Key Takeaways:
- Palm Coast, Florida offers a variety of outdoor adventures, local attractions, and cultural experiences year-round.
- Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, beach lover, or looking to explore local history, Palm Coast has something for everyone.
- Visit Palm Coast to discover beautiful parks, stunning beaches, and a vibrant community, all in one relaxing destination.
Table of Contents:
- Explore Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
- Relax on the Beaches of Palm Coast
- Take a Stroll Through European Village
- Hike at the Princess Place Preserve
- Visit the Palm Coast Farmers Market
- Discover the Hammock Dunes Club
- Enjoy a Round of Golf at Palm Harbor Golf Club
- Visit the Flagler Beachfront Winery
- Enjoy a Scenic Boat Tour on the Intracoastal Waterway
- Explore the Old Kings Road Historic Trail
Palm Coast, Florida is a coastal gem located between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its lush parks, pristine beaches, and charming local communities, Palm Coast attracts visitors from all over who are looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re interested in hiking through scenic parks, lounging by the beach, or exploring local history, Palm Coast offers something for everyone year-round. With an inviting climate and rich culture, it’s no wonder why people love returning to this hidden paradise. Here are 10 amazing things you can enjoy in Palm Coast throughout the year.
1. Explore Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering beautiful gardens, historic structures, and scenic trails. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, the park features an impressive collection of formal gardens, including azaleas, camellias, and coastal plants. Visitors can explore the park’s serene walking trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply admire the lush greenery and flower displays. The gardens are especially stunning in spring when flowers are in full bloom, making it a picturesque spot year-round.
In addition to the gardens, Washington Oaks also features a unique coquina rock beach where visitors can walk along the shoreline and admire the natural rock formations. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a spot to enjoy nature with family and friends, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park offers a diverse range of activities. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with Florida’s natural beauty.
2. Relax on the Beaches of Palm Coast
Palm Coast’s beaches are among its biggest draws, offering miles of unspoiled coastline for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The pristine sands are perfect for a relaxing day by the water or a peaceful walk along the shore. Hammock Beach State Park is a local favorite, featuring both a beautiful beach and scenic trails for hiking and biking. Whether you’re spending a day at the beach or enjoying a sunset stroll, Palm Coast’s beaches offer a serene and quiet escape from the hustle and bustle.
Aside from Hammock Beach, there are plenty of other great beaches in the area, including Flagler Beach, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Palm Coast’s beaches are ideal for those who want to unwind, enjoy nature, and embrace the coastal lifestyle. Year-round, you’ll find locals and visitors alike enjoying the tranquil beauty of the area’s shorelines.
3. Take a Stroll Through European Village
European Village is a charming and vibrant shopping and dining destination in Palm Coast. Designed to look like a traditional European town square, it offers a mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cup of coffee, savor delicious cuisine, or shop for unique gifts, European Village offers a cozy and welcoming environment. The atmosphere here is perfect for a leisurely afternoon spent exploring local boutiques and art exhibits or simply enjoying the view of the picturesque village.
In addition to its retail and dining options, European Village hosts various community events throughout the year, such as live music, seasonal festivals, and outdoor markets. This makes it a fun and lively destination to visit at any time of the year. Whether you’re browsing the shops or enjoying a meal al fresco, European Village offers a perfect mix of culture, entertainment, and relaxation.
4. Hike at the Princess Place Preserve
Princess Place Preserve is a beautiful 1,500-acre nature preserve that offers hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation opportunities. The preserve features miles of trails through coastal forests, salt marshes, and wetlands, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can explore the scenic landscape while spotting a variety of bird species and other wildlife, including dolphins and manatees along the Intracoastal Waterway. The area is also home to historic structures, such as the Princess Place Lodge, which adds a unique cultural element to your outdoor adventure.
The preserve is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience Florida’s natural beauty in every season. Whether you’re hiking along the water or enjoying a peaceful moment in nature, Princess Place Preserve offers a serene and tranquil escape from the city. It’s a great destination for those looking to explore the outdoors and connect with nature in Palm Coast.
5. Visit the Palm Coast Farmers Market
The Palm Coast Farmers Market is a vibrant local market that takes place every Saturday, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Visitors can enjoy browsing through a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade jams, and locally sourced products. The market is a fantastic way to support local farmers and artisans while picking up unique items to take home. It’s also a great spot to grab a snack or meal from local food vendors while enjoying the community atmosphere.
In addition to fresh produce and crafts, the farmers market often features live music and entertainment, adding to the lively and festive ambiance. Whether you’re shopping for your weekly groceries or simply enjoying the local food scene, the Palm Coast Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and anyone wanting to experience the local community. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours on a Saturday morning, enjoying the best that Palm Coast has to offer.
6. Discover the Hammock Dunes Club
The Hammock Dunes Club is a private golf club located in the scenic Hammock Beach area of Palm Coast, offering an exceptional golfing experience with stunning views. The club features two championship golf courses, the Ocean Course and the Creek Course, both designed by renowned architects. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner, the Hammock Dunes Club offers a beautiful, challenging course for players of all levels. The Ocean Course, in particular, provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in Florida.
Beyond golf, the Hammock Dunes Club offers a variety of amenities, including tennis courts, a fitness center, and a spa. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day after a round of golf by unwinding at the club’s luxurious facilities. If you’re looking for a unique golfing experience in Palm Coast, the Hammock Dunes Club is the perfect spot to enjoy world-class courses and exceptional service.
7. Enjoy a Round of Golf at Palm Harbor Golf Club
Palm Harbor Golf Club is another fantastic destination for golf enthusiasts in Palm Coast. This 18-hole, par-71 course is known for its challenging layout, well-maintained greens, and beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual golfer, Palm Harbor offers a fun and rewarding experience. The course is designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a day on the links.
In addition to its beautiful course, Palm Harbor Golf Club offers a full-service pro shop and a friendly clubhouse where golfers can relax after their rounds. With its laid-back atmosphere and scenic views, Palm Harbor Golf Club is a great place to spend a day playing golf in Palm Coast. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike who want to enjoy a classic Florida golfing experience.
8. Visit the Flagler Beachfront Winery
The Flagler Beachfront Winery is a charming and unique winery located just a short drive from Palm Coast, offering a perfect spot to enjoy local wines and beautiful ocean views. This family-owned winery produces a variety of wines made from Florida-grown grapes, with a focus on small-batch, handcrafted wines. Visitors can sample a wide range of wines, from fruity whites to rich reds, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the scenic outdoor patio overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition to wine tasting, the winery hosts special events and live music, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to relax by the beach with a glass of wine in hand, the Flagler Beachfront Winery is a must-visit destination. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the best of Florida’s wine scene while taking in stunning ocean views.
9. Enjoy a Scenic Boat Tour on the Intracoastal Waterway
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Palm Coast is by taking a scenic boat tour on the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that explore the area’s unique ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal landscapes. From spotting dolphins and manatees to enjoying the tranquil waters of the Intracoastal, boat tours offer a peaceful and scenic way to see Palm Coast from a different perspective. Many tours also include visits to nearby islands and secluded beaches, making it an unforgettable way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Boat tours are available year-round, with options ranging from short sightseeing trips to longer excursions. Whether you’re looking to relax and take in the scenery or learn about the local wildlife, a boat tour is a great way to enjoy Palm Coast’s waterways. It’s an exciting and educational activity for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
10. Explore the Old Kings Road Historic Trail
The Old Kings Road Historic Trail is a fascinating and scenic route that traces the path of the original Kings Road, which was used by early settlers and Native Americans. The trail runs through Palm Coast and offers visitors a chance to explore historical landmarks, including old homes, churches, and cemeteries. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s early history and the role of the road in the development of Florida. It’s a great way to combine outdoor exploration with a bit of local history.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great activity for those interested in Florida’s rich past. Whether you’re an avid history buff or just looking for a peaceful walk, the Old Kings Road Historic Trail provides a unique and educational experience. It’s an ideal way to immerse yourself in the history of Palm Coast while enjoying a scenic stroll through the city.
What to do if you have kids?
Palm Coast is a fantastic family destination with a wide variety of activities that kids will love. Whether you’re spending the day at one of the local parks, like Waterfront Park or Linear Park, or enjoying a boat tour on the Intracoastal Waterway, there’s plenty to keep children entertained. The Flagler Beachfront Winery is also family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere for parents while kids can enjoy the beach nearby. Palm Coast’s beaches are great for building sandcastles and splashing in the surf, making it the perfect destination for families looking to spend quality time together in nature.
Where can I find free events in Palm Coast, Florida, taking place this weekend?
Looking for free events in Palm Coast this weekend? Use our tool, Planmyweekend.ai, to discover the best free activities and events happening around the city. Whether you’re interested in outdoor festivals, live performances, or family-friendly activities, Planmyweekend.ai makes it easy to find something fun and free to do. Stay updated on the latest events in Palm Coast and plan an exciting weekend without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts
Palm Coast, Florida offers a perfect combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a year-round getaway. Whether you’re exploring the beaches, enjoying a round of golf, or taking in local history, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city. With its welcoming atmosphere, scenic views, and variety of attractions, Palm Coast is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and experience the best of Florida. Plan your visit today to see all that Palm Coast has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai