Boating, Marinas & Life on the St. Johns River
Right in Jim's own Mandarin neighborhood, this city park sits on Julington Creek with a boat ramp, fishing pier, and an adaptive kayak launch — a favorite for manatee-watching and easy river access without leaving the neighborhood.
Tucked into the protected waters of the Ortega River in West Jacksonville, Sadler Point Marina offers wet slips, dry storage, fuel, and on-site dining — a go-to for boat owners in the Ortega and Riverside area who want a hurricane-safe spot close to home.
Located on the Southbank Riverwalk downtown, St. Johns Marina gives boaters two launch ramps and easy access to everything happening along both sides of the river — a handy option if you're headed out from the urban core.
A Florida Certified Clean Marina in Fleming Island, Doctors Lake Marina handles boats up to 65 feet with wet slips, dry storage, fuel, and a sunset tiki bar — reachable from the St. Johns River through Doctors Inlet, making it a natural fit for Clay County waterfront living.
On Jacksonville's Westside, this ramp opens onto the Cedar River with a quick run out to the Ortega and St. Johns Rivers — a lower-key option for residents on that side of town who want river access without the downtown crowds.
For a no-cost option on Doctors Lake, this Clay County park offers a boat ramp and a 320-foot fishing pier — a solid pick for Fleming Island and Orange Park residents who just want quick, free access to the water.
