on Ocean Avenue in Palm Beach Shores, the resort offers direct beach access and an outdoor pool. Guests also have access to a hot tub and barbecue facilities on the property and can relax on the sun deck. Each suite at the resort features a full kitchen and an en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, as well as a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests throughout the property.

Phone: 561-848-2581
Address: 165 Ocean Avenue, Palm Beach Shores, FL 33404
Website: www.sandduneshoresresort.com

 

13. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Palm Beach

Set on the Intracoastal Waterway and across the street from the beach, Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott is ideally located. An outdoor pool and hot tub are available on the grounds of the property, along with a modern fitness center. Guests are served a continental breakfast each morning and vending machines are available for snacks and drinks. Accommodation is offered in spacious King and Queen rooms and suites, each with a coffee maker, small refrigerator, and microwave. Flat-screen TVs provide cable channels and guests have access to free Wi-Fi.

Phone: 561-582-2585
Address: 2870 South Ocean Boulevard, Palm Beach, FL 33480
Website: www.marriott.com

 

14. The Colony Hotel

This boutique hotel is located across from the beach in Palm Beach, Florida, and offers an outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the on-site Polo Steaks and Seafood Restaurant, serving a seafood brunch buffet on Sundays. Lighter snacks. Wraps, sandwiches, and paninis are served at Café 155. The Colony Hotel offers bikes for rental for guests to explore the surrounding area. Each guestroom features colorful décor and a flat-screen TV and an iPod docking station. En-suite bathrooms offer complimentary toiletries.

Phone: 561-655-5430
Address: 155 Hammon Avenue, Palm Beach, FL 33480
Website: www.thecolonypalmbeach.com

 

15. Palm Beach Historic Inn

Located a short, four-minute walk from the beach, Palm Beach Historic Inn is an old, Spanish-style property. A selection of excellent restaurants is steps away from the hotel, including Būccan and Café L’Europe, serving American and Asian fusion cuisine. Alternatively, meals are available at the hotel’s on-site restaurant and coffee shop. Rooms feature goose-down duvets and pillows, a small refrigerator, and flat-screen TV. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

Phone: 561-832-4009
Address: 365 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480
Website: www.palmbeachhistoricinn.com

 

16. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach features an outdoor swimming pool and a modern fitness center. Guests enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast buffet each morning. The hotel also offers a shop for necessary items. Each comfortable suite offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a DVD player, and free Wi-Fi. The rooms also feature a dining and sitting area and an en-suite bathroom.

Phone: 561-472-7000
Address: 301 Lamberton Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Website: www.wyndhamhotels.com

 

17. Western Palm Beach Lakes

This hotel is conveniently located across the road from Whole Foods Market and Palm Beach Premier Outlets Shopping Complex. Guests have access to an outdoor heated pool and a modern fitness center and enjoy a continental breakfast each morning. Guestrooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable channels, as well as a coffee maker, microwave, and refrigerator. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Phone: 561-683-8810
Address: 1800 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Website: www.bestwestern.com

 

18. Hilton West Palm Beach

This modern hotel is located in West Palm Beach and features an outdoor pool. The property offers an on-site bar, Galley, serving snacks and cocktails, and a restaurant, Manor serves breakfast and lunch. Hilton West Palm Beach also features a gift shop and mini snack market. Guestrooms feature a flat-screen TV with a comfortable seating area and a small refrigerator, plus an en-suite bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

Phone: 561-231-6000
Address: 600 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
Website: www.hilton.com

 

19. West Palm Beach Marriott

The luxurious West Palm Beach Marriott is located next to CityPlace and offers guests an outdoor pool, a hot tub for relaxation, and a modern fitness center.  An outdoor fire pit is available on the grounds. Guests can enjoy healthy local cuisine created with vegetables from the hotel’s on-site garden at Bistro Ten Zero One. Cocktails and a selection of craft beers are available in the hotel bar, along with Starbucks coffee. Each guestroom features a small refrigerator and a flat-screen TV.

Phone: 561-833-1234
Address: 1001 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Website: www.marriott.com

 

20. The Ben, Autograph Collection

Set in West Palm Beach, a short drive From Palm Beach and CityPlace, The Ben, Autograph Collection is a 5-star hotel, offering an outdoor pool and fitness center. The property also offers evening entertainment, a restaurant serving local specialties, and a shared lounge. Each morning, guests can enjoy an a la carte or American breakfast. Air-conditioned guest accommodations feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and coffee-making facilities.

Phone: 561-655-4001
Address: 251 N Narcissus Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Website: www.marriott.com

 

Conclusion

Whether exploring the streets of Palm Beach, with their beautiful buildings, or spending time in the museums, art galleries, and botanical gardens, this beautiful destination offers a great vacation. Head to the beaches and natural areas and enjoy views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Those with a need for retail therapy can enjoy upscale shopping areas, such as Royal Poinciana and Worth Avenue before dining at the city’s many excellent restaurants, serving the best local fare and a choice of international cuisine. All these and more attractions are available to visitors while staying in comfort and style at one of the best luxury resorts Palm Beach has to offer.

11 BEST Hiking Trails in Jacksonville Florida to Explore

Every year hundreds of people visit Jacksonville, Florida, due to the many cultural events hosted there. This city has the honor of hosting the second-largest jazz festival in the country, the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, also known as the Florida- Georgia game which makes this city famous due to Jacksonville being the home of many local breweries and distilleries. But if you dislike overcrowded touristic places, and you prefer to spend your day sightseeing and walking or hiking, you don’t have to worry, because we created this list of the best hiking trails in Jacksonville so you can explore the numerous natural reserves that belong to this great city.

If you love wildlife and want to spend a family day with your kids in an educational and fun way, don’t forget to go and visit the Jacksonville Zoo, because it hosts the second-largest animal collection in the state of Florida. This zoo features elephants, lions, and Jaguars and a multitude of reptile houses, flight aviaries, and many other animals, you and your kids will love it.

The endless green scenery, thanks to the plethora of flora and fauna that this city has to offer in the form of state parks and many nature reserves, make Jacksonville the perfect place for those who enjoy strolling through the wilderness, so pick up your map, and grab your hiking gear because here is the list with the best hiking trails in Jacksonville.

hiking trails in jacksonville

See Also: Places to Avoid in Florida

 

1. Baldwin Rail Trail

This trail was once an abandoned railroad corridor, purchased by the Florida Greenways and Trails program. This program was designed to turn abandoned railroad lines into linear parks.

The Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail extends 14.5 miles from Jacksonville to the town of Baldwin.
Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding this trail is the perfect combination for those who enjoy sightseeing or taking photographs for their next Instagram update.

The Baldwin rail trail is a free hiking trail, you don’t have to pay any kind of fee or make any kind of reservation. Open hours are 24 hours, every day.

Address: 1800 Imeson Road, Jacksonville, FL 32220
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A

 

2. Camp Milton Historic Preserve

The most interesting aspect of Camp Milton is that you can see every part of its story right there on every tree you walk by. What was once the most significant military encampment built in Florida during the civil war is now a 2.1 miles nature reserve located about 5 miles from Jacksonville. This state archeological site trail is surrounded by a leafy canopy that will shelter us from the sun on a sunny day.

This Jacksonville trial trail opens every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, night excursions are not allowed in this historic site. No admission fee is required unless you go in your car.

Address: 1225 Halsema Rd N, Jacksonville, FL 32220
Phone: +1 904-630-2489
Website: www.coj.com

 

3. Robert W. Loftin Nature Trail

This 6-mile hiking trail is located near the campus of the University of North Florida, this trail is open from sunrise to sunset and while parking is free on weekends, you have to pay a $3 fee on weekdays.

The Robert W. Loftin Nature Trail is divided into 5 trails. Red maple boardwalk: This trail is wheelchair accessible and was built in the late 70s.

  • Gopher Tortoise Ridge: this trail provides underground homes to small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles alike.
  • Big Cypress loop: this trail connects the goldenrod and the blueberry trail.
  • Blueberry trail: This 1.5 trail has permanent exercise stations for those who like fitness.
  • And the Goldenrod trail: this 2.8 miles trail is the nearest trail to the UNF. This trail is open to the public every day of the week but the bad news is that bikes and dogs aren’t allowed.

Address: Recreation and Wellness, 1 S U N F Dr. Bldg 61, Rm 1200, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone: +1 904-620-44769
Website: www.unf.com

 

4. Timucuan Preserve

One of the most visited hiking trails in Jacksonville is the Timucua Preserve, every year 1.300.000 people visit this ecological and historical place. Established in 1988, the Timucuan National Preserve is the oldest national park not only in Jacksonville but also in the state of Florida. The Timucua historic preserve includes several sites around Jacksonville, such as Fort Caroline, the Kingsley Plantation, Theodore Roosevelt Area, Cedar Point, and American Beach. Make sure of visiting this hiking trail if you’re visiting Jacksonville.

Address: 12713 Ft Caroline Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Phone: +1 904-641-7155
Website: www.nps.com

 

5. Little Talbot Island State Park

Located near downtown Jacksonville, this nature preserve is a loved trail for old and young people. Little Talbot Island State Park not only is one of the most visited hiking trails but is also one of the most diverse national parks in Jacksonville, if you’re looking for a place to be your next vacation spot this is the perfect one, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, canoeing, nature watching, bird watching and surfing are just a few of the several activities you can participate in while visiting this place.

Address: 12157 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 3222
Phone: +1 904-251-22320
Website: www.floridastateparks.com

 

6. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

This is by far the largest state park in Florida, it offers us a variety of wildlife and nature we cannot see in our everyday life.

If you want to escape from your daily routine and challenge yourself for something new, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park hiking trail might be what you are looking for, you never know what you might come across when you’re visiting this beautiful place.

Experience child-like wonder when hiking the Cypress Bend boardwalk a two-thousand footpath. This national park is open from 8 am to sundown every day of the year.

Address: 137 Coast Line Dr, Copeland, FL 34137
Phone: +1 239-695-4593
Website: www.floridastateparks.com

 

7. Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens

What once was a gold mining company is now a unique natural attraction inside a bustling city. Located 15 minutes from downtown Jacksonville, near the Arlington neighborhood, Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens has seven designated hiking trails to explore.

Affordable and friendly, this hidden hem, has a lot to offer if you’re looking for the perfect place to hang out with your friends or family or if you want to take your dog for a walk. Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is open to the public 7 days a week from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Address: 1445 Mille Rd, Jacksonville, FL 332225
Phone: +1 904-318-44342
Website: www.jacksonvillearboretum.com

 

8. Tree Hill Nature Center

Tree Hill Nature Center is home to more than 20,234 hectares of natural trails, with butterfly and hummingbird gardens home to the annual Jacksonville Butterfly Festival, and native wildlife. Every year more than 25 thousand people, visit this wilderness preserve. Here at Tree Hill Nature, you can have a learning experience while taking a stroll on the multiple trails that make part of this marvelous preserve.

Address: 7152 Lone Star Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211
Phone: +1 904-724-4646
Website: www.treehill.com

 

9. Julington Durbin Creek Nature Preserve

This 5.5-mile loop trail is the perfect place for a leisurely walk. If you are on your lunch break and want to take a relaxing walk, don’t hesitate to visit this place. Open all year round, this trail is known for being one of the best off-road courses in Jacksonville. Feel free to go if you looking for a place to go with your dog.

Address: 13200 Bartram Park Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32258
Phone: +1 904-630-2489
Website: www.timucuanparks.com

 

10. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Located near the ocean, specifically at Mayport, in Jacksonville’s beach area this 2.7-mile trail is perfect for hot summer days. Hanna Park also has 15 miles of bicycle trail, and a campground carefully designed for tent camping or RV use. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is open 8 AM-6 PM November through March, and 8 AM-8 PM April through October.

Address: 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233
Phone: +1 904-249-4700
Website: N/A

 

11. Tillie K Fowler Island Trail

Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park is located near the Jacksonville Naval Air Station, it has a length of nearly 3.3 miles of unpaved ground offering us a lot more than is expected.

Every trail in Tillie Park has several levels of difficulty, you can find the Tower Trail, which is 1.2 miles long, this trail leads you to an observation tower, a two-story tower that overlooks the whole park, and the Island Loop trail, a single-track trail that is perfect for cardiovascular training.

No admission fee is required and it opens from 5 AM –to 7 PM, every day (until 9 PM during daylight savings hours).

Address: 7000 Roosevelt Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 332244
Phone: +1 904-573-2498
Website: N/A

 

Conclusion

Sometimes we feel the need to run away from city life without actually leaving home or maybe we lack the time or the monetary means to embark on an adventure. For those who feel that way, Jacksonville will surprise you with a variety of options ranging from old historical buildings to the most beautiful nature preserves. Whatever you wish to do, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, canoeing, nature watching, or horseback riding there is no lack of options for you.

There are several kinds of trails for you to try in Jacksonville, from beach trails to urban park trails, all of them family-friendly and well-maintained. There is so much to Jacksonville than just being one of Florida’s largest cities and a growing metropolis. Here, in Exploreist we hope you find this list of Hiking Trails in Jacksonville helpful. And as always we wish you safe travels!