Hailed by parents everywhere as having one of the best playgrounds in Jacksonville, Sunshine Playground at South Beach Park, shortened to Sunshine Park by locals, has so much to offer families. With a wide range of activities and amenities for kids of all ages, it’s no wonder why this Jacksonville Beach gem is a fan favorite.
Sunshine Park Newley Renovated Playground
The playground at Sunshine Park was completely torn down and rebuilt in 2022. The new structure is bigger and better than ever with tons of climbing, swinging, and sliding equipment. There’s a separate tot-lot for little ones and artificial turf throughout.
South Beach Park Splash Pad
There are lots of great city splash pads in Jacksonville to visit, but we love this one for several reasons. It’s completely free, the area is totally fenced, there’s a separate toddler area, and new for 2022, shade sails were added to the area. The splash pad is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, although depending on the weather, a lot of times it stays open well into October.
Opportunities for Sports
One of the first things you notice at Sunshine Park is the huge multi-purpose field. There are lots of opportunities to get the kids out and running around, including taking advantage of the astro-turf field. Bring your bikes and take a lap around the trail or utilize the sand volleyball courts. This park also has tennis courts, a basketball court, and pickle ball. While the park is typically busy on the weekends and in the evenings with organized sports, if you visit during the day you’re likely to have it all to yourself.
Amenities at South Beach Park & Sunshine Playground
South Beach Park boasts a wide range of amenities for families to use. There are 4 bathrooms, that are typically reasonably clean. They also have a Little Free Library, water bottle fill station, and even a dog water station. Around the perimeter of the track are various exercise equipment that’s free to use. There are also several picnic pavilions, you’re required to make a reservation if you want to guarantee a spot, but there’s no fee to use them. You can visit the city website to reserve a pavilion.
Jax Beach Skate Park
Your little skater will love the Jax Beach Skate Park at South Beach Park. You can attempt easy and more difficult jumps, this 23,000 square foot skate park doesn’t feel crowded, even on the weekends. On any given day you’ll find little kids all the way up to adults honing their skating skills here.
Sunshine Park is located at 2514 S Beach Pkwy, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. There is typically ample parking, even during busy weekends. It’s a great spot to take the kids year round. If you visit during the sweltering summer months be sure to bring a bathing suit so they can cool off in the splash pad.
Will the park be available on Memorial Day to the public. And if so what are the hours?
This park doesn’t close, it’s open sunrise to sunset all year.
I am looking into central areas for my daughter’s birthday party. Am I able to rent a space ?
All the pavilions at Sunshine Park are first come, first serve. There’s no reservation system.
Is the splash pad open yet?
Yes! It opens Memorial Day weekend.
This isn’t true anymore as of 2024. The cabanas must be reserved! You will get booted if a reservation comes in. The only one that can’t be reserved is the center pavilion inside the park.
You’re correct! Thanks for pointing that out. We’ve updated the post with a link to the city site where you can reserve the cabanas.
Where can u park?
There is ample parking at Sunshine Park.
Is there a reservation system for the turf field?
Not sure, you’d have to contact the city of Jacksonville Beach. But there aren’t any signs up to reserve, so it’s probably first come, first serve.