A Day at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Florida

Why we brought the dog, what we learned, and why we’ll be back on our next East Coast Florida Road Trip.

If you’re exploring things to do near Palm Coast, Florida, don’t skip a visit to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, this scenic park surprised us in the best ways—with shady oaks, blooming rose gardens, and a rugged beach full of coquina rock formations. The beach at Washington Oaks feels less Florida and more Aruba or Hawaii.

What Makes Washington Oaks State Park Beach So Unique

Coquina rocks are made from compressed seashells. You’ll find them along parts of Florida’s Atlantic coast. At Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in Florida, these rugged rocks line the beach and create dramatic views. It’s one of the most unique shorelines in the state of Florida.

Steve and I visited over Memorial Day Weekend, and while we came prepared for an adventure, we still learned a few things the hard way—especially when it came to our dog, Mr. Jax.

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🐾 Know Before You Go: Dog Policy

We assumed this was a fully dog-friendly Florida state park—but it turns out, pups are only allowed on the nature trails. Dogs are not permitted in the formal gardens or on the beach.

We were lucky to be staying nearby. We took Mr. Jax for a walk on the Timucuan Trail (0.8 miles). The trail is shady and lined with mossy oak trees. After his walk, we brought him home to rest. Then we went back to explore the rest of Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Florida.

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🚗 Two Parks in One—Don’t Try to Walk It

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Florida is split by Highway A1A, and each side is completely different:

• West side (Intracoastal side): Gardens, trails, picnic areas, and the Matanzas River
• East side (Ocean side): Coquina Rock Beach

Travel Tip: Don’t try to walk between the two—it’s hot, long, and not shaded. Each area has its own parking lot, and it’s best to drive between them.

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🌊 Exploring the Coquina Rock Beach

The beachside of Washington Oaks is unlike any beach we’ve been to in Florida. The sand is crushed shells, and the shoreline is dotted with jagged coquina rocks—not ideal for swimming, but perfect for soaking in the view.

👣 If you do plan to get in the water, bring swim shoes. We saw a few people fishing and others sunbathing on the rocks. Our visit was during low tide, but I imagine high tide would create some pretty dramatic water movement through the rocks.

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🌳 Gardens, Trails & Shady Spots

Back on the gardens side, we explored the beautifully kept formal gardens, which were in full bloom. The rose garden, in particular, was stunning. The shady oak trees made it feel a bit like Savannah or Charleston—only this one comes with a Florida twist.

📸 We saw several photographers wandering the grounds, and even a wedding taking place during our visit. This place is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

The Bella Vista Trail System offers about 1.1 miles of scenic walking along the river, and the picnic areas are well-spaced and shaded—perfect for an afternoon lunch break. We didn’t bring our bikes, but the trails are wide and looked ideal for a casual ride.

The Majestic Oak Trees of Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Florida

One of the most unforgettable parts of the gardens side is the massive oak trees. Some of these trees are hundreds of years old.

The Old oak trees stretch wide and tall, with twisting branches draped in moss. Walking under them feels like stepping into another world.

The shady canopy makes the trails cooler and more comfortable—especially on hot Florida days. These oak trees give the park its name and add to the charm. Overall, Washington Oaks State Park reminded me of Savannah or Charleston, but right here in northeast Florida.

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How to Pay Admission at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Florida

Admission to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is $5 per vehicle.

If you start your visit on the beach side of A1A, you’ll use a QR code posted near the parking area to pay. Make sure your phone is charged and has a good signal.

If you start on the gardens side of A1A, there’s a ranger station at the entrance. A staff member will help you pay and offer a park map with helpful tips.

Both entrances are easy to find, and your one-time fee covers parking and access to both sides of the park.

🎟️ Admission & Tips

• Cost: $5 per vehicle
• Hours: 8 AM to sunset, every day
• Beach Access: Park in the east lot and pay via QR code
• Gardens Entrance: Staffed entrance with maps and tips
• Restrooms: Only on the garden’s side
• Bring: Water, sunscreen, bug spray, swim shoes, camera

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🌞 Final Thoughts On Our Day Trip to Washington Oaks Garden State Park In Palm Coast Florida.

We loved our visit to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Florida, even if we had to adjust the day for Mr. Jax. It’s one of the most unique places in northeast Florida—with both serene gardens and rugged natural coastline in one spot.

If you’re looking for things to do near Palm Coast Florida, that mix scenery, peace, and a little Florida history, put this park on your list. Just don’t forget the swim shoes—or double-check the dog rules!

Visit the official Washington Oak website for more details.

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