If you’re a nature lover, a trip to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a must when you come to Flagler Beach. From the lush tropical flora to the unique coquina rock formations on the beach, this Florida State Park is one of the most visited in the region. This historic 425-acre park features stunning coastal beauty, formal gardens, and towering Oak tree groves. It’s by far one of the most popular things to do on the Palm Coast near Flagler Beach.
Established in 1964 through the generous donation of Louise Powis Clark Young, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is unforgettable. The park’s formal gardens feature native and exotic plant species, including azaleas, camellias, and bird-of-paradise, offering visitors a peaceful retreat along winding reflection ponds sheltered by a picturesque oak hammock. Additionally, the park is renowned for its unique coquina rock formations along the Atlantic shoreline, providing opportunities for beachcombing, tidal pool exploration, and photography.
There is no better place to come home to after a long day of exploring at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park than our Flagler Beach Hotel. You’ll hear the ocean waves crashing on the beach while relaxing in the pool or enjoying a glass of wine on your private balcony. If you didn’t get enough of the warm sand on your outing, our private beach area is perfect for a sunset walk or picnic. We even have umbrellas, beach towels, and chairs available for guests to borrow. Start planning and book your lodging at our Flagler Beach hotel today!
Visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park offers a serene escape into nature’s beauty. Known for its formal gardens, unique shoreline, and diverse trails, this park provides a variety of experiences for visitors. Here are some highlights to consider during your visit. Here are the best things to do at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park on your next trip.
- The park’s heart features meticulously maintained formal gardens showcasing native and exotic plant species. Stroll along winding paths shaded by ancient live oaks and admire vibrant displays of azaleas, camellias, and bird of paradise flowers. The rose garden, with its collection of hybrid tea roses, offers a particularly fragrant and colorful experience. These gardens provide a picturesque setting, making them popular for weddings and special events.
- A highlight within the gardens is the nearly 300-year-old Washington Oak. This towering live oak has withstood centuries of Florida’s weather, offering a testament to resilience and natural beauty. Its sprawling branches provide a cool, shaded retreat, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
- Across from the gardens, the park’s Atlantic shoreline is adorned with rare coquina rock formations. These sedimentary rocks, composed of compressed shells and coral, create a striking landscape of tidal pools and sculpted formations. Beachcombing here feels like a treasure hunt, with each tide revealing new natural wonders. While swimming isn’t recommended due to the rocky terrain, the area is ideal for photography and exploring marine life within the tide pools.
- The park offers numerous idyllic picnicking spots. Whether you choose a shaded area beneath the grand Washington Oak, a pavilion equipped with tables and grills, or a sandy spot overlooking the ocean, you’ll find the perfect setting to enjoy a meal amidst nature. For a delightful picnic spread, consider stopping by a local café to pick up some treats before heading to the park.
- Washington Oaks Gardens State Park features several trails suitable for hiking and biking. The Bella Vista Trail System, encompassing the Timucuan, Jungle Road, and Old A1A trails, offers a 1.7-mile journey through coastal maritime hammocks and dense canopied scrub areas. For a shorter excursion, the Mala Compra Trail is a half-mile loop exploring the transition zone between the hammock and tidal marsh along the Matanzas River. These trails provide opportunities to observe local flora and fauna while immersing yourself in the park’s diverse ecosystems.
- The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts as part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. With over 200 species recorded in the area, visitors might spot the Northern Gannet diving for fish offshore or catch a glimpse of a majestic Bald Eagle soaring above. The varied habitats within the park support a rich diversity of birdlife, making it a rewarding destination for both novice and experienced birdwatchers.
Stay at the Most Elegant Flagler Beach Oceanfront Hotels
A visit to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a lovely addition to your itinerary in Flagler Beach. However, most importantly, on your Florida getaway is how you spend your downtime, and our oceanfront Flagler Beach hotel is the best place to do close to nothing! If nothing means relaxing by the pool, heading to the golden sands beach, and enjoying a quiet night in your luxurious guest room.
Our freshly renovated bed and breakfast-style Inn offers an elegant space where old-world Florida meets a hint of the French seaside, a beautiful escape on the edges of our charming and sleepy surf town. Your guest room will be your oasis of cool calm, with the perfect crisp AC air, modern furnishings, and all the amenities needed to refresh and relax. Join us in the cafe each morning for coffee from local roasters, light fare, and breezy tunes to start your morning off on the right foot.
Island Cottage Inn in Flagler Beach offers guests private beachfront access, a cozy courtyard pool, and complimentary use of bikes for exploring the area. Each room is equipped with Public Goods bath products, premium bamboo toilet paper from Who Gives a Crap, and gourmet custom blend coffee by Bent Tree Roasters. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, and select rooms are dog-friendly. We can’t wait to host you; book your room today!
