Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
A 450-plus-acre oceanfront park north of Atlantic Beach with the rare combination of natural Atlantic surf, a freshwater lake, miles of mountain-bike trails and oceanfront camping — all for $5 a car.
Updated June 2026
The best mix of surf and forest in one park
Most people in Jacksonville pick a lane — they're either beach people or trail people. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is the spot that refuses to choose. Tucked between Atlantic Beach and the Mayport jetties, it packs a mile and a half of wild, undeveloped Atlantic coastline against a tangle of coastal forest, a big freshwater lake and one of the most beloved surf breaks on the First Coast. You can paddle a kayak in the morning, ride singletrack at noon and watch the sun drop behind the dunes from a campsite that night, all without leaving the gate.
And here's the part that still feels like a secret: it's just $5 a car to get in. For the size of the place and how much there is to do, that's about the best deal on the whole coast. If you've only ever hit the more polished sand down at Jacksonville Beach, Hanna is the wilder, quieter, greener cousin — and it tends to win people over fast.
The quick version
450+ acres of oceanfront park. Natural beach, a 60-acre lake, 20+ miles of trails and camping — all behind one little gate booth and a $5 bill. Bring sunscreen, bring a bike, stay all day.
Five reasons to spend the whole day here
You really can knock out beach, water and woods in a single visit. Here's what's waiting once you clear the gate.
Paddle the lake, then explore beyond
The easiest way to get on the water at Hanna is right there at the lake — grab a kayak, SUP or pedal boat from the on-site rentals and you're floating in minutes, no gear or planning required. The freshwater is flat and forgiving, which makes it a great first paddle for kids or anyone still finding their balance.
Once you've got the hang of it, the wider region opens up. There are guided paddles nearby through the marsh creeks and tidal waters of the First Coast, where you'll spot herons, dolphins and the occasional manatee. Our kayaking and paddleboarding guide rounds up the best launches and outfitters around Jacksonville so you can keep going after the lake.
On-site & nearby
Kayak, SUP and pedal-boat rentals are right at the lake. For marsh-creek paddles and guided tours around the First Coast, line one up before you go.
More of the First Coast
Hanna Park is one stop on a long, beautiful coastline. Here's where to wander next.
Beaches & Outdoors
Back to the hub — every beach, park and paddle on the First Coast in one place.
Jacksonville Beach
The lively, walkable main beach — pier, shops and restaurants steps from the sand.
Huguenot Memorial Park
Drive-on sand where the river meets the sea — birds, boats and big open beach.
Talbot Islands
An easy day trip north — Boneyard Beach, kayak trails and unspoiled barrier-island state parks.
Common questions
How much does it cost to get into Hanna Park?
It's just $5 a car at the gate booth, which covers the beach, trails and lake for everyone in the vehicle. Bring cash or a card and have it ready at the booth.
Is there surfing at Hanna Park?
Yes. The Poles, named for the old pier pilings just offshore, is Northeast Florida's premier surf break and the spot local surfers chase first when a swell shows up. Check our guide to surfing in Jacksonville for lineups, etiquette and board rentals.
Can you camp at Hanna Park?
You can. The park has oceanfront camping for tents and RVs plus a handful of cabins, so you can fall asleep to the surf and hit the trails first thing. Reserve ahead, since it's one of the only places this close to the city where you can camp by the ocean.
Are there kayak rentals at the lake?
Yes. There are kayak, SUP and pedal-boat rentals right at the 60-acre freshwater lake, so you can be out on flat water within minutes of parking. The calm water makes it a great first paddle for kids.
What is there to do at Hanna Park?
Quite a lot for a $5 entry. You get 1.5 miles of natural Atlantic beach, the famous Poles surf break, a 60-acre freshwater lake with on-site rentals, and more than 20 miles of mountain-bike and hiking trails, plus oceanfront camping if you want to stay over.