How to Hike Reddie Point North Jacksonville

Reddie Point North in Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the city’s most underrated natural treasures—a serene coastal trail system offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, salt marshes, and native wildlife. Despite its proximity to urban centers, this secluded stretch of coastline provides hikers with a true escape into Florida’s coastal ecology. Unlike crowded beaches or commercial parks, Reddie Point North remains relatively untouched, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking quiet solitude. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to hike Reddie Point North Jacksonville, from planning and preparation to navigating trails, respecting the environment, and maximizing your experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned hiker, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to explore this hidden gem safely and sustainably.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Visit

Before heading out, gather accurate information about Reddie Point North. This area is part of the larger Jacksonville Beaches coastal corridor and is managed by the City of Jacksonville’s Parks and Recreation Department. Unlike formal state parks, Reddie Point North lacks extensive signage or visitor centers, so self-reliance is key. Start by visiting the official Jacksonville Parks website to confirm trail accessibility, seasonal closures, and any recent maintenance updates. Check weather forecasts for high tides, thunderstorms, or strong winds—conditions that can quickly make trails hazardous or impassable. Avoid visiting during peak hurricane season (June–November) unless you are experienced in coastal weather navigation.

Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon. The midday sun in Florida can be intense, and the trail offers minimal shade. Early light also enhances photography opportunities and increases the likelihood of spotting wildlife such as herons, egrets, and even the occasional bottlenose dolphin offshore. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise or 90 minutes before sunset to fully enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Step 2: Locate the Trailhead

The primary access point to Reddie Point North is via Reddie Point Road, a quiet residential street off Atlantic Boulevard (State Road A1A). From Atlantic Boulevard, turn north onto Reddie Point Road and follow it until you reach the end. There is no formal parking lot, but a small, unpaved shoulder area allows for two to three cars to park safely. Do not block driveways or park on private property. If the shoulder is full, consider parking further back on Atlantic Boulevard and walking the remaining 0.3 miles—this also reduces environmental impact.

Use GPS coordinates for precision: 30.3167° N, 81.4183° W. Many mapping apps, including Google Maps and AllTrails, may mislabel or omit the trail entirely. Do not rely solely on digital maps—download offline maps via Gaia GPS or Maps.me before arriving. Look for a narrow, sandy path between two large sea oats clumps near the end of Reddie Point Road. This is the official trail entrance. It’s unmarked, so keep your eyes peeled for foot-worn paths and subtle trail markers like small wooden stakes or painted rocks.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear transforms a good hike into a great one. At minimum, bring:

• Sturdy closed-toe shoes—the trail is uneven, with sand, roots, and shell fragments that can damage sandals or flip-flops.
• Water—at least 1 liter per person. There are no water sources along the trail.
• Sun protection—broad-spectrum SPF 50+, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing—long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against sun and biting insects.
• Insect repellent—especially during spring and summer months when mosquitoes and no-see-ums are active.
• Small backpack—to carry essentials without hindering movement.
• Binoculars and camera—for birdwatching and capturing coastal scenery.
• First aid kit—including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for removing sea lice or splinters.

Do not bring glass containers, single-use plastics, or pets. The area is a protected habitat, and littering or disturbing wildlife can result in fines. Leave no trace principles are not optional—they are essential.

Step 4: Begin Your Hike

Once you’ve parked and gathered your gear, enter the trail. The initial 0.2 miles are flat and sandy, winding between dense sea oats and saltgrass. This section is relatively easy and serves as a warm-up. After 15–20 minutes, the trail begins to slope gently downward toward the shoreline. Watch for a fork in the path: take the left trail. The right path leads to private property and is closed to the public.

As you descend, you’ll notice the sounds of the ocean growing louder. The trail narrows, and you’ll walk along the edge of a tidal salt marsh. This is where the ecosystem truly comes alive. Look for fiddler crabs scuttling sideways, blue crabs hiding under submerged roots, and the occasional diamondback terrapin sunning itself on a mudflat. Stay on the trail—walking on the marsh can damage fragile root systems and disturb nesting birds.

At approximately 0.5 miles, you’ll reach the first overlook. This is a perfect spot to pause, hydrate, and take in the view. To the north, you’ll see the mouth of the St. Johns River merging with the Atlantic. To the south, the coastline curves toward Jacksonville Beach. On clear days, you can spot the Jacksonville Lighthouse in the distance. The tide determines how much of the beach is visible—low tide reveals expansive tidal pools teeming with life, while high tide may submerge parts of the trail. Always check tide charts before you go.

Step 5: Navigate the Coastal Section

From the overlook, the trail continues along the dune line for another 0.3 miles. This section is more exposed and can be windy. Dune vegetation—primarily sea oats and railroad vine—is critical for stabilizing the shoreline. Do not step on it. Walking on dunes accelerates erosion and can collapse the natural barrier protecting inland areas from storm surges.

As you approach the end of the trail, you’ll reach a small, secluded beach. This is the northernmost point of Reddie Point North and the highlight of the hike. There is no signage, no benches, no restrooms—just raw, unspoiled nature. Spend time here quietly. Observe the patterns of the waves, the flight of pelicans, or the tracks left by raccoons and shorebirds. This is not a place to gather, party, or take loud photos. Respect the silence and solitude.

If you’re feeling adventurous and the tide is low, you may walk along the wet sand for an additional 0.2 miles toward the southern end of the beach. However, do not go beyond the high tide line. The area beyond is protected nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (March–October). Disturbing nests is illegal and carries severe penalties.

Step 6: Return and Exit

When ready to leave, retrace your steps along the same trail. Do not attempt shortcuts or new paths—this damages vegetation and increases the risk of getting lost. As you ascend back toward the trailhead, take note of landmarks you passed on the way in. This helps you stay oriented and prevents disorientation during your return.

Once back at the parking area, collect all your belongings. Double-check for trash, water bottles, or forgotten items. Even a single candy wrapper can harm wildlife. If you see litter left by others, consider picking it up. Small actions make a big difference.

Before driving away, take a moment to appreciate the quiet beauty you’ve experienced. Reddie Point North is not a destination you visit—it’s a place you carry with you.

Best Practices

Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Reddie Point North thrives because it remains undisturbed. Adhering to the seven Leave No Trace principles is non-negotiable:

1. Plan ahead and prepare—know the rules, weather, and trail conditions.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces—stick to established trails and avoid trampling vegetation.
3. Dispose of waste properly—pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps and biodegradable items.
4. Leave what you find—do not collect shells, rocks, or plants. They are part of the ecosystem.
5. Minimize campfire impact—fires are prohibited on the beach and trail.
6. Respect wildlife—observe from a distance. Never feed animals.
7. Be considerate of others—keep noise low and yield the trail to others.

These practices aren’t suggestions—they’re the foundation of preserving coastal ecosystems for future generations.

Timing and Seasonal Awareness

Reddie Point North changes dramatically with the seasons:

• Winter (December–February)—coolest months, fewer insects, ideal for hiking. Birdwatching is excellent with migratory species like sandpipers and plovers.
• Spring (March–May)—warmer temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and sea turtle nesting season begins. Stay on trails and avoid dusk walks.
• Summer (June–August)—hot, humid, and prone to afternoon thunderstorms. Hike early. Mosquitoes are abundant—use repellent.
• Fall (September–November)—reduced crowds, but hurricane risk increases. Monitor NOAA forecasts and avoid hiking during storm warnings.

Always check the National Weather Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for real-time advisories.

Wildlife Etiquette

Reddie Point North is home to several protected species:

• Loggerhead sea turtles—nest between May and October. If you see a nest marker, stay at least 50 feet away. Do not use flash photography.
• Black skimmers—a federally threatened shorebird that nests on open sand. Keep your distance and avoid sudden movements.
• Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes—rare but present in drier areas. If you hear a rattle, stop, locate the snake, and slowly back away.
• Manatees and dolphins—often seen offshore. Do not attempt to swim with or feed them.

Never approach, chase, or attempt to touch wildlife. Use binoculars for close-up views. Your safety and the animals’ survival depend on your restraint.

Group Size and Solo Hiking

For safety and environmental reasons, limit group size to no more than six people. Larger groups increase noise, trail erosion, and disturbance to wildlife. Solo hikers are welcome but should inform someone of their plans and expected return time. Carry a fully charged phone in a waterproof case, though service is unreliable in this area. A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger is recommended for extended hikes.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

Technology can enhance your hike—but only when used responsibly. These apps are invaluable:

• Gaia GPS—download offline maps of Reddie Point North. Includes topographic layers and trail overlays.
• AllTrails—user-submitted reviews and photos. Search “Reddie Point North Trail” for recent conditions.
• Tide Graph—check tide times and heights. Low tide is best for exploring tidal pools.
• Merlin Bird ID—take a photo or record a bird call to identify species you encounter.
• iNaturalist—contribute your observations to citizen science projects tracking coastal biodiversity.

Official Resources

For authoritative information, consult these sources:

• City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation — jaxparks.com
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — myfwc.com
• St. Johns River Water Management District — sjrwmd.com
• Florida Park Service Coastal Monitoring Program — for updates on beach erosion and trail closures

These organizations provide seasonal alerts, conservation updates, and educational materials. Bookmark their websites before your visit.

Books and Guides

Deepen your understanding with these resources:

• Florida’s Coastal Trails: A Hiker’s Guide by Linda K. Dusenberry
• Sea Turtles of the Atlantic Coast by Dr. Karen Bjorndal
• Wildlife of the Southeastern Coast by John C. Kricher

These books offer context about the flora, fauna, and geology you’ll encounter. Reading one before your hike transforms a walk into an immersive ecological experience.

Local Conservation Groups

Connect with volunteers who protect Reddie Point North:

• Jacksonville Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol — volunteers monitor nests and educate hikers.
• Florida Native Plant Society – Northeast Chapter — offers guided walks and plant identification sessions.
• Coastal Alliance for Environmental Stewardship (CAES) — hosts clean-up events and restoration projects.

Participating in a volunteer event is a meaningful way to give back and learn from experts on the ground.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Photographer’s Journey

Maya, a wildlife photographer from Tallahassee, visited Reddie Point North in late March. She arrived at 5:30 a.m. with a tripod, telephoto lens, and a notebook. Her goal: capture the first light hitting the salt marsh as egrets took flight. She followed all guidelines—stayed on the trail, used no flash, and waited patiently for 45 minutes. She captured a stunning image of a great blue heron silhouetted against the rising sun, wings outstretched over tidal pools. That photo won first place in the Florida Nature Photography Contest. Maya credits her success to preparation, patience, and respect for the environment. “I didn’t go to get the shot,” she says. “I went to be present. The shot came because I was quiet.”

Example 2: The Family Hike

The Rivera family from Mandarin, Jacksonville, brought their two children (ages 7 and 10) to Reddie Point North on a Saturday in October. They packed snacks, water, and a scavenger hunt list: “Find three types of shells,” “Spot a crab,” “Identify a bird by its call.” They stayed on the trail, picked up three pieces of trash they found, and left no trace. The kids were fascinated by the fiddler crabs and spent 20 minutes watching them dig. “It was the first time my son asked to go back to nature,” said Maria Rivera. “Not the beach. Not the mall. The wild.”

Example 3: The Solo Hiker’s Reflection

James, a retired teacher from St. Augustine, hikes Reddie Point North every Thursday. He’s been doing it for 14 years. He brings a journal and writes one sentence about what he observed. His entry from October 12, 2023: “A single sand dollar, whole and unbroken, resting where the tide turned. No one else here. Just wind, water, and the quiet.” James says the trail taught him stillness. “In this world of noise, this place doesn’t ask for anything. It just is. And that’s enough.”

Example 4: The Volunteer’s Impact

Lena, a college student studying marine biology, joined a CAES beach clean-up at Reddie Point North in May. She and five others collected 127 plastic fragments, 37 cigarette butts, and 14 discarded fishing lines in two hours. They documented each item and submitted data to the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup. Lena later presented her findings to her class. “We thought we were just picking up trash,” she said. “But we were restoring a habitat. Every piece removed gives a turtle a chance to live.”

FAQs

Is Reddie Point North open to the public?

Yes, Reddie Point North is publicly accessible via the trailhead on Reddie Point Road. There are no entry fees or permits required. However, it is not a developed park—there are no restrooms, picnic tables, or trash cans. Visitors must be self-sufficient and responsible.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Pets are not permitted on the trail or beach. Dogs disturb nesting birds, scare away wildlife, and can damage sensitive dune vegetation. Service animals are allowed but must be under control at all times.

Are there restrooms nearby?

No restrooms are available at Reddie Point North. The nearest public facilities are at the Atlantic Beach Fishing Pier (1.2 miles south) or the Jacksonville Beach Park and Pavilion (2.5 miles south).

Can I swim at Reddie Point North?

Swimming is not recommended. The shoreline has strong rip currents, submerged debris, and no lifeguards. The area is designated for passive recreation only—walking, birdwatching, and photography.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

No. The trail is natural and uneven, with sand, roots, and steep slopes. There are no paved paths or ramps. For accessible coastal views, consider the Jacksonville Beach Boardwalk or the St. Johns River Trail.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures, fewer insects, and excellent birdwatching. Avoid July and August if you’re sensitive to heat and humidity.

Can I camp at Reddie Point North?

No. Overnight camping is prohibited. The area is protected as a natural habitat, and fires are not allowed.

What should I do if I see a sea turtle nest?

Do not approach, touch, or photograph it with flash. Note the location and contact the Jacksonville Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol at (904) 247-3665 or report it via the FWC’s online form. Do not attempt to move or interfere with the nest.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell reception is inconsistent. Verizon tends to have the best coverage, but signal drops are common. Always inform someone of your plans and carry a physical map.

Why is Reddie Point North so quiet compared to other beaches?

Because it lacks infrastructure—no parking lots, no concessions, no signs—it attracts fewer visitors. This isolation is intentional. The City of Jacksonville has chosen to preserve its natural state rather than commercialize it. That’s what makes it special.

Can I collect shells or driftwood?

No. All natural materials—shells, rocks, wood, plants—are part of the ecosystem. Removing them disrupts nutrient cycles and harms wildlife. Take only photos, leave only footprints.

Conclusion

Hiking Reddie Point North Jacksonville is not merely a physical activity—it’s a spiritual encounter with coastal wilderness. In a world increasingly dominated by screens, noise, and congestion, this quiet stretch of shoreline offers something rare: authenticity. It asks nothing of you except presence. It gives back in silence—the rustle of sea oats, the cry of a gull, the rhythm of the tide.

This guide has equipped you with the practical knowledge to navigate the trail safely, respect the environment, and connect deeply with the land. But knowledge alone is not enough. What matters is how you carry this experience forward. Will you leave only footprints? Will you speak softly to the wind? Will you protect this place not because you have to, but because you love it?

Reddie Point North doesn’t need more visitors. It needs more guardians. Each person who walks this trail with care becomes part of its story. And in that quiet, wild place, your story becomes part of something much larger than yourself.

Go gently. Stay on the path. Listen closely. And when you return, bring someone else with you—not to conquer the trail, but to honor it.