Where to Stay in Jacksonville, Florida: The Best Hotels & Areas

Florida’s largest city, Jacksonville is one of the Sunshine State’s most surprising urban destinations. The coastal city is famed for its beautiful beaches, delicious restaurants, nightlife, and family-friendly attractions. With its immense size and sprawl, the biggest challenge for travelers lands when choosing where to stay in Jacksonville, FL.

Famed for its Southern hospitality, Jacksonville boasts plenty of cool areas, neighborhoods & districts. In Downtown Jax, you’ll dabble in the city’s renowned arts & culture scene; in Jacksonville Beaches, you’ll bask in its famed seaside splendor. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or with your partner, the best hotels in Jacksonville, FL, offer it all to travelers.

Looking for the perfect Jacksonville lodgings? Get your accommodation search started with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Jacksonville, FL.

Best places to stay in Jacksonville, FL

A versatile and eclectic city, Jacksonville, FL, is multi-faceted. No matter your needs, Florida’s biggest city caters to every kind of vacation. From the bustling spirit of Downtown to the serenity and white sand beaches of Amelia Island, you’ve got plenty of options waiting for you in Jax.

For arts & culture, settle down in a hotel around Downtown Jacksonville. Hugging a bend in the St. Johns River, Downtown Jax is home to several top-notch museums and performing arts centers. You’ll also find plenty of cool laid-back riverside restaurants & bars and shopping options.

Jacksonville, FL

Further outside the city center, neighborhoods like Southpoint and Deerwood offer a quieter alternative to the downtown scene. Each are located along the city’s main transportation arteries. They’re convenient choices if you want to explore the whole Jacksonville area and the rest of Northeast Florida.

Beach bums have plenty of choices around Jax, too. For the buzziest beach vibes, head for Jacksonville Beaches. The beachfront community comprises several beach towns, namely Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. The string of hotels along the Atlantic Ocean shores is perfect for a relaxing Northeast Florida vacation.

The best areas to stay in Jacksonville, FL, are:

Downtown Jacksonville

✓ Best area to stay in Jacksonville for arts & culture

Need a dose of culture in your Jax travel plans? Lay down your head in Downtown Jacksonville. Brimming with cultural attractions like the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the famous Florida Theatre, Downtown Jax never fails to inspire.

If you’re seeking a breezy, riverside room, check out Southbank. This trendy, modern district, situated on the banks of the St. Johns River, boasts the famous Southbank Riverwalk. On this meandering promenade, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline. Here, visitors can watch the world go by and lose themselves in the stunning views and serene ambiance.

Dowtown

San Marco is another highlight near Downtown Jax. The district is chock-full of indie boutiques, trendy restaurants, and inspiring art galleries. It’s the ideal destination for culture vultures and aspiring artists.

You can’t talk about Downtown without mentioning the Riverside and Avondale Historic Districts. The historic neighborhoods are populated by artists, craftsmen, and world-class chefs. Riverside and Avondale offer up some of the city’s finest cultural hotspots. The 19th-century architecture, complete with opulent riverfront mansions, adds to the immersive experience.

Younger travelers may prefer to stay in Five Points, however. This bohemian district is located in the Riverside area. It features up-and-coming shops, restaurants, and bars. Five Points is the perfect place to grab a craft beer and relax after a day of sightseeing.

Although Downtown is the heart of the city, accommodation options are surprisingly limited. The average price of lodgings also tends to be higher here than areas like Southpoint or Deerwood.

Recommended hotels in Downtown Jacksonville

Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank

Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Downtown Southbank

This plush Hilton is one of Jacksonville’s finest and most popular hotels. Located just two miles from the city center, it has everything you’d want in a luxury hotel. There’s a swimming pool, a fitness suite, a cocktail bar, and a mouthwatering restaurant. A perfect place for a romantic getaway, this hotel is worth every penny.

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

The trendy rooftop pool on this Hyatt Regency hotel is just one of its many cool features. This scenic hotel also houses an outdoor pool and three different restaurants with stunning views of the river.

Visitors will love the hotel’s central location. Situated on the banks of the St. John’s River, you’ll be right in the heart of the action. Downtown and Southbank are only a stone’s throw away. Jacksonville International Airport is less than 15 miles away. The hotel is the ideal choice for busy business travelers.

Omni Jacksonville

Omni Jacksonville

Located minutes from the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, Jacksonville’s Omni Hotel is the perfect place to stay during your cultural vacation. The hotel offers a wide selection of food. Visitors can choose from American, buffet, and continental breakfast options.

There’s also a gift shop, a 24-hour fitness center, and a conference suite. Omni hotels are renowned for their opulence, efficiency, and cleanliness. And their Jacksonville branch is no exception. Many of Jax’s entertainment options are accessible from the hotel. The Omni is a great choice for anyone needing convenient access to the city.

Southpoint

✓ Best neighborhood to stay in Jacksonville for a quieter alternative to the city center

Looking for quieter quarters close to the city center? Grab a room in Southpoint. Located just eight miles from Downtown, Southpoint is home to many young professionals and families. The neighborhood occupies a prime location at the crossroads of I-95 and J Turner Butler Blvd.

Quiet and safe, Southpoint is the perfect neighborhood for afternoon strolls and lazy games of golf. There are plenty of hotels, bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby.

St Johns River

Though not nearly as bustling as some other areas, Southpoint still has plenty of character and charm. There’s an array of dining options to suit every budget. The St Johns River is only a short distance away.

While Southpoint is removed from the heart of Jax, a journey to the city center and to the top tourist attractions in Jacksonville, FL, is not far. The area also possesses an abundance of quirky and unique charms.

Recommended hotels in Southpoint

Best Western Premier Jacksonville

Best Western Premier Jacksonville

Simple and effective, this three-star hotel is the perfect ‘no frills’ destination. Located just ten minutes away from Jacksonville City Centre, you’ll never be far away from a Jax landmark.

On-site, there’s a gymnasium and an outdoor pool in addition to Nila’s Restaurant and Lounge. Help yourself to the daily breakfast buffet every morning to get yourself ready for the day.

There’s also a business center, meeting rooms, and a banquet area for those looking to host corporate functions. Jacksonville Airport isn’t far away either, making this a convenient place to stay for those on a business trip.

Hampton Inn Jacksonville South/I-95

Hampton Inn Jacksonville South/I-95

Located just off Interstate 95, this Hampton Inn hotel features modern rooms equipped with free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. There’s also an outdoor pool surrounded by tall, exotic palm trees to help bring beach vibes to your doorstep. Indulge in the hot buffet breakfast, served every morning.

Marriott Jacksonville

Marriott Jacksonville

The ornate Marriott hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway outside the city center. The Marriott Jacksonville boasts large, air-conditioned rooms equipped with 55-inch TVs, a coffee machine, and a lounge area. The on-site restaurant, Bistro 202, serves a variety of American and continental dishes. The delicious food and modern design make this eatery a great option.

Deerwood

Best district to stay in Jacksonville for shopping & families

The affluent, upscale district of Deerwood has a laid-back atmosphere and features many plush stately homes and grand shops. Deerwood is a great choice for families, looking for a quieter vibe close to both the city and the seashore.

Butler Boulevard runs through the heart of the Deerwood district. The main thoroughfare gives travelers direct access to Jacksonville’s beaches. Along the avenue lies Jax’s widest range of luxury and mid-range hotels.

St Johns Town Center is an upmarket mall where you can treat your partner, family, or yourself to a well-deserved gift. The mall is open air. You’ll love feeling the cool breeze as you splash your cash.

After your shopping trip, Deerwood’s Fort Family Park is an ideal place for a quaint, picturesque family picnic. It’s also suitable for soccer games, hiking, running, and watching the kids play in the playground. Located near the Point Meadows neighborhood, the park is surrounded by a freshwater fishing lake.

Deerwood has a great range of hotels at your disposal. It’s the perfect area to enjoy a bit of peace & quiet during your Jax vacation. The price per night here tends to be cheaper than in Downtown or The Beaches.

Recommended hotels in Deerwood

Home2 Suites by Hilton Jacksonville South

Home2 Suites Jacksonville South

This slick-looking hotel offers a full buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and air-conditioned rooms to guests. Located a short distance from St Johns Town Center, these comfortable accommodations settle visitors in a convenient, upbeat part of town. There’s also an outdoor pool and a 24-hour gym for those hoping to keep in shape.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Holiday Inn & Suites Jacksonville Town Center

This welcoming hotel offers guests a business center and a 24-hour front desk. There’s also an outdoor pool, a gym, and free private parking. Located ten miles away from the Theatre Jacksonville, this Holiday Inn has you right in the heart of the action. With generous rooms and friendly service, the hotel is a great option for those on a slimmer budget.

Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo Jacksonville Deerwood Park

This charming hotel is located just 15 minutes away from Jacksonville Beach. Guests will have access to an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a 24-hour gym. You’ll also be treated to a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, and an in-room refrigerator. Be sure to chow down at the on-site restaurant, the 98 Forty Bar & Bistro, serving a variety of American dishes.

Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park

Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park

This pet-friendly hotel boasts an outdoor pool and a trendy cocktail bar. Guests at the Aloft Tapestry Park will be treated to a 55-inch TV, free WiFi, and a work desk. There’s also a fitness center and an on-site restaurant serving a la carte meals. You’ll also be close to various Jacksonville landmarks such as St. Johns Town Center, the Museum of Science and History, and EverBank Field.

Jacksonville Beaches

✓ Top area to stay in Jacksonville for seaside pleasures

Looking to add a tropical touch to your holiday? Settle down in Jacksonville Beaches. Whether you want to practice your surfing skills or chill out in the beautiful Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, there’s no shortage of coastal attractions in Jax.

The Jacksonville Beaches area is famously beautiful. With golden sands, pristine Atlantic Ocean waters, and a wide range of accommodation options, the Beaches is a must-visit on any Jacksonville trip. The beachfront city encompasses many of Jacksonville’s top-rated beaches. Each charm with its own unique beauty and splendor.

Jacksonville Beach is the most well-known and most visited Atlantic Ocean shore in the city. Close to numerous shops, bars, and restaurants, Jacksonville Beach is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Jacksonville Beach

Atlantic Beach is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that’s among the most beautiful beaches on Florida’s East Coast. This laid-back paradise is a great antidote to the congestion and confusion of the big city. In Atlantic Beach, visitors can engage in plenty of water-based activities. Options include surfing, swimming, and paddleboarding during the hottest months.

The small, yet bustling Neptune Beach is a vibrant coastal town. In Neptune Beach, visitors can engage in museum trips, games golf, and catch a theatre show. Perfect for solitude-seeking couples, Neptune Beach is also home to many live music and entertainment venues. Head to the Beaches Town Center for a wide range of activities and experiences.

Ponte Vedra Beach is the home of both the PGA and Players Championship golf tournaments. Visitors can book games of golf while staying at one of the area’s many luxury seaside resorts and hotels. Ponte Vedra Beach boasts some of the state’s largest sand dunes and is pet-friendly.

Recommended hotels in Jacksonville Beaches

Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach

Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville Beach

Holiday Inns are recognized all over the world for their simplicity and value. Located a short distance from the Beaches, this convenient hotel is perfect for all age groups. Jacksonville Beaches is only a stones’ throw away from this 3-star hotel.

You’ll also be five minutes away from Adventure Landing Amusement Park and less than a mile from Jacksonville Beach Golf Club. Be sure to check out this hotel’s outdoor pool and American-style breakfasts. Each room comes with a comfortable bed and a coffee maker.

Hampton Inn Oceanfront Jacksonville Beach

Hampton Inn Oceanfront Jacksonville Beach

Situated on a private beach, the Hampton Inn is the perfect place to spend a romantic Jacksonville getaway. Located just over a mile from Neptune Beach, this hotel has everything you could want out of a seaside resort. There’s a 120-foot pool, a tiki cocktail bar, and the Oasis grill, serving a variety of freshly prepared food.

One Ocean Resort and Spa

One Ocean Resort & Spa

The Atlantic Beach setting and tropical vibe are just some of the highlights of the One Ocean Resort & Spa. The rooms are modern and spacious. Most have a sweeping panoramic view of the ocean. There’s also an oceanfront pool for those who prefer freshwater swims.

Food lovers will appreciate the on-site Azurea Restaurant and its range of classic American and European dishes. It’s also an ideal place to grab a cocktail and relax.

Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront

Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront

Searching for a hotel in a convenient location? Look no further. The Sheraton Four Points hotel is located just seven minutes from the Middle Beach Commons Shopping Center.

Highlights of the hotel include an oceanside view, a gym, and a rustic outside firepit where you can spend an evening listening to the ocean’s waves.

Amelia Island

✓ Best place to stay in Jacksonville for nature lovers

If you’re a nature lover visiting Jax, don’t miss out on the chance to stay on Amelia Island. On and around the island, you’ll find several outdoor activities and beautiful parks to explore. Fort Clinch State Park, Big Talbot Island State Park, and Little Talbot Island State Park are all jam-packed with breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating historical artifacts.

Fernandina Beach

Fernandina Beach is a charming, quaint seaside town. With its blue skies and quintessentially Floridian landscape, the town is one of the most popular day trips from Jacksonville, FL, and one of the coolest coastal attractions in the Sunshine State. The beaches on Amelia Island are also some of the finest near Jax.

Among the top Amelia Island tourist attractions is the famous Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, known for its food and entertainment offerings. This grand occasion brings visitors from all over the country and offers the perfect family day out. With the next festival being held in October, be sure to head down to Fernandina Beach to catch the action.

The Amelia Island area is also renowned for its stunning golf courses. Be sure to pack your clubs and take a swing alongside the island’s beautiful views.

Recommended hotels in Amelia Island

Home2 Suites By Hilton Fernandina Beach

Home2 Suites by Hilton Fernandina Beach

This hotel may look minimalist on the outside, but it offers plenty of quality on the inside. Located only 750 yards from the beach, this hotel offers free WiFi, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

The location is another huge draw. Situated near various Amelia Island landmarks, you’ll never be far from a vibrant and exciting location. The rooms are sleek, modern, and homey. There’s also a fitness center where you can burn off those extra calories.

Hampton Inn & Suites Amelia Island

Hampton Inn & Suites Amelia Island

This Victorian-style hotel is situated in downtown Fernandina Beach. With the ocean just a five-minute drive away, this hotel is the perfect place for a seaside vacation. Guests have access to free WiFi, an LCD display, and air conditioning. There’s also a refreshing outdoor pool and on-site gym.

The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Ritz-Carlton hotels are famous for their class and pageantry. Their 5-star Jacksonville hotel is no exception. With ornate rooms, breathtaking oceanside views, and a stunning outdoor pool, this property has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a top-end luxury hotel.

Treksplorer

Ryan O'Rourke is a seasoned traveler and the founder & editor of Treksplorer, a fiercely independent guide to mid-range luxury travel for busy people. With over 20 years of extensive travel experience, Ryan has journeyed through over 50 countries, uncovering hidden gems and sharing firsthand, unsponsored insights on what to see & do and where to eat, drink & stay. Backed by his travel experience and in-depth research, Ryan’s travel advice and writing has been featured in publications like the Huffington Post and Matador Network. You can connect with Ryan on Twitter/X at @rtorourke.

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