Jacksonville in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Jacksonville

79°C (175°F) High Temp

56°C (132°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect beach weather with minimal rainfall - only 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) total and sunshine 67% of days makes it ideal for Fernandina Beach and Neptune Beach activities
Spring migration peak brings 200+ bird species to Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve - April is the absolute best month for birding with comfortable 21-27°C (70-80°F) morning temperatures
Azalea and dogwood blooms transform Cummer Museum gardens and Washington Oaks Gardens into spectacular displays - peak bloom happens mid-April for 2-3 weeks
Shoulder season pricing saves 25-40% on accommodations compared to summer peak, with many hotels offering April packages before snowbird exodus ends

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days average can disrupt outdoor plans between 2-5pm, though they're brief and intense rather than all-day rain
Pollen counts peak in April reaching 'very high' levels (8.0-12.0 grains/cubic meter) making it challenging for allergy sufferers, especially tree pollen
Water temperature averages 20°C (68°F) which feels cold for extended swimming without wetsuits, though fine for brief dips and beach activities

Best Activities in April

St. Johns River Eco Tours and Manatee Watching

April's warming waters bring manatees to shallow feeding areas while maintaining comfortable humidity levels for boat tours. Early morning tours (7-9am) avoid afternoon storms and offer best wildlife viewing when animals are most active. Water clarity is excellent before summer algae blooms.

Booking Tip: Book eco tours 7-10 days ahead through certified naturalist guides. Tours typically cost $45-75 per adult for 2-3 hour excursions. Look for operators with hydrophone equipment for underwater manatee sounds. Check current tour availability in booking section below.

Amelia Island Beach and Historic District Walking

Perfect beach weather with minimal crowds before summer tourism peaks. Morning temperatures of 21-24°C (70-75°F) are ideal for walking the 21 km (13 miles) of coastline. Historic Fernandina Beach district showcases Victorian architecture without oppressive heat.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking tours are free with maps from visitor center, but guided historical tours cost $15-25 per person. Book accommodations 2-3 weeks ahead as April marks transition to peak season pricing. See current guided tour options in booking section below.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventures

Calm spring conditions with minimal wind and smooth waters make April ideal for beginners. Temperature is comfortable for water activities without summer's extreme heat. Less boat traffic than summer months means peaceful paddling through salt marshes and tidal creeks.

Booking Tip: Rental rates are $35-50 per day for kayaks, $40-60 for paddleboards during shoulder season. Guided tours run $60-90 for 3-4 hour excursions. Book rentals Easttimor day, but guided tours need 3-5 days advance booking. Current rental options available in booking section below.

Timucuan Preserve Hiking and Birding

Spring migration brings peak bird diversity with over 200 species present in April. Morning temperatures of 18-21°C (65-70°F) are perfect for hiking the 74 km (46 miles) of trails. Wildflowers bloom throughout the preserve creating exceptional photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Preserve entry is free, but guided birding tours cost $25-40 per person for 2-3 hour walks. Rent binoculars on-site for $5-8 per day if needed. Best tours book up 1-2 weeks ahead during migration season. Check current guided tour availability in booking section below.

Craft Brewery and Distillery Tours

April's mild evenings are perfect for outdoor brewery patios and rooftop venues. Many breweries release spring seasonals and host outdoor festivals taking advantage of pre-summer weather. Indoor options provide excellent backup during afternoon thunderstorms.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically cost $12-20 per person including 3-4 tastings. Multi-brewery tours run $45-65 for 4-hour experiences. Book weekend tours 1 week ahead, weekdays usually available Easttimor day. Private group tours available through booking section below.

Deep Sea Fishing Charters

April marks the beginning of excellent offshore fishing with warming Gulf Stream waters bringing king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and cobia closer to shore. Seas are generally calmer than summer with fewer thunderstorms affecting morning departures.

Booking Tip: Half-day charters (6 hours) cost $600-900 for up to 6 people, full-day runs $1,200-1,800. Book 10-14 days ahead for weekend trips. Look for USCG-licensed captains with recent trip reports. Weather cancellation policies essential for April variability. Current charter options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Late April

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

One of the largest free jazz festivals in the Southeast featuring national headliners across multiple outdoor stages in downtown's Metro Park and surrounding venues. Four days of continuous music with food vendors and craft booths.

Mid April

World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Annual ceremony inducting new members into the World Golf Hall of Fame at World Golf Village, 48 km (30 miles) south of Jacksonville. Features golf exhibitions, meet-and-greets with golf legends, and special museum exhibitions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms are brief but intense with heavy downpours lasting 20-45 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with strong reflection off water and sand requiring frequent reapplication

Moisture-wicking shirts and breathable cotton pants - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable for extended outdoor activities

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - morning dew and brief afternoon rains create slippery conditions on boardwalks and trails

Light sweater or long-sleeve shirt for evening - temperatures can drop to 16°C (60°F) after storms, especially near water

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - sudden storms and water activities require electronics protection

Allergy medication if sensitive - tree pollen counts peak in April reaching very high levels throughout the region

Insect repellent with DEET - warming temperatures activate mosquitoes and no-see-ums in marsh and wooded areas

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - water temperature of 20°C (68°F) is refreshing but not warm enough for extended swimming

Small daypack for hiking - carry water, snacks, and rain protection for preserve trails and beach walks

Insider Knowledge

Visit beaches and outdoor attractions before 2pm to avoid daily thunderstorm pattern - locals plan beach days for morning and early afternoon

Many restaurants offer 'spring break' discounts in April before tourist season peaks - ask about local resident pricing even as a visitor

Parking downtown becomes easier after spring break ends but before summer crowds arrive - street parking is actually available

Local seafood is at its best in April as waters warm but before summer heat affects quality - try local shrimp and grouper at their peak

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking all outdoor activities for afternoon without checking storm patterns - plan water activities and hiking for mornings

Underestimating pollen levels and not bringing adequate allergy medication - tree pollen peaks in April causing issues even for non-sufferers

Assuming water will be warm enough for comfortable swimming - 20°C (68°F) ocean temperature requires adjustment or wetsuit for extended time