Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Coastal Paradise

Tucked away in Jacksonville's Mayport area, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a 447-acre gem that feels worlds away from the busier beaches nearby. With 1.5 miles of white sandy beach stretching along the Atlantic, it's noticeably less crowded than many other nearby beaches. The waves here break just right, making it a favorite spot for local surfers.

The beach comes equipped with all the essentials - showers, restrooms, and lifeguards during the busy seasons - so you can settle in for the day without worry. Entrance costs $5 per vehicle.

Freshwater Lake

At the heart of Hanna Park sits a gorgeous 60-acre freshwater lake that's well-suited for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing adventures. Just note that swimming isn't allowed here - the resident alligators have dibs on that activity, and you might spot them sunning themselves along the shoreline if you're lucky.

The lake is surrounded by walking paths that meander through a mature coastal hammock - an ecosystem that's becoming increasingly rare as development gobbles up Florida's Atlantic coastline. Bring your camera, as the early morning light on the water creates some truly magical scenes.

Trail System

If you're into mountain biking or hiking, you're in for a treat. Hanna Park offers over 20 miles of trails ranging from leisurely strolls to heart-pumping challenges. The more difficult bike trails have earned names like "Grunt," "Misery," and "Tornado Alley" - which should give you a pretty good idea of what you're getting yourself into.

The trails twist through dense vegetation that creates a surprising jungle vibe, and the abundant shade makes outdoor activity bearable even during Florida's steamier months. Four-legged friends are welcome on the hiking trails (leashed, please), but should sit out the bike trails.

Camping Facilities

Want to extend your stay? The park's nearly 300 campsites are nestled among the trees, offering a peaceful retreat just minutes from the ocean. The paved access roads make it easy to navigate with everything from tents to RVs, and there are even some rustic cabins available if you prefer a solid roof.

Each site typically comes with the camping essentials: picnic table, fire ring, and hookups for water, electricity, and sewer. Natural vegetation between sites creates a nice sense of privacy, and the 24/7 laundry facilities mean you won't have to pack quite so many shorts for your beach vacation.

Day Visit Amenities

Day-trippers will find plenty of picnic areas complete with grills and pavilions (which you can reserve for larger gatherings). Kids will make a beeline for the playgrounds, including one with an exciting zipline, or the seasonal splash pad that provides hours of giggling fun.

For special occasions, Dolphin Plaza offers an oceanfront setting that's hard to beat for weddings or family reunions. And if you forgot something, the park store has you covered with bike rentals, basic camping supplies, and beach necessities.

Historical Significance

There's rich history beneath your feet here. Part of today's park was once Manhattan Beach, Florida's first beach community for African Americans during segregation. Later, the park was named after Kathryn Abbey Hanna, a respected Florida historian who chaired the state's Board of Parks and Historical Places.

Wildlife

Keep your eyes open as you explore - the park is home to an impressive variety of wildlife. Shorebirds dart along the waves, wading birds stalk the shallows, and alligators and foxes make regular appearances. From May through October, the beach becomes a nursery for sea turtle nests.

The blend of ecosystems here offers a glimpse of "real Florida" that's becoming harder to find along the developed coastline. It offers great opportunities for photography and nature observation. Just remember to bring bug spray when venturing into the woods - the mosquitoes are also part of authentic Florida!