
South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground Jacksonville Beach Florida
A sprawling Jacksonville Beach park featuring an inclusive playground, seasonal splash pad, skate park, and sports courts for endless family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground Jacksonville Beach Florida
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling Jacksonville Beach park featuring an inclusive playground, seasonal splash pad, skate park, and sports courts for endless family fun.
"This place is pure magic for kiddos of all ages (and honestly, pretty fun for grown-ups too)."

Splash Pad Towel Essential
Pack towels and waterproof toys for the splash pad – it's a highlight!
Toddler Supervision Challenge
The park is huge; parents of toddlers may need extra eyes or a helper.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunshine Playground
Main play area
A massive, colorful wonderland with endless climbing, sliding, and swinging for all ages and abilities.

Splash Pad Fun
Fenced splash pad area
A free, fenced splash pad that's a must-visit on sunny days for cooling off with waterproof toys.

Skate Park & Sports Courts
Designated sports areas
Features a skate park for boards and scooters, plus courts for pickleball, volleyball, and basketball.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Splash Pad Seasonality
Playground Size & Supervision
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Splash Pad Towel Essential
Pack towels and waterproof toys for the splash pad – it's a highlight!
Toddler Supervision Challenge
The park is huge; parents of toddlers may need extra eyes or a helper.
Skate/Scooter Gear
Bring helmets and gear if you plan to use the skate park.
Shade Seating Limited
Bring hats and sunscreen; covered seating is scarce.
Tips
from all over the internet
Splash Pad Towel Essential
Pack towels and waterproof toys for the splash pad – it's a highlight!
Toddler Supervision Challenge
The park is huge; parents of toddlers may need extra eyes or a helper.
Skate/Scooter Gear
Bring helmets and gear if you plan to use the skate park.
Shade Seating Limited
Bring hats and sunscreen; covered seating is scarce.
Pack Your Own Snacks
Food trucks are rare; bring snacks or plan to leave for food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground, calling it a 'magical' and 'best playground' experience with extensive, inclusive play areas and a fun splash pad. While the park's vastness can make supervision challenging and shaded seating is limited, the free access and variety of sports facilities make it a top-tier destination for families and active individuals.
"The best playground we've ever been to. So much to do. There are general play areas, handicap accessible areas, clean bathrooms, a skate park, and splash pad. There were courts for pickle ball and an ice cream truck in the lot. A great day of fun to be had."
Amanda Rhodes
"This place is pure magic for kiddos of all ages (and honestly, pretty fun for grown-ups too). The playground is a colorful wonderland, climbing, sliding, spinning, and swinging galore! There’s something for every age and energy level. But the real sparkle? The splash park! It’s an absolute must on a sunny day. Pack a towel, sunscreen, and a few waterproof toys... trust me, they’ll make a great day even better. It’s the kind of place that turns “just a quick stop” into a full-blown adventure."
Laura Weston-Pruneda
"This was a nice hideaway. I've been Aaron's this area for years and never knew about this place. Clean, dumpsters everywhere, skate park, tennis, kids playground area, toddler playground area, volleyball, I think I even seen a big soccer area... maybe even more!"
Brandon Hughes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground is located at 1400 Sawgrass Dr S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors arrive by car, as it's a popular spot for families in the Jacksonville area.
Yes, there is parking available at South Beach Park. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during splash pad season, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to South Beach Park are limited. It's primarily a destination for those with personal vehicles. Checking local Jacksonville transit schedules for nearby bus routes is advisable, but driving is the most convenient option.
Many visitors consider South Beach Park a fantastic, albeit increasingly popular, 'hidden gem' due to its extensive amenities and fun features. It's a great spot for a day out that many locals rave about.
Using a GPS or navigation app with the address 1400 Sawgrass Dr S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 will guide you directly to the park. Look for signs for South Beach Park upon entering Jacksonville Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground is free to enter. The playground and most sports facilities are open to the public without charge.
The Sunshine Playground itself is generally open during daylight hours. However, the seasonal splash pad has specific operating hours, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It's best to check local park schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The splash pad at South Beach Park is free and does not require advance booking. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis during its seasonal operating period.
While the park grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours, specific facilities like the splash pad have seasonal operating times. It's advisable to check the official City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation website for the most current hours of operation.
Yes, the skate park at South Beach Park is typically open year-round during park hours. Visitors are encouraged to wear helmets and protective gear.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
South Beach Park offers a wide range of activities, including a large playground, a seasonal splash pad, a skate park, sand volleyball courts, a soccer field, pickleball courts, and basketball courts. There are also walking trails and picnic areas.
Yes, there is a separate, fenced toddler playground area designed for younger children, ensuring a safe and fun experience for them.
The Sunshine Playground features handicap-accessible equipment, making it inclusive for children of all abilities.
Yes, clean restrooms are available at South Beach Park, which is convenient for families spending the day there.
Absolutely! South Beach Park has picnic tables and grills, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Food options are limited directly within the park. While there might be an ice cream truck occasionally, it's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or plan to visit nearby restaurants.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. There are picnic tables and grills available for use, making it ideal for a packed lunch or barbecue.
Food trucks are not a regular feature at South Beach Park. While some visitors have wished for them, it's best not to rely on finding food trucks there.
South Beach Park is located in Jacksonville Beach, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries just a short drive away. You can find everything from casual beachside dining to more upscale options.
Yes, with its picnic areas and extensive play facilities, South Beach Park is a great location for birthday parties. Just be sure to bring all your own food and decorations.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful and expansive Sunshine Playground offers vibrant backdrops. The splash pad area, especially when in use, provides dynamic action shots. The sports courts and open green spaces also offer good photographic opportunities.
Yes, South Beach Park is very photogenic, especially the modern and well-maintained Sunshine Playground. The variety of play structures and the splash pad create visually appealing scenes.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun. Golden hour can create beautiful, warm tones.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and local ordinances. It's recommended to check with the City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation department for specific rules regarding drone operation before flying.
While not a coastal oceanfront park, the park itself offers pleasant green spaces and well-designed recreational areas. The vibrant playground and splash pad are the main visual attractions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Prioritize the splash pad during summer months.
* Utilize the separate toddler playground for younger children.
* Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options are scarce.
* Bring towels, sunscreen, and hats for a comfortable day out.
🛹 Teens and Active Adults
While the playground is geared towards younger children, the overall active atmosphere and sports facilities make it a great spot for older kids and adults to spend an afternoon. Remember to bring your own equipment for sports and protective gear for the skate park.
♿ Visitors with Disabilities
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sunshine Playground Experience
One of the most exciting aspects for families is the separate play area for toddlers, ensuring that the youngest visitors have a safe and age-appropriate space to explore. This thoughtful separation is a major plus for parents with children of varying ages. The sheer scale of the playground means there's always something new to discover, making it a place kids want to return to again and again.
Key features of the Sunshine Playground include:
* Ability-inclusive equipment: Designed for children of all physical abilities.
* Artificial turf surfacing: Provides a softer, safer play surface.
* Separate toddler zone: A dedicated area for younger children.
* Variety of play structures: Climbing walls, slides, swings, spinners, and more.
Splash Pad and Sports Facilities
For those who enjoy organized sports or active recreation, the park offers a comprehensive set of facilities. There's a dedicated skate park that accommodates both skateboards and scooters, complete with bowls and ramps. Additionally, you'll find sand volleyball courts, a soccer field, pickleball courts, and a basketball court. This makes South Beach Park a versatile destination for families and individuals looking for a variety of athletic pursuits.
Don't forget to bring:
* Swimsuits and towels for the splash pad.
* Helmets and protective gear for the skate park.
* Appropriate shoes and equipment for sports courts.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
Another key point is the limited shaded seating. While there are picnic tables and benches, many are exposed to the sun. Visitors often recommend bringing hats, sunscreen, and perhaps a portable umbrella if you plan to sit for extended periods. Regarding food, the park itself has minimal concessions, with occasional ice cream trucks being the only vendors. Most visitors find it best to pack a picnic or plan to dine at one of the many restaurants in nearby Jacksonville Beach.
Key considerations for your visit:
* Supervision: Be prepared for the park's size when watching toddlers.
* Sun Protection: Pack hats, sunscreen, and consider portable shade.
* Food & Drink: Bring your own or plan for nearby dining.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit