Fernandina Beach is known for its rich history and beautiful beaches. But what many people don’t know is that it’s also been dubbed the “Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry.”
Even though Fernandina Beach won’t see a population boom in the coming decades, it still has to be able to accommodate those moving to the county because people from those developing areas will come into their downtown, use their beaches and other resources, according to the city.
Brett’s Waterway Café has long been a mainstay in the community, known for its scenic views and special events. But it is set to be demolished next year due to safety concerns.
There are pirates in Fernandina Beach! And there have been for hundreds of years. Thanks to the island’s natural deep-water port, the area became a haven for the swashbucklers of the sea.
Much of Amelia Island was used as a backdrop for The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking, but the most memorable spot was the house that stood in for Villa Villekulla, Pippi’s home in the story.
Fernandina Beach is undergoing a $20 million shoreline restoration project to combat erosion and protect coastal communities from storm damage.
From the waterways to the trails to the beaches, here are some hidden gems you don’t want to miss when you venture up to Nassau County’s coast.
As part of our 4 Your Neighborhood visit to Fernandina Beach, we’re highlighting some of the famous folks who call the area home.
When you think of Fernandina, you probably picture peaceful beaches and pristine coastline and that’s exactly what locals and volunteers are fighting to protect. But it’s not just beachgoers who love the sand. A fast-spreading invader is threatening the natural landscape.
The Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar, still sits at the very location where it was built in the 1870s: at the corner of Centre and 2nd streets in the heart of Fernandina Beach in Nassau County.
Fernandina Beach Pride has given out $36,000 in scholarship money to Nassau County high school seniors since 2019.
The beach is associated with beautiful weather and fun, and Jacksonville Beach is no exception; however, as summer approaches, local law enforcement is reminding visitors to prioritize their safety as they have a good time.
Neptune Beach is working to keep students safe by cracking down on the rules of the road with automated speed cameras that are now in effect at local school zones.
Angie's Subs has been a staple of Jacksonville Beach for decades. As it continues to expand on its current location, the owner also has plans to go beyond its foundation in the beach community.
News4JAX is highlighting Duval County’s beaches for this month’s 4 Your Neighborhood special. But beyond the shoreline, there are some hidden gems at the beaches that you don’t want to miss.
Did you know Taco Lu on Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville Beach has a ghost? You must go back in time to get to the bottom of the paranormal activity that people who work there tell you is just haunting.
Since 1985, Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry, BEAM, has been serving members of the Beaches community who find themselves suddenly in crisis and unable to pay their rent, utility bill or feed their family.
If your dog loves to feel the sand in their paws, Duval County offers several pet-friendly beaches, but each has rules about when our fur friends can visit their shores.
Caleb Yauger had his first surfing lesson with Mark Collins at "Mark's Surf Camp." Here's how it went.
As the sea turtle nesting season continues, the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol urges people to follow proper guidelines to ensure wildlife safety.
The executive director of Florida Elite Soccer Academy talked about the growth of the game in St. Johns County.
St. Johns County is witnessing an explosive rise in the popularity of pickleball, a sport that’s quickly become the fastest-growing sport in the country.
The ongoing growth in the Durbin Pavilion area is evident as new stores and apartments continue to emerge.
On many days, before Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ even opens its doors, customers are lined up outside.
The 32259 ZIP code is widely considered to be in St. Johns County. But there is one Duval County neighborhood off of Race Track Road that has a Jacksonville address.
Pole Vaulting has been an Olympic track and field event since 1896. In 2000, women were finally allowed to compete in the event. On a quiet street in the Switzerland neighborhood, people may notice a red, grey, and navy blue flag outside a home, which will lead them to the “FL Pole Vault Factory, a business dedicated to bringing more attention to the sport and helping produce more elite Olympic level athletes.
Tristyn Bailey’s spirit continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. As her family and the community remember her vibrant life, her parents, Stacy and Forrest Bailey, reflect on the lasting impact she made in her 13 years.
The Julington Durbin Creek Preserve, which is part of the Timucuan Parks Foundation, is on a peninsula at the confluence of Julington and Durbin creeks.
Homeowners are urged not to assume that recent rainfall has eliminated the risk of wildfires. Numerous housing developments in St. Johns County back up to wooded areas, increasing the likelihood of fire hazards.
The $60 million Hallowes Cove Academy project is part of a larger effort to enhance educational opportunities for students in St. Johns County.
WJXT is proud to continue its long-standing promise of dedication to North Florida and South Georgia communities by introducing a new, inside perspective of area neighborhoods.
After months of fighting and rescheduled meetings wrapped in confusion, residents have consistently voiced their concerns about increased traffic, student safety and property values being affected if the unwanted restaurant was to open.
Come with me, let’s leave the bumper-to-bumper behind and glide across the dark and calm waters of the Ribault River and see another side of the Northside.
Pet Paradise near the Jacksonville International Airport is helping pet parents take care of their four-legged friends, and my dog Theo got to experience the fun.
They’ve made it their mission to make sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on the city’s Northside.
REZOOVENATION will revitalize nearly every part of the Zoo, starting with the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River habitat and the immersive VyStar SkyScape entrance, expected to open 2026. These projects will feature expanded and new animal habitats designed to prioritize animal well-being and create unique experiences for over a million guests annually. As visitors explore these beautifully crafted ecosystems, they will discover the rich diversity of the natural world in more engaging and innovative ways, aligning with the Zoo's mission to inspire through nature. www.jacksonvillezoo.org
Eden paid a visit to Old Soul Donut Co. on the Northside as part of our 4 Your Neighborhood celebration. The shop freshly bakes their delicious donuts and serves breakfast sandwiches and Martin coffee. Customers tell us that they are huge fans of the Northside eatery, and after sampling a box of delicious donuts, the River City Live crew understands why that is!
When most people think of Jacksonville’s Northside, the airport and zoo are typically among the spots that come to mind. However, many don’t realize that the area is also home to some popular blueberry farms.
If you live in the 32218 ZIP code, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed how the neighborhood is booming. As one local developer said, Northside growth is happening at breakneck speed.
Hundreds of people enroll in the Cosmetology Career Certificate (C.C.) program at Florida State College Jacksonville’s (FSCJ) North Campus every year, filling classes day and night all while impacting the community.
Have you ever wanted to go behind the scenes at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens? Well, you’re in luck.
Dedication, heart and resilience make leaders shine in law enforcement. These qualities also highlight Commander Erika Weber’s remarkable career.
Dunn Avenue on Jacksonville's Northside has seen quite a bit of development, and residents are concerned because crashes are becoming more frequent.
Pecan Park Flea and Farmer’s Market, a Northside Jacksonville staple, offers everything from everyday essentials to unique 3D-printed creations at D&A 3D Prints.
On Jacksonville’s Northside, Paintball Adventures stands as a lively testament to family tradition and the joy of shared experiences.
If you live on the Northside, watching airplanes take off and land from Jacksonville International Airport can be a cool leisure activity. For some, it is a hobby.
Jacksonville’s airport expansion and modernization continues. It’s a $440 million project that includes a new concourse, additional gates, and upgraded amenities.
Often referred to as a food desert, Jacksonville’s Northside has long struggled with a lack of healthy food options. Residents have voiced their concerns about the scarcity of fresh, affordable food, and local leaders are working to address the issue.
Fleming Island Center for Clinical Research is just one of Encore’s network of clinical research sites located throughout Florida. Encore works with sponsors like pharmaceutical companies, governments and foundations to conduct clinical trials. These trials help advance medical research by testing new treatments and procedures at no cost to participants.
After protecting residents for 35 years, former Orange Park Police Chief Gary Goble decided to retire almost a year ago.
Anyone familiar with soccer in Florida is aware of the illustrious career of St. Johns Country Day School coach Mike Pickett. In his 26th year as head coach in Orange Park, Pickett has won 14 state championships and holds the record for most consecutive championships, winning 11 in a row from 2012 to 2022.
As part of the News4JAX “4 Your Neighborhood” campaign in Orange Park, 10-time Olympian Caeleb Dressel talked about what the Clay County community means to him, his achievements and more.
After winning a 2024 Hyundai Tucson as part of News4JAX’s Hometown Heroes contest, we caught up with Howell, who shared why she takes her role as a teacher so seriously, calling it “her calling,” and why she spends time investing in the youth.
If you have played sports in Orange Park or anywhere in Clay County, you’ve probably seen Randy Lefko, and he’s got a slew of breathtaking photos to prove it.
Moosehaven, a retirement community located in the heart of Orange Park, is known for its amazing 4th of July fireworks show.
Many know John McCain as a decorated war hero and influential senator, but few are aware of his connection to Orange Park.
The lab’s research involved frontal lobotomies on monkeys, administering various drugs, and even one case where a husband and wife—Cathy and Keith Hayes—raised a monkey named Viki as a human child.
The Clarke House in Orange Park stands as a timeless window into the area’s rich history. Built in 1912 by William and Carrie Clarke, this wooden farmhouse remains a testament to the pioneering spirit of its original owners.
Positioned just off Wells Road, Calico Station serves as a kind of sanctuary for local quilters who call the shop their second home.
The Orange Park Mall is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, marking five decades as a staple in the community, employing over 3,000 people and housing 80 small businesses.
Algae blooms are a problem in many communities around Florida, especially in Clay County. The county’s water management team is removing phosphorus or nitrogen from its water to help combat the potential for algae blooms.
Chief Randy Case, who was sworn in as Orange Park Police Chief this past May following the retirement of long-serving chief, Gary Goble, shared his goals and visions as a town leader with News4JAX.
The biggest challenge for the fire department in the Town of Orange Park is keeping firefighters and filling vacancies.
The number of homes on the market in the Town of Orange Park has increased over the past year, and so has the median sale price.
