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Jacksonville, FL is a vibrant city surrounded by water. With 22 miles of lovely beaches, many scenic coves, a winding river that splits the city in two, and acres of nearby glistening lakes, this city is a boater's dream. Read on to learn of the best boating locations in and around town. 5 Favorite Locations for Boating Near Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Beach If you're into fishing, there's no better place to start than just off the coastline. Take your boat to the waters overlooking Jacksonville Beach and you'll soon be hooking snapper, bluefish, grouper, whiting, sea trout, tuna, and many more kinds of fish. If you're lucky, you'll even spot dolphins playing beneath the waves. The most popular spot for casting a line is Mayport Jetties, which lies where the mouth of St. John's River opens to the ocean. There are plenty of places there to charter a boat. And if angling isn't your thing, you can also take out a canoe, a kayak, or a standup paddleboard. Intracoastal Waterway If you'd prefer to recline back and cruise lazily up the river, enjoying the sights of the city and wetlands beyond it, then take a water tour or river taxi up the Intracoastal Waterway. There are many different options of boat for this trip. You can take a kayak tour, a sailing boat, or even a human-powered "cycle boat" catamaran. Whatever suits your fancy. Sights to see as you circumnavigate the river include the historic Mayport fishing village, the city's many bridges, and Jacksonville's beautiful evening skyline. Along the banks, you'll also see miles of iconic Floridian marchland filled with long-legged wetland birds, manatees, and other interesting wildlife. Doctors Lake Just a short boat ride from downtown, you'll find this peaceful lake where freshwater meets saltwater from the river's inlet. Doctors Lake is filled with an unusual variety of fish, including redear sunfish and largemouth bass. It's an ideal spot to while away the hours in total quiet, enjoying the sunshine, the fresh breeze over the water, and that wonderful tug on your line when a catch is close. Fort George Inlet The most popular place for local boaters is probably Fort George Inlet, an area so pretty that the locals have dubbed it the First Coast Bahamas. The many pristine beaches and lengthy sandbars of the inlet make it a beach lover's dream. You can cruise about and find your own secluded spot to stop for some sunbathing and picnicking on the sand. A very special spot to visit here is the Fort George Island Cultural State Park. On the island, you can take a break to go hiking or biking through the lushly forested parkland. A restored 1920's clubhouse on the island provides a perfect place for lunch before returning to the water. Mill Cove If you're looking for water sports, head to this wide, calm, charming cove. Here, you can try wakeboarding and waterskiing around the cove's many marshy islands. Mill Cove is also a popular spot for anglers who are after sea trout, redfish, and flounder. Once you've spent a fine day out on the water, pay a visit to Mazda City of Orange Park. We've been servicing the local drivers of Jacksonville and the surrounding area since 1974, and look forward to helping you meet your vehicle needs, whatever they might be.

When you drive off of our lot with a new vehicle from your Mazda dealer, you'll have gotten more than just a high-quality vehicle. You'll also get comprehensive coverage for that vehicle under the Mazda warranty policies that your vehicle comes with. Here's some more information about the different kinds of coverage that you'll enjoy for your new vehicle when you choose Mazda. Shopping at Your Mazda Dealer: 3 Things That Are Included with a Standard Mazda Warranty 1. New-Vehicle Limited Warranty All new Mazda vehicles that drive off the lot at our dealership are protected under a New-Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage plan. Your vehicle will be covered for years to come under this policy, which lasts for either the first 36 months of ownership or the first 36,000 miles that you drive, depending on which comes first. This warranty coverage is also transferable if the vehicle changes ownership during this time period. This warranty covers defects that may arise in any components of your vehicle supplied by Mazda during the period specified by the policy. If anything goes wrong that is due to defects caused during the vehicle's manufacture, this policy will cover any repairs needed at no additional cost to you. That shows you the confidence that Mazda has in the quality of the materials and workmanship that goes into every vehicle they sell. 2. Powertrain Limited Warranty In addition to the broad coverage provided by the above policy, your new Mazda will also have Powertrain Limited Warranty coverage. This coverage is good for 60 months following your purchase or the first 60,000 miles that you drive, whichever comes first. Much like the New-Vehicle Limited Warranty, this policy is also transferable if the vehicle gets a new owner while still under the policy. Your Powertrain Limited Warranty is also designed to account for any potential defects in the materials and craftsmanship used in the manufacture of your vehicle. The difference with this policy is that it is intended specifically for components used in your vehicle's powertrain. Because these parts are some of the most essential for your vehicle to function correctly, the additional length of coverage under this policy can be greatly beneficial. 3. 24/7 Roadside Assistance Program In addition to coverage for the components of your vehicle, your new Mazda also comes with a 24/7 Roadside Assistance Program to give you vital help whenever you need it. If a failure of a part covered under the other warranty policies causes your vehicle to become immobilized, this policy will also cover towing service to your nearest Mazda service center. This coverage lasts for the first three years or 36,000 miles that you're driving the vehicle. Have any questions about the warranty coverage that Mazda offers you? Our expert team can clarify information about these policies and other available warranty coverage so you know exactly what you're getting with your purchase. Visit Mazda City of Orange Park today for more information, and to find your next new dream vehicle!

There is nothing like making memories with the family, whether you are on vacation, or celebrating a special occasion. If you are in Jacksonville, FL, planning that special outing doesn't have to be overwhelming. There are a variety of kid-friendly activities to choose from that are certain to keep the young ones entertained and the adults engaged. Whether it's an adventure that you seek, or something more educational, there is a wide range of things to do in Florida's most populous city. 3 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Jacksonville, FL 1. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Open daily from 9 to 5, the zoo is a wonderful place for the whole family. Guests to the park will gain a new appreciation and understanding of the animals that they meet during their visit. There are over 2,000 species of both exotic and native animals with an opportunity to learn something new about all of them. Don't worry if you can't see everything in one day; the zoo also offers virtual visits that you can enjoy from home. Kids will especially love the goat petting zoo, where they can touch and feed the goats. They will learn how to interact safely with these curious animals, and it makes for a great photo op. If you are visiting during the warmer months, there is a splash park for the family to cool off in. When the little ones get tired, rather than carry them you can hop on the vintage train, which will take you around the entire zoo. Tickets are sold online only, so plan your trip in advance. 2. MOSH (Museum of Science and History) This is a great museum for all ages to learn about local history and the wonders of science. There are several interactive exhibits to keep the kids interested, like the Intertidal Touch Tank, or The Body Within, which allows you to explore the human digestive system by walking through a model. For the future astronaut in the family, there is an exhibit dedicated to space exploration, with its own planetarium. They also have live animals for viewing, as well as an indoor playground with a treehouse for those five and under. Traveling exhibits ensure that there is always something new to discover here. The MOSH is open five days a week, Thursday through Monday. 3. Adventures Up the Creek If the kids aren't too young, and they like to get up close to nature, then a kayak tour with Adventures Up the Creek should be high on the list of things to do. The guides are enthusiastic about the indigenous wildlife and are happy to go into detail about the varied species that you might encounter and how to tell the difference between animals like an alligator or a crocodile, or a heron and an egret. Your well-being is a priority with this company and not only are their guides trained in safety protocols, but their equipment is up to date and top-notch. They offer eco-tours daily for both small and large groups. If you love doing things as a family, you need to have a vehicle that will make trips in the car comfortable and safe. At Mazda City of Orange Park, we have an extensive inventory of vehicles that will make your rides together even more fun. Stop in and see us at Mazda City and let one of our consultants help you find a vehicle that fits all your needs.