Discover 19 miles of quiet Palm Coast beaches, historic ruins, subtropical forests and the majestic Atlantic Ocean. Located between world-famous Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, this area is low on crowds and high on what Florida beaches are all about - sparkling, warm waters and soft sand.

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

This 425-acre park is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River. Ocean waves have washed away the sand, exposing coquina rock and creating a picturesque boulder-strewn beach in one section, perfect for exploring tidal pools. This park is part of the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, and there is plenty to explore on foot or by bike. There are beautiful formal gardens well-known for their azaleas, camellias and roses. Take a break for a picnic lunch, or head to the beach for some sunbathing or fishing. The park has covered pavilions, grills and restrooms.

Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach features six miles of uncrowded, car-free Palm Coast beaches. There are four public parks in the area – Veterans Park, Wickline Park, Silverlake Park and Wadsworth Park. All four parks have restrooms, and showers are located next to the Flagler Beach Pier across the street from Veterans Park. The pier hosts many of the top things to do in Flagler Beach, including restaurants, gift shops, recreational facilities and beach wheelchairs. Watch locals catch dinner or the surfers catch some of the best waves in the area. Whether you choose to sunbathe, search for shells or turtle watch, this is an ideal spot to spend a quiet vacation.

Nearby Palm Coast is also home to five parks – Jungle Hut Park, Mala Compra Park, Old Salt Park, Varn Park and River to Sea Preserve – that also have restrooms and showers. You won't find high-rise hotels or chain businesses on the beach.

Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area

This 144-acre Palm Coast, Florida beach park features campsites, a nature trail, grills, a boat ramp and unlimited access to sun-kissed beaches with warm, golden sand. The area is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west. During low tide, the broad shell-strewn beach becomes a favorite feeding area for many shore birds, so be sure to bring your camera. Dune walkovers provide access to the swimming area while protecting the fragile dune system.