Outdoor Adventures in Ponte Vedra, Florida: Hiking, Biking, and More

Ponte Vedra, Florida, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located along the Atlantic coast of Northeast Florida, this beautiful town offers a variety of exciting activities. Aside from birdwatching, you can play golf on some of the finest courses in the area, enjoy tons of outdoor and water activities or simply relax at one of the gorgeous beaches.

Whether you're looking for an action-packed vacation or just a peaceful day soaking up some rays by the ocean, Ponte Vedra has exactly what you need! Keep reading to find out why you'll love all the exciting adventures waiting for you in this beautiful location!

Hiking Trails for Everyone

When visiting Ponte Vedra, make sure to explore the best hiking routes the region has to offer. Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is an excellent spot for families, providing plenty of educational opportunities about the local wildlife and its habitats.

It’s a must-see for hikers of all levels, offering six trails that cater to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. With over 10 miles of trails, prepare for exciting encounters with wild animals, such as armadillos, raccoons, snakes, birds, and much more! The reserve also offers guided tours for those interested in learning about the local flora and fauna.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 3.6 miles (7 mins)

• Location: 505 Guana River Rd #6527, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

• Hours: 8 am until sunset, every day

• Contact Number: 904-380-8600

• Website: GTMNERR.Org

For a quick overview of the trail, you can find a complete map by clicking here.

Photo from Ponte Vedra Naturally

For beginners and on the lookout for an easy trail, the Nocatee Preserve, located west of the Tolomato River, offers a 7-mile stretch of trail out and back. The course is relatively flat, so aside from hikers, be ready to explore along with bikers and even horseback riders.

Furry friends are welcome to join your expedition, too – just keep them on a leash, and you’re good to go.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 21.3 miles (30 mins)

• Location: 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081

• Hours: Dawn until Dusk

• Contact Number: 904- 209-0335

Photo from National Park Service

If you’re more adventurous, explore the nearby Theodore Roosevelt Area of Timucuan Preserve’s 600-acre land and a stunning view overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s coined one of the best hiking spots in the Jacksonville area, and you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the mix of the trails and bits of cultural history from the former owner, Willie Browne.

If you’re bringing your pets, be sure they’re on a six-foot leash to gain entry, while bicycles are only allowed on the Willie Browne Trail.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 36.1 miles (1 hour)

• Location: 13165 Mt Pleasant Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

• Hours: 9 am to 4:45 pm, every day

• Contact Number: 904-641-7155

• Website: National Park Service

For a quick overview of the trail, you can find a complete map by clicking here.

Biking Around Town: Easy riding or Adrenaline Rush

Photo by marymarkevich/freepik

Biking in Ponte Vedra is the perfect way to explore the beautiful scenery and get some exercise! The A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway is a lovely route that runs along the coast of Florida, including through Ponte Vedra. The trail extends from Ponte Vedra Beach to Gamble Rogers Memorial Park in Flagler Beach for 72 miles.

Biking leisurely along this route is a great way to bask in the stunning ocean views. You can also make a quick stop to see castles and museums and check out some of the best dining spots St. Augustine offers.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 39.7 miles (3 hrs & 15 mins to Flagler Beach by bike)

• Hours: Always open

• Website: scenica1a.org

If you’re feeling adventurous, Ponte Vedra also boasts mountain biking trails offering plenty of thrill and challenge. There are several miles of off-road trails in the Nocatee Preserve, ideal for experienced mountain bikers – choose from single-track trails or even more challenging terrain!

Check out this link here for more exciting biking trails and terrain options.

Kayaking and Fishing: Explore the Waters Around Ponte Vedra

Photo by senivpetro/freepik

For those who crave water adventure, kayaking and paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway is a must-try. The waterways' twists and turns are perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers, making it the best destination for all!

North Guana Outpost offers board rental, guided tours, fishing lessons, and many more – Surfing and Yoga sessions are on their extensive list too. Feel free to check out their page to learn about their incredible fishing Captains and tour guides.

In summer, if you're in town for a while, your kids aged 6-15 can join the NGO Surf Camp for four hours, 4x weekly. The main objective is to teach kids to ride waves, read the ocean and remain safe when surfing!

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 13.4 miles (17 mins)

• Location: 4415 Mickler Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl, 32082

• Hours: 9 am to 5 pm daily

• Contact Number: 904-373-0306

• Website: northguanaoutpost.com

Join Kayaking St. Augustine for family and beginner-friendly tours by the Anastasia state park. Various water sports are available, including paddleboarding, pedal-boarding, kayaking, and tours – all with professional guides trained in CPR.

Their FAQ page contains helpful information on things to bring to the activities and specific locations where tours start. Also, your furry friends are welcome to join – just be sure to pack their life jackets with you too! 

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 7 miles (15 mins)

• Location: St. Augustine, Florida

• Hours: By appointment, starts at 9 am

• Contact Number: 904-315-8442

• Website: Kayakingstaugustine.com

Photo from Southern Salt Fishing Charters FB Page

Ponte Vedra offers many fishing spots, from the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean, making fishing popular in the area. 

Southern Salt Fishing Charters offer packages catering to experienced and novice fishers. They have near-shore fishing for reef fish, like grouper, snapper, sharks, and migrating species, such as cobia, kingfish, and tarpon. They also have inshore fishing charters. Note that there is an additional $100 fee per tour from May to September.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 22.5 miles (30 mins)

• Location: 4870 Ocean St. Jacksonville, FL 32233

• Hours: 7 am to 8 pm daily

• Contact Number: 904-838-3807

• Website: Southernsaltfishing.com

Go on a little ride and head north to join Fish Whisperer Charters in Jacksonville and meet Captain Kris Kell – a former U.S. Navy and seasoned mariner. They publish Fishing Reports regularly to ensure you have the best chance of success on your fishing trip. It contains current water clarity status, recent catches, and strategies to help you increase your chances of landing a big one!

• Distance from Ponte Vedra: 32 miles (45 mins)

• Location: 4870 Ocean Street, Mayport, FL 32233

• Hours: 6 am to 10:00 pm daily

• Contact Number: 904-800-4385

• Website: Fishwhisperercharters.com

Birdwatching: Feast Your Eyes on Nature’s Beauty

Photo from Florida Historic Coast

Bird Island Park is a beautiful location that provides a perfect opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts to enjoy their hobby. This park is also ideal for families to spend a day in nature. The park offers a range of activities for visitors, such as picnic areas, a playground, and a fishing dock that is perfect for everyone.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 13.1 miles (18 mins)

• Location: 101 Library Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

• Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk

• Contact Number: 904-469-7275

• Website: Facebook.com/BirdIslandPark

If you're looking to observe a plethora of bird species, Anastasia State Park is the place for you! Here, you can witness an abundant array of songbirds like warblers, cardinals, and robins while relaxing along the majestic St. Augustine shoreline. If you’re lucky and the timing's right, it may be possible to get a glimpse of dolphins in the distance too!

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 9.3 miles (20 mins)

• Location: 300 Anastasia Park Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

• Hours: 8 am until sundown

• Contact Number: 904-461-2033

• Website: Florida State Parks

Golfing Heaven: Experience the Best of Ponte Vedra

Photo from Tour Performance Center

Ponte Vedra is home to several golf courses where enthusiasts can enjoy a round while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery. Another great thing about golfing in Ponte Vedra is its excellent amenities and services. Most courses are well-equipped with driving ranges, practice greens, and full-service shops to ensure your experience is as enjoyable as possible. 

You can also find plenty of unique dining options, from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants around the area. And don’t forget about the luxurious spa treatments available at many local resorts! So whether you’re looking for a round of golf or just want to relax after an intense game, Ponte Vedra has something for you.

TPC at Sawgrass Stadium Course must be on your list if golf is your thing. This course features an iconic par-3, 17th hole called "Island Green." This hole is one of the most famous in golf and has been the site of historic events. TPC at Sawgrass also offers a range of amenities, including luxury accommodations and dining options.

The Players Stadium Course at Sawgrass Country Club is an 18-hole, par 71 championship course designed by Pete Dye and includes a mix of sand hills and marshlands that offers an exciting challenge to golfers.

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 17.8 miles (25 mins)

• Location: 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

• Hours: 7 am to 9 pm daily

• Contact Number: 904-273-3235

• Website: TPC Sawgrass

At Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Ocean, you could enjoy a day or two at the Ocean Couse or Lagoon Course, each featuring a distinct seaside links atmosphere.

The Ocean Course is an excellent par-71 championship course with the addition of modern turf grasses to its greens, fairways, and tee boxes. The golf course area, practice, and teaching facilities have been upgraded, making this destination even more enjoyable.

The Lagoon Course is a stunning 18-hole, par 72 championship designed by two geniuses – Robert Trent Jones (first nine) in 1961 and Joe Lee (second nine) in 1978. This course features lush fairways lined with pines, oaks, and plenty of beautiful lakes and wetlands. 

• Distance from Wander Ponte Vedra: 19.2 miles (30 mins)

• Location: 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

• Contact Number: 888-839-9145

• Website: Ponte Vedra Inn and Club

Enjoy Sunbathing: Unwind, Recharge, and Soak Up the Sunshine

Photo from St. Augustine Ponte Vedra

After a long day of outdoor activities, a trip to Ponte Vedra would only be complete with a leisurely day spent sunbathing on the beach. The beaches in Ponte Vedra are known for their soft sand and clear water, making them the perfect place to unwind and soak up the area's natural beauty. With its golden sand and gentle Atlantic waves, this stretch of shoreline provides the ideal backdrop for soaking up Vitamin D and admiring stunning views.

Enjoy the waves crashing against the shore and the cool breeze that comes along with it. And if you're looking for an even more incredible opportunity to relax, there are plenty of spots along the shoreline where you can set up a beach chair or two. A beach umbrella is a must, too! 

I hope you're convinced that Ponte Vedra should be on your bucket list. So to make this vacation even more special, we've carefully selected the Top 10 Luxury Rentals in Ponte Vedra Beach just for you – check them out, pack your bags, and get ready for this one-for-the-books adventure! 

For more travel tips and insights, ping Wander Concierge at +1-737-377-3205 – they’re happy to help anytime!