Summary of Florida's First Coast

The name First Coast is an intentional double entendre; it denotes both the fact that the oldest permanent European settlement (St. Augustine) lies within its boundaries, and the fact that it is, quite literally, the "first coast" of Florida that a voyager would encounter while traveling along the eastern seaboard of the United States. It includes all of the counties of Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, and St. Johns, and the northern portion of Volusia. Baker County, while landlocked, was invited by the other counties to participate and was always included in early literature promoting the region. The terrain consists of a coastal plain with low hills along the bluffs of the St. Johns River. Trail Ridge, an ancient seashore, borders the western boundary of the First Coast and separates the region from the Okefenokee Swamp.

Recreational Interests

Florida's First Coast of Golf stretches approximately 80 miles along Northeast Florida's coastline from Amelia Island southward through Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Palm Coast and south of Saint Augustine to Daytona Beach. So, if you're looking for a golf vacation with challenging courses, first class accommodations, great year-round weather, all at a reasonable price, then Florida's First Coast is your destination. The Atlantic Ocean, intra-coastal waterway and St. Johns River offer endless choices for outdoor recreation, with some of the best inshore and offshore fishing and boating in the country. Included in Florida's First Coast areas are many popular attractions and beaches, loaded with a rich heritage, historical significance and all out atmosphere of family fun. Florida's First Coast offers a diversity of fine dining, lodging and entertainment to fit any budget.

Unique Qualities

While other Florida coastal areas have undergone years of development, First Coast beaches have remained basically unspoiled and accessible. 75 miles of Atlantic coastline and over 400 miles of river, waterways, creeks, ponds and lakes; the area has a unique diversity of waters, marine species and tidal conditions/wetlands.

Find a Hotel in Florida's First Coast:

Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, Orange Park, St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores

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