Once a quiet fishing village, Flagler Beach has blossomed into a seaside tourist attraction, thanks largely to the small town in northeast Florida's 6-mile coastline of uncrowded beaches. In addition to Flagler Beach, several nearby parks along Ocean Shore Boulevard present an opportunity to bask in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Surf to the South
- Swim in the crashing blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean before lying out in the sun on the tawny sand of the 2.5-mile-long stretch of beach at North State Peninsula Park. Just over 4 miles south of Flagler Beach, the park is popular among beachcombers who find iridescent shells, sea beans and other oceanic treasures. Surfers are often spotted riding the tall, white-capped waves. While there is no lifeguard on duty, the beach is regularly patrolled by park staff.
Seaside Flora and Fauna
- At the southern tip of Ponce Inlet, 30 miles south of Flagler Beach, the 52-acre Lighthouse Point Park includes an observation deck, lighthouse, nature trails and swimming beach. Dolphins are commonly sighted at the shoreline, while gopher tortoises are often spotted in the sand. Discover armadillos, possums, shore birds and birds of prey throughout the dense flora of the undisturbed nature park. Lighthouse Point Park requires a small entrance fee for each car.
Swim and Sport
- Enter Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park at Ormond Beach for free, and enjoy from sunrise to sunset. The park, 10 miles south of Flagler Beach, stretches over 40 acres from Halifax River to the ocean. Beach visitors head to the park's east side, where parking is available across the street from the shore. In addition to swimming in the ocean and fishing from the dock, the park offers two dog parks, a soccer field and basketball court.
High Tide at Half Moon
- Named for its dusty white sand and the arcing shape of its shoreline, Crescent Beach in St. Augustine lies 22 miles north of Flagler Beach. Lifeguards watch over swimmers seasonally, while the police regularly patrol the beach on four-wheeled all-terrain vehicles, enforcing the park's rule prohibiting alcohol. Cars, which are allowed to park directly on the beach, are charged an affordable day-use fee from the beginning of March through the end of September. Crescent Beach is extremely wide, allowing beachgoers to spread out -- but it does occasionally become crowded around high tide.
