Best Hotels near Jacksonville Cruise Port

The metropolitan city of Jacksonville has the largest population in Florida. Thanks to its recently redeveloped Downtown area, it now offers plenty for tourists to enjoy.

These attractions include waterfront restaurants and friendly pubs set along the Southbank Riverwalk next to the St Johns River, where you can sample the best seafood the region has to offer.

You can also enjoy some retail therapy and there are plenty of cultural events regularly held at the Times-Union Center.

With 20 miles of perfect white sandy beaches, Jacksonville is the ideal pre-vacation city to explore as you make your way down to catch your Carnival cruise to the Bahamas.

A single Carnival cruise liner docks at JAXPORT’s ship terminal, just off Heckscher Drive and close to I-295. Carnival cruises are experts when it comes to starting your vacation off right. Their half-hour slot for pre-registered travellers means you can walk right onto the ship with no hanging around!

Although there aren’t many local amenities at the terminal, you will find everything you need on board, including places to eat and WIFI. As there is not much to see or do at the ship terminal, take advantage of everything Jacksonville has to offer before making your way down.

Where to Stay?

There are some local hotels about a ten minutes drive from the terminal, along with hotels close to the airport, which sometimes also include free shuttle transport to/from the airport.

Staying in Jacksonville Beach is one of the best ways to begin your vacation, with several beachfront hotels less than half an hour away. Hotels at the beach have access to good restaurants and are perfect when travelling with a family.

Read also: Jacksonville Cheap Hotel Deals

What are the Closest Hotels near Jacksonville Carnival Cruise Ship Terminal? (within 10 minutes)

1. Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville I-295/East Beltway ★★★ (Top Reviewed)

This Courtyard by Marriott has recently been renovated so everything is fresh and new. One of the closest hotels to the cruise terminal, it only takes around 12 minutes to drive to the port from here. Popular chain restaurants and Walmart can be found in the streets surrounding this hotel, and Jeannie Fewell Park is just around the corner.

Jacksonville Beach is 20 minutes’ away if you want to dip your toes in the sand. The décor inside this modern accommodation is airy and light, and the facilities include a fitness room, outdoor pool, whirlpool, bar and bistro. Overnight parking is offered while on your cruise.

You easily can get to the port by Uber, Lyft, taxi, rental car or any other ride share option.

Why Stay Here

• Very convenient for Jaxport cruise port
• Free parking
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

2. Hampton Inn Jacksonville – East Regency Square ★★ (Affordable)

Seven miles or 12 minutes from Jaxport cruise terminal, straight across the impressive Dames Point Bridge, you’ll find the Hampton Inn at East Regency Square. It’s conveniently close to Walmart and restaurants and just 10 miles from the beach. The interior color scheme is soothing and neutral with the occasional pop of lime or scarlet to liven things up. The staff here score highly when it comes to customer service.

The facilities include a pool set in a sunny patio and a small fitness room. A hot breakfast is part of the room rate and free tea or coffee is served in the lobby 24-hours a day. Extended Parking available for an extra charge.

Why Stay Here

• Good value for money
• Free breakfast & parking
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

3. Candlewood Suites Jacksonville East Merril Road ★★ (Good Location)

If you like your accommodation to be a real home-from-home then this Candlewood Suites is ideal. The large rooms feature a mini kitchen with a microwave, dishwasher and fridge-freezer as well as a comfy armchair and TV. A pool, laundry and panty for supplies are some of the amenities on offer here.

The 6 miles drive to Jaxport Florida cruise pier takes around 11 minutes. A choice of places to eat and shop are close by, with a Walmart supercenter just minutes away. The beach is a short 10 miles east if you want a dip in the ocean.

Why Stay Here

• Good location for getting to cruise port
• Free parking
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

What are the Best Hotels near Jacksonville Airport (with Cruise Parking)?

The main airport for Jacksonville is JAX (Jacksonville International Airport). Only 12 miles from the terminal, here you can board flights to all over the United States, with non-stop options available. Dozens of airlines fly from JAX, with hundreds of guests arriving and departing every day.

The airport is easy to find, situated just one mile west of I-95 (exit 363-B), where you can easily catch a shuttle or taxi down to the JAXPORT ship terminal, around a 20 minute drive away. Why not jump in an Uber or Lyft? Your driver can take you to the terminal for as little as $12-$27, depending on vehicle type.

1. Hyatt Place Jacksonville Airport ★★★★ (Cruise Parking)

One of the best airport hotels in the area, Hyatt Place at Jacksonville Airport is 3 miles from the runway and 10 miles from Jaxport cruise terminals. They offer a free shuttle transport service to the airport and $5 parking for cruise passengers.

Guests love the sofa area in the bedrooms, it provides plenty of space to lounge. The facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness suite, patio seating and a breakfast bar. Serving snacks 24/7 is the Market Gallery so you can always get something to eat no matter what time you arrive.

Why Stay Here

• One of best hotels near Jacksonville Airport
• Free airport shuttle & parking
• Comfortable & spacious rooms

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

2. Home2 Suites By Hilton Jacksonville Airport ★★★

The Home2 Suites at Jacksonville Florida Airport is just minutes from the I95, 3 miles from the airline check-in desks and a 10-mile drive from the cruise port. With a free airport shuttle bus, free wi-fi and a complimentary hot breakfast, this place is good value.

A sunny pool and fitness suite are on site along with a business center. Out on the patio is a fire pit and barbecue area providing a casual place to relax in the evening. All the guest bedrooms are spacious and come with a sofa area where you can spread out in comfort.

Why Stay Here

• Great value for money
• Free airport transfer, parking & breakfast
• Lovely modern rooms

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Airport ★★★ (Cruise Parking)

Stay in the closest hotel to Jacksonville Airport and you’ll enjoy a top quality experience. The lobby and lounge at the DoubleTree by Hilton has luxury seating with accessories in peacock blue and lime. An upmarket dining room serves international dishes and the swish bar has a cocktail menu.

The resort-style pool is edged by a large sunbathing deck and the fitness suite has a full complement of equipment. Hop on the free shuttle from the airport, or park your car while you’re off enjoying your cruise (extra charge).

Why Stay Here

• Closest hotel from Jacksonville Airport
• Bigger hotel with on-site restaurant
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

4. Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville-Airport ★★ (Affordable)

Hampton Inns in Florida never fail to deliver and that includes the hotel at Jacksonville Airport. Located 2 miles from the runway you can make use of the free shuttle bus and it’s also only a 15-minute drive to the cruise terminals at Jaxport. There’s a generous pool outside where you can cool off and a fitness suite if you want to work out.

Each of the 120 bedrooms are familiarly decorated and they have a microwave and mini-fridge which is ideal for fixing a snack. Hot breakfast is served in the morning and is part of the normal room rate. Parking is free of charge.

Why Stay Here

• Budget friendly property
• Free airport shuttle & parking
• Family rooms available

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

5. Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jacksonville Airport ★★ (Cruise Parking)

Great value for money, the Microtel Inn & Suites is just outside Jacksonville Airport grounds and close to the I95. The exterior has a charming clapperboard finish and inside the décor has a hint of Floridian style. Guest bedrooms are set up for a peaceful night’s sleep with neutral earth tones and deep comforters.

By the way of facilities, there’s a pool outside and a small gym. A light breakfast is free of charge and a shuttle bus to the airport is complimentary. If you traveled by car, cruise passengers can park it here for just $3* a day and catch a cab or Uber to the terminals.

Why Stay Here

• Affordable hotel
• Free shuttle (airport)
• $3.00 per day for cruise parking

Cruise Expert Rating: 7/10

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Airport ★★★ (Affordable)

Fairfield Inn & Suites are a tried and tested brand of Florida hotels. The one at Jacksonville Airport is just minutes away from the check-in desks and they provide a free shuttle back and forth. At breakfast time, you can tuck into complimentary sausage, eggs and all the trimmings.

Each bedroom has a mini-fridge and microwave for cooking up a tasty snack and free wi-fi is part of the package. There’s a compact swimming pool at the back of the property and a small gym for exercise. All in all, it’s a clean and tidy budget-friendly place to stay before heading out on a cruise. Extended parking while on your voyage costs $5.00* per day.

Why Stay Here

• Walking distance to restaurants
• Free 24-hour airport transfer service
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

What are the Best Hotels in Jacksonville? (Top rated properties)

1. Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park ★★★★ (Top)

Aloft hotels are fun places to stay. The one at Tapestry Park has a welcoming lobby popping with color and a WXYZ bar that serves up great cocktails and tasty snacks. The guest bedrooms are minimalist, with a hint of Scandinavian design utilizing as much natural daylight as possible. Outside the property there’s a swish pool in a contemporary patio, and a fitness suite completes the facilities list.

Situated 12 miles from Jacksonville port, this hotel is walking distance from a choice of well-known Florida chain restaurants and stores.

Why Stay Here

• Free parking
• Good value for money
• Outdoor pool

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

2. Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park ★★★

Hotel Indigo Jacksonville in the upmarket Deerwood Park area is located within Tapestry Park. It overlooks the lake and features one of the best hotel patios with views over the water. This Florida accommodation oozes colonial charm with polished wooden floors and a spring colors adding a boutique vibe. An onsite bar and bistro, a fitness room and an outdoor pool provide everything you need for a relaxing stay.

There’s an entertainment complex with a cinema a stone’s throw away if you want to venture out. The cruise port is a 13-mile drive away and can be easily reached in around 20 to 25 minutes.

Why Stay Here

• One of best value hotels in Jacksonville FL
• On-site restaurant, but also near stores & restaurants
• Comfortable rooms

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Jacksonville – Town Center ★★★ (Free Parking)

If you like your accommodation fresh out of the box this place is ideal. Very new, contemporary and spacious, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites is across from the town center mall. To board the cruise ships, it’s a quick 20-minute drive to the port.

The rooms come with comfy beds, a coffee maker, a microwave and mini-fridge. To cool off there’s a pool outside and for a quick workout, the roomy fitness area has a couple of treadmills, bikes and free weights. To start the day off right, a hot buffet breakfast is served every morning and complimentary coffee is available in the lobby.

Why Stay Here

• Newer modern hotel
• Great value for money
• Outdoor pool & free parking

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

4. Hyatt Place Jacksonville St. Johns Town Center ★★★

The outdoor pool at the Hyatt Place Jacksonville Town Center is one of the best around. It’s a large sweeping curve of sparkling water surrounded by loungers. They serve a great hot breakfast here, and you can always grab something to eat in the 24/7 Market Place area.

All the 160 bedrooms are decorated in cool grey tones and they feature a cozy corner where a sofa-bed offers a comfy place to sit. Located across from the mall off Town Center Parkway, the location is central to everything. Jaxport cruise terminals are 13 miles away and the beach can be reached in 15 to 20 minutes.

Why Stay Here

• Lovely new & modern hotel
• Excellent value for money
• Near plenty of shops & restaurants

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

What are the Best Hotels in Downtown Jacksonville?

1. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront ★★★ (Downtown)

With a spot next to the iconic Main Street Bridge overlooking St Johns River, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is in the heart of downtown. Walk to bars, shops, the science museum and the art gallery in the local area.

For cruises, Jaxport is only 12 miles away. Guest bedrooms are minimalist with an urban chic vibe and some come with a view of the water. When you’re hungry, there’s a choice of places to eat in-house, pick from Morton’s Steakhouse, the Seafood Grille or the 14-hour snack market on the ground floor.

Why Stay Here

• One of best & most popular Jacksonville downtown hotels
• Free shuttle within a 3 mile radius
• Some rooms have river view

Cruise Expert Rating: 8/10

2. DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront, FL ★★★★

Located on the south bank of the St Johns River, the DoubleTree by Hilton is blessed with great views. Stroll across the bridge and the sights of downtown Jacksonville are there to be enjoyed. And to reach the Jacksonville Florida cruise port, it’s just over a 20-minute drive.

The swimming pool has a generous sunbathing deck around it, ideal for a relaxing dip at the end of the day. At mealtimes, there are two restaurants available – a steakhouse and a casual diner. Bedrooms have a relaxing color scheme of creams, beiges and white and they all come with a balcony.

Why Stay Here

• Located in historic San Marco District of Jacksonville
• River front views
• Rooms with balcony

Cruise Expert Rating: 7/10

What are the Best Hotels in Jacksonville Beach?

1. One Ocean Resort & Spa ★★★★ (Atlantic Beach)

For a luxury stay on Atlantic Beach, Florida, the One Ocean Resort & Spa is arguably the best. The bedrooms are decorated in a tropical style using hues of soft turquoise and pale yellow. Every room comes with a view of the ocean and some have elegant balconies.

A curved pool sits on the edge of the sand and the spa offers a range of treatments and packages. The Azurea restaurant has won awards for its seafood dishes and the bar serves ocean-themed cocktails. A drive to the cruise terminal from here takes around 25 to 30 minutes and downtown Jacksonville is 15 miles away.

Why Stay Here

• Beachfront hotel
• Outdoor pool & full Spa
• Restaurants & shops in walking distance

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

2. Hampton Inn Oceanfront Jacksonville Beach ★★★ (Great Value)

Located right on the edge of Jacksonville Beach, the Hampton Inn Oceanfront couldn’t be better situated. Inside the light and airy hotel there are pops of bright turquoise tones providing a beachside vibe.

The swimming pool is the star attraction, it’s lagoon-shaped with a waterfall and grotto. And a tikki bar can be found on the deck that serves iced cocktails and cold beers. For breakfast, hot waffles and pastries are part of the room rate and there’s parking for a small fee during your stay. It takes around 30 minutes to drive to the port where you board your Carnival cruise ship.

Why Stay Here

• Beachfront hotel
• Good for families
• Rooms with balcony & ocean view

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

3. Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront ★★★ (Top Hotel)

It’s the little touches that make this place special. On the patio, there’s a fire pit, and next to the heated outdoor pool there’s a whirlpool offering somewhere to relax. A mini-fridge in the bedrooms mean you can keep your drinks cool and the gym is open 24 hours.

The Eatery is a casual on-site restaurant with a menu of American dishes and craft beers are available at the Brew Bar. A private access gate takes you over the boardwalk and onto the beach. Getting to the port and cruise terminal takes about 30 minutes by car or shuttle.

Why Stay Here

• One of best beachfront hotels
• Private beach
• Suites offer private balconies with ocean views

Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10

Hotel Map

Port of Jacksonville FL – Carnival Cruises

• JAXPORT Cruise Terminal – 9810 August Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Who Sails from Jacksonville

The city is a home port to ships from Carnival Cruises.

Parking at the Port

Some guests may opt to stay at a Jacksonville hotel and take advantage of cheap parking rates at the port. For those driving down to Florida, port parking is a great cost effective and secure place to leave your vehicle, with cruise check-in right next door.

The parking costs come with tax included, and is $17* a day. However, if your cruise vacation is for 4 or 5 days, the cost is $68 and $85, respectively. There is no need to reserve a spot, and with round-the-clock security camera monitoring, you can rest assured that your vehicle is safe.

There is no restriction on vehicle size, with oversized and larger vehicles easily accommodated. When your vehicle takes up two regular-sized parking spaces the cost is $34 per day.

It is recommended to park after 10.30am, as the port tries to vacate all previous cruise guest vehicles before opening up the lot again.

Once you arrive at your destination, your vehicle is then ready for you to drive away, without the inconvenience of waiting for a shuttle or hotel transfer.

Hotels with free shuttle to Port of Jacksonville?

There is no hotel in Jacksonville that provides a free shuttle transfer to the cruise port. If you want to find a hotel that provides a complimentary port shuttle service, you will need to pre-book a package.

Many airport hotels offer packages that include your cruise, parking and transfer. These packages make a convenient low cost option, with travellers able to book hotel stays and everything they need to get to and from their cruise all in one place.

Of course, hotel rooms are also available without a package. If you want to take an Uber either to or from the port, you should expect to pay around $35 for 2 people. Parking at some airport hotels is usually very reasonable. Cruise parking start at $3.00 per day.

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note (*): Prices, shuttle and parking rates listed are subject to change based on availability from the hotel and may change at any time. Please contact the hotel directly for latest hotel/cruise parking packages.
(Latest update December 27, 2023)

Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.

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Additional information: Jacksonville FL Travel – Weather – Tours & Transportation