Freedom Boat Club offers several fantastic locations in Northeast Florida, and Julington Creek stands out as one of the best for family-friendly boating and watersports. Whether you’re into tubing, wakeboarding, or just cruising the calm waters of the St. Johns River, Julington Creek provides a great balance of activities in a peaceful setting. Let’s explore what this marina has to offer and how it compares to other locations.
Freedom Boat Club at Julington Creek
Boat Options
At Julington Creek, you’ll find a variety of boats to suit your needs, whether you’re planning a relaxing day or looking for action-packed watersports. The marina offers:
Boat types available:
- Pontoon Boats: Spacious and stable, perfect for leisurely family cruises or hosting groups.
- Center Consoles: Great for fishing and exploring, offering space and versatility.
- Deck Boats: Perfect for family outings and watersports, with plenty of seating.
- Bowriders: Ideal for cruising with friends or enjoying water-based activities like tubing and wakeboarding.
How Busy Is It?
Julington Creek is generally less busy compared to other Freedom Boat Club locations, especially those closer to the coast like Camachee Cove. This makes it easier to secure a reservation, even if you don’t plan far in advance. However, it can get more crowded during peak times like weekends and holidays, so booking early is still recommended.
How Far Can You Go?
Julington Creek is located along the St. Johns River, providing access to a variety of nearby waterways and destinations within a 25-mile radius. Here are some popular spots you can explore from the marina:
- Doctor’s Lake: A prime location for watersports like tubing, wakeboarding, and fishing.
- Black Creek: Known for its calm waters and natural beauty, this is a perfect spot for watersports and features a rope swing the kids will love.
- Pineapple Point: A popular sandbar just south of Doctor’s Lake that can get busy on weekends. It’s a great spot to anchor and relax.
- Downtown Jacksonville: For a scenic cruise, head north towards downtown Jacksonville, where you might even spot dolphins along the way.
With easy access to these destinations, Julington Creek is an excellent starting point for both short trips and day-long excursions.
Map Overview:
- 1 = Drop-off Location
- 2 = Pickup Location
- 3 = Parking Area
Boats at Julington Creek:
Here’s a closer look at some of the specific boats available at Julington Creek:
- Key West 203 FS: A popular center console, great for fishing or general boating.
- Key West 239 DFS: A dual console boat, offering comfort and protection from the elements for family outings.
- Bennington Pontoon: Perfect for relaxed family cruises, providing ample space and comfort.
- Hurricane SunDeck Sport 201: A versatile boat ideal for watersports and family fun.
Activities
The most popular activities at Julington Creek revolve around watersports and family outings. Here are some activities to consider during your trip:
- Wildlife Viewing: Heading north towards downtown Jacksonville, you’re likely to spot dolphins, adding a special touch to your boating experience.
- Doctor’s Lake: This area is perfect for tubing and wakeboarding, with plenty of open water to enjoy.
- Pineapple Point: A bustling spot for boaters, Pineapple Point is a great place to anchor, swim, and socialize with other boaters.
- Black Creek: A quieter, more secluded spot, ideal for wakeboarding in calm waters. Don’t miss the rope swing, a favorite for kids.
- Tubing: If the weather turns uncertain, head east from the marina for a backup tubing spot in calmer waters.
Navigating
Navigating Julington Creek is where this marina truly shines. It’s very beginner-friendly, making it an excellent location for new boaters or captains. We did most of our early boating here, and while the river can get choppy at times, we never felt uneasy about boating in this area. Exiting the marina is straightforward—just go slow, as it’s a busy area.
Channel Markers
The channel markers are easy to spot here, with red on port and green on starboard. However, staying strictly in the channel isn’t much of a concern as the chances of running aground are low in this area.
Amenities
Julington Creek offers a variety of amenities to ensure your boating experience is smooth and enjoyable. There’s a fish cleaning station, restrooms, and ice machines near the parking area. For dining, nearby spots include Whitey’s Fish Camp and a small general store with snacks and light fishing gear.
Contact Info:
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a day of watersports or a relaxing cruise along the St. Johns River, Julington Creek is one of the best marinas to visit. Its calm waters and variety of boating options make it a top choice for families and new boaters alike. With fewer crowds than the coastal locations and easy access to beautiful waterways, Julington Creek is the perfect starting point for your next boating adventure.