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Woman's silhouette on beach during sunset

5 of the Best Beaches Near Jacksonville, FL

Near Jacksonville, FL., there are some of the best beaches in the state for surfing, relaxing, and enjoying quality time with family. Ideal for soaking up the sun, the following beaches are our favorites, which suit anyone from thrill-seekers to more laid-back loungers. more 5 of the Best Beaches Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Beach This is a lovely, clean stretch of sand that's perfect for surfers, boogie boarders, paddlers, and body surfers, making it a fantastic place for families. If you're not a fan of being in the water, we recommend strolling along the wooden pier to take in the gorgeous ocean views. It's a handy beach because Jacksonville's shops are super close by, and there are restaurants aplenty for when all that paddling works up your appetite. 2. Neptune Beach Neptune Beach is even cleaner than Jacksonville beach and is home to romantic orangey-pink sunsets and sunrises. Because the sand is vast, we recommend bringing your bikes and surfboards to make the most of this stunning scenery. For children, this is an excellent sandcastle building spot, and it's near to restaurants for when keen little constructors need a bite to eat. In addition, there are lovely shopping opportunities in the neighboring boutiques. 3. Atlantic Beach As it's another beautifully long and wide beach, Atlantic Beach is a great place to feel the sand between your toes on an exciting run. We recommend heading to the local golf courses, searching for pretty shells, or simply relaxing by soaking up the sun if you prefer more leisurely activities. This beach has a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a retreat from work stresses! As it catches the Atlantic winds, it's an ideal place for surfers to ride some thrilling waves. 4. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park We believe this is the best beach to visit if you're a surfer or have kids around because the 1.5-mile sand is packed with fun activities to keep little ones entertained. Some highlights include a child-friendly splash park, convenient picnic areas, and a lovely park beside the wavy ocean with enjoyable biking and walking trails. The beach even has a nearby 60-acre lake that's great for dropping a fishing line into, canoeing on, and kayaking! 5. Huguenot Memorial Park This park is home to terns, shorebirds, and other nesting birds that you can observe closely, making it a gem for birdwatchers. It's a section of the Great Florida Bird and Wildlife Trail and is a "critical wildlife area," protecting precious species. You can even drive on the beach here, but make sure it's not too wet before you do to avoid getting stuck. We recommend this park for beginner surfers because it generally has smaller waves than Atlantic Beach. The clean, white, sandy beaches near Jacksonville are gorgeous, stretching out under the sun. They offer boogie boarding, cycling adventures, birdwatching, shell collecting, paddling, hiking, tanning, delicious food, canoeing, kayaking, and much more! Visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park for more information about lovely places to go near Jacksonville.

Pancakes with raspberries and syrup

4 of the Best Breakfast Places in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Are you planning to visit some of the best breakfast places in Jacksonville, FL? If you want to start the day with hashbrowns, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, and more, then check out our top picks for local spots serving delicious, hearty food. more 4 of the Best Breakfast Places in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Le Petit Paris Breakfast is served with style at Le Petit Paris, a restaurant offering fresh baked goods, gourmet salads, and sandwiches served on crisp baguettes. Their menu is full of appetizing food like smoked salmon sandwiches, chocolate croissants, salmon quiches, and more. This charming breakfast place will give you a taste and smell of Paris. If you're looking for an impressive place in a quiet, quaint area, Le Petit Paris will meet your expectations. So for a superb breakfast experience in Jacksonville, head over to Le Petit Paris and enjoy a delicious meal in a well-decorated restaurant. 2. Florida Cracker Kitchen Who doesn't want big, delicious servings of country-fried steaks, pancakes, and sandwiches in the morning? At Florida Cracker Kitchen, you'll satisfy your appetite for a traditional breakfast. It's a great place to treat your family and loved ones. Thanks to their accessible location and friendly staff, this place is one of our top local breakfast and brunch spots. Florida Cracker Kitchen is known for signature crispy grit cakes with fresh shrimp, corned beef hash, chicken and waffles, and breakfast burritos served with homemade salsa & sour cream. There are so many items to try on their menu! 3. Sara's Bakery Cafe Choose from sandwiches made with premium meats and cheeses, or get your fill of fresh coffee and pastries at Sara's Bakery Cafe. When it comes to delicious breakfast cupcakes and deli-style sandwiches, Sara's is one of the best food places in Jacksonville. Here, you can start the day with breakfast bagels, quality crafted sandwiches, and chicken pitas grilled to perfection. Serving fresh, made-to-order breakfast, Sara's is a great spot to find morning treats that will delight your senses. This place will satisfy your appetite for a hearty meal. Whether you're looking for something rich, savory, or sweet, there's a delicious surprise waiting for you at Sara's Bakery Cafe. 4. Belgian Sweet House Bistro Waffles, breakfast platters, coffee, and cheese sandwiches are some of the delicious breakfast items you can find at Belgian Sweet House Bistro. This place is also home to some of the tastiest chocolates and delicious crepes. More than just a sweets shop, Belgian Sweet House Bistro is also a wonderful breakfast place complete with sweet and savory options. So if you're craving something light, fluffy, and delicious, check out Belgian Sweet House Bistro and find something that will make your mornings perfect. With so many places to visit, eat, and relax in Jacksonville, it's important to keep your vehicle in excellent condition. For routine maintenance on your Mazda, visit Mazda City of Orange Park, and we'll provide you with quick and timely service. Our precise service system will make your maintenance process a smooth, seamless experience.

Tree lined path in a park

4 Favorite Parks in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Spanning 875 square miles, Jacksonville is Florida's most populous city and the seat of Duval County. There's a lot to love about this city, including several beaches, museums, and incredible seafood restaurants. However, one of the greatest things about this city is its proximity to beautiful, relaxing parks. Keep reading to discover the top four favorite public gardens in and around Jacksonville, FL. more 4 Favorite Parks in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is an astonishing 46,000 acres and Jax's largest park. This park features historic sites, unique wildlife, wetlands, marshes, sea islands, and much, much more. We don't just love this park for its beauty. We also love it for the wide range of ways you can enjoy its beauty, such as surfing, kayaking, camping, hiking, and biking. Also, we recommend fishing. It is home to saltwater fish, freshwater fish, and brackish water fish. 2. Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park While Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is our favorite national park in Jacksonville, our favorite state park is Pumpkin Hill Creek Reserve State Park. This park features 4,000 acres of rare bird watching, plenty of things to do on the water, equestrian trails, bike trails, and hiking trails. Specifically, there are three miles of trails dedicated to hiking so you don't have to worry about keeping an ear out for horses or cyclists. Also, there are nearly 13 miles of multi-use trails for everyone to enjoy. 3. Hanna Park Hanna Park, by far, is our favorite city park. It includes a beautiful beach and 1.5 miles of some of the best surfing spots in the city. For people who prefer fishing and paddleboarding, it offers a gorgeous 60-acre lake. Also, it features over 20 miles of trails for hiking and biking. If you're looking to be a tourist in your own city for the weekend, we strongly recommend camping in this beautiful park. There are very cozy cabins that can be reserved for two or more nights at a time. If you only want to camp for a night, you can reserve a spot on their campground for your RV or tent. If you plan on staying on the campground, you'll enjoy a number of amenities, including: Camp store Restroom and shower facilities Electric and water hookups Kayak and mountain bike rentals 4. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is another great city park to visit in Jacksonville, especially if you like birdwatching. This park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, and there are 237 species of birds that can be seen here. There are many public gardens and nature preserves in Jacksonville. To get there, you need a vehicle that can hold your camping gear, tow your boat, and keep your kids entertained. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, visit us today at Mazda City of Orange Park on Blanding Boulevard. We're confident we have the perfect vehicle on our lot for your needs.

Coffee pouring into cup

5 Favorite Coffee Shops Near Jacksonville, FL

Are you thinking about relaxing in a comfortable lounge while listening to soft music and sipping fresh coffee? Our favorite coffee shops near Jacksonville, FL are the perfect spots to chill and savor the smell and taste of delicious coffee. Check out what makes each of these shops specials. more 5 Favorite Coffee Shops Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Social Grounds Coffee Social Grounds Coffee Company was built with love for the community and a passion for great-tasting coffee. The shop is veteran-owned and operated, supporting transitioning Veterans with every coffee sold. Here you can enjoy a cup of coffee sourced from some of the world's best coffee farms and roasted locally. If you're looking for the perfect place for a local brew, don't miss the chance to try Social Grounds Coffee. They serve delicious lattes, macchiatos, hot chocolates, and more. 2. Brass Tacks Coffee Delicious, locally roasted coffee is prepared by friendly and approachable baristas at Brass Tacks Coffee. The shop is known for its interesting but classic menu, with coffee flavors like thin mint cold latte, iced chai latte with oat milk, lavender cold brew, and more. The baristas at  Brass Tacks Coffee will make excellent recommendations to make sure you'll enjoy your drink. And if you're looking for a quick bite to enjoy with your coffee, the shop serves breakfast burritos, waffles, scrambled eggs, and biscuit sandwiches for breakfast. 3. Ground Level Coffee Looking for quick coffee and espresso? Ground Level Coffee serves fresh and delicious drinks, with items like drip coffees, iced coffees, lattes, espressos, and cappuccinos on the menu. You can treat yourself to a delicious breakfast and grab a bite of fresh scones, doughnuts, quiche slices, and more. The fast and efficient staff at Ground Level Coffee will get everything you need in no time. We highly recommend their signature sparkling americano and nitro cold brew. 4. Setlan Coffee Do you want to try a new walk-up coffee experience in Jacksonville? Setlan Coffee is a lovely spot serving delicious drinks handcrafted by awesome baristas. Here you can grab a fresh cup of your favorite caffeinated beverage and spend the rest of the day hanging out, reading a book, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. You'll appreciate the unique flavor profile and perfect blend of Setlan Coffee's customized drinks. Here you'll have a beautiful experience that goes beyond the simple pleasure of tasting great coffee. 5. Bold Bean Coffee Roasters Your drink is always prepared with care at Bold Bean Coffee Roasters. This coffee shop serves artisan coffee that's been sustainably sourced and locally roasted, so you can expect bold flavors and consistent, well-crafted drinks all the time. Inside, you'll love the industrial decor with brick walls and small twinkling lights. With a selection of fresh pastries like delicious tarts, biscuits, and croissants, you'll keep coming back for a pleasant experience. Do any of these shops make you want to take a trip to Jacksonville? For your automotive needs, visit Mazda City of Orange Park, and we'll show you our new car specials so you can drive to your next destination with the perfect Mazda.

Swimmer swimming in a pool

Fitness in Jacksonville: 5 Great Ways to Stay in Shape

You might be happy to find out that there's no shortage of fitness activities you can practice in Jacksonville, Fl. As long as you're motivated and want to stay in shape, you can practice your favorite sports both inside and outside. Dive into this article and learn how to improve your health the right way. more Fitness in Jacksonville, FL: 5 Great Ways to Stay in Shape 1. Try Kettlebells Training at the Exchange Health Club Working out using kettlebells can burn more calories and help you build muscle faster. The Exchange Health Club in Jacksonville has numerous certified professionals who can offer free consultations to new clients. You can also pick from a wide variety of kettlebell routines, depending on your cardiovascular health. Most routines last for about 45-50 minutes and the exercises with kettlebells are diverse, so you'll never get bored at this gym. 2. Work Out at the Florida Extreme Health Club If you're looking for a well-equipped gym, look no further than the Florida Extreme Health Club in Jacksonville. This health center has numerous cardio and weight machines, experienced personal instructors, and accomplished nutritionists ready to offer you advice. If you're slightly out of shape, just hop on a treadmill and let your legs make you sweat. Running is one of the easiest and most effective ways of staying in shape. 3. Do Yoga at Bella Vida Yoga Yoga is another great way to stay in shape and there are plenty of yoga studios in Jacksonville. This activity is suitable for both men and women and it will improve your flexibility, coordination, and balance. Additionally, yoga tones your muscles, so you'll look better too. The Bella Vida Yoga studio is situated on Jacksonville Beach and it's great for beginners as well as advanced yoga practitioners. You can choose from Hatha yoga, vinyasa, mindful yoga, and other variations of these restorative practices. 4. Swim at the Nas Jax Pool Swimming is one of the most pleasant ways to stay in shape because it works your entire body effortlessly. All muscle groups are engaged while swimming and this activity reduces pressure on your joints, so you'll feel less pain while swimming. The Nas Jax Pool is situated on Allegheny Road in Jacksonville. It offers a private parking lot, and it's ideal for visiting with your kids.It has a plethora of water slides of various sizes and they are suitable for both children and adults. 5. Learn MMA at the iLoveKickboxing Mixed martial arts are increasingly popular these days. Not only that they can help you stay in shape, but you will also feel much better after hitting the bag for 20 minutes. iLoveKickboxing in Jacksonville offers everything an MMA fan would want. You can practice kickboxing, learn jiu-jitsu, or try basic self-defense techniques. Equipment is provided for new clients, but you can always come with your own boxing gloves if you want to. By the way, if you happen to spot a beautiful Mazda vehicle on your way to the gym, know that you can have one too. Contact Mazda City today and find out how you can get a sporty Mazda for a sporty person like you!

Whole pizza sliced

5 of the Best Pizza Joints in Jacksonville, FL

Who says you have to go to New York or Chicago to get your hands on some truly tasty pizza? While those cities have more of a reputation for it, we've got some excellent pizzerias right here in Jacksonville, FL. We took a tour of some of the local favorites, sampled plenty of great pies, then came up with a list of the five best spots to get in a slice in our city so you can try them too. more 5 of the Best Pizza Joints in Jacksonville, FL 1. Mama's Pizzeria and Grill For Italian cooking that's just as good as mama used to make, head on down to Mama's and order up a slice. We loved the simple deliciousness of their Picasso pie, with prosciutto and sun-dried tomatoes improving on the flavor the delicious crust, homemade sauce, and healthy helping of cheese already bring. Munch on some zeppoles for dessert if you want a fried treat to follow your slice with. 2. Biggie's It didn't take long for us to find out why they call this place Biggie's; the slices they serve up are as big as your head. We can't get enough of their Hawaiian Luau pie, with mozzarella cheese sprinkled over their homemade tomato sauce base and topped with pineapple and ham, with a drizzle of olive oil to provide the finishing touch. Order up some fresh-baked garlic knots for a zesty side to enjoy. 3. Milano's Italian Restaurant Milano's has been welcoming customers with a friendly smile since 1998, and locals have been enjoying authentic Italian food ever since. Some of the best slices in town can be found here, with a special recommendation going to their Greek pie, with feta cheese and olives giving every bite a unique Mediterranean twist. 4. Brooklyn Pizzeria Get a taste of the Big Apple here in our city with the authentic NY-style pies served up at this spot. Load up on all the toppings when you order their Brooklyn Special pie or go for a thicker base with the Sicilian thick-crust pie they offer. The chicken wings they cook up here make the perfect partner for your pie, available either mild or hot depending how spicy you like it. 5. Al's Join Al's Club and enjoy rewards like a better deal on the next pie you order. You'll have plenty of great options to choose from, like their BLT pie. It comes loaded up with crispy bacon, sliced tomato, fresh lettuce, and just a little bit of mayonnaise to give you everything you love about the classic sandwich on a fresh-cooked pie. You can't beat the slices being served up from these local pizzerias, just like you can't beat the deals on a new or pre-owned vehicle that we offer at our dealership. Don't take our word for it; come on down and see for yourself instead. Our team is standing by to help you find the next ride of your dreams. Visit us today at Mazda City of Orange Park!

Golf course

The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL

It's been a long year for all of us, so there's never been a better time to step outside and make the most of what Jacksonville, FL has to offer, and when it comes to golf courses, we boast some of the finest on the East Coast. Here are five spectacular clubs and resorts that will get you reaching for that driver. more The Top 5 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL 1. TPC Sawgrass World-renowned, the Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass is an absolute must for all fans of the game, providing a professional experience that is rivaled by no other. Enjoy the spectacular views and test your skills against the very best there is to offer, most notably the infamous hole 17, with its island green being the cause of many a heartbreak. At TPC Sawgrass you'll feel the prestigious golfing history in every root. 2. Amelia National Golf and Country Club Few courses can boast a championship layout while being forgiving enough for all levels of play, and Amelia National does all of this while showcasing stunning natural beauty and luscious green fairways that really provide a mouth-watering experience. The scattering of sandy bunkers and undulating greens make every hole unique from tee to pin, and you'll be thinking about your second round before you've even finished your first. 3. Slammer and Squire Golf Course at World Golf Village Running alongside a wetland preservation ensures you're only ever a tee-shot away from a natural marsh or crystal blue lake, and it's just one of the features that make this course such a glorious feast for the eyes and the soul. With a focus on short game, its challenging par-3 holes will be all the talk when dining back at the fabulous clubhouse: though please always remember to drink responsibly, do not drink and drive, and any consumption of alcohol is only intended for adults of legal drinking age. 4. Omni Amelia Island Resort - Oak Marsh Elevate your round of golf with a wonderful ocean breeze as it flurries over the wildly changing, yet beautiful landscape. As you'd expect from a fabulously designed coastal course, water comes into play on all but four of the 18 holes, with sand dunes and tidal marshes providing a rich yet challenging experience for golfers of all levels. 5. Jacksonville Beach Golf Club First built in 1959 and newly revitalized, you'd think a round of golf on the beach couldn't be more idyllic; however Jacksonville Beach Golf Club has taken that experience further. The par 72 course is immaculate, with friendly, supportive, and attentive staff, but don't expect them to help you around the swift greens and punishing drop-offs. We're as proud of our unique golfing heritage as we are of our wonderful range of new and used vehicles. So, whether you're visiting for a round of golf or transporting those golf clubs finds you in the market for extra trunk space, come and visit us at Mazda City today, and we'll satisfy your every need!

Tent sitting under a tree by the lake

6 Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is a wonderful place to spend the holidays on your next camping trip. You'll discover amazing scenery, fishing, and campgrounds in and around the area. It's the perfect destination for a family vacation. more 6 Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Huguenot Campground This local recreational park is ideal for spending time on the beach, exploring the trails for wildlife, hiking, and cycling. Huguenot Campground offers tent and RV sites with amenities. The park is pet-friendly, spacious, and terrific for families looking for an overnight stay or weekend getaway. Nearby attractions include the local Nature Center and access to the Great Florida Birding Trail. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Campground If you're looking for a campsite with a spectacular oceanfront and access to amazing hiking trails, you'll love the Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park campground. This park offers fantastic family-friendly attractions, including a splash pad, cabin rentals, RV sites, and a store for outdoor sports and camping supplies. You can explore 20 miles of trails for mountain biking, and there's a lake with 60 acres open to kayaking, pedal boats, canoes, and fishing. The park and campsite are ideal for retreats and special events. 3. Little Talbot Island Campground This state park is a great local spot for camping with your tent or a small camper. Little Talbot Island Campground features large oak trees, scenic views of Myrtle Creek, and a fishing dock. It's a quiet, beautiful place to spend the weekend with friends and family. The site offers restrooms, friendly staff, and lake access for canoeing and kayaking. 4. Big Tree RV Park Big Tree RV Park is a cozy site to spend the weekend with your RV or camper. The park features spacious, shaded lots, RV hookups, and laundry facilities. It's a friendly, down-to-earth place that's ideal for a family vacation or an extended stay. It's one of the favorite campsites in the area, with well-maintained grounds and friendly, helpful staff. 5. Pelican Roost RV Park This fantastic waterfront military campground features all the amenities you need for your RV camping trip and much more. The site offers excellent waterfront access, tent camping, swimming, and fishing. The facilities include a fitness center, restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. You can also enjoy a wide range of outdoor sports in the area, including golf, tennis, and archery. 6. Bow and Arrow RV Campsite The Bow and Arrow RV Campsite is a family-owned park in nearby Yulee, FL. The campsite offers short-term vacation and extended stays year-round. It's a great family-friendly park that welcomes pets and provides free Wi-Fi and cable. The park provides rental cabins, a swimming pool, and 60 acres of secluded woodland for hiking and exploring the local scenery. Nearby attractions include the River City Marketplace, Fernandina Beach, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. You'll find excellent campsites and RV parks in and around the Jacksonville area. Visit us at Mazda City of Orange Park to see our fantastic showroom display on your next trip to town.

The Top 6 Day Trips From Jacksonville, FL

Do you have an itch to just hop in your car and discover someplace new? Check out these unbeatable day trips from Jacksonville, FL that are all just a short drive away! more The Top 6 Day Trips From Jacksonville, FL Salt Springs Salt Springs is about a 90-minute drive south of Jacksonville and provides visitors with plenty of breathtaking scenery. It's close to Ocala National Forest which features these precious Salt Springs. The turquoise blue waters will entice you to jump right in and be sure to bring your goggles to get a look at the stingrays and crabs moving below you. Salt Springs has various degrees of depth and includes a shallow area for toddlers to get their feet wet too! Daytona Beach Florida's car racing capital is 90 miles away from Jacksonville and packed with amazing fun for people of all ages. If you have a passion for thunderous car engines, look no further than the Daytona Raceway, home of the Daytona 500. The city also features one of the most stunning beaches in the state (and country) and has an array of cultural sites to explore. Dining is a treat, as visitors can sample exquisite cuisine from around the world. Amelia Island With just 33 miles separating Jacksonville from this naturally beautiful Island, a day trip to Amelia Island makes perfect sense. Start at the north end where you'll find Fernandina Beach. Enjoy an afternoon of sun, swimming, and snorkeling, before making your way to Fort Clinch State Park. It boasts 1,400 acres of scenic landscape and cultural sites like an army fort that dates back to the Civil War. You can even go island hopping to Big and Little Talbot Island. Cross Creek This quaint community saw its rise to fame thanks to the novel The Yearling, written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marjorie Kinnan Rawling. It's located approximately 80 miles from Jacksonville and has lovely parks and a bustling main street to enjoy spending the day. Visitors can also take tours of Marjorie Kinnan Rawling's home and property that has been preserved to feature the beautiful magnolias she wrote about. The tenant house and barn are also there to explore. Osceola National Forest For day-trippers who love spending time in the great outdoors, this 200,000-acre forest is less than 60 miles from Jacksonville and provides a plethora of nature-filled activities. Head to Ocean Pond to enjoy some fishing and hiking in the surrounding areas. It also has a charming beach area with picnics nearby. History buffs will enjoy visiting the nearby Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park to enjoy Civil War reenactments during February. De Leon Springs Take a dip in these beautiful freshwater springs just 95 miles from Jacksonville. You can also spot into the Sugar Mill Restaurant located nearby and enjoy some delicious pancakes while sitting by an open fireplace that keeps everyone toasty during colder months. Stop by Mazda City of Orange Park today and find the day trip vehicle of your dreams!

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