Tucked on the Atlantic Coast in the northeast region of Florida is ‘River City’ Jacksonville, also known as the ‘Bold New City of the South.’ Besides being a bustling center for business, the city is also home to many galleries and museums. Add to that golf courses, barrier reefs, and blue beaches with crystal-clear waters beyond, and it’s no wonder that Jacksonville is a romantic destination. There are many romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida, including Jacksonville Beach FL ones. Whether you’re looking for an upscale hotel by the beach with all frills, or a romantic Victorian B&B in the quaint heart of the town, this city has everything that couples are looking for on a romantic vacation.
Jacksonville, which lies just two hours north of Orlando, is thus one of the most romantic destinations on the northern Floridian coast. To that end, here are the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida.
Table of contents
- The Riverdale Inn
- One Ocean Resort and Spa
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows
- Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
- Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
- Margaritaville Jacksonville Beach
- Marriott Jacksonville Downtown
- Ponte Vedra Inn and Club
- Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park, an IHG Hotel
- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
- Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park
- Most Romantic Restaurants in Jacksonville
- Most Romantic Bars in Jacksonville
- Most Romantic Things To Do in Jacksonville
- Most Romantic Areas To Stay in Jacksonville
The Riverdale Inn
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The Riverdale Inn is one of the sweetest romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida. This alluring B&B sits in a 1901 Victorian-era mansion smack sab in the heart of the upscale Riverside neighborhood. The family-owned B&B makes you feel right at home, especially thanks to the friendly hosts. They not only serve a mean afternoon tea but even tell you all sorts of fun facts about the inn and the city’s history. However, it’s the rooms and suites that you’ll like the most. With just 11 impeccably designed rooms, staying here is an intimate and exclusive experience. What’s more, they look like they’re right out of a design magazine, with luxurious ensuites, period furnishings, and one-of-a-kind antiques. However, go for the rooms and suites with cozy fireplaces, four-poster beds, and the crown jewel – two-person Jacuzzi bathtubs.
One Ocean Resort and Spa
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The One Ocean Resort and Spa is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL. Thus, it makes for a fun staycation place for couples with water babies. Right from the amazing spa and its litany of treatments to the upscale waterfront restaurant with a long menu, couples will love everything about this hotel. Enjoy a relaxing day at the spa, followed by an afternoon of lounging by the beach or a stroll on the boardwalk in the lush gardens. The outdoor pool area is a highlight, especially since it has marvelous ocean views.
Even the rooms and suites are beach-chic rooms with deluxe baths and comfy mod-cons. Do upgrade to the oceanfront rooms or suites, which also have spacious patios with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Brew coffee in your in-room Keurig and enjoy the views with your partner. And, of course, the deep-soaking bathtub in the bathroom sure helps!
Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville Baymeadows
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The Embassy Suites by Hilton Jacksonville/Baymeadows romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida. This all-suite hotel offers all creature comforts right in the heart of the town. Every last one of the contemporary suites features a separate living room, a luxe bathroom, and a bedroom with the signature Suite Dreams bed from the brand. But, the best bit is that the bathroom has a huge marble tub where you both can soak and enjoy each other’s company with some bubbly and music. Wet bars, microwaves, mini-fridges, and HDTVs make your stay all the more comfortable.
Before hitting Jax’s sights, dig into the complimentary made-to-order breakfast. Make sure that you’re back for the free evening reception, where there’s a glass of wine or two. Later on, enjoy a romantic dinner at Chelsea’s Bar and Grille, which serves refreshing cocktails and American classics. There’s even a wonderful indoor pool area, complete with a jacuzzi by the side where you both can unwind.
Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
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The Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL. Beachfront living doesn’t get any better than at this Marriott retreat, which lies on a beautiful stretch of sand just north of Jacksonville Beach. Even though the beach is the main attraction here, couples will love swimming in and lazing by the outdoor pool, which faces the ocean. Later on, you can even lounge on the sea-facing sunbeds, sipping fruity cocktails from the poolside tiki bar. In the evenings, there’s nothing better than stargazing right from the hot tub. Your day begins on an even better note with a lavish breakfast buffet at the hotel, which has a charge that’s worth it. Plus, the fantastic American restaurant at the property serves fabulous American fare.
If you were impressed by the property, wait till you see the modern and stylish rooms, which are outfitted with all mod-cons you could possibly need. From the coffeemaker to the microwave and mini-fridge, the room has all the comforts you could want. And, of course, there’s the wonderfully plush bed where you can cuddle up in your partner’s arms and be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the ocean. Couples are best off in the oceanfront suites, the perfect nest for a romantic holiday. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the best hotels in Jacksonville, Florida.
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
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The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida. Staying right in the heart of downtown doesn’t get any better than at this Hyatt Regency outpost, which is perched right on the banks of St. Johns River. What’s more, downtown and the iconic Main Street Bridge are a short stroll away. One of the highlights here for couples is the rooftop hot tub and pool. You can enjoy a dip or a swim along with spectacular 360-degree views of the Jax skyline. You don’t even have to step out of the hotel for a cup of Starbucks, happy hour cocktails and drinks at the Tavern, or fresh seafood or steak at the restaurants.
You’ll love the contemporary and spacious rooms, which come with flatscreen TVs, comfy beds, and other mod-cons. The suites also have stylish living rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, and floor-to-ceiling windows with gorgeous views of the St. Johns River and Jax if you want to go all out.
Margaritaville Jacksonville Beach
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Margaritaville Jacksonville Beach is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL. Not only is the hotel in a prime location, but it also offers an excellent living experience. Choose from 202 beach-chic rooms, all of which come with luxe bathrooms with custom bath products, huge flatscreen TVs, and comfy beds. However, we commend the oceanfront rooms for couples, as they also have private wraparound patios with alfresco seating and epic ocean views. When you get out of the room, rent lounge chairs and chill on the beach. If you don’t want to head out that far, the massive outdoor pool is equally inviting. Even the boardwalk is right in your own backyard and is perfect for a romantic walk. A bunch of restaurants, including a sea-facing bar, complete the offerings here.
Marriott Jacksonville Downtown
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If you want to stay in one of the romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida right in downtown, consider Marriott Jacksonville Downtown. Tucked right on the banks of the St. John’s River, the hotel is perfect for young couples who love keeping a finger on the pulse of the city. You’ll especially love lounging at the rooftop pool and sipping sundowners at the swanky JBar. Fitness enthusiasts have a state-of-the-art fitness center to look forward to, while the iconic onsite restaurant serves a bunch of American classics and favorites. Do you feel like relaxing in your room? You couldn’t have picked better digs. The Serta pillow top mattresses make for plush and cozy perches, complete with St. Johns River and Jax skyline views from the oversized windows. Flatscreen TVs aside, the rooms and suites also have Keurig coffee machines, seating areas, and plush robes and slippers.
Ponte Vedra Inn and Club
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Couples who want to splurge on a romantic vacation such as a honeymoon will love Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL. The hotel has not only a slew of luxurious amenities but also a coveted AAA Five-Diamond rating. What’s more, it sits on 300 acres of stunning beachfront and has four heated swimming pools, 15 clay tennis courts, and golf courses! If that wasn’t enough, there’s an incredible spa, one of the region’s best, where couples can pamper themselves together. Water babies can even hop on beach cruisers or go standup paddleboarding or kayaking in the ocean. And with 10 bars and restaurants, you’ll never be left wanting drinks and food! The oceanfront Seafoam Room or the poolside Surf Deck Grill is perfect if you want a romantic dinner.
Not surprisingly, the rooms and suites are the epitomai of luxury. All rooms boast a blend of mod-cons, historic charm, and classic decor, making them romantic. Adding to the allure are the comfy beds, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and balcony with ocean views. The best bit, though, are the deep-soaking tubs in the bathrooms, ideal for long and languorous baths with your beloved.
Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park, an IHG Hotel
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Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park, an IHG Hotel, is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida. Perched on a lake at the lakeside boardwalk’s end, this Tapestry Park village hotel is perfect for young couples. The picture-perfect lakeside setting is ideal for long walks and shopping and dining at the area’s trendiest shops and restaurants. The lobby, with its colorful decor and modern artwork, impresses you immediately. The vibe continues in the equally hip and happening rooms, with vibrant wall art, ergonomic desks, and plush beds.
When you step out of the room, you both will love chilling on the lakefront patio with a glass of red or a cup of joe. During cooler evenings, the fire pit is perfect for staying warm. When the weather is nice, swim in the blissful outdoor pool and unwind in the hot tub. Do you want to keep up with your exercise routine? There’s an onsite gym too. Since the neighborhood was famed as “Hollywood East,” the hotel pays homage to its role in movie history by hosting “Silent Sundays.” It’s where you gather to snack on popcorn while watching silent films and learning about them in spirited discussions. Your day begins with a fabulous (paid) breakfast, while the onsite bar and bistro are perfect for lakeside cocktails and dinner.
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
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The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL. Living in the lap of luxury on a beach vacation doesn’t get better than at this oceanfront Ritz Carlton property. It’s one of the coolest hotels in Jacksonville, and there is more than one reason for this. For one, the Ritz is right on the ocean and boasts one of the most pristine shorelines right outside the hotel. When you’re not lounging on the beach, frolic in the swimming pool, or laze on the poolside cabanas. Or, you could enjoy a rejuvenating couples massage at the spa or play golf at the 18-hole championship golf course. The award-winning restaurant serves some of the world’s best surf-and-turf fare, finishing off the day with creative cocktails at The Lobby Bar.
You’ll love the chic rooms and suites, too, all of which have stylish furnishings, cloud-like beds, and gorgeous balconies with alfresco seating and ocean views. The best bit? The staff even brings room service to your balcony, so whether you want food, champagne, or both, it’ll be available to you!
Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park
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Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park is one of the most romantic hotels in Jacksonville Florida. This hip Tapestry Park gem is modern in every facet, right from the staff to the offerings. The hotel will appeal immensely to hipper and younger couples as Aloft is a place to mix and mingle. Grab signature cocktails at the hip W XYZ bar or enjoy a sip in the saltwater pool. If you don’t feel like a swim, there’s a pool table in the chic lounge and a fitness center too. Despite there being no hotel restaurant, there is a 24/7 Re-Fuel snack bar for drinks and grab-and-go meals. At the end of a long day, the ultra-modern rooms are perfect for chilling. This is particularly true because they have huge flatscreen TVs, bright decor, and deluxe bathrooms.
Most Romantic Restaurants in Jacksonville
- Espana: Spain’s old-world cuisine comes to Jacksonville in the form of this intimate and quaint restaurant. Must-eat entree choices include snapper, scallops, shrimp, filet mignon, veal chops, and paella. And of course, no Spanish restaurant is complete without homemade sangria, fine wines, and a great Tapas bar.
- Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro: Seafood lovers, this is the place for you. This bistro serves a diverse menu that includes local seafood, game meat, pasta, and steaks. Freshly baked bread and in-house desserts only up the game – pun unintended! They also have an extensive wine list and an intimate dining room.
Most Romantic Bars in Jacksonville
- The Patio Place: This wine and creperie bar boasts amazing outdoor patio seating and healthy and fresh and healthy cuisine. Aside from appetizers, salads, crepes, etc., they have a fabulous drink selection of soda, iced tea, coffee, smoothies, hard cider, wine, and beer.
- Palace Saloon: What could be more romantic than drinking at Florida’s oldest continually operating saloon? Nothing, we say! Besides amazing cocktails and hard drinks, the bar also has occasional special events and nightly entertainment.
Most Romantic Things To Do in Jacksonville
- Half-Day City Tour in Downtown Jacksonville: If you both love exploring, then this half-day city tour in Downtown Jacksonville. Architectural marvels, glass-and-steel buildings, historical structures, museums, galleries – Jacksonville Downtown has it all. You’ll even get to ride in a luxury tuk-tuk over the historic Main Street Bridge!
Most Romantic Areas To Stay in Jacksonville
Jacksonville, or Jax, as the city is affectionately called, is a romantic paradise. Since it’s a wonderful coastal city, one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Jax is the Atlantic and Neptune Beach areas. Not only is the sandy beach right out front, but also there are tons of romantic hotels in Jacksonville Beach FL, bars, restaurants, and boutique shops at the Beaches Town Center. Couples visiting Jax for the first time might want to consider staying downtown. Not only is it a mere 20-minute drive from the beach, but it’s also home to some of Jacksonville’s best cultural sights. These include everything from entertainment venues to museums and even luxury hotels.
Couples looking for a secluded and quaint romantic retreat will love the Avondale-Riverside Historic District. These are home to some of the best bed and breakfasts and quaint boutique hotels. Finally, there’s the equally bohemian and eclectic Tapestry Park urban village, which lies between the beach and downtown. This area is also home to some of the most popular restaurants, shops, and breweries.
Do you have a short layover or an early/late-night flight? Here are the best hotels near Jacksonville airport.