When summer turns up the heat in Northeast Florida, locals and visitors alike head straight for one thing: splash parks. From shady neighborhood spraygrounds to water features tucked into state parks, there’s no shortage of family-friendly ways to cool off. Whether you’re based in Jacksonville, Fernandina Beach, St. Augustine, or somewhere in between, we’ve rounded up the best splash pads and water play areas across the region.
These are some of the best splash parks in Northeast Florida!
Let’s dive in (literally)!
These are some of the best splash parks in Northeast Florida!
Jacksonville is home to more than a dozen splash pads that are free and open to the public during the warmer months (typically May through October). All city splash parks operate daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., so you’ve got plenty of time for a spontaneous water break.
Murray Hill Playground (Westside)
Features: Colorful splash pad and a large climbing structure for dry play.
Fun Fact: Surrounded by a historic neighborhood with great coffee shops nearby.
Riverside Park (Downtown)
Features: Small splash pad and shaded picnic areas.
Pro Tip: Combine a visit with a trip to the nearby Cummer Museum or Riverside Arts Market.
Looking for a splash park with ocean vibes? Hanna Park is your spot. Located in Jacksonville’s Atlantic Beach area, this city-run park features:
A large splash pad open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
1.5 miles of beachfront
A freshwater lake for kayaking
Mountain biking and hiking trails
Admission: $5 per vehicle
Fun Fact: Hanna Park was once home to a segregated beach known as Manhattan Beach, a historic Black resort community in the early 20th century.
While historic landmarks might be the main draw in St. Augustine, families in the know head for Project SWING Park and Treaty Park, both of which offer splash pad-style fun and playgrounds.
Located on Wildwood Drive
Features: Spray ground area, playground, dog park, and walking trails
Great for active families looking for a full day out
Hours: Typically open daylight hours, but splash area operates seasonally.
Head up the coast to Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island for a charming, laid-back splash park experience at Central Park.
Features: Modest splash pad with shaded benches and plenty of green space.
Location: Atlantic Ave, just minutes from historic downtown.
Bonus: After some splash time, hit up the local ice cream shops or take a pirate-themed walking tour.
While most Florida state parks don’t include traditional splash pads, you can still cool off naturally:
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
Location: Keystone Heights
Activity: Swim in the spring-fed lake, hike shady trails
Fun Fact: One of Florida’s oldest state parks, part of the New Deal-era CCC projects.
Little Talbot Island State Park (Jacksonville)
While it lacks a splash pad, the tidal creeks and beach access make for amazing wading and shell-hunting.
Anastasia State Park (St. Augustine)
Offers: Beach access, shallow tidal pools, and picnic areas perfect for cooling down post-swim.
Bring towels, sunscreen, and extra clothes.
Most splash pads don’t have lifeguards, so supervision is a must.
Go early or late in the day to avoid peak sun and crowds.
Some parks close after heavy rain or lightning—check local websites before heading out.
Whether you’re exploring Jacksonville’s vibrant park system, St. Augustine’s charm, or Fernandina Beach’s pirate history, splash parks are the perfect way to stay cool while making memories. From free city spraygrounds to beachside parks with natural swimming spots, Northeast Florida offers the ultimate summer fun for kids (and kids at heart).
So grab your water shoes and hit the splash circuit—there’s no better way to beat the heat in Northeast Florida!
Carrie Ann Kilpatrick
Jacksonville | Fernandina Beach
SL3408851
BK3050707
843-287-1102
960185 Gateway Blvd #103
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
