9. Fun Things to Do in Palm Coast, Florida – Planning a laid-back trip to the Atlantic Coast?
There are plenty of fun, relaxing things to do in Palm Coast, Floridaβespecially if you love nature, quiet beaches, and the kind of Florida that still feels local. Below are things to do in Palm Coast, Florida for couples, Solo tourists, and families.
Table of Contents Florida Palm Coast
We split our time between here and Tennessee, so this is one of our home bases. Over the years, we’ve discovered some great parks, beach walks, and chill spots you might miss if youβre just passing through.
Palm Coast might not be splashed across glossy travel magazinesβbut thatβs part of the charm.
As someone who lives in the B-section (yep, our neighborhoods are letter-codedβlike Belle Terre and Belleaire!), I can tell you this place is one of Coastal Floridaβs best-kept secrets.
Where Is Florida Palm Coast Located?
Palm Coast is on the east coast of Florida, tucked between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach.
Itβs part of a quiet, scenic stretch known as Coastal Florida, perfect for travelers who want nature, local charm, and fewer crowds.
While Palm Coast is mostly residential, itβs a great home base for a relaxing, no-fuss getaway.
Most of the fun is just a short drive away in places like Flagler Beach, St. Augustine, and Ormond Beachβbut thereβs still plenty to enjoy right here in town.
1. Long Creek Nature Preserve & Waterfront Park
Looking for peaceful outdoor things to do in Palm Coast Florida?
Donβt miss Long Creek Nature Preserve and Waterfront Parkβtwo scenic gems connected by a paved walking trail.
The trail is flat, quiet, and perfect for a relaxing stroll under the trees.
Itβs also great for birdwatching and soaking in the natural beauty of Coastal Florida.
Bring your kayak and explore the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway right from the park.
2. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in Florida’s Palm Coast
Just across A1A, this state park is one of our favorite spotsβespecially in spring.
Washington Oaks Gardens are full of blooming flowers, butterflies, and huge oak trees draped in moss.
Thereβs a short shaded walking trail, a rose garden, and even a historic coquina rock seawall.
Across the street, the beachside of the park has rugged coquina rock formations that make a dramatic backdrop at low tide.
Theyβre unique to this part of the coast and perfect for photos.
Look for the QR code station to pay the day-use fee on the beach side.
The garden side has a ranger station with maps, restrooms, and friendly staff.

3. Jungle Hut Road Park
A small, uncrowded beach access point right off A1A in a romantic Palm Coast stop.
Thereβs a short boardwalk, a shaded picnic area, and easy access to a quiet stretch of sand.
We love bringing Mr. Jax here for early morning walks (leashed, of course).
There are no lifeguards or concessions, so bring water, snacks, and whatever else you need.

4. Visit The European Village in Palm Coast, Florida
This quirky little plaza has restaurants, boutique shops, and live music on weekends.
Itβs a fun place to grab dinner or unwind after a day outdoors.
Try Mezzaluna for wood-fired pizza or The Cork & Pint for craft beer or wine.
The coastal atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.

5. Palm Coast Is Dog Friendly!
If youβre traveling with your pup, youβll find several pet-friendly parks and walking trails.
Many locals (ourselves included) bring their dogs to the beach.
Just keep them leashedβthough youβll often see well-behaved dogs enjoying the wide open space off-leash too.
In nearby Beverly Beach, check out Good Times Dog Barβone of our favorite pet-friendly spots.
Vaccinated dogs can play in the supervised outdoor yard.
Meanwhile, adults can relax with a drink at the bar.
Itβs a fun stop for both you and your pup!
6. Bingβs Landing & Captainβs BBQ
Bingβs Landing is part county park, part local hangout. Youβll find boat ramps, shady picnic tables, andβmost importantlyβCaptainβs BBQ. When we first visited Captain’s BBQ, we found it much larger inside than we initially thought. Captain’s has a nice deck in the back that is a great place to enjoy lunch.
Itβs casual, unfussy, and just the kind of Old Florida charm that makes the Palm Coast area special.

7. Quick Day Trip to Flagler Beach
Flagler Beach is what people mean when they say “Old Florida.” Think surfers, funky beach bars, vintage shops, and ocean views without the high-rise condos. Itβs only 20 minutes from Palm Coast, and it feels like stepping back in timeβin the best way.
Flagler Beach is known for its cinnamon color sand. After a recent beach replenishment process, the area is much larger and wider than in years past.
The Pier in Flagler Beach was destroyed in 2022, but the Funky Pelican is a popular place for a drink at the pier entrance.
Have lunch at Golden Lion CafΓ©βget the fish sandwich and a frozen drink!
Steve and I enjoy dining at the Next Door Bistro. I’ll add Next Door makes a mean martini!
8. Local Favorites for Coffee, Food & More
While Palm Coast doesnβt have a booming downtown, youβll find some local gems sprinkled throughout town:
Swillerbees Donuts (Flagler Beach location) for wild, made-fresh creations.
Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill for brunch with a view.
SunBros Cafe for coffee and a quiet place to work or relax.
Locals always visit the Hi Tulip Cafe for the best breakfast in Palm Coast.

9. Outdoor Adventures Made Easy
Palm Coast is ideal for low-key adventurers. If youβre not up for ziplines or high-speed thrills, this area is made for easy kayaking, mellow biking, and flat nature trails.
Marineland is a popular tourist attraction, however, if it makes you feel sad to see dolphins in small enclosures, I’d skip this one.
Go fishing from the beach or any of the Intracoastal access points
Rent kayaks from Ripple Effect in Marineland.
π Final Thoughts from The B-Section Local
Palm Coast may not be the flashy tourist hub, but thatβs exactly why I love it. Itβs peaceful, friendly, and perfectly located between Daytona and St. Augustine.
Use it as your quiet, comfy home baseβand then go explore the beaches, preserves, and local eats nearby. Youβll skip the crowds and still experience the best of Floridaβs East Coast.
π Donβt Miss This
Looking for a luxury experience while you’re in the area? Check out my review of Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlandoβit doesn’t have a lazy river, but it’s one of the best adult-friendly resorts in Florida!
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