A sanderling (calidris alba) on the beach of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida.; Shutterstock ID 643836334; Your name (First / Last): Trisha Ping; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Trisha Ping/65050/Online Editorial/Florida

Shutterstock / Norm Lane

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park


If you want a beach that's away from any crowds – and a slice of Atlantic coast natural beauty – come to this 450-acre park, which boasts 2.5 miles of undeveloped shoreline, dune ecosystems and maritime forest dripping with Spanish moss.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

2. Kingsley Plantation

5.04 MILES

Tour portions of the oldest standing plantation house in Florida as well as the remains of 23 tabby-construction slave cabins at this former cotton and…

3. Jacksonville Beach Pier

5.53 MILES

Constructed from removable planks, allowing it to be dismantled in the event of a hurricane, the 1300ft pier (when operating) has a bait shop, concessions…

4. Little Talbot Island State Park

6.11 MILES

This pristine island (which despite the name is almost the same size as Big Talbot Island) has 5 miles of unspoiled beaches, river otters, marsh rabbits,…

5. Big Talbot Island State Park

7.54 MILES

Deposit your fee in the blue envelope and pull into the lone parking lot at this stark but lovely park. Take your camera on the short trail to Boneyard…

6. American Beach Museum

14.18 MILES

This small museum offers a vibrant overview of life in American Beach, one of the few seaside resort communities built for African Americans in the…

7. Jacksonville Zoological Gardens

14.2 MILES

Northeast Florida's only major zoo opened in 1914 with one deer; today it's home to over 1800 exotic animals and hectares of beautiful gardens. Favored…