These trees offer shade Fishing from the Weddings at Washington Oaks With multiple locations to choose from in the stunning beauty of Washington Oaks, your picturesque dream wedding awaits you here! Swimming is not advisable at the beach due to a strong undertow and large rocks. Luisa married a lawyer from North Carolina named George Lawrence Washington. The park is open every day from 8:00 am until sundown and the admission fee is $3.25 per car or $1.00 per person if you are on foot or bicycle. The Youngs were responsible Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, the 0.75-mile stretch of beach is a photographer's paradise. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, this property was once owned by a distant relative of President George Washington. A portion of the hammock contains a formal garden where many species of exotic plants from around the world are displayed along footpaths and around reflecting ponds. Getting to the beach at just the right time to catch the rocks out in full force is a rarity, so make sure to snap a picture to back up your story. Young was well known for founding the Radio Corporation of America. Coquina is a soft rock made of ancient marine reefs and limestone and it is found in only few places a few sites on the southern coast of the United State and in New Zealand. When Young died in the 1960s, his wife donated most of the land to the state of Florida, specifying that the gardens be "maintained in their present form.". Last updated: September 2, 2022 Northeast Florida, Beaches in Florida, Gardens, Historic Florida, Parks, Forests & Preserves Washington Oaks State Park has a split personality there are two distinctly different reasons to visit this state park near St. Augustine. But they can't swim at the beach due to the dangers posed by the rocks. A picnic area on the south side of the park has its own parking and pavilions for an impromptu picnic. Shortly While strolling along the pathways, property from her and people began calling it "The Washington Place. Passed water quality tests 60-95% of the time. by a midden -- the mound of oyster shells and other discards left by generations The beaches along Flagler County look like a giant container of cinnamon was sprinkled on them because of the orange specks of conquina that comprise the sand. Your email address will not be published. Less than two hours from our house, Washington Oaks Gardens sits between St. Augustine and Palm Coast in Northeast Florida. The formal gardens are the centerpiece of Washington Oaks Gardens. /* 728x90, created 9/11/10 */ Follow us on social media to add even more wonder to your day. The coquina rocks are an ecosystem themselves and provide a foundation for plants and animals such as algae, limpets and crabs. When such a location is combined with world-class amenities and facilities, what results in that is the perfect environment in which to spend time and make lasting memories with families and friends. merchant who may have constructed some buildings and planted crops. Many visitors spend several hours Nearly every year, there are drowning accidents in this stretch of the river. Itis located in a coastal hammock, so it is sure to provide ample shade. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Steps to Quiet Beach! Once raised from the ocean, the We like to take the kids on the walking trail. Here was the haunt of bears, wild-cats, lynxes, cougars, and the numberless deer of which they made their prey. *** Located In the Painter's Hill neighborhood of Flagler Beach. Home Find a Park Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Hours & Fees Hours The park is open 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. and roses. It is located off of A1A in St Augustine, FL. There is a covered pavilion with other tables and grills Along the beach can be found Near the greenhouses, theres a native Florida plant exhibit (with aloe plants for $5! Dogs are not allowed in the gardens or on the beach. Linens and towels provided. PICNICKING and bike trail and the Old A-1-A hike and bike trail. The gardens are well-known for their azaleas, camellias and roses. Theres an entire courtyard area featuring different colored roses in pinks, reds, yellows, and even spotty blends. That being said, choosing between a sit on top kayak and . The Mala Compra hiking loop is a half-mile loop that explores the ecozone between the coastal maritime hammock and the estuarine tidal marsh along the Matanzas River. hammock you will find magnificent live oak trees. You can swim at Washington Oaks State Park, but because of the rocks, thisbeach is better for exploring and wading than swimming. There is barely a sign; the road to the beach references only the Florida scrub habitat adjoining the beach. Shocking Disparities in Flaglers Handling of 3 Different Assaults by Disabled Students Against School Staff, Brendan Depas Mother Tells Her Sons Story, Palm Coast Issues Certificate of Occupancy to AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway, Obama-Era Plan Allows Flagler Schools to Provide Free Lunches For All Students Starting in August, Flagler and Palm Coast July 4 Holiday Schedules, Travel and Safety Advisories. The coastal scrub is home to and redfish, drum and flounder and several species of trout along the seawall. While the gardens were pretty, Im definitely more of an animal person than a plant person. Inside, the living area has a new queen sleeper sofa and new dinette table and chairs. During the summer there can be a lot of mosquitos, so bring the bug spray! seawall as well as surf fishing is allowed at Washington Oaks. this land fondly long after Luisa died. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park: 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd. Required fields are marked *. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, at the northeasternmost part of Flagler County, is the dean of Flagler County parks: a 476-acre spread on both sides of State Road A1A (just three miles south of Marineland), of formal gardens, day lilies, roses, some of the most stately oaks in the county, colossal coastal boulders of coquina, an impressive collection of native and exotic species, and lush, intimate paths ideal for solitary walks or preludes to a kiss, or more: the park is a favorite ground for weddings. ++++++++++++++ Important to know: Entrance is usually on the honor system and exact change is required. a picturesque oak hammock. the shallows along the parks seawall. many couples unite at the octagon, located next to one of the many reflection Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the individual park office as soon as possible. Tucked away off of Floridas A1A highway on the quiet outskirts of Palm Coast is a hidden gem: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. Intoxicants and firearms are prohibited. But seriously, it was a really relaxing place to walk around and enjoy a lazy afternoon outside. (Photo: Bonnie Gross) How coquina is formed required to posses a license when fishing from shore. Flagler County residents rely on FlaglerLive for essential, bold and analytical journalism that cannot be found anywhere else. Washington Oaks Gardens extends from the Matanzas River to the Atlantic Ocean, protecting all the greenery between, including the coastal maritime hammock and the estuarine tidal marsh along the river. When the rocks are visible, its a wonderful playground. Across the street from the Washington Oaks State Garden, this unusual beach in Florida is a well-kept secret, hoarded by the locals who refer to it as "The Rocks". In 1793 a fire, probably natural, This park is on theGreat Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Common He became known as General Hernandez because, as The center is decorated with furniture and an operating television from the Youngs era on the land (but no video loops of Gunsmoke, Wagon Train or Red Skelton). maritime hammock and the estuarine tidal marsh along the Matanzas River. ). be seen at the park. Offer available only in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico). Washington Oaks Gardens State Park has trails for both past times. View the list of beaches nearby. You might recognize coquina rock as the large picturesque stones often used in landscaping. WILDLIFE The beach dune areas State of Florida. })}); Definitive List of National Parks in the US, Ranked Best to Worst, Indianas Brown County State Park is a Fall Foliage Wonderland, Visiting Every US National Park, Part 4: The Allure of the Pacific Northwest. The Bella Vista trails, include the Timucuan hiking trail, Jungle Road hike Data is based on the water sample taken on June 12th, 2023. So come, sit back relax and enjoy! The park was opened to the public on July 1, 1964. The beach side of the park is much less developed, and the only facility it offers is a (surprisingly well ventilated) porta potty. All kayaks come with bulkheads (compartments) designed to prevent the boats from sinking. Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! A number of short trails provide opportunities for hiking and bicycling. The Youngs established the gardens and renamed the place Washington Oaks Gardens to honor its connection to the Washington line, and as a reflection of the many live oaks on the property. Upon stepping out of the rose garden Along the seawall behind the visitor center are plenty of benches and bait areas for fishing. River. If you donate the cost of a scoop of ice cream, you will be helping us continue to provide comprehensive local news and honest, serious journalism for our community. These rocks are believed to be formed from Hours: 8 a.m . annuals, perennials, combined with exotics and native vegetation complimenting provide an atmosphere of tranquillity. a St. Augustine native of Minorcan descent, bought the land. target: "#hbspt-form-1688142376000-5030280837", See. acquired the beach front property from neighbors. Every time you recycle you are helping protect our environment. A beachside monolith shaped by years of waves crashing against hard quartz. Fishing can be enjoyed from the park's seawall on the Matanzas River, and surf fishing is allowed from the beach. Coquina rocks in the sand at "The Rocks" beach in Florida, Coquina Rocks Sunrise at Washington Oaks State Park, Tide pools at sunrise at Washington Oaks State Park. What is Coquina Rock? species of birds have been observed in the park and surrounding waters. to the U.S. Congress. Florida at Florida's 145 state parks, ask a Park Ranger where you Although the formal gardens are the centerpiece of this park, Washington Oaks is also famous for the unique coquina rock formations that line its Atlantic beach. But we depend on your support. It's actually two parks in one. The park is made up of distinct ecosystems: the coastal scrub, the maritime hammock and the coquina rocks. Often overlooked, its rare to find more than a handful of other people there, so, at least for now, you can usually enjoy the hidden seascape in relative peace and quiet. Absolutely lovely state park with some wonderful walks. What activities are at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park? Washington Oaks State Park is located two miles south of Marineland, off A1A. If the ocean isnt enough, you can enjoy high-speed wireless Internet access, flat-screen cable TV with HD channels, and a smart DVD player. Read before going! barrier beach at Washington Oaks. Copyright Law. Amenities include: Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park. Here, Parkman wrote of the area as it was near the birth of the Republic, the Bartrams, father and son, guided their skiff and kindled their nightly bivouac-fire; and here, too, roamed Audubon, with his sketch-book and his gun. Visitors can learn about the park's natural and cultural resources in the visitor center. But rocks piled high on the beach are just part of the draw of this state park. The shady gazebo (pictured above) is a coveted spot to listen for native birds chirping while surrounded by flowers and lush, tropical greenery. The park is open 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Earth, air, and water teemed with life, in endless varieties of beauty and ugliness. Head north along the shore, and the rocks get larger and more fantastic. Florida State Parks are in various stages of accessibility, and are working to improve access to services and facilities.