Beach Day, the Easy Way: Hanna Park with Kids
Tired of circling the beach in search of parking while the kids melt down in the back seat? We’ve all been there. But good news—there is a spot in Jacksonville where family beach days can actually feel like a breeze, and it’s called Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.
Located at 500 Wonderwood Drive, just north of Atlantic Beach, Hanna Park offers a stress-free and family-friendly beach day with everything you need to keep the littles happy—and you sane.
Why Hanna Park is a Parent’s Beach-Day Dream
Easy Parking
No more beach day scavenger hunts for a parking spot. Hanna Park has a large lot just steps from the sand, meaning you can go from car seat to coastline in under a minute. Big win for impatient toddlers!
Restrooms, Showers & Picnic Tables
The park is stocked with clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and shaded picnic areas, so you can rinse sandy toes, eat lunch comfortably, and still feel like you're on vacation—even with little ones in tow.
Splash Park Fun
From May through October, the littles can cool off in Hanna Park’s kids splash park—no waves, no worries. Just splashy, supervised fun! (Parental supervision is required.)
Beach Access for Days
Hanna Park boasts 1.5 miles of beautiful sandy shoreline, perfect for sandcastle building, seashell hunting, or just soaking up the sunshine. And if your crew loves to surf or watch surfers, you're in luck—"The Poles" is one of Northeast Florida’s top surf spots.
Family-Friendly Extras
Looking for more than just the beach? Hanna Park also offers:
A 60-acre freshwater lake for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating (no swimming in the lake)
20+ miles of biking and hiking trails—great for strollers or early riders
A campground store stocked with snacks, souvenirs, and supplies
Picnic areas and pavilions available for rental if you’re planning a bigger group outing
Good to Know:
Park Hours:
Open daily at 8 AM
Closes at 8 PM (before Daylight Savings Time)
Closes at 6 PM (before Standard Time)
Early bird entry from 6–8 AM with a pass onlyAdmission Fees:
$5 per car (up to six people)
$3 per pedestrian or bicyclist
Active duty military & veterans: 50% off with ID
Annual Pass: $92.52 + tax
(Note: No military discounts on annual passes)
Address:
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
500 Wonderwood Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32233
(904) 255-6767 | hannapark@coj.net
If you're looking for a laid-back beach day without the hassle, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park checks every box. It’s clean, easy to access, and packed with family-friendly amenities. So skip the beach traffic headache and head straight to a spot that lets you enjoy the best parts of the day—sun, sand, and smiling little faces.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic, bring a change of clothes, and don’t forget the sand toys. You’ll want to stay a while.