PARADISE FOUND
Why has low-key Jacksonville emerged as perhaps Florida’s most desirable relocation destination? First, water. Blessed with uncrowded beaches as well as the mighty St. Johns River and the Intracoastal Waterway, you can’t drive far without running into shimmering bodies of water. Second, natural beauty. Visit the Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve for sunsets over the marshes and estuaries of the Tolomato and Guana Rivers. Spend an afternoon exploring the Black Creek/Ravines Conservation Area. Head over to the Jacksonville Beach Pier and scan the horizon for a pod of Northern right whales. Third, livability. The Jacksonville area boasts most of the cultural and recreational perks found in glitzier (and more expensive) Florida cities. So, where should you buy a home? Let’s look at the choices.