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The Top 5 Seafood Restaurants Near Jacksonville, FL

There are tons of seafood restaurants around Jacksonville, FL! However, it can be hard to decide which restaurants are the best when choosing from a giant list. We have got you covered! If you have cravings for mouth-watering seafood, we are confident that our favorites will impress you. more The Top 5 Seafood Restaurants near Jacksonville, FL 1. Julington Creek Fish Camp If you are looking for a gorgeous view, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere, Julington Creek Fish Camp is your place. You will be clamoring to go back after your first experience. For a starter, share the mussels or the fried New England clam bellies with someone special. Try the fish camp shrimp and grits, blue crab cakes, fried fish sandwich with French fries, roast cod filet with brown butter, or the fried shrimp platter, for your main meal 2. Safe Harbor Seafood Serving delicious, fresh seafood from the harbor right outside, this restaurant is ready to accommodate every need with excellent customer service. The Mayport shrimp over southern-style grit cakes, Florida stone crab, blackened shrimp, oysters, scallops, shrimp nachos, and calamari are the most notable items on the menu. Safe Harbor can get extremely busy; however, the line moves quickly and everyone leaves happy! 3. Marker 32 Enjoy an unforgettable meal with beautiful, classy decorum right on the water. The food and service can be compared to a five-star restaurant, and you can forget about all your worries at Marker 32. The wood-grilled Atlantic salmon is served with shaved Brussel sprouts, bacon, risotto, drizzled with brown butter carrot puree, and garlic parsley butter. Other favorite dishes include the shrimp fettuccine, fried shrimp, local catch hoppin' John, and more! 4. Blue Crab Company The Blue Crab Company is located on the end of the South Lane Plaza on 1265 Lane Ave in Jacksonville. Locals come here for the amazing prices, attentive customer service, and best garlic crab in town! You cannot go wrong with anything on the menu, but our favorites are the steamboat, chowder, garlic shrimp, crab cakes, and shrimp tacos. The fish can also be ordered ahead of time and picked up from a fast and efficient drive-thru. 5. St. Mary's Seafood and More St. Mary's Seafood and More serves fresh oysters, clams, shrimp, crab, salmon that come broiled, blackened, and fried with perfect seasonings like garlic butter. Your family will be served with utmost care and regard as you enjoy a meal together in a fun and relaxed beach atmosphere. Our favorites are the crab cakes, ahi tuna, mussels, and any of the well-priced platters for the whole family. Whether you are with a large group of friends or want a quiet dinner after a long day at work, we have got you covered with the best seafood places in Jacksonville. We cannot wait to hear all about your new favorite restaurant when you are craving seafood. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today and let us know about your new favorite restaurant.

5 Things to Love About the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

Deciding on what vehicle to choose next but not finding the quality and versatility that you're looking for? Take a look at the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, and you'll find everything you're looking for to give you a convenient experience on the road. Here are five things that we love most about the new Tiguan that we're sure you'll love as well. more 5 Things to Love About the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan 1. Easy-To-Use Technology You've never seen perfect harmony between your driving experience and the latest technology than what's waiting for you inside the Tiguan. The innovative and intuitive Volkswagen digital cockpit system provides you with all the information you need to make every drive go smoothly from beginning to end. You can also access your favorite smartphone apps right through the vehicle's display using the App-Connect feature, letting you bring a familiar interface along for the ride. 2. Advanced Driver Assistance Experience confidence on the road like you've never felt before with the IQ.DRIVE system built into the new Tiguan. That includes semi-autonomous driving through the travel assist feature that provides steering support, speeds your vehicle up, or slows you down as needed to help you enjoy safe travels. You'll also have the assistance of the active blind-spot monitor feature to help you steer clear of obstacles you may not otherwise see. 3. Sleek and Smart Design The refined styling of the Tiguan will have you impressed from the moment that you first lay eyes on it. Sharp character lines and a unique body shape will have you turning heads everywhere that your travels take you. Available 20-inch wheels enhance the ride that you get while also adding a bold element to the character that your vehicle shows off, with an illuminated grille further enhancing the Tiguan's unique personality. 4. Your Ideal Interior Comfort, convenience, and a spacious amount of cargo capacity are waiting for you inside the Tiguan, giving you a space that anticipates every need you might have on the road. You'll have plenty of room to stretch out with the ample legroom inside, with an available leather-wrapped steering wheel adding a further luxurious touch. 73.4 cubic feet of storage space lets you pack up anything you'll need when you arrive at your destination. 5. Powerful Performance Excitement will be yours when you experience the 16-valve 2.0-liter engine that puts 184 horsepower at your command every time you hit the road. That sheer power together with the smoothness of the eight-speed automatic transmission gives you a drive that will leave you eager to get behind the wheel. Add the available 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system to distribute power intelligently between the front and rear wheels to give you the traction to overcome any challenge. Get the full picture of what the Tiguan can do when you come to see this impressive member of the Volkswagen lineup up close at our dealership. We have plenty of other great vehicles to offer you to help you find the best fit for your needs. Check out our inventory at Tom Bush Volkswagen!

3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Jacksonville, FL

With its privileged location in the northeastern corner of the state, the city of Jacksonville, FL is not only a great destination by itself, but also an excellent base to explore nearby nature reserves, state parks, and national forests. If you like birdwatching or other outdoor activities and are looking for places to visit, these are some beautiful spots you can reach in less than two hours from the Jacksonville downtown area. more 3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Established in 1937, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest and most beautiful nature reserves in the region, spanning over 400,000 acres of territory across the states of Georgia and Florida. Welcoming almost half a million visitors each year, this wildlife refuge offers plenty of opportunities for birding, wildlife watching, hiking, fishing, canoeing, and boating. This nature reserve is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and can be visited year-round between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The visitor center and the main entrance of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge are located about 60 miles northwest of downtown Jacksonville, a distance that can be covered in a little over an hour by car along routes GA-121 and GA-23. Known for its abundance of animal and plant species, this beautiful refuge is home to large populations of red-cockaded woodpeckers, egrets, herons, wood storks, brown creepers, and European starlings. 2. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Covering over 46,000 acres of wetlands along the northeastern coast of Florida, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve receives a little under one and a half million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular nature reserves in the entire state. This beautiful spot is home to a vast array of different bird species, including ospreys, bald eagles, northern harriers, reddish egrets, gray kingbirds, ovenbirds, blue-headed vireos, and worm-eating warblers. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is located just 13 miles east of downtown Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in as little as 20 minutes by car under regular traffic conditions. Besides birding and wildlife watching, this expansive nature reserve is an excellent spot for other activities including kayaking, boating, hiking, and picnicking. This place can be visited free of charge and is open between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 3. Osceola National Forest Established in the early 1930s and covering an area of about 200,000 acres, Osceola National Forest is another popular spot for birding and wildlife watching in the Jacksonville Area. Home to large populations of sandhill cranes, red-cockaded woodpeckers, prothonotary warblers, and snowy egrets, this national forest is a great day trip destination for solo travelers, families, and groups of friends. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes about 50 minutes by car, driving west along route I-10. If you are looking for a new vehicle to visit the best nature reserves in the area, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. Check out our different models of new and used cars, learn more about our attractive financing plans, and find the vehicle that best suits your needs.

5 Sweet Spots for Dessert in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Whether you are searching for a dessert joint for your next romantic date night or you want to find a family-friendly sweets shop for the kids, Jacksonville, FL has something for everyone. This sunny coastal Florida city boasts endless options of sweets and treats for all. more 5 Sweet Spots for Dessert in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Kilwins The moment you walk into this famous Jacksonville chocolatier shop, you can smell the wafting sweet aroma of all kinds of candies and chocolates. Kilwin's is the jack of all trades when it comes to high-end sweet selections. They have every type of gourmet treat from pralines to cookies to caramel apples and fudge. They even have a full-service ice cream shop with endless flavors available to choose from. 2. Rita's Ice Drive over to Jacksonville Beach and hit the shorelines for some tasty treats in the sun at Rita's Ice. It is located directly across from the beach, a short walk, and serves delectable ices outdoor to a picnic-tabled patio. This shop is a staple of the area, becoming a favorite among local families for light and fluffy soft serve and creative new Italian ice flavors. You can even mix in fun toppings like cookies and candies. While visiting Rita's Ice, be sure to ask for their world-famous gelati or try some of the Italian ice made fresh daily with real fruit. There are endless flavors and combinations to choose from. Use the app online to earn points toward free desserts each time you come. 3. The Cheesecake Factory at St John's Town Center This restaurant is located conveniently among unique shops and galleries. Peruse the gorgeous outdoor St John's Town Center mall and then sit down to a cute date night at The Cheesecake Factory. Try gourmet selections of cheesecake among picturesque settings at this dine-in restaurant, and have an unforgettable night in the town. 4. Icecapade Frozen Treats Not every treat has to be coated in sugar and cream. Some can be healthy recipes that satisfy your sweet tooth with natural ingredients, like the products included on the menu at Icecapade Frozen Treats. This gourmet shop serves artisanal popsicles, mouthwateringly concocted using fresh ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and fruits. This healthy treat shop offers a full menu that includes everything from smoothies to juices, and even food like salad. 5. Sweet Theory Baking Sweet Theory has the home-baked goods that let you truly indulge your sweet tooth. Baked fresh daily, Sweet Theory's doughnuts, cupcakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls don't disappoint, which is why the place has become such a local favorite. Residents also enjoy that they include plenty of gluten-free options, making the bakery a place for everybody. Are you a chocoholic or do you prefer healthy, fruit-filled sweets? No matter your taste or pallet, Jacksonville has endless options for sweets and treats so that you can find your favorites in town. While you're in town, visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today to purchase your dream vehicle to take you around the Jacksonville area.

3 Favorite Holiday Shopping Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, popularly known as "The River City" or "Jax," is internationally recognized for its beaches and riverfront, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Although mild weather and well-maintained coastal landscapes are among the reasons visitors flock to Jacksonville, shopping is the top reason they choose to visit. Jacksonville is experiencing a boom in outdoor markets and town centers. Here is a list of where you can shop for holiday gifts. more 3 Favorite Holiday Shopping Spots Near Jacksonville, FL St. Johns Town Center You should set out towards the St. Johns Town Center if you want the ultimate purchasing experience in Jax. Located a few minutes from the beach, the center attracts shoppers from all over the metropolitan area. With over 175 stores and restaurants, it's no wonder this is one of the most popular destinations to shop in the area. In addition to Jacksonville residents, Amelia Island, South Georgia, and St. Augustine also flock to the center to shop and dine. When you consider the availability of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Tiffany's, the migration of shoppers from outlying areas makes sense. Furthermore, the Center offers a great dining experience as well, with national names like Cantina Laredo and Maggiano's joining local favorites to keep your appetites sated. Sawgrass Village The Sawgrass Village, located in Ponte Vedra Beach near the southern entrance to the Players Club off A1A, serves as the primary market center of the Sawgrass Community. A major remodeling of Sawgrass Village was completed in late 2015, adding new retailers to the village that dates back to 1984. In addition to boutique shops, several restaurants are located in the development. A Publix supermarket as well as CVS Pharmacy anchor the center. Directly across the street from Sawgrass Village is the Marriott Sawgrass Golf Resort and Spa, a popular destination for sun-seekers and golfers alike. There is also access to delectable dining options throughout the center, including Caffe Andiamo and Aqua Grill, which are favorites of residents and visitors. The Avenues This multilevel center is just off Interstate 95 on the south side of Jacksonville and features top brand names and a family-friendly ambiance. You can shop for all your favorite brands such as Coach, Original Piece, Victoria's Secret, and Mac in this 1.1 million square foot complex. Rain or shine, The Avenues is a perfect place to shop due to its highly regarded retailers and indoor location. Many luxury retailers, including Dillards, Forever 21, Belk, Sears, and JCPenney's, offering everything from teenage fashion to home goods, anchors the Avenues Mall. You can find Sbarro and Chik-fil-A in the food court and other dining options to sate your appetite. You'll find plenty of parking, but if you want covered parking, you can park in the two-story garage on the north side of the mall. Our goal is to help you find the perfect spot to shop near Jacksonville, so please take the time to explore these options. After you buy supplies for the holidays, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen to check out our new and used car selection or schedule a service appointment.

Fitness in Jacksonville: 5 Great Ways to Stay in Shape

Are you looking for ways to stay fit? There are many exciting ways to work off the pounds and tone up. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced exerciser, there's a fitness plan for everyone in our town. Check out these ideas for getting in shape in Jacksonville, FL. more Fitness in Jacksonville, FL: 5 Great Ways to Stay in Shape 1. Take a Pilates Class Pilates is a mind-body discipline that can benefit everyone, from the inactive to experienced athletes. Pilates focuses on building strength by targeting specific muscles groups like your core abdominal area. It's low impact and perfect for beginners, so you can do it with just a few pieces of equipment. Pilates principles include focusing on the breath, centering, coordination and strength. The Body Balance Institute is well-known in the Jax and offers pilates classes with custom workouts and wellness plans. Their instructors are certified and offer one-on-one instruction and group classes. Fans of the studio talk about the strength and flexibility they've gained. 2. Get a Gym Membership Our city has plenty of gyms to choose from, and most of them offer a wide variety of options, from machines and free weights to group classes. Plus, most gyms have month-to-month contracts, so you can always cancel if you find it's not the right fit for you. 3. Boot Camps Boot camps are another great way to get an intense workout. Jacksonville has numerous boot camps that offer a variety of programs and philosophies. Whether you're a novice or a pro, there are many options in the city. The Camp Transformation Center is a gym that offers workout and nutrition plans combined with a series of weight loss programs and challenges. Their 20-pound weight loss challenge is designed to kick off a weight loss plan of 20 pounds over six weeks. Their classes are boot camp style and use interval training and optional meal plans. They also offer hard body challenges and sports nutrition programs. 4. Join a Running Club Running is a great way to get in shape, and there are plenty of running clubs around that will help you stay on track. Most running clubs meet once or twice a week, and they offer runners of all levels the opportunity to train together and socialize. The PRS Running Club is an active community where you can run any day of the week from various points throughout the city. PRS is unique because it has its own coach who provides guidance, one-on-one training, and personalized running plans. 5. Yoga We have several studios nearby that offer training for all skill levels, from gentle Hatha flow to vinyasa power poses. Yoga is a great way to build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Hot Spot Power Yoga, with three locations in the Jax, focuses on the Baptiste practice and its high-intensity power yoga routines. The studio offers strength training programs, weight loss, and a beginner series. If you want something less intense, they also have detox flow classes that improve flexibility and relieve stress. Switch up your routine with one of the fantastic ways to stay fit. With so many ways to get in shape, you're sure never to get bored. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen and check out our exciting new cars. We'll be happy to schedule a test drive!

4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, with its warm temperatures, countless beaches, breathtaking natural areas, and one of the largest urban park systems in the country, has unlimited kid-friendly activities for families to enjoy together. Take the kids to learn more about history at the various museums and historical sites, explore the outdoors, and encounter local and exotic animals at the zoo and animal wildlife sanctuaries. more 4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Jacksonville, FL 1. Discover Nature with Your Family Jacksonville certainly has no shortage of outdoor recreational areas, with more than 400 national, state and city parks spreading out over 80,000 acres of hardwood forests, salt marshes, and coastal wetlands. The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve covers 46,000 acres of wetlands and waterways filled with wildlife to explore. Visit Fort George Island Cultural State Park and Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park to learn more about history. Explore the outdoors at Big Talbot Island, Little Talbot Island, and Pumpkin Hill State Parks for a day of hiking, biking, boating, paddling, and fishing. You can also take the kids to one of the city parks on the St. Johns River or spend the day on the beach at Kathryn Abbey Hanna and Huguenot Parks. 2. Go on a Kayaking Adventure Take the kids on a kayaking adventure and paddle down the unique waterways around the city. Many kayak rental companies in Jacksonville offer self-guided and guided kayak tours if you don't have kayaks. Kayak Amelia provides kayak rentals in the Talbot Islands State Parks and offers tours of the wetlands and marshes. See manatees and turtles with All Wet Sports and paddle the ocean and intercoastal waters with Beach Life Rentals. Adventure Kayak Florida in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park rents kayaks to paddle on the park's scenic freshwater lake. Black Creek Outfitters offers fantastic guided paddling tours on various picturesque waterways if you want to see wildlife. 3. Encounter Local and Exotic Animals The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens boasts a collection of over 2,000 exotic animals. Take the kids to The African Forest exhibit to see the apes and watch them hand-feed the giraffes at the Giraffe Overlook. The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) offers exciting interactive animal encounters at the Florida Naturalist's Center filled with local wildlife. You and your kids can go on a nature walk and a guided trail tour to see wildlife right in the heart of the city at The Tree Hill Nature Center and meet tigers, cougars, leopards, and lions at Catty Shack Ranch, a wildlife sanctuary for rescued endangered big cats. The kids will love the nighttime feeding tour when these nocturnal animals are awake. 4. Visit the Museums Jacksonville has a wide range of museums with interactive displays that will keep your kids entertained for hours on end. The Hands-On Children's Museum offers an engaging, interactive environment where families learn through creativity, problem-solving, and role-playing. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) displays an astounding collection of more than 1,000 contemporary and modern paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and prints. The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) boasts fascinating interactive ecological and cultural exhibits spanning thousands of years. Experience the life of a Jacksonville family at the turn of the century at the James Merril Museum and visit Kingsley Plantation within the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve to find out more about the history of plantation life. Explore the outdoors and discover history on unforgettable family adventures and make memories with your kids that will last a lifetime. Visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today, and our qualified Volkswagen technician will ensure that your vehicle is in excellent condition for an exciting family outing.

6 Benefits of Getting Routine Brake Service at Your Jacksonville VW Dealer

Driving a vehicle comes with certain responsibilities, and among the most important is routine brake service. Find out the benefits you'll get by taking your vehicle to your local Jacksonville, FL VW dealer when it's time to have this essential service performed. more 6 Benefits of Getting Routine Brake Service at Your Jacksonville, FL VW Dealer 1. Save You the Hassle While it's possible to learn how to perform maintenance on your own vehicle, the fact of the matter is that most people are too busy to learn every aspect of their car themselves. Trust the experts at your local dealership and you'll know the job is getting done correctly every time. 2. Get Quality Work Your vehicle is an important part of your life. Just like you wouldn't trust your health to a doctor you weren't certain was qualified, you shouldn't trust your vehicle to anybody unless you know they'll provide the highest standard of work. That's exactly what you'll be getting when you get your vehicle serviced by trained VW techs, who all have proven expertise with your specific vehicle. 3. Optimize Performance Better performance from your brakes helps you get the most out of your overall driving experience. You'll be able to take on twisting, turning roads and sharp curves with relative ease thanks to the increased responsiveness of your brakes. Optimized brakes will also help to reduce wasted energy, improving your vehicle's fuel economy. 4. Prevent Dangerous Situations Out of all the systems at work in your vehicle, the brakes are one of the most essential when it comes to preventing dangerous situations on the road. Having routine brake maintenance performed will ensure that your brakes are responsive when you need them. That means that if any sudden hazards occur on the road, you'll have the quick-acting stopping power you need to react to danger and keep you and your precious cargo safe. 5. Get Authentic VW Parts If you replace parts of your vehicle's brakes with components bought by other mechanics, you never know what you're going to get in terms of quality. The parts might work fine, but when it comes to brakes, you don't want to take any chances. You'll get peace of mind knowing that the parts used for service at your dealership are of the same quality that your vehicle was initially manufactured with. 6. Save Money in the Long Run Like with so many things, being proactive and maintaining brakes rather than waiting for a problem to occur can save you expenses over time. Stay ahead of the problem with low-cost routine maintenance so you don't end up fixing major problems. Diligent vehicle ownership practices like that will end up benefiting your finances in no time. Our professional service team is standing by to help you out with brake maintenance and any other service needs you have for your vehicle. You can trust us to get the job done right and to provide you with courteous, friendly service. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

5 Fun Day Trips You Can Take From Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, is a coastal city with a population of over 800,000 people. There are lots of things to do in the city, including enjoying its 22 miles of beaches, going on a fishing expedition, and exploring historic neighborhoods. Its perfect location also makes it an ideal place for day trips to neighboring cities. Want to see more beaches? Visit the car racing capital or maybe explore state parks? Let's look at places to visit for a quick trip. more 5 Fun Day Trips You Can Take From Jacksonville, FL 1. Salt Springs Salt Springs is in the heart of the Ocala National Forest and is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant life, including dozens of endangered species like the Eastern Indigo Snake and Bald Cypress Trees. There are a variety of activities to enjoy, such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing in the basin, or hiking through the forest to view its diverse ecosystem. Salt Springs has been featured in films like Tarzan and Jurassic Park III. 2. Daytona Beach Also known as "The World's Most Famous Beach", this city is famous not only for its beaches but also for being the capital of car racing. You can spend the day surfing, boating, or fishing. Stroll the pier and boardwalk, then take a tour of the Daytona International Speedway that includes the Motorsports Hall of Fame America. You'll also find the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, a local stadium and now a shrine for the late Hall of Famer. 3. Amelia Island This popular vacation destination is home to the prestigious Amelia Island Plantation. It also has many other luxurious hotels, golf courses, and beaches. If you're a history lover, you'll enjoy Fort Clinch State Park, where you can learn about the life of a Union soldier while touring through the fort's rooms, grounds, and galleries. You'll also find the Big Talbot Island State Park and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve here. 4. Cross Creek Cross Creek is a historic site in Florida that was once the home of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, " The Yearling". Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park commemorates her life and work. The state park offers an interpretive center with displays of her life, as well as a one-mile hike that leads to the sites mentioned in the book. 5. De Leon Springs Take a trip to De Leon Springs, home of The Sugar Mill Restaurant. Open for breakfast and lunch, this restaurant is a century-old replica of the 1830s mill that once stood here. In the cooler months, restaurant patrons can relax next to a crackling fire while their food is prepared. You'll also see The Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge and its exhibits on native wildlife. Don't forget to book a Fountain of Youth ECO/History tour. 6. Gainesville Gainesville is home to many of Florida's top industries, including the aerospace industry. You'll also find the University of Florida, which has one of the best STEM programs in the state. Browse for art and antiques in the quaint town of Micanopy. Don't miss the Florida Museum of Natural History where you can witness birds and butterflies flying free in the Butterfly Rainforest. Jacksonville may have many things to boast about, but you'll find other places that you'll also enjoy nearby. Before you go on that day trip, schedule an oil change and tire check at Tom Bush Volkswagen. We might even recommend other places you'd be interested in.

6 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Situated on the mouth of St. John's River, Jacksonville, FL sits at the top of the list for fishing spots in the southeast region, with offerings for every type of angler. From deep-sea fishing to dropping a line off one of the city's many piers, this locale has something for everyone. more 6 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. St. John's River Spanning 310 miles, St. John's River boasts countless places to drop a line; with both saltwater and freshwater options available, anglers everywhere name this the top spot to fish. You can find a variety of species, including trout, redfish, tarpon, and Spanish Mackerel to name a few. Further inland, you might catch freshwater fish like bass, catfish, and crappie. 2. Nassau Sound Fishing Bridge A one-mile pier that crosses the Nassau Sound, George Crady Bridge is another prime location. This spot is geared for novice and experienced anglers alike, with a cleaning station at the north end; you can also net your own bait if you prefer. This pedestrian-only bridge can be accessed via Amelia Park and requires a $2 park entrance fee. 3. Lake Ponte Vedra Lake Ponte Vedra is located within the Guana River WMA. While the north side of the lake is occasionally closed to fishermen for hunting or drawdown, you can always get bites on the south side with 24-hour access. Beware of dropping stringers here, as they attract gators. 4. Intracoastal Waterway Running nearly 1,100 miles from Norfolk, VA to Miami, FL, the Intracoastal Waterway offers a wide range of places to fish- from wetlands to the various marshes and creeks along the way. If you are looking for views and tranquility, you should drop a line at the Dutton or Castaway Island Preserves. 5. The Gulf Stream Just sixty miles off the Florida coast, The Gulf Stream is the perfect place for deep-sea fishing. This current boasts a variety of fish, large and small, depending on the season. Species found in the Gulf Stream include snapper, grouper, cobia, and much more. There are plenty of boat charters that know all the best places if you don't have a vessel of your own. 6. Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier It's not uncommon for anglers to be seen dropping a line off the local piers along the beach. Whether you are a novice or more experienced angler, you will enjoy fishing off the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier. You can get the experience of deep-sea fishing without the cost of chartering a boat. As an added perk, you do not need a saltwater fishing license; however, the pier charges a $3 fishing fee with a maximum of three rods allowed per person. Once the appropriate license is obtained, you are ready to enjoy all the fishing Jacksonville, FL has to offer. If you need a way to get there, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. We'll have the right vehicle to get you anywhere you want to go- even those secret spots you don't want to share. Happy fishing!

6 Wonderful Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL is a popular destination for those that love the sun, surfing, and beautiful scenery. There are tons of awesome parks in the city, offering amazing facilities so you can enjoy the outdoors in a variety of ways. more 6 Wonderful Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Memorial Park As you would expect from an area that was designed by the same architects responsible for Central Park in New York, Memorial Park is a special and beautiful place. Located right by the river, this scenic spot is ideal for walking, running, or relaxing in the large grassy areas with a book. The centerpiece of the park is a striking bronze statue, installed to commemorate those that lost their lives during WWI. 2. Ringhaver Park This lovely city park is a great place for a hike in nature. There are several trails to choose from. Both paved and dirt trails wind their way through the glorious green woods, offering many opportunities to take some great photos. There are two well-equipped and clean playgrounds for children of all ages to enjoy. Sports fans will also find their needs catered for with soccer fields, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts all available to use here. 3. Dog Wood Park This roomy, fenced area is one of the best places in the city to bring your four-legged friends! You will surely love watching your pet swim and splash around in the lake. There are several items for your dog to play with dotted around the park, like tubes and tires. A separate enclosure for small dogs means that all breeds are welcome here. Be aware that you must pay to access the facilities, with a daily pass (of $11) or monthly and yearly memberships available. 4. Kathryn Abbey Hannah Park It's easy to see why locals and visitors adore this action-packed park. The camping grounds here are affordable and well-maintained, allowing you to spend a few nights enjoying everything this place has to offer. The gorgeous beach is just a few steps away and has a section dedicated to surfing. There are miles and miles of trails teeming with wildlife to explore and lakes stocked for fishing. This is the perfect place to come with your family for a memorable weekend! 5. Losco Regional Park Losco Park is the perfect destination for families looking for a place where their kids can burn off some excess energy. The unique playground includes a fun and challenging obstacle course for adventurous children to climb. The popular splash pad is a great place to cool off and frolic on hot days. 6. Mandarin Park Here is another excellent area on our list that is on the banks of St Johns River. Mandarin Park has a fishing dock and a boat ramp for those wishing to take to the water. This is also the ideal location for a picnic as the park is furnished with many covered tables and metal BBQ grills. Check out the inventory of new and used vehicles on offer at Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

4 of the Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL

Some of the country's best campgrounds are near Jacksonville, Florida.  If you are looking for a great place to camp near Jacksonville, FL check out these five awesome spots! more 4 of the Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island State Park offers a quiet, relaxing getaway with 40 campsites and wooded nature trails.  Beaches are on one side of the island, while salt marsh makes up most of the other areas. Located between Jacksonville and Amelia Island, the park's quiet, relaxing atmosphere makes it perfect for anyone looking to spend some time away from their busy lives! Little Talbot Island is a barrier island in Northeast Florida. The site has miles of beach, bike trails, and incredible wildlife like river otters and bobcats. The undisturbed beauty of the park and its habitats is truly a treasure. You can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and kayaking, or you can just relax on the sand and watch the surf. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park You don't have to camp out in a remote wilderness to have an adventure. Head on down to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville instead, where there's plenty of fun for kids and their furry friends! You'll find more than 20 miles of trails to explore, and the paths lead across sandy beaches and through cool forests. The kids will love the children's splash park nearby--proving there is something for everyone. If you love the water, take some time out on the freshwater lakes at Hanna Park. The 60-acre freshwater lake is excellent for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or other gear at the park. Leashed pets are permitted at all times, so have them come along too! 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is a 295-acre park with over 70 campsites. The park, which is almost entirely surrounded by water, has waterfront campsites, boating, surfing, and fishing. Huguenot allows you to drive up on the beach, but park officials strongly recommend that you take a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The park has truly stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding wildlife. The park has a bird observation deck which makes it phenomenal for observing sea ducks and loons. Take a break under a seaside pavilion or cook on a grill in one of the picnic areas. Huguenot Memorial Park is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. 4.  Flamingo Lake RV Resort Enjoy upscale camping at the Flamingo Lake RV Resort. The resort, located in Jacksonville, has 288 RV sites and includes furnished cabins, a restaurant, and a store. Flamingo Lake also has swimming, a lake, and fishing at the resort. Amenities include electricity, laundry facilities, a fitness center, cable, and wireless internet. If you want an adventure or just want some time away, these campsites are perfect destinations. When you return from camping, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen and check out our new cars. We'll be happy to provide information and schedule a test drive.

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