Flagler County/Palm Coast
Uncrowded beaches, challenging golf and baby turtles await on the Atlantic Coast
Do the requirements for your next trip include a quiet beach, year-round warm temperatures, some fishing or boating, maybe dolphin-watching and a round or two of golf? Check out Flagler Beach on the Palm Coast, located on the east coast of the Sunshine State.
Where to Stay
Flagler Beach, just 20 miles north of Daytona, overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and boasts 19 miles of beautifully warm copper sand. The beaches are always free and so is the parking to get to the beach.
Wildlife in the Slow Lane
While you’re at the beach, there’s a good chance that you’ll have some slow-moving company. Flagler Beach is home to five species of sea turtles. Between May and October these majestic creatures come ashore and lay their eggs. You don’t have to worry about your beach towel, because the Flagler Turtle Patrol will help you keep their nests safe. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see some of these tiny reptiles hatch before your eyes and then begin their long trek back to the ocean.
Pet Friendly Fun
Is your dog a part of your family? Then you’ve picked the best place by far to visit when you visit Flagler Beach. Your four-legged family member is welcome at the beach, many oceanfront restaurants and on the nature trails that crisscross Flagler County. You’ll want to keep your buddy on a leash and remember to pick up after your puppy to keep things nice for everyone.
A Round or two of Golf
There are close to a dozen golf courses in Flagler County. Each is unique and each varies in difficulty. Take in 18 holes overlooking the rolling hills inland or feel the breeze as you take a swing overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Depending on the length of your stay, you might be able to try them all.
History
Did you know that Henry Morrison Flagler is the person responsible for opening up Florida to the tourist trade? Well, basically. He is credited for building the East Coast Railway that ran from St. Augustine to Key West, bringing flocks of tourists deep into the Sunshine State. Many towns popped up along the rail system, such as Palm Beach and West Palm and the town that would eventually become his namesake.
Fishing and Boating
Whether you want to catch a trophy fish in the ocean or just take a leisurely cruise up the Intracoastal Waterway, Flagler County can make your nautical dreams come true. You can bring your personal ship, or find a charter boat captain who can take you up the Intracoastal Waterway or out to the big blue Atlantic. If motors aren’t your style, there are plenty of places to rent kayaks; you can even take a guided kayak tour year-round. There are plenty of boat launches to put your boat or kayak in the water throughout the county.
Did you bring your fishing rod? You’ll discover lots of places to drop a line in the water. You can surf fish, deep-sea fish, freshwater fish or fish right off the Flagler Beach Fishing Pier. Unless you’re fishing exclusively at the pier, you’ll need a fishing license; this can be obtained online or at most bait shops.
Dolphins
Have you ever wanted to swim with dolphins? You can do that at the Marineland Dolphin Adventure. Hop right in the shallow pool and swim with these playful mammals. If you want to experience what it would be like to swim with them in the ocean, you can strap on your face mask and life vest and venture out into the deep pool with the Atlantic bottlenoses.
Photo Opps Abound
No matter what you decide to do when you visit Flagler County, you’ll always remember the beautiful sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean, the turquoise blue waters and that warm cinnamon sand beneath your feet. Your pictures will be amazing, so don’t forget your camera.
For More Information
Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches
866-736-9291
www.visitflagler.com
Florida Tourism
888-735-2872
www.visitflorida.com
