Looking for cheap Flights to Jacksonville, Ellis, North Carolina, USA (OAJ) airport?

Jacksonville, accessible via affordable flights to OAJ (Albert J. Ellis Airport), is a coastal gem in North Carolina’s Onslow County, where military pride, maritime heritage, and natural beauty converge. Home to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, this vibrant city of over 70,000 draws visitors with its historic waterfront, serene beaches, and the nearby Croatan National Forest. Beyond its military and coastal allure, hidden treasures like the Lynnwood Park Zoo and local eateries such as Duck’s Grille & Bar showcase Jacksonville’s small-town charm and community spirit. With a rich history tied to its strategic location and a resilient recovery from past hurricanes, Jacksonville offers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and coastal relaxation.

A Journey Through Jacksonville’s History

Jacksonville’s story is one of resilience, rooted in Native American heritage, colonial trade, and modern military significance. Named for President Andrew Jackson, the city was founded in 1757 along the New River. Its port fueled early commerce, while the 20th century brought Camp Lejeune, transforming it into a military hub. Today, historic sites like the Pelletier House and the Montford Point Marine Museum preserve this legacy, while festivals like the Jacksonville Jamboree celebrate its enduring community spirit. The city’s recovery from hurricanes like Florence (2018) underscores its strength, making it a destination that honors its past while embracing the future.

Early Roots and Native Heritage

The Tuscarora and other indigenous peoples thrived along the New River for centuries before European settlers arrived in the 1700s. Onslow County’s establishment in 1734 marked a shift, with Jacksonville growing as a trading post. Visitors can explore this era through local museums and historic trails, connecting to the region’s deep Native American and colonial roots, which echo in its eco-conscious present.

• Onslow County Museum: 301 S Wilmington St, Richlands, NC 28574 – Exhibits on Tuscarora history and early settler life.
• Mike’s Farm: 1606 Haw Branch Rd, Beulaville, NC 28518 – A nearby living history farm with Native American artifact displays.
• New River Waterfront Park: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Features historical markers on indigenous waterways.
• Hammocks Beach State Park: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Coastal preserve with ranger-led talks on Native heritage.
• Croatan National Forest: 141 E Fisher Ave, New Bern, NC 28560 (nearby) – Trails and exhibits on indigenous land use.
• Beulaville Historical Society: 112 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 – Local archives with Native American artifacts.
• Fort Macon State Park: 2303 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 – Coastal history with Native context.
• Tryon Palace: 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28562 (nearby) – Colonial site with exhibits on early regional tribes.

Colonial Era and Maritime Growth

By the 18th century, Jacksonville’s New River port bustled with trade in timber and naval stores. The city’s strategic location drew merchants and shipbuilders, laying the foundation for its maritime legacy. Historic sites like the Pelletier House reflect this era, offering a glimpse into a time when the river was the city’s lifeblood.

• Pelletier House: 135 Old Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – A 19th-century home showcasing maritime trade history.
• New River Waterfront: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Scenic spot with historical plaques on shipping.
• Swansboro Historic District: 101 W Church St, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Charming waterfront with colonial-era stories.
• Beaufort Historic Site: 130 Turner St, Beaufort, NC 28516 – Nearby maritime village with shipbuilding exhibits.
• North Carolina Maritime Museum: 315 Front St, Beaufort, NC 28516 – Artifacts from coastal trade and piracy.
• Sturgeon City: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Environmental center with river trade history.
• Hammocks Beach State Park: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Kayaking tours with maritime insights.
• Cedar Point Tideland Trail: 2301 Cedar Point Blvd, Cedar Point, NC 28584 – Coastal path with historical markers.

Military Transformation

The 1941 establishment of Camp Lejeune reshaped Jacksonville, making it a cornerstone of Marine Corps history. The base, now home to over 47,000 active-duty personnel, spurred economic and population growth. Museums like the Montford Point Marine Museum honor the legacy of African American Marines, while annual events like Freedom Fest celebrate the city’s military pride.

• Montford Point Marine Museum: 147 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Honors first African American Marines.
• Lejeune Memorial Gardens: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Tributes to military sacrifice.
• Veterans Memorial: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Waterfront monument to service members.
• Camp Lejeune Visitor Center: 812 Holcomb Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28547 – Guided tours of base history (by appointment).
• Marine Corps Museum of the Carolinas: 200 Valencia Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Exhibits on regional military impact.
• Beirut Memorial: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Solemn tribute to 1983 bombing victims.
• 9/11 Memorial Beam: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – World Trade Center artifact display.
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Reflective site with engraved names.

Modern Jacksonville and Resilience

Today, Jacksonville thrives as a military and coastal hub, with a growing tourism sector contributing $500 million annually. Its recovery from Hurricane Florence showcased community strength, with rebuilt infrastructure and revitalized businesses. The Jacksonville Historic Preservation Society ensures the city’s past blends seamlessly with its vibrant present.

• Jacksonville Historic Preservation Society: 200 Valencia Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Protects historic landmarks.
• Downtown Jacksonville: 112 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Revitalized area with shops and dining.
• Sturgeon City: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Environmental education and community events.
• Freedom Fountain: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Central landmark with community gatherings.
• Northeast Creek Park: 911 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Green space for festivals and recreation.
• Jacksonville Commons: 100 Recreation Ln, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Sports and community hub.
• Onslow County Public Library: 58 Doris Ave E, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Cultural resource with local history.
• Zing Zumm Children’s Museum: 625 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Interactive family learning.

Hurricane Recovery and Community Spirit

Hurricane Florence in 2018 brought 30 inches of rain, causing $17 billion in statewide damages and displacing thousands in Jacksonville. The city rallied with community-driven rebuilding, restoring parks and businesses. Events like the Jacksonville Jamboree and fundraisers at Lejeune Memorial Gardens bolstered recovery, with tourism rebounding to pre-storm levels by 2025, reflecting Jacksonville’s unbreakable spirit.

• Lejeune Memorial Gardens: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Hosts recovery events and concerts.
• New River Waterfront Park: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Restored public space for gatherings.
• Onslow County Tourism: 1099 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Promotes recovery through local business support.
• Sturgeon City: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Leads environmental restoration projects.
• Northeast Creek Park: 911 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Rebuilt trails and community spaces.
• United Way of Onslow County: 210 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Coordinates relief and volunteer efforts.
• Jacksonville Commons: 100 Recreation Ln, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Restored recreational facilities.
• Onslow Memorial Hospital: 317 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Key in recovery medical support.

Hidden Gems and Local Insights

Beyond the military and tourist spots, Jacksonville’s hidden gems like the Lynnwood Park Zoo and local haunts like The Kettle Diner offer an intimate look at the city’s charm, cherished by residents for their authenticity and quiet appeal.

• Lynnwood Park Zoo: 1071 Wells Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Small zoo with native wildlife and family tours.
• The Kettle Diner: 300 S Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Classic Southern comfort food spot.
• Walton’s Distillery: 261 Ben Williams Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Local craft spirits with tours.
• Riverwalk Park: 421 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Quiet waterfront for reflection.
• Old Bridge Street: 135 Old Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Historic charm with small shops.
• Camp Johnson Beach: Restricted access, Jacksonville, NC 28547 – Serene base beach for military families.
• St. Anne’s Episcopal Church: 711 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Historic sanctuary with community events.
• Piney Green Park: 4301 Piney Green Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28544 – Local green space for picnics.

Exploring Jacksonville’s Geography and Climate

Spanning 56 square miles near the Atlantic coast, Jacksonville sits at sea level along the New River, accessible via US-17 and NC-24. Northeast Creek Park offers kayaking and trails, while the Croatan National Forest provides hiking and wildlife. The region’s geology, shaped by coastal sediment, supports unique ecosystems, with salt marshes and oyster beds. Visitors can explore these at Hammocks Beach State Park or join eco-tours through Sturgeon City to learn about the area’s rich biodiversity.

• Northeast Creek Park: 911 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Kayaking and nature trails.
• Croatan National Forest: 141 E Fisher Ave, New Bern, NC 28560 – Wilderness with pine forests and bogs.
• Hammocks Beach State Park: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Coastal trails and ferry access.
• New River Waterfront Park: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Scenic riverfront with fishing.
• Topsail Beach: 802 S Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445 – Pristine shores for relaxation.
• Sturgeon City: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Environmental center with river ecology tours.
• Onslow County Environmental Education Center: 1330 NC-210, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460 – Hands-on coastal learning.
• Bear Island: Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Remote beach with camping.

Jacksonville’s humid subtropical climate brings hot summers (75-90°F) and mild winters (35-60°F), with 55 inches of rain and rare snow. Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) are ideal for outdoor activities, with record highs of 100°F (1998) and lows of 10°F (1985). Check post-hurricane conditions via Onslow County alerts before visiting coastal areas.

Jacksonville’s People and Places

Jacksonville’s 2025 population is 72,876, with a median age of 27.8 due to its military presence. The racial makeup includes 67% White, 20% Black, 3% Asian, 1% Native American, and 12% Hispanic/Latino. Households average 2.5 people, with a median income of $48,000 and a 14% poverty rate. The 35,000-strong workforce, heavily tied to Camp Lejeune, has a 15-minute commute, with 25% holding bachelor’s degrees and 30% high school diplomas. Military (40%), healthcare (15%), and tourism (10%) drive the economy.

• Downtown Jacksonville: 112 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Vibrant core with shops and dining.
• Piney Green: 4301 Piney Green Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28544 – Family-friendly with parks.
• Northwoods: 2600 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Shopping and residential hub.
• Southwest: 2700 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Quiet area near base amenities.
• Pumpkin Center: 4000 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Rural charm with community feel.
• Brynn Marr: 100 Brynn Marr Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Suburban with schools and parks.
• New River: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Waterfront living with history.
• Sneads Ferry: 1330 NC-210, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460 – Coastal village with fishing vibe.

Work and Innovation

Jacksonville’s economy revolves around Camp Lejeune, employing 20,000 civilians, with Onslow Memorial Hospital adding 2,000 jobs. A 3.5% unemployment rate supports growth in tourism and marine-related industries, with emerging sectors like coastal tech and renewable energy training at Coastal Carolina Community College.

• Camp Lejeune: 812 Holcomb Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28547 – Military and civilian roles.
• Onslow Memorial Hospital: 317 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Healthcare hub.
• Coastal Carolina Community College: 444 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Education and training jobs.
• Walmart Distribution Center: 1610 NC-53, Burgaw, NC 28425 – Logistics and retail employment.
• City of Jacksonville: 815 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Public sector opportunities.
• Marine Chevrolet: 1408 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Retail and service jobs.
• Food Lion: 2200 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Grocery and supply chain roles.
• Sturgeon City: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Environmental and community positions.

Living and Learning

Coastal Carolina Community College serves 4,000 students with programs in marine technology and trades, while Onslow County Schools educate 26,000 students across 38 schools with a 1:15 ratio. Adult education at the library supports lifelong learning in coastal conservation and tech.

• Coastal Carolina Community College: 444 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Marine and trade programs.
• Campbell University - Camp Lejeune: 825 Stone St, Jacksonville, NC 28547 – Military-focused degrees.
• University of Mount Olive: 2540 Onslow Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Flexible adult education.
• ECU Dental School Community Service Learning Center: 1856 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Healthcare training.
• Miller-Motte College: 1291 Hargett St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Vocational and online courses.

Culture and Creativity

Jacksonville’s cultural scene shines through murals like the Freedom Fountain project and events at the Sturgeon City Art Walk, blending military pride with coastal creativity.

• Freedom Fountain Mural: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Iconic mural celebrating military heritage.
• Sturgeon City Art Walk: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Annual event with local artists.
• Onslow County Arts Council: 2292 Onslow Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Community art exhibits.
• Zing Zumm Children’s Museum: 625 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Creative family activities.
• Council for the Arts: 826 New Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Workshops and gallery space.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Locals cherish spots like Mike’s Farm for its seasonal festivals and the quiet beauty of Stones Creek Game Land, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.

• Mike’s Farm: 1606 Haw Branch Rd, Beulaville, NC 28518 – Seasonal events and local produce.
• Stones Creek Game Land: 1000 NC-24, Hubert, NC 28539 – Wildlife haven for hiking.
• Duck’s Grille & Bar: 1207 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Local dining with live music.
• Ragged Garden Inn: 101 Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Cozy historic stay.
• Bear Island: Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Secluded beach camping.

Festivals and Events

The Jacksonville Jamboree and Kulture Fest bring the community together, celebrating military heritage and coastal culture with music, food, and family fun.

• Jacksonville Jamboree: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Annual street festival with vendors.
• Kulture Fest: 911 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Multicultural celebration with music.
• Freedom Fest: 170 Montford Landing Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Military appreciation event.
• Mullet Festival: 101 W Church St, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Coastal food and fun nearby.
• Onslow Oktoberfest: 100 Recreation Ln, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Beer and family activities.

Outdoor Adventures

Northeast Creek Park and Hammocks Beach State Park offer kayaking and hiking, while the Croatan National Forest provides rugged trails, showcasing Jacksonville’s coastal and forested beauty.

• Northeast Creek Park: 911 Corbin St, Jacksonville, NC 28546 – Kayaking and disc golf.
• Hammocks Beach State Park: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584 – Coastal trails and ferry rides.
• Croatan National Forest: 141 E Fisher Ave, New Bern, NC 28560 – Hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Topsail Beach: 802 S Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445 – Surfing and fishing spot.
• New River Waterfront Park: 100 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540 – Riverside recreation.

Travel Tips

Fly into OAJ at 265 Albert Ellis Airport Rd, Richlands, NC 28574, and use US-17 or NC-24. Visit in spring or fall for mild weather, and check Onslow County alerts for coastal conditions. Book accommodations early, especially during military events.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 27, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.