Looking for fun activities that won’t break the bank? Check out these 15 free or nearly-free things to do in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches.
1. Get Inspired at Local Art Galleries
Home to a thriving arts scene, Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches boasts numerous galleries that are free to explore. Get inspired by magnificent wood and bronze sculptures at The Baliker Gallery or peruse a variety of mediums at GOLA.
2. Go on a Mural Crawl/ Tour the Turtle Trail
Spend an afternoon snapping selfies in front of the colorful murals that adorn the walls of businesses in Flagler Beach. From the cutie-pie turtle at Flagler Board Shack to the wacky robot at Whaam Burger, your Instagram feed will pop with fun and funky art. Or, hop in the car and go on a scavenger hunt for the Palm Coast Art Foundation’s fiberglass turtles. More than a dozen turtles are uniquely painted and then placed throughout Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches.
3. Step Back in Time at the Flagler Beach Historical Museum
Learn about the history of Flagler Beach through old photos, newspaper clippings, and artifacts.
4. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Flagler Beach
Explore Flagler Beach on foot with a self-guided walking tour. Download the museum’s brochure on your phone, then hit the streets to learn about important sites in the town’s history.
5. Stroll around a Farmers Market
Each Sunday, area farmers and artisans gather in the courtyard at European Village from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Browse booths filled with honey, popcorn, quilts, organic veggies, jewelry, and more. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a fun way to discover new products and visit with locals.
6. Swing into Action at a Local Playground
The Palm Coast Community Center’s playground features slides, swings, seesaws and more. The tree canopies keep little ones protected from harsh rays. At Holland Memorial Park, you’ll find the traditional playground fun, plus a sandpit, zip line, and treehouse. There’s also a kid-approved splash pad that’s open seasonally—just be sure to check online before visiting.
7. Discover Florida Royalty at Princess Place Preserve
Let Sleeping Beauty lie. At Princess Place Preserve, natural beauty abounds with towering live oaks and saltwater marshes. Take a hike on one of the trails, searching for white-tailed deer, red foxes, and the majestic bald eagle along the way. Channel your inner princess with a tour of the lodge, the former home of a widow who married an exiled Russian prince. Tours of the lodge are available Fri-Sun at 2 p.m.
8. Take a [Board]Walk at Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve
Watch pelicans diving for breakfast, egrets wading in the marsh, and herons stretching their wings as you amble along the boardwalk at Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve.
9. Search for Seashells at Varn Park
With miles of pristine shoreline, Flagler Beach is a shell-seeker’s delight. Van Park is a favorite spot to forage—for best luck, go around low tide.
10. Window-Shop ‘til You Drop
Sometimes looking is half the fun! Spend the afternoon perusing the charming, independently-owned shops throughout Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches. Scour Jose Gaspar Treasure Company for shark teeth, browse the handmade creations at Flagler Surf Art and Stuff, or imagine yourself shredding the waves at Flagler Board Shack.
11. Hike or Bike the Mala Compra Trail
Perfect for families or those desiring a leisurely stroll, this 2.5-mile trail winds through a wooded area, providing partial shade on a hot day. Follow the route to the beach and cool off with a quick dip in the Atlantic.
12. Cruise Down A1A Scenic Byway
Windows down. Volume up! Take a mini road trip down A1A, named Florida’s second All-American Road in 2021. Download the A1A Scenic Byway Audio Tour and learn about area history, culture and other points of interest along the way.
13. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park—Beach Access
Thousands of years in the making, the coquina rocks at Washington Oaks Gardens are in stark contrast to the typical sandy beaches in Florida. Go at high tide to see the waves crash against these ancient formations—resulting in majestic splashes. Or, channel your inner explorer and investigate the nooks, crannies, and pools that form during low tide. A $5 fee gets you access to both the beach and the beautiful gardens and grounds at the state park.
14. First Fridays
Head to downtown Flagler Beach on the first Friday of each month for live music, shopping, and more! This free family-friendly event is a favorite for locals and visitors. Check out our website for the most up-to-date information.
15. Find the Next Big Event
There’s always free fun on the horizon in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches. Events like festivals and parades vary by season—so visit our handy events calendar periodically to see what’s new!