A Stroll Through Palm Coast’s Linear Park and St. Joe Walkway

Tucked quietly between the lanes of Palm Coast Parkway, Linear Park might just be one of the most underrated spots in town. With 57 acres of peaceful trails, shady trees, and native Florida beauty, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature. And if you’re staying at The Beach Front Motel in Flagler Beach, it’s a perfect stop for a day of low-key exploring.

Linear Park isn’t flashy, but that’s what makes it so charming. This natural, passive park is designed for taking it easy. You can walk or bike along miles of trails lined with historic oaks and towering pines, or play a round of bocce in the sunshine. For families, there’s a modern playground, picnic pavilions, and restrooms that are clean and well-maintained. Kids will especially love the StoryWalk – a creative half-mile trail that features laminated pages from a children’s book spread out along the path. It’s a fun way to sneak in a little reading while enjoying the outdoors.

At the heart of Linear Park lies the St. Joe Walkway – a smooth, mile-long trail shaded by a beautiful tree canopy. It winds through Florida’s native landscape and connects to the Intracoastal Waterway Trail. Along the way, you might catch sight of a Snowy Egret or a Little Blue Heron, and if you’re really lucky, a dolphin gliding through the nearby Matanzas River. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so bring your binoculars if bird-watching is your thing. Over 40 bird species have been spotted here, from the majestic Bald Eagle to the chatty Gray Catbird.

What’s especially great about Palm Coast’s park system is how connected it is. Linear Park is just one of 15 city parks that link up with more than 125 miles of biking and walking paths. Want to go a little further? Keep heading down the trail and you’ll find yourself on the Intracoastal Waterway Trail, which offers even more stunning views of the water and surrounding habitat.

For those looking to explore beyond the main trail, there are four short nature trails within the park itself: Live Oak, Magnolia, Sabal Palm, and Saw Palmetto. Each one is under half a mile and offers a different terrain—some paved, some dirt or shell. The Saw Palmetto Trail, in particular, is a favorite for beginner mountain bikers.

If you’ve worked up an appetite after your time at the park, head over to the nearby European Village. This charming little spot offers a variety of restaurants and shops, perfect for a post-hike treat. Then, it’s just a short drive back to Flagler Beach, where the ocean breeze and your room at The Beach Front Motel are waiting.

Linear Park and St. Joe Walkway may be easy to miss if you’re just passing through, but once you visit, you’ll understand why locals love this place. It’s calm, connected, and full of the kind of beauty that makes you want to slow down and stay a little longer.