On the North Carolina coast northeast of Wilmington, the city of Jacksonville is surrounded by Camp Lejeune Marine Base, the New River stretching in from the Atlantic and Hoffman Forest. Because of its location, Jacksonville has always been an important naval town. Its location provides plenty of outdoor recreation for visitors and interesting military history to explore.
To get the flavor of Jacksonville, try a walking tour of the town's Mill Avenue Historic District. The head to Camp Lejeune which, together with nearby New River Air Station, covers 151,000 acres and houses the world's largest marine expeditionary force in the world. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the massive base.
Biking is popular in this seaside city. The 22-mile Jacksonville City by the Sea route runs from the city to Hammocks Beach State Park Ferry terminal; cyclists can take the ferry to Bear Island. New River Waterfront Park offers a boat launch area; fishing piers are located nearby. Sea Gull Recreation Center offers golf, a driving range and night-lighted play. Horseback riding and motorcross facilities are also available.
Dining options range from fast-food to sit-down chain restaurants to home-style local eateries. Accommodations include hotels, bed and breakfasts and camping.
Jacksonville is on North Carolina's Atlantic coast, northeast of Wilmington and roughly two hours southeast of Raleigh off US 24-E.
