Ponte Vedra Beach

There’s a reason Ponte Vedra Beach made CNN’s list of 22 Can’t Miss U.S. Beaches.

Sea turtle nesting season begins May 1, and St. Johns County officials are asking residents, visitors, and businesses to help protect natural habitat by observing all nesting season laws and regulations. The beaches of St. Johns County are home to several species of endangered or threatened sea turtles.

From May 1 to Oct. 31, St. Johns County staff will close vehicular beach access gates at 7:30 p.m. and reopen them at 8 a.m. to allow nesting sea turtles to have a safe beach throughout the night. Have a positive impact with these tips.

Located on the scenic A1A, Ponte Vedra offers a blend of laid-back luxury and natural beauty. Spend the day on Ponte Vedra’s stunning white sand beaches and take advantage of nearby cultural and recreational opportunities.

Ponte Vedra’s seaside resorts feature world-renowned golf courses, beautiful private beaches, and relaxing spas. Golf enthusiasts will want to visit TPC Sawgrass, home of THE PLAYERS Championship.

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.

Places to Eat Near Ponte Vedra Beach

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.