A1A Ocean Islands Trail

Byway Length: 39.7 Miles

Designated: July 26, 2016

FDOT District: 2

Overview

The A1A Ocean Islands Trail byway region is often referred to as “Florida’s First Coast.” This 40-mile stretch of beaches and barrier islands on Florida’s Atlantic coast is connected by the iconic Highway A1A. The route traverses Duval and Nassau Counties and four small cities, but is part of the Jacksonville metropolitan area. The byway offers a unique combination of ecological diversity, a rich history, and numerous recreational opportunities.

This byway starts in Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, just south of the Georgia-Florida state line. Fernandina Beach has the distinction of being the only city in the U.S. to have flown eight different national flags (French, Spanish, English, Patriot, Confederate, and several others) and contains over 400 historic sites.

Much of the byway hugs the sea coast, and the Mayport Ferry crosses the St. Johns River into the historic commercial fishing village of Mayport on the south shore. From there, the byway meanders eastward until turning south to pass through the beachy towns of Atlantic and Neptune, and ends after passing through Jacksonville Beach.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is an excellent place to explore the native history of the region. The French Huguenots arrived in 1562, and their story is also featured in local museums.

Byway Gallery: A1A Ocean Islands Trail
Byway Map: Downloadable PDF Map

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A1A Ocean Islands Trail: Preserving History Map

Byway Resources

Facebook: A1A Ocean Islands Trail Scenic Highway | Facebook

2023 Florida Channel Video: Florida Scenic Highways & Byways – A1A Ocean Islands Trail

General Directions

From the North:
Located in the northeast corner of Florida, from the north, access the byway from Interstate 95 (north of Jacksonville) via SR 200 which will take you to Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. From there follow A1A south along the coast, crossing the Nassau River into Duval County. Continue south to the Mayport Ferry which takes you across the St. Johns River. Continue along A1A through the towns of Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach and Jacksonville Beach to the byway terminus at SR 202 at the Duval/St. Johns County line.

From the South:
Access the byway from the south via Interstate 295 south-east of Jacksonville and take SR 202 east to A1A in Atlantic Beach. Follow A1A north through Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach to Mayport and the Mayport Ferry. Take the Ferry across the St. Johns River and continue north on A1A to Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach.