Ponte Vedra Beach
There’s a reason Ponte Vedra Beach made CNN’s list of 22 Can’t Miss U.S. Beaches.
One Of The Top 22 Can’t Miss Beaches in The U.S. CNN
Ponte Vedra Beach’s History
Look for the 15-foot statue of Ponce de Leon at the North Beach Access parking lot at Guana Tolomato. The statue commemorates the explorer’s landfall in Florida more than 500 years ago. The only surviving navigational data from Ponce de Leon’s famous Journey of Discovery was recorded at a position of 30 degrees 8 minutes north latitude, just off the coast of Ponte Vedra Beach.
What does Ponte Vedra mean?
The name Ponte Vedra first appeared on maps of the area developed by early European settlers. The words Ponte Vedra may derive from Latin or Galic for “old bridge.”
Can you drive on the beach at Ponte Vedra?
No, vehicles are not permitted on the beaches in Ponte Vedra. For all the regulations around driving on the beach near Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine, please visit the St. Johns County website.
Local Tip: Scour the shoreline for sharks teeth. You’ll need a keen eye to find these little souvenirs. Colors range from grey and black to red and brown tones. You can find modern-day shark teeth and the occasional fossilized tooth too!
Where can you park near Ponte Vedra Beach?
The GTM Research Reserve manages the beach adjacent to the North Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach access parking lots along A1A in Ponte Vedra Beach.
You’ll find beach access parking lots located north of the GTM Visitor Center. Each parking lot is on the west side of A1A, between 4 and 7 miles north of Guana River Road. There are highway walkovers to the beach.
There is also parking at Mickler’s Beach on the South end of Ponte Vedra Beach on A1A as well as a parking lot next to the Mobil station near the GTM Education Center.
Are Dogs Allowed on the Beach?
Yes, you may bring your dog to the beach in Ponte Vedra as long as you keep your furry friend on a leash at all times. Please pick up after your pet and observe all posted rules and regulations regarding pets.
Where can you eat nearby?
Bring a picnic to the beach or use the picnic tables and grills available at South Ponte Vedra Beach recreation area. There are also many outdoor dining options, just a short drive away from the beach.
