by The Editors | April 13, 2017

The Local’s Guide to Ponte Vedra & The Beaches

Flamingo Highlights Our Favorite Hometown Spots to Eat, Shop, Play, Stay, Workout and Wind Down

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Between world-class golf courses, gorgeous beaches and a burgeoning food and shopping scene, Ponte Vedra Beach and its sandy neighbors (Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach) have become quite the hidden travel gems in Florida. In our Special Edition Bird’s Eye View map, we celebrate the classic spots and new editions in our coastal community loved by locals.

  1. TPC SAWGRASS
    Each May, thousands of people from across the globe come to Ponte Vedra Beach to visit THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass to witness history as the best golfers in the world take on the iconic island green during THE PLAYERS Championship. 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach tpc.com/sawgrass and theplayerschampionship.com
  2. 3 PALMS GRILLE
    The airy new outpost for golfers and the social set in the Oak Bridge neighborhood of Sawgrass Country Club with an expansive outdoor patio, live music, and American cuisine is the perfect spot for sunset dining. 254 Alta Mar Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach 3palmsgrille.com 
  3. TRASCA & CO. EATERY 
    Known for its signature panino sandwiches—warm, satisfying creations straight out of owner Sara Frasca’s family recipe book—Trasca bustles with hungry Ponte Vedrans enjoying its food and vintage cafe atmosphere. The menu includes cracker pizzas, salads, craft beer, wine, homemade desserts, scones and coffee drinks not to be missed. 155 Tourside Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach trascaandco.com
  4. SCOUT & MOLLY’S
    This casual-chic boutique specializes in that just-right fit for clients, with looks ranging from trendy night-on-the-town dresses to classic jeans and t-shirt combos. An eclectic blend of clothing and accessories by designers like Trina Turk, Fifteen Twenty, AG Jeans, Tolani, Liana Paula and Liv N Grace elevate this neighborhood shop tucked in the heart of Sawgrass Village. 340 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach sawgrass.scoutandmollys.com
  5. RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
    The New Orleans steak house is a local fixture for happy hour, holidays and those craving that signature USDA Prime steak, served sizzling on a 500-degree plate. Equally as popular as the classic cuisine, a world-class wine selection and hand-crafted cocktails have engendered a loyal fan base. 814 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach ruthschris.com
  6. TRANSFORMATION PILATES
    Whether on the reformer, mat or barre, beach bodies emerge from the safe, personalized workouts Transformation offers. Owned and operated by a registered nurse, the independent studio provides private, small-group and BootyBarre classes in a contemporary space. Define muscle and style by shopping for chic activewear, including Vimmia, Splits59 and Alo Yoga. 330 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach transformationpilates.com 
  7. MODELCITIZEN
    The upscale boutique offers an exclusive mix of women’s contemporary fashion, wardrobe staples, shoes and a beautifully edited jewelry collection. Stylists tailor looks from a selection of designer denim, stunning dresses and easy tees. Shop for Misa Los Angeles, McGuire, Rag & Bone/Jean, Ulla Johnson, Velvet Tees, Stateside, Sundry and J Brand. 330 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach modelcitizen.com
  8. PONTE VEDRA INN & CLUB 
    The oceanfront inn is a Florida icon with classic beach-club charm, luxe accommodations, two golf courses, tennis, North Florida’s largest spa and alfresco dining. Sip a cane vodka shrub at the Tavern inside the historic inn, watch the waves roll in over a casual meal at the Surf Deck Grille or glam it up with panoramic views at the chef’s table inside the Seahorse Grille. 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach pontevedra.com
  9. UNDERWOOD’S JEWELERS
    Serving Florida’s First Coast since 1928, the area’s signature fine jeweler opened a location at the Shoppes of Ponte Vedra more than 20 years ago. Underwood’s remains the exclusive representative for many of the best jewelry and watch brands, including Rolex, David Yurman, Forevermark Diamonds, Lagos, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, John Hardy, Ippolita, Erica Courtney, Dao Fournier and more. 330 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach underwoodjewelers.com
  10. BOLD BEAN COFFEE ROASTERS
    Bold Bean Coffee Roasters’ seasonally sourced, locally roasted, limited-lot specialty beans reflect the company’s close relationship with its producer partners, small scale family farmers. Find single-origin coffees, espresso, signature blends, specialty teas, handcrafted syrups, classic pastries, savory sandwiches, local and regional craft beers, and select wines served morning until night. 2400 Third St. S., Jacksonville Beach boldbeancoffee.com 
  11. PENELOPE T
    The creative collaboration of two Floridian college friends has turned Penelope T into a fashion destination for discerning women who put thought and personality into what they wear. Edgy, casual, sophisticated clothing brands such as Maison Scotch and Xirena and jewelry designers like Jenny Bird set this boutique apart. 2400 Third St. S.,Jacksonville Beach penelopetboutique.com
  12. SAILORS SIREN
    The adorable mother-daughter duo behind this shop, perched on the second floor of a quaint bungalow, curates salt-air essentials for a lifestyle reflecting their family, their community and a modern beach aesthetic. Find quality, responsibly-made, artisanal American (particularly Southern) products like hand-woven baskets, ceramics, coffee table books, custom cocktail accessories and Florida art. Come visit them in their new location. 415 3rd St. S in Jacksonville Beach, sailorssiren.com
  13. SEAWALK PAVILION
    The oceanfront band shell anchors Jax Beach. Big acts, including Better than Ezra, Josh Turner and nationally renowned jazz musicians, perform year-round on this small, intimate outdoor stage. 75 First St. N., Jacksonville Beach facebook.com/Seawalk-Pavilion
  14. GYPSET AND PEARL
    This specialty shop curates a mix of all things fabulous for the face, body and home. Find products steeped in quality and craftsmanship and brands that inspire daydreamers, jetsetters and beachcombers alike. From lingerie to beach wear and organic skincare, the lines carried in the shop reflect the owner’s global sensibility and passion for travel. 317 10th Ave. N., Jacksonville Beach gypsetandpearl.com
  15. RESTAURANT DORO
    The small, family-owned restaurant combines casual-elegant decor (pristine-beach chic) and an intimate dining atmosphere with elevated cuisine created by Chef Chris Polidoro’s kitchen. Doro offers a beautiful selection of wine and beer and a splendid menu of healthy dishes for those who like to eat clean and organic without sacrificing flavor and indulgence. 106 First St., Neptune Beach restaurantdoro.com
  16. FIG & WILLOW
    Nestled in the heart of the pedestrian-friendly Beaches Town Center, the boutique welcomes shoppers looking for a relaxed, contemporary vibe. The clothing and accessories on hand echo the pretty boho style that has become the signature of the area. The shop offers stylish tops, bottoms, dresses and locally made jewelry. 241 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach shopfigandwillow.com
  17. ONE OCEAN RESORT & SPA
    The seaside resort anchors the Atlantic Beach neighborhood, with posh interiors inspired by the sea and sky. Tucked inside the hotel, Azurea is one of the area’s best-kept culinary secrets. Executive Chef Ted Peters brings exceptional expertise to each and every dish, creating menus that showcase the area’s fresh, seasonal cuisine. 1 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach oneoceanresort.com
  18. HOTEL PALMS
    This beachside motor court hotel recently emerged from a renovation with a modern-coastal makeover including regional touches such as reclaimed wood headboards and original concrete flooring dotted with coquina shell. Sip a local beer while overlooking the private courtyard, complete with an outdoor fireplace, or grab one of the hotel’s bikes to cruise the beach or nearby brick streets. 28 Sherry Dr., Atlantic Beach thehotelpalms.com