Spend a Tranquil Day at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Did you know that Florida has nearly 200 state parks, preserves, recreation areas and trailheads? Whether you're looking for adventure or tranquility, these natural playgrounds provide endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. One of our favorites — Washington Oaks Gardens State Park — is just up the road from the Beach Front Motel in nearby Palm Coast. Here, you'll find stunning formal gardens that surround an ancient live oak in this beachfront park. Be sure to carve out some time for a visit to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park during your next Flagler Beach vacation.

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park preserves 425 acres of coastal scenery along State Road A1A in Palm Coast. Plan to take a self-guided walking tour to see the many features of the park. One of your first stops will be the former winter home of Owen D. Young and his wife, Louise, who bought the property in 1937 and were its last owners before it was donated to the state of Florida in 1964. The home now serves as the park's visitors center, where you can learn about the history and preservation of the park.

The formal gardens are the centerpiece of the park, adorned with lush vegetation, tranquil reflection ponds, and elegant fountains. There are remarkable displays of native and non-native plant species including azaleas, camellias and bird of paradise. The historic rose garden is a 3,000 square foot circle of 10 rose beds each holding a unique variety. It's the largest public rose garden along the Florida coast with about 150 rose bushes blooming, the first blossoms appearing in early May. A lush hammock of towering live oaks, hickory and magnolia trees offer their welcome shade, bordered by the scenic tidal marshes of the Matanzas River.

At the heart of the gardens stands the majestic Washington Oak, a living testament to the passage of time. Estimated to be between 200 to 300 years old, this ancient oak tree exudes an aura of wisdom and resilience. It's one of Florida's oldest and sturdiest trees, able to withstand hurricane-force winds, fires, droughts and floods. Its gnarled branches reach skyward, providing shade and shelter to the flora and fauna that call the park home. Visitors can't help but feel a sense of reverence in the presence of such a venerable giant.

Cross over to the ocean side of the Washington Oaks Gardens State Park to view the one of the largest outcroppings of coquina rock on the Atlantic Ocean. This ancient sedimentary rock was formed during the Pleistocene era approximately 12,000 to 2.5 million years ago. Because of the ancient rock formation, there's no formal swimming area along this stretch of beach, but it creates the perfect spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, tidal pool exploring and photography. 

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts of all ages. With its varied habitats, including gardens, woodlands and shoreline, the park provides ample opportunities for birdwatching year-round. Visitors can picnic and fish from either the beach or the seawall along the Matanzas River. Hikers can explore a network of scenic trails that wind through the park's diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of native wildlife and stunning vistas along the way.

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a natural sanctuary that seamlessly blends formal gardens, ancient oaks and stunning shoreline vistas for a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit any time of year when you stay with us at the Beach Front Motel, or come for one of the park's special events, including an Earth Day celebration or Holiday in the Gardens. Hiking, birding, fishing, strolling or spending a day at the beach — Washington Oaks has something for everyone!