Family Guide
Everything Parents Need to Know: Neighborhoods, Schools, Parks, Playgrounds & Activities
St. Johns County, Florida is consistently ranked as one of the best places in the United States to raise a family, thanks to its top-rated public schools, safe neighborhoods, parks, beaches, and family-focused communities.
Located just south of Jacksonville and including St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and St. Johns, the county offers a unique combination of suburban living, coastal lifestyle, and modern master-planned communities built for families.
This guide covers everything parents need to know — including schools, neighborhoods, parks, playgroups, activities, and essential resources.
Top Neighborhoods in St. Johns County for Families
These neighborhoods are specifically designed with families in mind.
Nocatee
Why families love it:
• Splash water parks
• Top schools
• Bike trails
• Family events
Best for: Active families, newer homes
SilverLeaf
• New construction
• Multiple playgrounds
• Family-focused
Best for: Growing families
Beachwalk
• 14-acre crystal lagoon
• Resort-style living
Best for: Resort lifestyle
Rivertown
• Riverfront access
• Nature trails
Best for: Outdoor families
Schools in St. Johns County
The St. Johns County School District is ranked #1 in Florida.
Top Schools:
Ponte Vedra High School
Creekside High School
Beachside High School
Tocoi High School
Why families move here:
• High test scores
• Strong sports programs
• Safe environment
Best Parks and Playgrounds for Kids
Top Parks:
Veterans Park
Treaty Park
Alpine Groves Park
Nocatee Community Park
Amenities include:
• Playgrounds
• Splash pads
• Sports fields
Detailed Info For St Johns Parks.
Beaches for Families
Best family beaches:
St. Augustine Beach
Vilano Beach
Mickler’s Landing
Why families love them:
• Lifeguards
• Restrooms
• Easy parking
Compare St Johns FL Beaches.
Playgroups, Mom Groups & Parent Resources
These are extremely popular searches for new residents.
Playgroups and Parent Groups
St. Johns Moms (Facebook)
Meetup.com groups
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
Local church groups
Community clubhouse groups (Nocatee, Rivertown)
Indoor Activities for Kids
Perfect for hot or rainy days:
Altitude Trampoline Park
Urban Air Adventure Park
Bowling alleys
Libraries
Family Healthcare Resources
Hospitals:
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care
Baptist Medical Center South
Flagler Hospital
Libraries and Learning Resources
Public Libraries:
St. Augustine Library
Bartram Trail Library
Programs include:
Storytime
Tutoring
Summer camps
Why Families Are Moving to St. Johns County
Top reasons:
#1 Schools in Florida
Safe neighborhoods
Family-focused communities
Parks and outdoor lifestyle
Family Checklist for Moving to St. Johns County
✔ Choose neighborhood
✔ Register for school
✔ Find pediatrician
✔ Join playgroups
✔ Explore parks