Best Things to Do on Florida’s First Coast Besides Golf
Northeast Florida is one of the premier golf destinations in the country, and for good reason. With 100 miles of Atlantic coastline, 39 coastal golf holes, and more than 1,000 miles of interconnected inland waterways, the region is as spectacular as it is expansive. But what makes this stretch of coastline truly special is everything that exists alongside the fairways.
Whether you're a golfer looking to mix in a little more of what the region has to offer, or you're traveling with someone who'd rather spend the day exploring than teeing off, Northeast Florida never disappoints. World-class spas, stunning state parks, centuries of history, and a food scene worth planning your trip around are all waiting just beyond the 18th hole.
From the Victorian charm of Amelia Island to the historic streets of St. Augustine, here's your guide to the best things to do in Northeast Florida off the course.
Amelia Island
Things to Do
- Historic Downtown Ferdinand Beach - Stroll the charming streets of downtown Fernandina Beach, where Victorian-era architecture sets the backdrop for an afternoon of boutique shopping, local galleries, and cozy cafes.
- Fort Clinch State Park - This diverse 1,400-acre park is a playground for outdoor lovers, with hiking and biking trails, fishing, and shark-tooth hunting along the shore. History buffs won't want to miss the first weekend of the month, when a soldier garrison brings the fort to life with cannon fire and battlefield demonstrations.
- Kayaking - Explore Northeast Florida from the water. Paddle across Cumberland Sound to Cumberland Island, wind through scenic saltmarsh and the intracoastal waterway, or opt for a guided after-dark paddle for a truly unforgettable experience.
Where to Eat
- T-Ray's Burger Station - A Fernandina Beach institution, T-Ray's has been serving up breakfast and lunch from a former Exxon service station for over 20 years. The menu is simple, eclectic, and wildly satisfying – think fried bologna sandwiches, fried shrimp, and burgers that keep locals coming back week after week.
- Salty Pelican - Pull up a seat at this open-air waterfront restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood, stunning sunsets, and a cold drink.
- The Patio at 5th and Ash - A go-to bistro for fresh seafood, American fare, and creative cocktails with live music and a dog-friendly outdoor patio.
Clay County
Things to Do
- Military Museum of North Florida - Spanning more than 230 years of history, this museum traces America's military story with many exhibits uniquely tied to the local community.
- Camp Chowenwaw Park - From hiking and kayaking to overnight cabins and nature programs, Camp Chowenwaw packs a full outdoor experience into one destination.
- Fishing - Northeast Florida is an angler's dream, and Clay County is no exception. Cast a line from fishing piers scattered throughout the county or book a local charter and let the experts take you to the best spots on the water.
Where to Eat
- Corky Bell’s Seafood & Steaks - Corky Bell's serves up Southern seafood staples like flounder, catfish, and frog legs done right. Don't leave without trying the hushpuppies!
- Mojo Smokehouse, BBQ & Blues - Equal parts great food and great atmosphere, Mojo serves slow-smoked BBQ platters, jumbo sandwiches, and Southern sides.
- Whitey's Fish Camp - Dine outdoors, walk the docks, and dig into local favorites like gator tail and fresh-caught fried catfish.
Jacksonville
Things to Do
- Little Talbot Island State Park - One of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida, Little Talbot is home to 5 miles of pristine beach, 3 miles of bike trails, surfing, fishing and kayaking along the bluffs of Myrtle Creek.
- Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens - Home to more than 5,000 works of art, the Cummer pairs world-class collections with historically significant gardens set along the St. Johns River.
- Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens - Discover more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and over 1,000 plant specimens at this zoo.
Where to Eat
- TacoLu - Local favorite for cheeseburger quesadillas, fish tacos, and a solid veggie and vegan menu that makes it a crowd-pleaser for any group. Golf fans will also find their Tacos on 12 food truck on-site during THE PLAYERS Championship.
- North Beach Fish Camp - Don't let the casual atmosphere fool you. This contemporary seafood spot serves elevated starters like The Bump – 28 grams of caviar with crème fraîche and potato chips – alongside fresh fried seafood and standout mains.
- River & Post - Seafood and steaks with a regional twist, scenic St. Johns River views, and a rooftop bar that makes it the easy pick for a standout dinner.
Palm Coast
Things to Do
- Flagler Beach - Enjoy 6 miles of uncrowded shoreline, a fishing pier, colorful murals, and locally-owned shops and restaurants. In summer, keep an eye out for nesting sea turtles along the shore.
- Florida Agricultural Legacy Learning Center - Learn about Florida’s rich agricultural past and present at this fun and educational museum.
- Washington Oaks Gardens State Park - Formal gardens filled with azaleas, camellias, and bird of paradise give way to a dramatic Atlantic shoreline shaped by ancient coquina rock formations perfect for beachcombing, tidal pool exploring, and photography.
Where to Eat
- Cantina Louie - A local go-to for vibrant Mexican flavors, Cantina Louie is best known for its margaritas and a menu packed with tacos, ceviche, burritos, and fajitas.
- Captain’s BBQ - Captain’s BBQ is a casual waterfront stop known for their ribs, pulled pork, brisket and burnt ends.
- Portugal Wine Bar & Grill - This restaurant brings authentic Portuguese cuisine to the table with dishes like grilled octopus, vegetarian paella, and hearty steaks.
St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra
Things to Do
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - Tour the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. at this National Monument.
- Historic District - Spend a day exploring St. Augustine's Historic District, packed with centuries of charm, award-winning restaurants, unique shops, and attractions around every corner.
- Beaches - With more than 42 miles of coastline, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra offer a beach for every kind of traveler, from lively stretches with walkable dining and shopping to quiet, wildlife-rich shorelines.
- Live Music - St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra are home to some incredible music venues including The Amp, Colonial Oak Music Park, and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall.
Where to Eat
- Columbia Restaurant - The Columbia brings award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine to life inside a stunning historic space adorned with beautiful tilework. Come hungry for the paella and Cuban sandwiches!
- Ice Plant -Set inside the original 1927 Ice Plant building, this farm-to-table restaurant and bar is an experience unlike any other in Florida. The menu features grass-fed beef, local seafood, and vegetarian options, with cocktails made from fresh house-pressed juices, a wide assortment of bitters, and specially developed syrups.
- Prohibition Kitchen - Step back into the 1920s at this Prohibition-era themed pub, where locally sourced elevated pub fare, craft cocktails, and nightly live music set the scene for a great night out.
New to Golf? We can help you get started.
After a few days in Northeast Florida, even the most committed non-golfer might find themselves a little curious. The PGA Tour Superstore is a great place to browse, ask questions, and get a feel for the game without any pressure. And if you're ready to take the next step, the region's top-rated golf schools offer beginner-friendly lessons and clinics designed for first-timers.
Plan Your Trip
Northeast Florida has something worth discovering at every turn and this is just the beginning. Start planning your trip today.