The St. Johns River runs right through the heart of Jacksonville — yet most visitors barely scratch the surface of what it offers.
Tourists often see the St. Johns as something to look at.
Locals know it’s something to experience.
This guide breaks down what tourists typically do on the St. Johns River vs what locals actually recommend, so you can decide how you want to experience one of Jacksonville’s most iconic waterways.
What Tourists Usually Do on the St. Johns River
Walk the Riverwalk (Downtown)
Tourists often stick to:
- The Northbank and Southbank Riverwalks
- Quick photo stops
- Downtown views and bridges
It’s a nice introduction — but it’s only a small slice of the river.
Take a Short Boat Tour
Visitors sometimes opt for:
- Sightseeing cruises
- Guided downtown boat tours
- Brief river excursions
These offer history and views, but they don’t provide much freedom or immersion.
Dine Near the River
Restaurants near downtown and San Marco give visitors a glimpse of river life — but they still experience it from land.
What Locals Actually Do on the St. Johns River
Get Out On the Water
Locals know the river is best experienced from the water itself.
Popular local activities include:
- Jet skiing long stretches of the river
- Cruising past neighborhoods and natural shoreline
- Exploring areas tourists never reach
The scale of the St. Johns River makes it perfect for extended rides, not just short loops.
Explore Beyond Downtown
Locals rarely limit themselves to the downtown core.
They explore:
- Quieter stretches upriver
- Areas near Ortega and Cedar River
- Scenic residential waterfronts
- Natural sections with wildlife and open space
This is where the river feels less urban and more relaxing.
Ride During the Best Times of Day
Locals time their river outings carefully.
Favorites include:
- Morning rides with calm water
- Late afternoon when the light is best
- Sunset rides for cooler temperatures and views
Midday crowds and heat are often avoided.
Watch Wildlife Along the Way
Locals know where to slow down and look.
It’s common to see:
- Dolphins surfacing
- Ospreys and eagles
- Fish breaking the surface
- Wading birds along the shoreline
This is something you almost never experience from shore.
Why the St. Johns River Is Better Than Most People Expect
Many first-time visitors assume river riding is boring compared to the ocean.
In reality, the St. Johns offers:
- Smoother water
- More predictable conditions
- Less crowding
- Longer, uninterrupted rides
- A better experience for beginners
For many people, it ends up being more enjoyable than ocean riding.
Best Way to Experience the St. Johns River for the First Time
If you’ve never spent time on the river, the best approach is:
- Ride with someone familiar with the area
- Start on calmer stretches
- Learn how boat traffic behaves
- Understand no-wake zones and speed areas
This turns the experience from stressful into effortless.
Locals Treat the River as a Lifestyle, Not an Attraction
For locals, the St. Johns River isn’t a one-time activity.
It’s:
- A way to unwind
- A social activity
- A way to explore the city
- A regular part of life in Jacksonville
That’s the mindset shift most tourists miss.
Final Thoughts: Experience the St. Johns Like a Local
If you only walk the Riverwalk or snap photos from shore, you’ll miss what makes the St. Johns River special.
To really experience it:
- Get on the water
- Explore beyond downtown
- Take your time
- See Jacksonville from the river’s perspective
That’s when the St. Johns River stops being scenery — and becomes the highlight of your trip.
