Through the 1920s-vintage classic Ortega River Bridge lies a busy series of marinas and yards aptly named “Jacksonville Marina Mile.” Because of its low clearance in an area of high marine traffic, this is the most frequently opened drawbridge in Florida (about 15,000 openings per year).

The northwest bank of the Ortega River is almost a solid wall of yards, marinas and boatbuilders. The southwest shore is entirely residential with private docks and wooded plots.