As much for it's beautiful beaches as anything, Jacksonville is known as "Florida's First Coast." Unlike much of the rest of Florida, the First Coast's miles of beaches remain relatively unspoiled and unfenced. The Beaches communities in Duval County --Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach? and Neptune Beach? -- also offer some of the best sport fishing, boating and water sport opportunities in the country.
A stroll along the beach might yield a collection of seashells, a view of the porpoise and northern right whales that cavort off the coast, or merely the relaxed state of mind that ocean waves can foster. Mayport Naval Station is home to many United States ships, including two aircraft carriers. Nearby, many fishing boats ply the waters for a variety of fish and shrimp.
