Experience the Coastal Highlights of Jacksonville, NC
What makes Jacksonville, North Carolina, special isn’t just its proximity to the coast. It is the the city’s plentiful opportunities and small-town pace that makes it a favorite for residents and visitors alike. Home to Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River, the city has a large military presence that shapes its culture.
Ready to explore all that Jacksonville has to offer? Full House Storage‘s complete Jacksonville guide will help you make the most of your time here, whether for a quick visit or permanent change of station (PCS).
All You Need to Know About Living in Jacksonville, NC
Jacksonville’s History & Military Background
Jacksonville’s history is deeply intertwined with the military. Established near what became Camp Lejeune in the 1940s, the city has grown alongside the base, becoming a hub for military personnel and families. Landmarks such as the Lejeune Memorial Gardens commemorate local heroes and reflect the city’s enduring connection to the armed forces.
Explore the history and heritage of the area with exhibits on the local military and early settlers at the Onslow County Museum. It’s a small but informative stop for anyone interested in Jacksonville’s past.
Transportation Around the City
Major highways like US 17 and NC 24 make it easy to reach nearby cities such as Wilmington, Morehead City, or New Bern, as well as the Atlantic Coast beaches for weekend trips or daily adventures. While Jacksonville is largely a car-friendly town, there are plenty of ways to get around without a vehicle. The city has bike paths and walking trails, especially around parks, residential neighborhoods, and the downtown area. Local bus services also connect key areas, including shopping centers, schools, and community hubs, providing options for those who prefer public transit.
For air travel, Albert J. Ellis Airport is just a short drive away and offers regional flights, making travel convenient for both business and leisure.
What Are the Best Things to Do in and Around Jacksonville?
Beaches & Coastal Activities
One of Jacksonville’s biggest draws is its proximity to the Atlantic Coast, which makes spontaneous beach trips and outdoor recreation fairly synonymous with the city’s culture. Residents and visitors alike have several popular beaches to choose from:
- Atlantic Beach: Known for its family friendly atmosphere, Atlantic Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sand. Boardwalks filled with local shops and casual dining add to the charm.
- Emerald Isle: Just a short drive from Jacksonville, Emerald Isle is famous for its scenic beauty and calm waters. It’s great for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply taking in the natural scenery along the shoreline.
- North Topsail Beach: Get off the mainland only 30 minutes from Jacksonville with a visit to North Topsail Beach. It has more than 12 miles of relaxing space to soak in the sun. Explore down the island to Topsail Beach to see the whole area!
- Onslow Beach: This beach is open to all DoD ID holders with proper Camp Lejeune base access.
- Surf City: Surf City is a hotspot for surfers, anglers, and seafood lovers. With great waves, fishing piers, and charming eateries, it’s a laid-back destination that highlights the region’s coastal lifestyle.
Croatan National Forest
Spanning nearly 160,000 acres, Croatan National Forest is unique because it sits between the mainland and the coast, so it features a mix of saltwater estuaries, pocosins (wetlands), and dense hardwood forests.
Residents like to visit to hike, kayak, birdwatch, and camp at one of the park’s designated sites. Newcomers to the area will appreciate that it’s a great place to escape the city for a day trip, with trails and waterways suitable for all skill levels. Seasonal activities, such as bass fishing or spotting migratory birds, make it worth revisiting throughout the year.
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Located in the heart of Jacksonville, Lejeune Memorial Gardens is a beautifully landscaped area dedicated to honoring the service of military personnel stationed at Camp Lejeune. The park features monuments, memorial walls, and reflective fountains, offering a peaceful place to walk, jog, or simply enjoy the outdoors.
It’s also a great introduction to the city’s deep military ties and sense of community pride. Throughout the year, the gardens host memorial ceremonies and public events, giving residents and visitors a chance to participate in local traditions and show support for the military community.
Downtown Jacksonville
Not the typical downtown area, Jacksonville still has a hub area for social events. Riverwalk Park hosts annual gatherings, like Oktoberfest and Winterfest, so keep your eye on the calendar for opportunities to join in on neighborhood fun!
Jacksonville Landing is between the two bridges, where you will see locals launching their watercrafts. Free and open to the public, you can bring your boat, kayak, or canoe. The waterside walkway provides a quiet escape for those in search of a serene walking trail.
Small Business Shopping
Jacksonville offers a charming and varied boutique shopping scene that highlights local flair over big-box sameness. Specialty shops like Antique 2 Chic and The Tattered Cottage blend vintage appeal with curated home décor, while fashion-forward spots like Chica’s Corner Boutique, Fanci Friends, Miladas, and Tuck & Tailored Boutique serve up unique women’s apparel, leather goods, and accessories. For bargain and treasure hunters, The Foundry Consignment Mall provides a wide range of consigned goods across furniture, décor, and clothing.
Our talented local business owners thank you for shopping small!
Local Moving Resources to Simplify Your Jump to Jacksonville, NC
When moving to Jacksonville, you should be able to focus on the excitement of your new adventures. Leave it to Full House Storage to figure out where to store your household items as you take the time to move and settle in. Especially for military families relocating to or from Camp Lejeune, our facility on Richlands Highway conveniently serves our neighbors all around New River.
Temperature-Controlled Self Storage for the Camp Lejeune Community
A temperature-controlled storage facility is particularly useful in a fluctuating North Carolina climate such as ours. Protect your belongings from the heat and coastal weather that can affect electronics, furniture, and other valuables. Local self storage options like Full House Storage in Jacksonville provide convenient, secure units for both short-term and long-term storage. You can rent month-to-month to stay flexible, and the extended access hours make it easy to organize and retrieve your items whenever needed.
Having a reliable storage solution gives you the confidence that your possessions are safe, so you can give your full attention to your transition into Jacksonville. Explore your local storage options online with Full House Storage.
Get ready for your move with these storage tips!
Katie Mest
About the Author: Katie Mest is a Content Marketing Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors and snuggling in with a crochet project and her cat, Billie.
