Local's Guide to the Best Sunset Views in Northeast Florida
Image courtesy of Michael Monahan via Unsplash
Why Northeast Florida is Perfect for Sunset Watching
The beautiful colors lighting up the sky is breathtaking after a long day of exploring Northeast Florida. From quiet beaches and parks, to bustling waterfronts, to even cruising on the ocean, the region offers countless places to watch the sky transform into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple. Don’t forget to add these places to the end of your itinerary for a lovely evening.
Jacksonville Beach
There's something special about watching the sun sink below the horizon with your toes in the sand. Jacksonville Beach offers a wide shoreline where you can spread out a blanket, take amazing pictures, or take an evening stroll along the water as the sky changes color.
Many photographers say that Jacksonville Beach is the best beach to capture breathtaking sunset pictures. Whether you are in need of family photos, celebrating a special occasion, or simply snapping a few pictures to remember your trip, the golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset, creates a warm, soft light that provides the perfect lighting for stunning photos. The vibrant shades of pink create a radiant backdrop over the ocean, while the soft evening light enhances every photo without the harsh shadows of midday.
Fort Clinch State Park
If you're looking to pair a spectacular sunset with a little history and outdoor adventure, we recommend visiting Fort Clinch State Park, which offers one of the most scenic places to end the day. Originally built during the Civil War, Fort Clinch State Park is a well-preserved fort that sits among towering oak trees and overlooks scenic waterways.
Along the 1,400 acre park, there are lots of activities to do like hiking and biking on the park’s six mile multi-use trail. Before the sun begins to set, pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature. After dinner, hang a hammock by the river and unwind as the sunset paints the sky in vibrant colors. If one evening isn't enough, reserve a campsite and fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the St. Marys River.
Image courtesy of Max Brinton via Unslash
Fernandina Beach Harbor Marina
For a classic coastal sunset, head to Fernandina Beach Harbor Marina. Here visitors can rent boats and kayaks or take a relaxing tour around the Intercoastal Waterway. The marina is adjacent to downtown Fernandina Beach, so once you visit the variety of shops and art galleries you can stop by the city’s public boat ramp.
As the sailboats and fishing boats gently sway in the harbor, the setting sun reflects off the calm water, creating a picture-perfect scene. Incorporating elements like the birds flying in the area or the pier pilings on the dock in the lens of your camera adds visual interest capturing the magic of Fernandina Beach.
Sunset Cruise
Nothing is more relaxing when you let your hair down on a boat while you drive into the unknown colors of the sky. Amelia Island River Cruises offers an amazing experience to see the glowing sky on a spacious boat called the Cumberland Sound Sunset Tour.
On this amazing sunset cruise, keep an eye out for dolphins, wild horses on Cumberland Island, and local shorebirds, making the cruise just as memorable as the sunset itself. Whether you're planning a romantic date night, or simply looking to unwind after a day of exploring, a sunset cruise is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Northeast Florida.
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
After spending the day chasing the best sunset views, stop by our seafood shak to complete your Northeast Florida adventure. Grab fresh, locally sourced seafood and enjoy it on our family-friendly outdoor patio as the evening winds down. Great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and unforgettable sunsets, what more could you ask for?