About Jacksonville
Jacksonville is the county seat of and the most populous community in Onslow County, North Carolina, which is coterminous with the Jacksonville, NC Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population was 72,723, which makes Jacksonville the 14th-most populous city in North Carolina. Demographically, Jacksonville is the youngest city in the United States, with an average age of 22.8 years old, which can be attributed to the large military presence. The low age may also be in part due to the population drastically increasing over the past 80 years, from 783 in the 1930 census to 72,723 in the 2020 census.
Places to visit in Jacksonville
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Lejeune Memorial Gardens
LandmarkA memorial park near the entrance to Camp Lejeune honoring Marines and other service members, including the Beirut Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A quiet, reflective place tied to the city's military identity.
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Hammocks Beach State Park
Beach · 16 mi from centreNear Swansboro, this park's highlight is Bear Island, reached by passenger ferry or kayak. The undeveloped island has wide beaches, high dunes and maritime forest, ideal for a quiet day by the sea.
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Topsail Island
Beach · 20 mi from centreA barrier island south of Jacksonville with relaxed beach towns, fishing piers and a sea turtle rescue center. It offers a laid-back alternative to busier coastal resorts.
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Swansboro
Neighborhood · 17 mi from centreA small historic waterfront town on the White Oak River, with antique shops, seafood restaurants and harbor views. It makes a charming stop on the way to the nearby beaches.
Where to stay in Jacksonville
Popular hotels in Jacksonville, out of 211 properties you can book.
Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk
From $93 per night
DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront
From $143 per night
The Villas Of Amelia Island
From $174 per night
Doubletree By Hilton Jacksonville Airport
From $231 per night
Homewood Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Downtown-So
From $163 per night
Red Roof Plus+ Jacksonville - Southpoint
From $55 per night
Omni Amelia Island Resort
From $328 per night
Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville South - Bartram
From $105 per night
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville
From $184 per night
Home2 Suites by Hilton Fernandina Beach Amelia Isl
From $133 per night
Seaside Amelia Inn
From $171 per night
Comfort Suites West Jacksonville
From $118 per night
Best time to visit Jacksonville
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Jacksonville is October, when average daytime highs are around 73°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Jacksonville weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 68° 47° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 70° 45° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 70° 46° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 69° 52° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 72° 53° 0%
- Mon 26 Oct 75° 53° 1%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Jacksonville
These are the airports closest to central Jacksonville. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- OAJ Albert J. Ellis Airport12 mi (20 km) from the city centre
Jacksonville travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Jacksonville?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Jacksonville is October, when average daytime highs are around 73°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
What is the weather like in Jacksonville?
July is usually the warmest month in Jacksonville, with average highs of 89°F (32°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 34°F (1°C). The wettest month is typically July, with about 237 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Jacksonville?
Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is the closest airport, about 12 miles (20 km) from the centre of Jacksonville.
What time zone is Jacksonville in?
Jacksonville uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
What are the best places to visit in Jacksonville?
Top sights in Jacksonville include Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Hammocks Beach State Park, Topsail Island and Swansboro. A memorial park near the entrance to Camp Lejeune honoring Marines and other service members, including the Beirut Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A quiet, reflective place tied to the city's military identity.
Where should I stay in Jacksonville?
Popular areas for hotels in Jacksonville include City Area and Amelia Island. Well-reviewed options include Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk and DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront.
How many hotels can I book in Jacksonville?
Destina Holidays currently lists 211 properties in and around Jacksonville, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
