How much is a gel manicure in St. Augustine?

In 2026 a gel manicure in St. Johns County runs about 40 to 65 dollars, with gel removal adding 10 to 15 if it is not included. Dip powder sets run 45 to 75, and a full set of acrylics 55 to 90 depending on length and finish. Ponte Vedra and Nocatee salons sit toward the top; strip center salons along US 1 toward the bottom.

How much does a pedicure cost near Ponte Vedra Beach?

A basic pedicure runs 35 to 50 dollars in St. Johns County and a spa or deluxe pedicure with longer massage, scrub, and mask 55 to 85. Gel polish on toes adds 15 to 20. Ponte Vedra and Nocatee salons tend to be at the high end. Callus treatment, paraffin, and hot stones are usually extra, so confirm the total before you sit down.

Are nail salons regulated in Florida?

Yes. Nail technicians, called nail specialists in Florida, must be licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, and the salon needs its own license. State rules cover disinfecting tools and foot spas, single use files and buffers, and posting licenses. Inspectors do visit. You can look up a salon or technician on the DBPR website, and complaints about sanitation go there as well.

Which lasts longer at the beach, gel or dip powder?

Dip powder usually lasts longer, three to four weeks versus two to three for gel, and it is tougher against sand and salt water. Gel looks more natural and is easier to remove, which is better for your nails over time. Either beats regular polish, which can chip in a day or two with sunscreen and ocean swimming. Rinse hands after the beach and moisturize cuticles to extend both.

How do I know if a nail salon is clean?

Look for licenses on the wall, tools that come out of sealed pouches or a disinfectant jar, new files and buffers for each client or ones labeled with your name, and pedicure chairs that are scrubbed and run with disinfectant between clients, not just a quick rinse of a plastic liner. A strong chemical smell that stings your eyes suggests poor ventilation. Trust your gut and leave if something feels off.

How much should I tip at a nail salon?

Fifteen to 20 percent is standard in St. Johns County, and many clients tip 20 percent for gel or acrylic work that takes over an hour. Cash tips are preferred by most technicians because card tips are sometimes pooled or delayed. For a quick polish change, a few dollars is fine.

Nail Salons in Jacksonville & Northeast Florida, FL

Nail Salons in Northeast Florida

Nail salons are in nearly every shopping center in St. Johns County, from the plazas along US 1 and SR 312 in St. Augustine to Nocatee Town Center, Sawgrass Village, and the Race Track Road and CR 210 corridors. The local calendar drives the business: pedicure season runs almost all year because of the beach and pool, wedding parties fill downtown St. Augustine salons on spring and fall weekends, and snowbirds bring a winter rush to Ponte Vedra and Crescent Beach. Gel and dip powder dominate because regular polish does not survive salt water and sunscreen. Florida licenses nail technicians and the salon itself, and the state has specific sanitation rules for foot spas and tools. The difference between a 30 dollar pedicure and a 65 dollar one is usually sanitation, time, and whether the tech is rushing to the next chair.

How to choose a nail salon in Northeast Florida

Look at the licenses and the sanitation

Florida requires every nail technician to hold a state license and the salon to hold an establishment license, posted where you can see them. Watch what happens between clients. Metal tools should come out of a sealed pouch or disinfectant, files and buffers should be new or yours, and pedicure foot spas should be cleaned and disinfected after each use. If the liner comes off and the next client sits down, leave.

Ask for the all-in price before they start

Menu prices often exclude gel removal, length, shape, nail art, French tips, and callus treatment. Tell the tech exactly what you want and ask for the total. A quoted 45 dollar gel manicure can become 75 by the time removal and a chrome finish are added, which is fine as long as you knew.

Pick the right product for your life

Regular polish chips within days of beach time and sunscreen. Gel lasts two to three weeks and is the local default. Dip powder is stronger and lasts three to four weeks but takes more work to remove. Acrylics and hard gel are for length and strength. If you surf, garden, or wash dishes a lot, say so and let the tech recommend.

Watch how they remove product

Aggressive drilling of the natural nail to remove gel or dip is the most common cause of thin, painful nails. Good techs soak or file carefully and leave the nail plate intact. If your nails hurt or feel hot during removal, speak up, and consider a different salon next time.

Book ahead for weekends and events

St. Augustine salons fill with wedding parties and visitors on Friday and Saturday, and Nocatee and Ponte Vedra salons are busy after school and on Saturday mornings. Walk-ins work on weekday mornings. For a bridal party, book weeks ahead and ask about group rates and whether the salon can close a section for you.

Perfect 10 Nail & Technology School, Inc.

4.772 Google reviews

Nail Salon · Jacksonville

241 Arlington Expressway Service Road, Jacksonville

Nail Salon in Jacksonville, FL

Call now(904) 800-6779 ext. 241

Profile Website

Nail Salons in Northeast Florida

Get matched with up to 3 verified nail salons

Nail Salons in Northeast Florida

How to choose a nail salon in Northeast Florida

Nail Salon questions, answered by local experts