Alpine Groves Park on the St. Johns River near St. Augustine, FL.

Fruit Cove

Riverside trails, idyllic parks, and quiet in all the right ways.

Just off the William Bartram Scenic Highway, Fruit Cove offers wide-open spaces, riverfront parks, and trails shaded by cypress and oak. The area's legacy of citrus farming and quiet, natural beauty continues to shape daily life in this peaceful stretch of St. Johns County. Whether you’re exploring historic Switzerland, enjoying a restorative moment in the butterfly garden at Alpine Groves, or taking in the river from a gazebo perched above the water, Fruit Cove invites you to slow down and stay a while.

About 25 miles from Historic Downtown. 

  • Vaill Point Park in south St. Augustine, FL.
  • Sunset at La Venture Grove on the St. Johns River.
  • A water hazzard at Julington Creek Golf Course
  • The view from Beachwalk's clubhouse.
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Life Along the River

Fruit Cove offers the kind of quiet beauty that sneaks up on you. From riverfront boardwalks to paddle-friendly creeks and shady picnic spots, it’s a place to slow down and take it all in. The best parts aren’t flashy — they’re the ones that stick with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fruit Cove is roughly 25 miles northwest of St. Augustine — about a 35-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Fruit Cove is approximately 24 miles south of downtown Jacksonville, making it a convenient suburb for those working in the city while offering a quieter, more relaxed environment.​

There are several public access points to the St. Johns River in and around Fruit Cove, including boat ramps and parks like Alpine Groves Park, which offers a dock and scenic views of the river.​

There will be various citrus trees available at the Flower and Garden Expo.

Fruit Cove’s Early Roots

Fruit Cove’s citrus legacy dates back to the late 1700s when early settlers cultivated oranges along the riverbanks. Later, families like the Moremens helped establish Fruit Cove as a hub of citrus shipping, with a name to match.

Paddleboarding with 904 SUP Yoga in St. Augsutine, FL.

Trails, Parks, & Waterways

From forest paths to fishing docks, Fruit Cove makes it easy to step outside. Hikers, cyclists, and paddlers find plenty to explore here.

Sponsored Partners

Beacher's Lodge - Oceanfront Suites
Beacher's Lodge - Oceanfront Suites
Ocean Sands Beach Boutique Inn
La Fiesta - Ocean Inn & Suites
La Fiesta - Ocean Inn & Suites

Find More to Do in Fruit Cove

Paddleboarding with 904 SUP Yoga in St. Augsutine, FL.

904 SUP Yoga

(904) 299-5010

112 Bartram Oaks Walk

This unique company accommodates every yoga skill level while striving to nurture the mind and body.

A play section fit and accessible for all children

Aberdeen Park Playground

(904) 814-3275

1401 Shetland Dr.

Encouraging togetherness and offering something for children of all abilities.

The pier overlooking the St. Johns River at Alpine Groves Park

Alpine Groves Park

(904) 209-0333

2060 S.R. 13

54-acre park with history, trails, gardens, and stunning sunset viewing from the pier.

Training at Anytime Fitness in Fruit Cove, FL

Anytime Fitness

(904) 342-8058

540 State Rd 13 Ste 103

Providing visitors with a total fitness experience.

Inside of Back 40 Urban Fresh

Back 40 Urban Fresh

(904) 287-8226

450 S.R. 13

Relish in fast service, south of the border cuisine, and beer on tap.

Inside Bala's Pizza in St. Johns, Florida.

Bala's Pizza

(904) 217-7829

164 Everest Lane

More than two dozen New York style gourmet pizzas are available at this St. Johns pizzeria.

People travel on horseback in the forest.

Bella Cavalla Stables

(904) 514-2769

1524 Scott Road

Visitors can discover breathtaking views of St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra while traveling on horseback.

A bruschetta dish — tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, basil, and balsamic glaze on top

Bella Vista

(904) 287-8317

540 S.R. 13

Authentic single and family-style Italian meals.

The rustic home of Stetson Kennedy on the Beluthahatchee lake

Beluthahatchee Park

1523 S.R. 13

The home of author, journalist, and activist Stetson Kennedy is now a small park.

Upcoming Events in Fruit Cove

Access to the Kayak Launch site at Riverfront Park on the St. Johns River.
Friday
Mar 13

Hallowes Cove Kayak Trip

Friday & Saturday, Mar. 13 - 14, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Kayak a serene cove surrounded by conservation land.

Artists show their works around the tall trees at Alpine Groves Park
Friday
Mar 27

River Reflection

Friday, Mar. 27, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

This art show explores the local waterways theme.

The exterior of Beluthahatchee Cottage.
Sunday
Apr 12

Sundays at Stetson's

One Sunday a Month | Music starts at 2:00 p.m.

Enjoy concerts at the former home of a renowned writer and conservationist.