Things To Do
in Palm Coast
Palm Coast is a coastal city along Florida's Atlantic shore in Flagler County, known for its waterways, parks, and family-friendly vibe. The area blends natural preserves, golf courses, and easy access to beaches, making it ideal for outdoorsy travelers. Palm Coast offers a relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere with citrus groves and waterfront dining along the Intracoastal Waterway.
While steadily growing, it preserves a small-town feel and a welcoming, active community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Flagler Beach, discovering quaint shops and historical landmarks. Don’t forget to stop by the Flagler Beach Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
In the afternoon, head to the scenic waterfront and enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach. After your meal, take a relaxing stroll along the shoreline, collecting seashells and enjoying the ocean breeze. Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic trails along the coast.
As the sun sets, find a cozy seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the beach, witnessing the beautiful colors of the sunset. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar for live music and a taste of the local nightlife.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront eatery, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head to the beach for some fun in the sun, where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or surfboards. Take a lesson if you’re a beginner, and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves.
After lunch, switch gears and try your hand at parasailing for a bird’s eye view of the stunning coastline. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater world and its vibrant marine life. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on the sandy shores, taking breaks to cool off in the water.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, where you can sip on cocktails and bask in the picturesque views. After the cruise, head back to shore for a casual dinner at a beachside grill. Cap off the evening by gathering around a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🧺Grocery for a week for one person | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to beaches, nature preserves, and outdoor recreation
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with many parks and trails
- Moderate costs relative to some other coastal Florida destinations
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions within Palm Coast itself
- Traffic can increase during peak tourist season and on beach access days
Places to Visit in Palm Coast
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss along marshland and river views—great for moody landscapes and environmental portraits.
Coastal marshes, tidal creeks, and frequent waterfowl provide dynamic horizon lines and sunset silhouettes.
Wide sandy shores and open horizons ideal for sunrise and sunset photography with reflective water textures.
Elevated boardwalks weaving through cypress swamps, perfect for atmospheric nature shots and wildlife photography.
Food in Palm Coast
Palm Coast Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy shrimp finished with a bright orange-lemon glaze; best enjoyed at waterfront eateries along A1A.
Must-Try!
Fresh grouper seared with Cajun spices and finished with a zesty citrus butter served over rice.
Classic Florida pie with a tangy lime custard on a graham crust; widely found in seafood shacks and bistros.
Crispy fritters filled with conch meat, served with tangy remoulade and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market by the coast offering fresh seafood, citrus, honey, crafts, and baked goods; a great place to sample local flavors.
Weekly market featuring local produce, prepared foods, and crafts; try fresh squeezes and pastries from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of wildlife in parks, keep beaches clean, and observe quiet hours in residential areas. Greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good morning' and be courteous in queues and driving.
Safety
Tipping in Palm Coast
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 15-20% gratuity for good service. It’s polite to tip bellhops and servers in line with local norms; cash is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets are widely accepted; cash is also commonly accepted in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with pleasant outdoor temperatures; comfortable for walking and beach strolls. Occasional cool spells and dry spells are possible.
Warm days with blooming landscapes; good for hiking, cycling, and outdoor dining. Afternoon storms are common; plan accordingly.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; ideal for beach days and water activities. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Moderate temperatures and lower humidity; great for golf, biking, and coastal walks. Tropical storm and hurricane season risk remains higher into fall.
Palm Coast at Night
Hiking in Palm Coast
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge and swamp trails through ancient oaks and cypress stands.
Coastal trails and boardwalks with seabird life and ocean views.
Airports
How to reach Palm Coast by plane.
Closest regional airport with several domestic connections; roughly 25-30 miles south.
Major hub with broad national/international options; about 60-70 miles north.
Large international gateway about 100 miles south-west.
Smaller airport offering several domestic routes; about 90 miles south-west.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong schools, parks, and family-friendly activities; common in new home communities.
Quiet residential areas, golf communities, and healthcare access attract long-term visitors.
Snowbirds and vacationers arrive in winter and spring, boosting local commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Numerous public and semi-private courses with scenic water features.
Inshore and offshore charters plus pier fishing options.
Calm waterways ideal for beginners and wildlife viewing.
Occasional surf conditions along the coast; suitable for beginners on calmer days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palm Coast.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer veggie options; look for salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers, and pasta dishes. Ask for citrus-based sauces that don’t rely on seafood stock.