One of the first clues you’re in Atlantic Beach (or AB, as the locals like to call it) is an onset feeling of calm. You could be five minutes outside of Atlantic Beach, then as soon as you saunter into the residential streets of Atlantic Beach, the emotion hits you. You feel relaxed, and time seems to slow down a bit. Then you relax a little more.

If you’re rushing in Atlantic Beach, you’re doing it wrong. Atlantic Beach is all about the chill vibes and taking things slow. Whether that’s sipping a handcrafted latte in a boutique hotel, riding a beach cruiser down Ocean Blvd with no destination insight, or simply laying in the warm sand, it’s hard to argue that Atlantic Beach doesn’t know what they’re doing.

The chill spirit not only lives in the people, but it also lives in the rustling of the palm trees, the Seabreeze that scents the air, and the warm sun that demands everyone to walk a little bit slower.

If you’re ready to relax and take in all that Atlantic Beach offers, continue below to find out what chill places we recommend in AB.

1. Relax and Sip an Artisan Coffee Drink at Show Pigeon Coffee – inside Hotel Palms

Hotel Palms & Show Pigeon Coffee perfectly embodies the chill vibes of Atlantic Beach. Before you enter the courtyard, we highly recommend taking a deep breath and leaving all of your worries of the day in the parking lot, this is your space to relax and enjoy a culinary experience, this is your time.

Jamie Rice is the beautiful soul behind Show Pigeon Coffee. She has a knack for making people feel relaxed and welcome in her coffee space and really wherever she goes. That energy is also felt throughout the boutique hotel. As a customer of Show Pigeon, the hotel lets you hang out in their courtyard, which is super cool and chill of them.

The coffee is excellent and it’s always lovingly prepared. You may have to wait a little bit longer for your latte (only if you go when it’s the busiest), but the unique handcrafted espresso, tea, and coffee drinks are well worth it. It’s truly a pleasurable experience.

Address:
28 Sherry Dr
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
(inside Lobby)

Hours:
Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri| 7 AM – 1 PM
Sat & Sun | 9 AM – 1 PM
Thus | closed

2. Monkey around in Johansen Park

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Amid a chill neighborhood called Atlantic Beach lies an even more chill spot; Johansen Park.

One moment you’re passing pastel-colored beach homes with neatly landscaped yards of plush grass, and then the next moment, you see a small slice of tropical paradise. This green space is full of towering palm trees and large oak trees dripping with spanish moss. 

You may not even realize it’s a public park at first, but it is. This park exists for you to enjoy it. Besides simply walking around the park and taking in its beauty, we’ve highlighted a few other ways you could enjoy the park. Find the four other ways below:

Hang in a Hammock:
There are so many palm trees in this park that it’s a great place to bring your portable hammock and relax.

Photoshoots:
Johansen Park has a tropical feel mixed with the charm of the deep south. I would imagine that it would make a beautiful spot for a photoshoot.

Monkey Around:
This park has several swings for kids and adults to enjoy. However, if you’re in the mood to be more monkey-like, you can take your shoes off and try out your tree climbing skills on some of the bent palms in the park.

Dog Walking:
This park is relatively large, and the surrounding roads are enjoyable for walking, so it would be a great spot to walk your dog and enjoy the relaxing scenery within the park and outside of it.

Whatever you decide to do in Johansen Park, we hope you take time a little slower and fully appreciate your time in nature.

Address:

1535 Park Terrace E
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Note:
Plenty of parking but no restrooms on-site.

3. Cool Down With Frozen Hot Chocolate at Makenu Chocolate

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It’s not every day that you get to experience sustainably harvested high-quality chocolate that is also locally roasted, fermented, and handcrafted into special chocolate treats. It’s a rare model that isn’t that common in the U.S., but we’re here to tell you it’s at your fingertips in Atlantic Beach.

Jessica Diebel and Tucker Juan, the co-owners of Makenu Chocolate, share a passion for well-made specialty treats. For them, it’s not enough to buy chocolate in bulk to craft it into specialty bars for you to buy; no, they want to be a part of every step.

Diebel and Juan start by sourcing their cocoa beans from South America; then, inside their small chocolate shop, they begin the process of turning the beans into delicious chocolate bars and treats. This process is referred to as bean to bar in the chocolate world. With this model, it’s tough to get anything fresher or more delicious.

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Not only do they make chocolate bars with various percentages and flavors, but they also make homemade toffee, truffles, and frozen hot chocolate.
Yes, homemade frozen hot chocolate. Much like the frozen hot chocolate served at the famous Serendipity restaurant in New York, but the one here at Makenu is made from sustainably harvested cacao beans.

A few weeks ago, we tried the frozen hot chocolate for the first time on a warm spring day. The refreshing dessert has the taste of a french pudding dessert but the smooth icy texture of a perfectly blended smoothie. Then, it’s topped it with a dollop of whipped cream.

This dessert hits in a lovely way. The quality, the portion size, the texture, just everything about it is fantastic.

Note:
Check their hours on google maps or Instagram, as they change often.

Address:
Makenu
30 Seminole Rd
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Wed, Sat, Sun| 10 AM – 3 PM
Thurs & Fri | 12 PM – 5 PM
Mon & Tues | closed

4. Grab Some Avocado Toast at Southern Roots Filling Station

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If you’ve ever experienced avocado toast that was subpar, you may not understand why so many people enjoy eating it. 

The worst avocado toast is served on soft bread that holds a not-so-vibrant dollop of moist guacamole. In the world of food texture pairings, this is a crime.

Firstly, we believe guacamole is best paired with chips. And lastly, the bread HAS to have a bite to it. Otherwise, the two soft textures together become a sad mess that no one would be happy paying over $4 for the soggy disappointment.

However, if the avocado is lightly smashed or sliced and your bread has a nice crispy bite to it, it’s a delightful experience.

At Southern Roots Filling Station, they do a fantastic job. Not only does their avocado toast pass the bread and guac test, but they also put delicious homemade toppings like pickled onions, cilantro oil, and a handful of crunchy pea shoots unto the toasts that create a wonderful memory in your mouth. Their unique avocado toast says, “I am here to entertain you and fulfill your savory tastebud desires.”

Next time you’re in the mood for a light, satisfying meal and you’re in Atlantic Beach, check out Southern Roots Fillings Station’s avocado toast. You will not be disappointed. 

Address:
32 Seminole Rd
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Wed-Sun| 8 AM – 2 PM
Mon & Tues | closed

5. Explore a jungle-like setting in Howell Park

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Howell Park is a tropical paradise in the center of Atlantic Beach. Even though there are several entrances to this park, this park is not apparent in the least. You could live in Atlantic Beach for some time and not even realize it’s there.

The main reason for its mystery is that the three park entrances are hardly noticeable. Two of the three entrances look more like trail paths than entrances, and the third entrance, which has parking, is located down a residential street that doesn’t get much outside traffic.

But if we think about it, the mystery aspect adds to the charm of this jungle-like park. It’s the type of place you could accidentally stumble upon on your own if you were feeling curious. One moment you could be cruising down the busy main road called Seminole Rd on your bike, then with a sharp turn into the hidden entrance you just spotted, you could find yourself in a quiet, lush tropical setting.

Upon entering the park, you will notice the crushed-shell pathways that connect you from one end of the park to the other and everywhere in between. The paths will bring you to a pond, several bridges, an open grass area with picnic tables, and narrow maze-like trails.

Colors of neon to forest green surround your vision. Birds chirp, turtle heads pop up to say hello, teens find a picnic table to hang out before it’s time to go home, and the afternoon sun peaks through the thick edge of trees surrounding the park.

Howell Park is a beautiful place to discover; it’s all about being in tune with your senses and getting in touch with nature.

Note: 

• There are no public bathrooms at this park. However, the neighboring park called Jack Russell Park does have public restrooms.
• The best parking for this park is located at the Pine St & Seaspray Ave crossroads in Atlantic Beach.

Address:
810 Seminole Rd
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

6. Check Out Two Unique Homes in Atlantic Beach Designed by Architect William Morgan

It’s hard to walk by good design and not pause to take it in. It could be a coffee mug, a shoe, or an antique car; something about it draws you.

You can’t help but stare and appreciate it. As you linger, you wonder who was the mastermind behind the object. Your appreciation for the design makes you feel connected with the world in some weird way; it inspires and possibly even energizes you. That is the power of good design.

Architect and author William Morgan’s designs have that effect. You see the thought, care, and creativity of the design. It just feels right.

While Morgan was known internationally, most of his designs are spread throughout Florida, and luckily, Jacksonville is home to some of his most well-known designs. As Matthew Shaw from Void magazine put it:

“Morgan would do the work that would come to define him and make him the undisputed king of North Florida Rad Pads.”

Matthew Shaw

Although many William Morgan designs are in Atlantic Beach, we wanted to focus on Morgans House and Dune House.

We felt it would make sense to showcase the two designs that are the most unique and also conveniently located next door to each other. So here they are.

Morgan’s Home

Seven facts about Morgan House:

1. Built 1972
2. A-frame structure
3. 1,800 square feet
4. Located on a man-made berm
5. Listed as A1A’s Top 100 Buildings in Florida
6. Influenced by the stepped structure of Roman seaside towns
7. Morgan’s home in Atlantic Beach is one of his most well-known designs

Dune House

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Five facts about Dune House:

1. Built 1975
2. Subterranean duplex-style townhome
3. 750 square feet each
4. Built by Morgan William to use as vacation rentals
5. Very little heating and cooling is needed because the mass of sand over and around the homes moderates the inside temperatures year-round

About William Morgan:

William Morgan was born on December 14th, 1930, in Jacksonville, Florida. He attended Fletcher High School, graduated in 1948, and entered Harvard College after successfully winning a competitive national NROTC scholarship.

He served aboard the USS Missouri as a Mid-Shipman, after which he returned to Harvard to study architecture and graduated in June 1952, magna cum laude.

With the Navy, he was commissioned as an Ensign on the USS Bausell, later ascending to the rank of Lieutenant-Commander. After 40 months at sea during the Korean War, he was transferred to the island of Guam, where he met and married his wife, Bunny.

Returning to Cambridge, he entered the Harvard Graduate School of Design to earn his Master’s Degree in Architecture. Source: www.legacy.com

Morgan’s approach to design was heavily influenced by ancient architecture and described as a pioneer of sustainable design. Even though the a-framed Morgan House (aka Dune House) looks modern, it was influenced by the stepped structure of the Roman seaside town Herculaneum.

On January 18th, 2016, at 85, Morgan passed away after battling a long illness. Even though he’s not with us today, his work is highly respected and cherished throughout Jacksonville and all over North Florida.

Quotes about William Morgan:

“He was probably, after Henry Klutho, the best-known Jacksonville architect of all time,” “William Morgan was known internationally. He is truly one of the towering figures of Jacksonville.” 

– Wayne Wood, lead author of “Jacksonville’s Architectural Heritage
Source: Jacksonville.com

“Morgan’s interest in ancient earth architecture was unusual, if not unique, among his architectural peers, and this house, through its composition of inset balconies and spaces, connects some of the earliest architecture in Florida to some of the most modern ideas in architectural design.”

– Robert McCarter architect and historian

Address:
1945 Beach Ave
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

7. Relax at the Beach

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If you’ve been craving a slower-paced beach day, then Atlantic Beach is your spot.

Contrast to Jax Beach and its condo towers and busy beach town feel, Atlantic Beach is a residential area full of beautiful houses with a quiet sense of calm.

But the only problem is the lack of public parking, especially on the weekends.

But don’t worry, we put together a small list of free parking spots for you to check out the beaches in Atlantic Beach.

Trust us; you won’t regret it.

Free Parking Spots in Atlantic Beach

• Waters Park:
  1601 Seminole Rd
  Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

• 18th Street Parking:
  Parking on 18th street between Beach Ave and Seminole Rd

• 19th Street Parking:
  Parking on 19th street between Beach Ave and Seminole Rd

• Johansen Park:
  1535 Park Terrace E
  Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Tip: Get there early, or try to go during the week if you can.

Ok, now get some suntan lines!

8. Take a Pottery Class at Atlantic Pottery Supply Inc

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If you’ve ever wanted to use your hands artistically or wanted to experience a sensory-stimulating activity, a pottery class might be for you.

Jacksonville hasn’t always been a big pottery community. We are no Ashville, North Carolina, but that hasn’t stopped Paul Suter, the owner of Atlantic Pottery Supply (APS), from trying to impact Jacksonville with the world of clay.

When Paul Suter took over APS in 2019, it operated as a ceramicist supplier, but Suter had a broader vision for the supply shop. He not only wanted to offer classes and create a gallery space, but more importantly, he wanted to create a community.

“We want people to feel comfortable and learn from each other here. There is always something to gain from creating in a community setting. That’s my philosophy. This isn’t about any one person; it’s about the vibe of the place.”

– Paul Suter

The vibe of the place is defiantly calm and welcoming. Several weeks ago, I stopped by randomly, and Suter gave me the grand tour of his studio.

It felt like a type of place that would be encouraging and uplifting, which I would assume would be comforting while learning a new craft. I also met Peri Crush and Lizzie Scott, two of the pottery class teachers, who were just as lovely and kind.

The pottery studio offers beginner pottery throwing classes, hand building for all levels. In addition to those classes, they also offer privates lessons and private parties.

Pottery classes are typically a setup in a package deal. For example, for a Beginner Wheel Throwing class At APS, you get four classes, 25 lbs clay, tools, all class firings, and open studio time. All for $200.

If you find the world of pottery calling your name, we say give it a whirl and check out Atlantic Pottery Supply while you’re at it.

Website:
www.atlanticpotterysupply.com/book-onlihttp://www.atlanticpotterysupply.com/book-online

Address:
725 Atlantic Blvd #21
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Tues, Wed, Thurs | 10 AM – 6 PM
Friday | 10 AM – 2 PM
Saturday | 10 AM – 4 PM
Sun, Mon | closed

9. Grab a $3 burger at M-SHACK

MSHACK is a locally owned burger joint that believes in kale salads and 100% natural freshly ground Angus beef. It’s a great place to get a quick meal for the whole family. Think milkshakes, hotdogs, fries, chicken sandwiches, burgers, healthy-people salads, and veggie burgers.

Even if you have a large group or are still in your sandy beach clothes, it’s all good. The atmosphere allows for almost any situation.

But what we are most excited about is the fantastic weekday deal they have on offer. Behold the $3 weekday M burger. It’s their basic burger that usually goes for $6.89. But at certain times of the day during the week, it’s under half the cost. We tried it on the lettuce bun to save room for the delicious truffle fries, which are a MUST!!

Address:
299 Atlantic Blvd
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Everyday | 11 AM – 9 PM
Fri & Sat | Open til 10 PM

10. Sip a Beer and Play Shuffleboard at T-Dubs

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T-Dub’s is a men’s clothing store located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center. It’s a store created by locals for locals.

They sell everything a Jax guy needs for a hot day at the beach to a hot date night out on the town, which is still pretty casual, especially if you’re living on the beachside of the ditch. If the leg calves aren’t exposed, and the sandals aren’t flopping, most Beach guys don’t want to touch it.
T-Dub’s serves this type of guy to a T.

But this post isn’t about men’s clothing. Instead, it’s about the secret bar behind the retail store. If you walk to the back of T-Dubs’s, you will find yourself at the entrance of what the locals call “The Speakeasy.”

T-Dub’s is the locals’ chill spot to get a drink before or after dinner. It’s that middle place where you can sit on a couch, cool off in the AC, and sip on a beer with friends. The Speakeasy serves beer, wine, several hard seltzer beverages, and locally-made beef jerky.

What’s great about T-Dubs is that the owners are some of the nicest, most down-to-earth people. They genuinely want you to feel welcome and taken care of. Which to me is good old fashion southern hospitality at the finest; when you feel welcomed like family.

T-Dub’s is the busiest on the weekends, but that’s not the only day you should check it out.

Every Thursday night, they host a live music night starting around 10 PM. Because the bar is so small, it creates an intimate experience with the artist.

Last but not least, we don’t want to forget to mention that they also have a beautiful wooded shuffleboard table, free for you to play anytime.

Address:
299 Atlantic Blvd Suite#1
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Wed-Sat | 6 PM – until they close
Thurs | 10 PM Live Music
Sunday |opens 12:00 pm on game days

11. Get the flavor of the Day At Whit’s Frozen Custard

Oceanside ice cream experiences are hardly ever a bad thing. Whit’s Frozen Custard is conveniently located steps away from the Beaches Town Center public beach access. All you need to do is decide if you want the daily flavor or one of Whit’s classic treats. Then, as quick as possible, walk to the beach to enjoy your frozen treat seaside. Being in Florida, we all know it only takes seconds before it melts all over your hand.

Address:
38 Ocean Blvd
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Everyday | 11 AM – 10 PM

12. Go to the Saturday Beaches Green Market in Russell Park

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We all know about the Riverside Arts Market, an excellent farmers market, but there is something to be said about the Beaches Green Market.

Every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, local vendors come from all over North Florida to set up tents to sell high-quality goods. You can expect to see a few food trucks, fresh produce, fresh bread, the best quality of orchids, handmade soaps, and many other crafts.

Another great thing about this farmer’s market is the location. With free and plentiful parking, this removes a lot of hassle.

Another remarkable fact about this weekend market is that it’s held in Jack Russell Park. Jack Russell Park is a substantial recreational park that includes a skate park, tennis courts, kids playground, basketball courts, and a ballpark field. If you have kids, make sure to bring them. As you shop, they can play. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.

Address:
321 Penman Rd
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Hours:
Every Saturday | 10 AM – 2 PM

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13. Get a Traditional Irish Breakfast at The Fly’s Tie

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The Fly’s Tie Irish Pub is a one-of-a-kind spot in Atlantic Beach. Although shopping malls surround it, the pub feels quaint and private once you walk inside. It’s a place where locals find themselves relaxing and running into the same familiar faces; for many, it’s a second home.

It’s also a great place to get Sunday brunch, especially if you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast that is fit for an Irish farmer.

We tried the Irish Brekkie on the menu, which is a traditional Irish fry-up breakfast. With this meal, you get:

• Two rashers, which is Irish bacon that looks like thin slices of pork
• Black and white pudding imported from Ireland. Irish pudding is a type of sausage made up of pork meat, oats and spices, and pork blood (in the black pudding)
• Two Irish sausage links imported from Ireland.
• Pan-fried mushrooms
• Two grilled tomatoes
• Two eggs
• Homemade potato bread (Not pictured above, they didn’t have it available when we went)

The meal was rich, delicious, and fun to eat. The black and white pudding was for sure a favorite item. These savory puddings not only had a great spice kick, but the texture from the oats created a soft, enjoyable texture.

The only thing was missing from this traditional Irish meal was a pot of steaming black tea and some Irish folk music playing off in the distance. Only then would you question if you’re, in fact, still in Jacksonville.

“Continual cheerfulness is a sign of wisdom.”

Irish Proverb

Address:
177 Sailfish Dr E
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours:
Mon-Sat | 4 PM – 2 AM
Sunday | 11 AM – 2 AM

The end.

A note from the writer.

Thanks for taking the time to read another list article from Explore Jacksonville. I hope to help you discover all of the great places and things to see and do in Jacksonville.

Through my content creations, I hope to inspire you to go out of your comfort zone and create many beautiful memories around Jacksonville with yourself and your favorite people. 🙂

Until next time, keep exploring. – Esther Rimert