Mother’s Day Weekend in Jacksonville

Are you ready for Mother’s Day weekend in Jacksonville? It’s the most wonderful time of the year… well maybe, maybe not. It’s technically just another day, but a day that us mothers need to soak up. Whether you’re a mom who likes to spend Mother’s Day with the family, or you are the mom who decides to take this day and spend it on your own in the most glorious peace and quiet that you’ve experienced in ages, there is no judgment here. I personally love both options. I actually think we should do Mother’s Day #1 and Mother’s Day #2 so that we get to experience a little of each. Sprinkled in with a few awesome Mother’s Day gifts, I’m going to throw out an option for both, and I’m going to raise a glass to you mama hoping that you take two days this year and make it a Mother’s Day weekend!

Let’s start with a family friendly option for Mother’s Day weekend in Jacksonville. I have to say that any meal I don’t have to cook is a meal that I want to eat. My criteria for restaurants these days is largely based around where I can take my kids and not have to remind them about inside voices 3,000 times. Recently, I went to Delicomb on 6th Ave North for the first time. What I loved is that it was very unassuming. A variety of people were there so it wasn’t a total mom hang out, but the atmosphere was relaxed in a way that welcomed kids. The food was also incredibly tasty. After brunch there, walk a couple blocks over to the beach and take a walk. It’s good to keep moving after a good meal to keep you feeling fresh instead of lethargic afterwards. Plus, let the kids run around the beach and get the wiggles out. Heck, let them bring the swimsuits.Here’s a substitute restaurant in case you need it to be even louder to accommodate your kids (which I totally get it… hello toddler life!) I would recommend Angie’s Grom on 3rd Ave South. Delicious brunch and no one is going to mind your crazy kids. The place is indestructible, plus there’s a TV with tons of Disney movies on VHS tapes in a corner of the restaurant. Same after brunch plans apply because Angie’s Grom is just a couple blocks from the beach too.

Now for the solo option. Oh my… so many options! Low key plans first. Hit up First Watch for something fresh and clean to eat. I always leave full but not heavy after a meal there.

One thing I enjoy as a solo activity, or with a girlfriend, is a few hours of basking in the sun with a cold drink and some music or a good book. Here’s what I don’t love… lugging all of the beach gear to the beach. I love the idea of calling Beach Life Rentals and having a chaise and umbrella delivered to the beach and waiting for me whenever I arrive. You and a friend can rent a two chaise and umbrella combo for the entire day for $35. And they will haul it away for you when you are ready to leave!

If you’d really like to treat yourself (which I vote yes to!) then check out Nona Blue for brunch in Ponte Vedra. Very pleasant atmosphere and a place I am not taking my kids to anytime soon. Follow it up with a most relaxing massage from the very best in the area at the Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn and Club. They do it right from beginning to end. If you book a massage there, you can relax at the Spa’s private pool all day long. Order a drink, and toast to another year in the books of absolutely rocking this motherhood thing! Whatever you do, just make sure to enjoy yourself!

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Ashley Davis is a wife and mother, a writer and lover of words. She’s a Jacksonville native and currently resides in Jacksonville Beach with her husband and two little ones. Ashley believes that investing in the moments where we experience new places, cultures, and things is what makes life a most enjoyable adventure! Follow her on Instagram @ashleyndavis or through her website at www.ashleyndavis.com.