We live in San Marco and love the neighborhood! The square has many restaurants we visit often including Taverna and Grape and Grain Exchange plus a few local shops. You can also walk to the St. Johns River!
Weather in October is very nice! You will be able still enjoy the beach! There are many restaurants and bars in the area: O-Ku, Casa Marina Rooftop and V Pizza to name a few of our favorites. :)
Neptune Beach is just north of Jacksonville Beach! Some of our favorite restaurants include Salumeria 104, Flying Iguana, Lemon Bar and North Beach Fish Camp.
Jacksonville has many breweries but Ink Brewing is one of our favorites. Hard Pressed burgers has a food truck here and its the best burger in town! Definitely recommend trying this out.