Ponte Vedra Focus Blog - Family Friendly Activities

The Wild Beauty of Little and Big Talbot Islands

by Jennifer Heller

Just about 20 minutes north of the city, the tall buildings of downtown Jacksonville give way to the A1A Ocean Islands Trail. This is where you’ll find the Talbot Islands. While most of Florida’s coastline has been built up with condos and hotels, Little and Big Talbot have remained almost entirely untouched. They are sister islands, but they couldn’t be more different.

Little vs Big:  Which One Should You Visit?

Think of Little Talbot as your classic, sprawling beach off the Atlantic. It’s got five miles of wide, white sand perfect for those long walks or a day of surfing and sun. If you want to camp, use a real restroom (always my preference), or let the kids run wild in the waves, this is sure to be your spot.

Big…

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THE PLAYERS Championship Info and FAQ

Every March, Ponte Vedra Beach becomes center stage in the golfing realm as THE PLAYERS Championship brings golfers, fans, and media to our coastal town.  Welcoming this annual tradition is nothing new to residents of Ponte Vedra Beach, as the PGA Tour has called Ponte Vedra Beach home to this tournament since 1974.  This event brings hundreds of thousands of fans to our community annually for this world-class golf event. If you haven't purchased tickets yet, it's not too late! We've got you covered with ticket information, newer fan experiences, and some important Frequently Asked Questions, so you know before you go.

TICKETS

Stadium Pass - A Stadium Pass ticket is for general grounds access and all public areas of the Tournament.  Tuesday’s…

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Tackling Disney: 5 Tips to Make The Most of Your Trip!

by Jenn Heller

Let's be honest, getting through the crowds during Spring Break at Disney World can feel like navigating a maze in the Enchanted Forest. But fear not, fellow adventurers! I've enlisted the help of a true Disney expert, to make your Spring Break plans a success.  Say hello to my friend Stephanie Baez.

Stephanie, a loving mom to the adorable Ayden, not only navigates motherhood with grace but also conquers Disney World like a seasoned pro. She knows every nook and cranny of the parks and possesses a magical ability to find hidden gems while navigating the crowds with ease. So, get ready to sprinkle some pixie dust on your own Spring Break experience with Stephanie's insider tips to unlock the magic of your trip.

1. Start Early at…

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Discover the Capybara Café: St. Augustine’s Newest Attraction for Animal Enthusiasts

by Jenn Heller

Rediscovering My Inner Child (and a Love for Wildlife!)

Growing up on Long Island, my exposure to wildlife was...limited, to say the least. Aside from the occasional backyard squirrel or a rogue snake slithering onto the patio—let’s just say my daddy handled that situation in a way snake enthusiasts wouldn’t approve of—our “wildlife” was mostly our family dogs. No cats, no hamsters, no guinea pigs. Just loyal, four-legged friends.

Fast forward to raising my own kids, and history repeated itself. Except for a brief two-hour stint with a turtle (which quickly found its way back to the pond), we kept it simple: two dogs.

Now, at the youthful yet ornery age of 56, I seem to be channeling my inner Benjamin Button and revisiting the…

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8 Best Ways to Experience St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights

by Jenn Heller

Having a late November birthday always felt like I got cheated when I was growing up. Without fail, my “special day” ended up doubling as a joint celebration with either my cousin or my dad for their birthdays.  On top of that, it also falls on Thanksgiving every couple of years.  It was like a two-for-one deal I didn’t sign up for. Yes, I know—what a selfish brat. Feel free to roll your eyes; I’ve come to terms with it.

me and Dad celebrating our birthdays in 1990.
Don't I look thrilled?

This year, though? My birthday, my rules. I declared it a "me" day, and my better half (bless his soul) was game for the ride. He survived a marathon of not one but TWO local artisan shops (Atlantic Beach Art Market and Seaside Shoppes), dinner…

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Loving Hearts and FURever Homes: A Glimpse Into Animal Care & Protective Services

by Jenn Heller

Did you know that approximately 6.5 million animals enter U.S. animal shelters annually?  As a passionate pet lover, that statistic truly breaks my heart.

In addition to the animals in shelters, there are also thousands upon thousands of pets being fostered at any given time while awaiting their forever homes. Fostering plays a crucial role in the adoption process, with an estimated 3.2 million shelter animals finding new homes each year thanks to the dedication of foster families. 

In the Jacksonville area, there are several animal rescue organizations that I admire and support on a regular basis. One such organization is Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS) where we adopted our sweet boy Joker, formerly known…

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Escape to Nature: A Day at River to Sea Preserve

Just an hour and ten minutes from Ponte Vedra Beach lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: the River to Sea Preserve just south of Marineland. This coastal sanctuary is perfect for nature enthusiasts, beachcombers, and adventure seekers alike, offering a variety of activities and amenities to enjoy.

If you're into treasure hunting, the pristine shoreline of River to Sea Preserve is a haven for sea glass enthusiasts. Spend leisurely hours combing the sands and uncover glimmering gems polished by the ebb and flow of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a free and rewarding activity, great for collectors or anyone looking for a serene beach experience.

Adventurers can rent paddleboards to explore the tranquil waters, immersing themselves in the…

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Food & Photographs: Instagram Worthy Posts in St. Augustine

by Peyton Palmer, Senior Student, Nease High School
2024 Ponte Vedra Focus Blog Scholarship Winner

The Ancient City, St. Augustine, hosts two million visitors annually, and is home to many local hotspots. This national landmark encompasses a multitude of hidden gardens, restaurants, and roads perfect for Instagram posts or a formal photo session! Also, knowing where the top restaurants are is key to a memorable trip.  

Ben's Pretzels, St. Augustine, Florida

St. George Street is the main pedestrian only street in St. Augustine, consisting of clothing, souvenir stores, and restaurants. Off this street is Ben’s Pretzels, known for their delicious, soft pretzels. One incomparable thing this shop exhibits is their secret garden in…

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Holiday Lights in Jacksonville and The Beaches

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas --- which means, holiday light displays! What better way to enjoy the holidays then to grab some hot chocolate and drive around town to see all the amazing light displays near the beach. It will make for a fun family night, get the kids out of the house and there's nothing better than hearing their excitement in the back seat while seeing all the incredible displays.

Deck the Chairs

Dates: November 27 thru January 1
Where: Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach

Deck the Chairs is celebrating it's 12th season in 2024. This community supported display showcases decorated lifeguard chairs to help promote arts and education.

Glowing Gardens

Dates: November 29 thru December 29, 2024
…

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Pickleball Basics: Where to Play at the Beach

by Jenn Heller

If you've noticed that pickleball has taken over the scene among all the rec fields in your neighborhood and all your friends are obsessed, you wouldn't be alone. Recent statistics show that pickleball has claimed the title of the swiftest-growing sport in the United States, with a nearly 40% boost in popularity over the last two years. The player count has risen to a national tally of more than 4.8 million with even noteworthy figures like Tom Brady and LeBron James heavily invested in the sport.

Looking to join in on the craze yet unsure of all the rules and lingo? In this article we're diving into the world of pickleball rules! We've got you covered from paddles to those fancy shots and any sneaky pickleball slang that might bounce…

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