Chai's Top 3 Jacksonville Faves

1. Jacksonville Farmer Market: I love going there to get my vegetables. They are always fresh, and I love supporting local farmers. Plus, they are open all year round!

2. JJ'sBistro De Paris: Their food is always amazing. If you are looking for an authentic French food experience, this is the place. They also have a homemade dessert shop that you can eat in or to take home( which I do regularly).

3. Neptune Beach: This is my to-go beach retreat. I like how the beach access is convenient and there are shops and restaurants nearby. I always bring visitors to this beach!

Chelsea's Top 3 Jacksonville Favorites

Even as a Jacksonville native, I never grow tired of the beach, or the beaches area; and as a mom it’s essential to find family friendly places that everyone can enjoy. One of my family’s favorite things to do is head to South Beach and work our way up to Atlantic Beach with a few stops to our favorite places along the way.

1. Our first stop is South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground. Every parent should be familiar with this park and it’s easy to see why it’s our favorite go-to spot! Not only is Sunshine Playground kid friendly for every age (toddler area included), it is also fully fenced in and secure. Huge bonus because if you’re like me and have multiple children, having gate and locked fence around the whole permitter of the playground sets your mind at ease knowing your children can’t dart out in the middle of the parking lot. Playground aside, South Beach Park also offers a small splash zone where kids can cool off after a long day at play, a skate park, volleyball courts and more!

2. Beach Hut Café is the perfect spot to stop for lunch. While their burgers are to die for, my kids would argue that their water themed murals were their favorite. The wait is never too long, food is always hot, and the paintings on the walls keep my kids busy playing ‘I Spy’ - it really is a win/win!

3. After a long day of play and getting full belly’s, we always try to end the day at Whit’s Frozen Custard. While there are many other ice cream shops in the area, I love how Whit’s always changes their menu and gives you something fresh and new. If you’re like me and love all things coffee, be sure to try their Twisted Coffee - loaded with mocha custard + crushed cookies n’ creme, chopped almonds, topped with peanut butter and fudge swirls!

Chelsea's Top 5 Summer Activities | Family and Budget Friendly

Although 2020 hasn’t gotten off to a great start, summer has now officially started, and it’s WAY too beautiful to stay inside! Here are my Top 5 Summer Activities that are budget and family friendly, while also practicing social distancing.

1) Kayaking - This is my husband and I’s favorite weekend hobby. Not only is it relaxing but its also fun! Enjoy peacefully paddling down a river / creek or enjoy some competition and race from point A to point B. It’s the perfect outdoor activity that’s great for family bonding on the water while also allowing you to work on a tan.

Favorite Spot: Amelia Island Adventures Kayaking

2) Gardening - Quarantine wasn’t ideal, but it did bring about new interests that also intrigued all 3 of my children. Gardening offers both a therapeutic and educational experience for adults and children alike. The most rewarding thing is planting a plant babe and watching new life sprout and grow.

Favorite Garden Plants: Herbs! I love them all so please don't ask me to pick a favorite. My 5 year old daughter on the other hand, says her favorites are the pumpkin seeds she planted a few weeks ago; 2 have already sprouted!

3) Hiking - Nature trails are one of my kid’s favorite adventures. We stop and look at all the plants, pick wild flowers, and play “I Spy” with the wildlife around us. It’s a great way to release energy and enjoyable for all ages.

Favorite Spot: Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens

4) Bike Trail - While I may not be an avid cyclist, biking a few miles definitely gets the blood flowing. There’s just something about taking a bike ride near the water - maybe its the warm breeze coming off the shore or the large shaded oak trees that hang over the path, but whatever it is, it’s beautiful and highly recommended!

Favorite Spot: Little Talbot Island

5) Going to the beach - Is it really summer if you haven’t gone to the beach? While stricter guidelines are currently in place for everyone’s protection, the beach is still a go-to. You just can’t beat the much needed Vitamin D that you’ll receive while strolling down the beach collecting shells and looking for shark’s teeth.

Favorite Spots: Mickler’s Landing + Vilano Beach

Comment below with any other spots or activities that you love for the summer in JAX!