Dreaming of a laid-back Florida beach escape with Old Florida vibes? Head to Flagler Beach! Nestled between Daytona and St. Augustine on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, Flagler Beach is a charming seaside town with golden sands, a scenic pier, surf culture, and a welcoming small-town feel. It’s perfect for unplugging, exploring the outdoors, and soaking up the sun.
Flagler Beach, FL Highlights:
- For Beachgoers: Relax on Flagler Beach – Six miles of cinnamon-colored sand ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- For Surfers: Catch a wave near the Flagler Beach Pier – A favorite local surf spot with breaks for all levels.
- For Nature Lovers: Explore Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area – Hike trails, kayak the Intracoastal, and spot birds and dolphins.
- For Sunset Views: Walk the Flagler Beach Municipal Pier – A perfect place to fish, people-watch, and enjoy golden hour.
- For Shoppers: Browse quirky shops on A1A – Discover art, beachwear, and vintage treasures along the oceanfront strip.
Best Time to Visit Flagler Beach, FL
The best time to visit Flagler Beach is in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for warm weather, fewer crowds, and outdoor festivals. Summer is great for beach time but can be hot and humid. Winter offers mild temps and peaceful beach walks.
How to Get to Flagler Beach, FL
- By Air: The nearest airports are Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB, 30 min) and Orlando International Airport (MCO, 1.5 hrs).
- By Car: Flagler Beach is located off scenic Highway A1A and close to I-95, making it an easy drive from Jacksonville or Orlando.
Where to Stay in Flagler Beach, FL
- For Ocean Views: White Orchid Inn & Spa – A cozy, adults-only boutique inn with spa services and beachfront access.
- For a Retro Vibe: Flagler Beach Motel and Vacation Rentals – Charming, affordable rooms steps from the beach with kitchenettes and a pool.
- For RV & Campers: Gamble Rogers State Park Campground – Beachside and riverside camping with nature right outside your tent or trailer.
Best Things to Do in Flagler Beach, FL
1. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area
Walk along scenic coastal dunes or go kayaking in the Intracoastal Waterway.
The Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
- The beach is the park's main feature, and guests often come here to swim, sunbathe, or fish.
- The park offers plenty of spots where visitors can have picnics or relax with family and friends, and overnight guests can stay in one of the park's two campgrounds.
- The recreation office located inside the park has canoes, kayaks, and bicycles available for rent.
- Visitors with their own watercrafts can use the park's boat launch ramp for easy access to the water.
- Stay at the Island Cottage Inn.
3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-517-2086
2. Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
Explore sugar plantation ruins or walk shaded trails through historic grounds.
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park is a tribute to the sugar plantations that dotted East Florida during the mid 1800s, and this particular site was home to the Bulow family.
They produced sugar cane, rice, cotton, and indigo. Now visitors come to the plantation to see what is left of their sugar mill and home. The park provides a boat ramp for easy access to Bulow Creek, plenty of room for fishers, and picnic areas that are ideal for family outings and group gatherings. Visitors can also walk or bike along the park's numerous trails.
3501 Old Kings Road, Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-517-2084
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Flagler Beach Historical Museum
See fascinating local artifacts or explore exhibits on Florida’s coastal history.
Prehistoric bones and dehydrated astronaut food are among the quirky artifacts that attract visitors to the Flagler Beach Historical Museum, which has a large collection of items that represent the history of Flagler Beach as well as the history of Florida.
Photos, oral histories, and newspaper clippings give visitors a unique perspective of Flagler Beach's past. Community involvement is high since adults and children have plenty of opportunities to help with local preservation efforts through the museum's volunteer program as well as its many events.
207 S. Central Avenue, Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-517-2025
4. Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve
Walk through peaceful boardwalk trails or see diverse coastal wildlife.
People who love the outdoors have plenty of options for keeping busy at the Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve.
This 200-acre space has a long, scenic walking trail, areas for wildlife viewing and bird watching, spots for fishing, and a waterway for kayaking and canoeing.
There is also a picnic pavilion that can be rented out for special events and gatherings.
815 Moody Ln., Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-313-4020
5. Flagler Beachfront Winery
Sip locally crafted wines or explore oceanfront views from the tasting patio.
A family of five started the Flagler Beachfront Winery in early 2012. By building partnerships with grape growers throughout the United States, the Flagler Beachfront Winery is quickly achieving its goal of bringing Floridians unique flavors from all across the country. At the winery guests can buy wine by the bottle or by the glass.
Tapas, flatbreads, and gourmet desserts are also available for purchase. Locals and visitors can join the winery's fan club for 20 percent off of certain wine purchases, free samples of new releases, and invitations to special events and classes.
611 N Ocean Shore Blvd., Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-693-4950
Where to Eat:
6. The Golden Lion Cafe
Enjoy fresh seafood or visit a lively tiki bar with beach views.
Miles of golden white sand, clear blue sky, endless expanses of ocean, pelicans diving for fish and palm trees swaying in the breeze. That is Flagler Beach, which offers you tropical Florida paradise at its best. And when you had enough of sun, shake off the sand from your flip flops and head to The Golden Lion Cafe for one of their famous cool cocktails and some of the best fish and chips you have ever tasted.
Sit in your bathing suit at their charming tiki bar right on the beach or check the views from their picturesque upper deck. You can watch the dolphins frolicking, stately whales passing by and kids playing in the shallows while you are indulging in some fabulous margaritas, tart pina coladas or cool glass of wine. Whatever you pick from their extensive menu is excellent and super fresh. Their original key lime tartar sauce makes their famous fish and chips or battered shrimps an experience. And when the night falls and one of the great local bands or musicians step on the stage, you will know why the Golden Lion Café is a favorite of locals as well as tourists.
500 Florida A1A A1A, Flagler Beach, FL 32136, 386-439-3004
7. Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill
Dine on the outdoor deck or see stunning ocean sunsets.
Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill is a family-owned business nestled up against the sparkling Florida coast. With a large patio that provides panoramic ocean views, a full service bar, and a selection of Italian, Greek, and Mexican fare, it is no surprise that the Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill is the top-rated Flagler Beach restaurant on TripAdvisor.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the menu has an extensive list of freshly caught seafood dishes and plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
1848 S Oceanshore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 386-439-6345
For a date:
8. Down to Earth Pottery
Create handmade pottery or explore a cozy artist studio.
Down to Earth Pottery consists of a gallery, a pottery school, and a gift shop. Down to Earth offers four-week pottery classes for adults and children that cost between $115 and $125.
Artists can also reserve studio time by the hour or per month. Additionally, parties and classes for youth groups can be arranged with the studio staff.
Beautiful handmade gifts such as bowls, cups, plates, and jewelry are available to purchase from Down to Earth's website or in-person at the Flagler Beach studio.
805 N Ocean Shore Blvd., Flagler Beach, FL, 32136, 973-768-6158
If You Are Interested in Local Events:
- For Car Fans: Flagler Beach First Friday (Monthly) – Classic cars, live music, and vendors on the first Friday of each month.
- For Art Lovers: Flagler Beach Art & Sea Fest (March) – Celebrate local art and coastal heritage with exhibits and live demos.
- For the Holidays: July 4th Fireworks on the Pier – A community celebration with fireworks lighting up the Atlantic Ocean.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Flagler Beach:
- For History: St. Augustine (1 hr) – Explore the oldest city in the U.S. with cobblestone streets, forts, and Spanish architecture.
- For Racing Fans: Daytona Beach (30 min) – Visit Daytona International Speedway and drive on the famous beach.
- For Nature: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park (15 min) – A quiet garden oasis with coquina rocks and formal flower beds.
- For Wildlife: Marineland Dolphin Adventure (25 min) – Interact with dolphins and explore marine life exhibits.
- For Springs & Hikes: Blue Spring State Park (1 hr) – See manatees in winter and hike shaded river trails.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Where is Flagler Beach located?
- A: Flagler Beach is a beautiful beachside community located between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. Visitors are greeted by long stretches of pristine beaches, a variety of appealing restaurants, cute shops, and a long pier with plenty of space for fishing.
- Q: What recreational activities are available in Flagler Beach?
- A: Several state parks and a handful of nature preserves are located just minutes from the downtown area, and there are plenty of areas for hiking, walking, jogging, and biking.
- Q: How can you get to Flagler Beach?
- A: Flagler Beach has its own municipal airport, but it is also easily reached when coming from Daytona Beach International Airport.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds before summer.
Island Cottage Oceanfront Inn – A charming beachfront bed & breakfast.
Explore Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area – Hike scenic trails or enjoy kayaking.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and sunny, perfect for beach lovers.
Beach Front Motel – A cozy stay just steps from the ocean.
Relax on Flagler Beach – Enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and waterfront dining.
Fall (September-November) – Warm weather and fewer tourists.
The White Orchid Inn & Spa – A boutique retreat with a spa and ocean views.
Visit the Flagler Beach Historical Museum – Learn about the town’s rich coastal history.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures, great for a quiet coastal retreat.
A1A Ocean Club – A stylish and relaxing stay with oceanfront views.
Experience the Flagler Beach Holiday Parade – Enjoy festive lights, live music, and local holiday charm.
Plan Your Trip