Of the many great qualities about small beach towns, the scenic beaches, the perfect backdrop for a romantic date, are the most admirable. If you are new to the area or simply looking for a memorable date out in Jacksonville Beach, read on for a list of the best places, food, scenery and more.

Beach Bars
There’s a great selection of beach bars to choose from in Jacksonville Beach, including Hoptinger, Lynch’s, Ritz and Surfer. Hoptinger is a great environment for an early evening rendezvous. It is laid back with amazing craft beer choices. Ritz and Surfer are known for their reputation as party scenes, and perfect for getting your date on the door floor. Lynch’s is typically a late-night spot but often has live music, which makes it a local favorite. 11-1 a.m. No cover charge. All bars on the same street, starting at 200 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL; hoptinger.com // @hoptinger; surferthebar.com // @surferthebarjax; theritzlounge.com // @theritzbar; lynchsirishpub.com // @lycnhsirishpub; #jaxbeachbars

Brewhound
If you and your date are dog lovers, Brewhound may be the perfect spot to let romance brew. This dog park also offers plenty of fun for humans, with alcoholic beverages and delicious lattés available for purchase, which you’ll need to wash down your food truck finds. There is a decent amount of seating for watching your dogs run around. It is $9 per pup, if you purchase a daily pass. It’s a great space for dogs and humans to socialize. Tuesday – Sunday. 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. $9+. Brewhound: 1848 Kings Circle South, Neptune Beach, FL; brew-hound.com // @brewhounddogparkbar

Eleven South
When it comes to food, Eleven South is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Jacksonville Beach. This bistro is a bit pricey, but the appetizers, entreés and drink concoctions are worth every penny. The smoked salmon bruschetta and goat cheese chicken saltimbocca, paired with a Tequila Mockingbird, are fan favorites. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, great ambiance and is only steps away from the beach. Lunch served Tuesday – Friday at 11 a.m. Dinner is served daily at 5 p.m. Eleven South: 216 11th South, Jacksonville Beach, FL; elevensouth.com // @eleven_south

Jacksonville Beach Golf Club
Who doesn’t love a good game of golf, especially if you have a special someone to enjoy it with, on a nice Florida day? Interesting fact, the golf course was built in 1959 and is one of the only public access courses on Jacksonville’s beaches. It is east of the Intracoastal, and offers idealistic beach scenery. Imagine snuggling up with your partner while you master your golf skills together. An annual pass is only $18 for 18 holes — a definite steal. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. $12-$58. Jacksonville Beach Golf Club: 605 Penman Rd. South, Jacksonville Beach, FL; jaxbchgolf.com // @jaxbeachgolfassoc

Jacksonville Surf and Paddle School
If you’ve ever wanted to learn to surf, are scared to go alone or don’t own the ride surf gear, Jacksonville Surf and Paddle School is a great chance for you and your date to paddle out together. They also have Groupons available for discounted rates, guided surf lessons, and private surf lessons, especially if you want a more intimate experience. Why not make the most of the ocean views and dip your board in the water? 7 a.m. – 9p.m. $65+. Jacksonville Surf and Paddle School: 222 1st St, Neptune Beach, FL; jacksonvillesurfandpaddle.com/pages/surf-lessons // @jaxsurfandpaddle

Mavi Waterfront Bar & Grill
When you think of beachy restaurants, you can’t help but picture a picturesque waterfront location like the one at Mavi. The views, live music and happy hour specials make Mavi a local go-to for fun in the sun. Happy Hour is all day Monday and Tuesday through Friday, 3-6 p.m. Even better, Mavi has free jet ski and boat docking, if you happen to show up in style. Grab your lucky lady and treat her to a romantic, waterfront date with some delicious stuffed flounder at Mavi. 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Mavi Waterfront Bar & Grill: 2309 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL; mavijax.com // @mavijax

Whether you are searching for something casual or intimate, there’s no lack of delightful date spots in Jax Beach. With drinks, dogs, delectable meals, surfing, and more, Jacksonville Beach’s scenic atmosphere may turn your first date into your forever (maybe).