Doctors Lake Inlet

About

Introduction:

Doctors Lake is located off the St. Johns River about 12 miles south of the Jacksonville waterfront and 19 miles southwest of Jacksonville Beach. Doctors Lake is primarily a stop-off point for cruisers making the journey north or south along the St. Johns River.

The image above is a view to the west over the Doctors Lake Inlet and the Park Avenue Bridge. To the left (south) is Whitneys Marine, which has a variety of services. Call ahead on VHF Channel 16 to inquire about transient slips; they are not always available.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 11492.

The Park Avenue Bridge (37-foot fixed vertical clearance) limits travel for some cruisers with tall masts. Red daybeacon “2” is located on the north end of the inlet and guides boaters into the area, and depths in the inlet are around seven feet. If you can make it under the bridge, there are some quiet and well-protected anchoring areas among the tree-lined shores. Otherwise, inquire at Whitneys about transient slips if you need to tie up for the night.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.