Jacksonville Beach is the oldest and, with a population of more than 20,000, the largest of Duval County beaches. It has a greater mix of residential, commercial, retail and industrial areas than other areas of the beaches. Much of the beaches' commercial area is located on Third Street, and while the bustling business environment adds to the atmosphere and economic well being of the city, it offers a myriad of shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Activities abound at Jacksonville Beach; various festivals and fairs take place around the Flag Pavilion; you can find professional and semi-professional volleyball tournaments on the beach; and, of course, cycling, surfing, wind surfing, beach combing and sunbathing are favorites for those who find the easy beach access appealing. South Jacksonville Beach, just north of J. Turner Butler Boulevard on A1A, offers a calm residential atmosphere and although beach access is more limited, there are those who prefer this area just for that reason.