Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Jacksonville, United States

1. The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

A refuge for big cats, offering educational tours and conservation efforts.

Hands-off Experience: Visitors can observe and learn about these majestic creatures without direct contact.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs to raise awareness about big cat conservation.
Fundraising Efforts: Supports local and global big cat rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Explore the unspoiled beauty of Talbot Islands by kayak, with guided eco-tours.

Untouched Wildlife Habitat: Provides an opportunity to view diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Guided Tours: Experienced guides ensure a safe and informative journey through the islands.
Environmental Conservation: Promotes responsible tourism practices to protect this delicate ecosystem.

260-acre botanical oasis with over 50 gardens and 4 miles of trails.

Native Plant Preservation: Promotes the preservation of native plant species through education and cultivation.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Adopts sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, composting, and organic gardening.
Community Engagement: Offers workshops, tours, and volunteer opportunities for the community.

A bean-to-bar chocolate factory tour with a focus on fair trade and sustainability.

Fair Trade Chocolates: Uses only ethically-sourced cocoa beans from fair trade cooperatives.
Eco-Friendly Production: Minimizes waste and energy consumption in the chocolate production process.
Sensory Experience: Offers a unique sensory experience as visitors learn about the chocolate-making process.

A pristine barrier island offering hiking trails, beaches, and birdwatching.

Coastal Ecosystem Protection: Protects fragile coastal ecosystems to preserve biodiversity.
Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and marshlands.
Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe various wildlife species, including sea turtles.

A sustainable marketplace showcasing local artisans and eco-friendly products.

Local Artisan Support: Supports local artists and artisans by providing a platform to sell their creations.
Eco-Friendly Products: Promotes and sells eco-friendly products such as reusable bags, natural soaps, and sustainable clothing.
Community Gathering Space: Serves as a community gathering space for events, workshops, and classes related to sustainability.

Guided tours of the Mayport Naval Station's protected wetlands and wildlife habitats.

Military Base Ecosystem: Offers a unique opportunity to explore a military base ecosystem.
Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe various wildlife species, including birds and marine life.
Environmental Education: Promotes environmental education by sharing the importance of these habitats for military operations.

A 120-acre zoo with over 2,000 rare and exotic animals.

Animal Welfare Focus: Prioritizes the well-being of its animal inhabitants through state-of-the-art habitats.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about conservation and wildlife.
Sustainable Practices: Adopts sustainable practices such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling, and water conservation.

A tower offering birdwatching opportunities in the heart of Jacksonville.

Urban Wildlife Observation: Provides an opportunity to observe urban wildlife, particularly birds.
Educational Opportunities: Offers educational opportunities about local bird species and their habitats.
Community Engagement: Serves as a gathering space for local birdwatching clubs and community events.

Guided tours of the St. Johns River, showcasing its diverse wildlife and ecosystem.

St. Johns River Ecosystem: Provides an opportunity to explore one of Florida's most iconic rivers.
Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities to observe various wildlife species, including manatees and dolphins.
Educational Opportunities: Promotes environmental education by sharing the importance of river conservation.

A historical site and park dedicated to preserving the story of French colonialism in Florida.

Historical Education: Offers educational opportunities about early European exploration and settlement in North America.
Environmental Stewardship: Practices sustainable land management and preserves the natural environment surrounding the site.
Community Engagement: Serves as a gathering space for events, workshops, and classes related to history and culture.

Seasonal guided tours to observe sea turtles nesting on Jacksonville's beaches.

Sea Turtle Conservation: Promotes the conservation of sea turtles by educating visitors about their habits and threats.
Community Engagement: Involves local residents in conservation efforts through volunteer programs.
Educational Opportunities: Offers educational opportunities about sea turtles and their role in the ecosystem.

A farmers market offering fresh produce, locally-made goods, and artisanal foods.

Farm-to-Table Experience: Provides a direct connection between local farmers and consumers.
Sustainable Agriculture Support: Supports sustainable agriculture practices by showcasing locally grown produce.
Community Gathering Space: Serves as a community gathering space for events, workshops, and classes related to food and agriculture.

A preserve offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and historical education.

Coastal Ecosystem Protection: Protects fragile coastal ecosystems to preserve biodiversity.
Historical Education: Offers educational opportunities about the region's Timucuan Indian history and early European exploration.
Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe various wildlife species, including birds and marine life.

Guided bicycle tours showcasing the city's eco-friendly infrastructure and historical sites.

Eco-Friendly Transportation: Promotes eco-friendly transportation by encouraging bicycling.
Historical Education: Offers educational opportunities about Jacksonville's history, architecture, and culture.
Community Engagement: Involves local residents in conservation efforts through volunteer programs.