Jacksonville in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Jacksonville

74°C (165°F) High Temp

50°C (122°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect beach weather with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) and minimal rainfall - ideal for all outdoor activities without the oppressive summer heat
Lower hotel rates than peak winter season - you'll save 20-30% on accommodations compared to December-February pricing
Excellent visibility for water activities with calm seas and 15-20m (49-66ft) underwater visibility for diving and snorkeling
Spring training season brings energy to the city with 15 MLB teams practicing at nearby facilities from late February through March

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days can disrupt beach plans, typically lasting 30-45 minutes between 2-4pm
Spring break crowds from colleges create busy weekends, especially at Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach areas
Pollen season peaks in March with oak and pine trees - challenging for allergy sufferers

Best Activities in March

Amelia Island Beach Activities

March offers ideal conditions with 25°C (77°F) water temperatures and consistent 10-15 knot winds perfect for kitesurfing and paddleboarding. The cooler air temperature prevents overheating during long beach days, and morning low tides expose extensive tide pools for exploration.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations 2-3 weeks ahead as spring breakers fill beachfront properties. Beach equipment rentals typically cost $25-45 per day. Look for operators offering weather guarantees during storm season.

St. Johns River Eco Tours

March is prime manatee season as these gentle giants migrate through warmer waters. Water levels are optimal after winter rains but before summer heat creates algae blooms. Bird migration peaks with over 40 species visible during 2-hour morning tours.

Booking Tip: Morning tours (8-10am) offer best wildlife viewing before afternoon storms. Tours typically cost $45-75 per person. Book through certified naturalist guides for educational value - see current options in booking section below.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

Comfortable 23°C (73°F) morning temperatures make exploring Jacksonville's riverfront district pleasant before afternoon heat builds. March sees fewer cruise ship crowds than winter months, allowing better access to historic sites and waterfront dining.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well in March weather, but guided options typically cost $15-25 per person. Start by 10am to complete before potential afternoon storms. Many tours offer indoor alternatives at Cummer Museum or MOSH.

Kayak Adventures in Timucuan Preserve

March provides ideal paddling conditions with calm waters, comfortable air temperatures, and active wildlife. Water temperature of 20°C (68°F) means accidental dunks aren't shocking, while lower humidity reduces fatigue during 3-4 hour excursions.

Booking Tip: Half-day rentals cost $35-55 including equipment. Book morning slots (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon weather. Look for outfitters providing dry bags and weather radio updates - current tour options available in booking section.

Golf Course Experiences

March offers Jacksonville's best golf weather with morning temperatures around 18°C (64°F) warming to comfortable 25°C (77°F). Courses are recovering from winter dormancy with improving conditions, and you'll avoid summer's oppressive heat and daily lightning delays.

Booking Tip: Tee times book 7-14 days ahead for weekend play. Greens fees range $45-125 depending on course prestige. Morning starts before 9am avoid afternoon storms that force course closures 40% of March afternoons.

Craft Brewery District Tours

Pleasant evening temperatures make outdoor brewery patios comfortable for extended visits. March sees new seasonal beer releases and fewer tourist crowds than winter months. Walking distances between downtown breweries become manageable in cooler weather.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work best with temperatures rarely exceeding 26°C (79°F) in evening. Guided brewery tours typically cost $35-55 including tastings. Plan indoor backup venues for the 10 rainy days expected in March.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Gate River Run

Jacksonville's signature 15K race typically draws 15,000+ runners in mid-March. Even non-participants enjoy the festival atmosphere downtown with live music, food vendors, and post-race celebrations lasting until evening.

Early March

Spring Training Games

While Jacksonville doesn't host teams, 15 MLB teams train within 2 hours drive. Many locals make day trips to see major league players in intimate settings before regular season begins.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - afternoon storms hit 10 days with 30-45 minute deluges that can soak through umbrellas

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects intensely off water and white sand beaches

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester in 70% humidity which traps moisture and heat

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - downtown sidewalks become slippery during frequent rain showers

Light sweater for evening - temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F) after sunset, especially near water

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes emerge after rain showers, particularly in marsh areas

Waterproof phone case - essential for water activities and protecting devices during unexpected downpours

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - multiple outfit changes needed due to rain and water activities

Allergy medication - oak and pine pollen peaks in March causing issues even for non-sufferers

Portable umbrella - afternoon storms develop quickly with little warning, especially between 2-4pm

Insider Knowledge

Locals plan outdoor activities before 2pm and indoor alternatives after - afternoon storms are so predictable that beach vendors pack up by 1:30pm daily

Download the weather radar app - Jacksonville storms move fast and you can often see 30-minute clear windows to resume outdoor plans

Restaurant patios offer best value dining in March before summer heat makes outdoor eating unbearable - take advantage of comfortable evening temperatures

Book Fernandina Beach accommodations over Jacksonville Beach in March - spring break crowds heavily favor the latter while Fernandina remains relatively peaceful

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning all-day beach trips without indoor backup plans - those 10 rainy days will hit when you least expect, often during peak afternoon hours

Bringing only summer clothes - March evenings require layers as temperatures drop 8-10°C (14-18°F) after sunset

Booking outdoor dining reservations after 6pm without confirming covered seating - evening storms can ruin al fresco plans