Palm Coast & Flagler County Beach Guide

Palm Coast & Flagler County Beach Guide

Flagler County offers 19 miles of natural, coquina-sand beaches with an Old-Florida feel. All beaches in the county are public, open to everyone, and known for being clean, quiet, and uncrowded. Parking is free at most access points, and no driving is allowed on the beach.

Are the Beaches Open to Everyone?

Yes. Every beach in Palm Coast and Flagler County is public-access, including Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach, The Hammock, Washington Oaks, and Matanzas Inlet. Walkovers, parks, and access points are maintained by the county and state.

Popular Beaches

Flagler Beach (Pier Area)

A retro, walkable beach town known for surfing, restaurants, and sunrise views. Dogs are allowed only north of 10th Street and south of 10th Street (8 ft leash max). The central Pier area is a no-dog zone.

Beverly Beach

A quiet, residential stretch with elevated views and peaceful morning walks. Always use public walkovers and avoid stepping on dunes.

The Hammock & Washington Oaks (“The Rocks”)

Home to dramatic coquina rock formations, tide pools, and scenic photography spots. Nearby Mala Compra offers mountain biking that leads directly to the shoreline.

Matanzas Inlet

A wild, natural area popular for fishing and shelling. Do not swim in the inlet channel due to extremely strong currents. Swim only on the ocean side.

Local Beach Parks

• Varn Park – ADA-accessible, showers, birdwatching.
• Jungle Hut Road Park – Pet-friendly, wide beach, hummingbirds in summer.
• Old Salt Park – Quiet, scenic, great for sunrise.
• Gamble Rogers State Park – Camping, boardwalks, kayak rentals.
• River to Sea Preserve – Trails, nature, and beach access.

What to Do

• Surf the waves at Flagler Beach.
• Walk the Pier and watch local surfers.
• Kayak or paddleboard through estuaries and tidal creeks.
• Explore the coquina rocks at Washington Oaks.
• Look for dolphins and seasonal whales offshore.
• Visit oceanfront restaurants like Funky Pelican, High Tides, and Golden Lion.
• Enjoy quiet nature preserves such as Varn Park and River to Sea.
• Catch sunrise along the east-facing coastline.

What Not to Do

Do Not Disturb the Dunes

Dunes protect the coastline from storms. Never climb, sit on, or cut through them. Use walkovers only.

No White Lights During Turtle Season (May 1–Oct 31)

White lights disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings. Use red, long-wavelength lights only.

Do Not Leave Holes in the Sand

Fill all holes before leaving. They are dangerous for both people and wildlife.

Do Not Swim in the Matanzas Inlet Channel

Currents are extremely dangerous. Swim only on the ocean side.

Follow Dog Rules

Flagler Beach Pier area is a no-dog zone. Dogs are allowed only north and south of 10th Street.

Follow Beach Flag Warnings

• Red – Dangerous surf
• Purple – Marine pests
• Yellow – Moderate surf
• Green – Calm conditions

Wildlife Awareness

Flagler County beaches are home to sea turtles, dolphins, shorebirds, and seasonal whales. Avoid nests, keep distance from wildlife, and follow posted signs.

Quick Summary for ALICE

Beaches: 19 miles of natural, public-access coastline. No driving. Free parking.

Popular Spots: Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach, The Hammock, Washington Oaks, Matanzas Inlet, Varn Park, Jungle Hut, Old Salt Park, River to Sea Preserve.

Do: Surf, kayak, explore rocks, watch sunrise, enjoy local restaurants.

Don’t: Walk on dunes, use white lights during turtle season, leave holes, swim in inlet channel, break dog rules.