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Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137, United States
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Ra
Review №1

Such a beautiful park, I had the best time! There is so much to walk around and look at here. They have a few gardens with actual food being grown and it’s all labeled. Then, there’s a huge rose garden and so many other beautiful, unique, colorful flowers all over the place, and each one is worth stopping to look closer at. They have a couple trails to walk as well where you can find even more greenery, and there are little signs at intervals that tell you about different plant life that can be seen, and I loved that. At the edge there is a huge lake and it is such a gorgeous view. They have a park for the kids, bathrooms, a gift shop, and a huge picnic area as well, so you really could spend almost an entire day here. They also have signs up all over explaining the history of the park and area, and it’s pretty fascinating. This is definitely a cool stop and I’d highly recommend if you have the chance! And don’t forget about the beach and rocks on the other side of A1A that are also part of the park!

Al
Review №2

Really cute area with several different walking paths and several gorgeous gardens. Take some time to walk around and explore, it is very well maintained, and if you look close enough- might find some wildlife!

Me
Review №3

This place is absolutely breath taking, you can tell they put so much time work and energy into this place and it shows. My husband and I were so excited to have found this place on our anniversary weekend and were just in love with its beauty! It is an absolute must see!!!

Sa
Review №4

I think this is a hidden gem and absolutely beautiful for the price! There is a small house, beautiful gardens and a great little gift shop here. Its a great place to walk around and stretch your legs but its not a huge place. You may run into a wedding!Today, I just visited the beach side. Its a shell beach, meaning, its not fine sand, but barely crushed up seashells (or just really tiny shells.) Make sure to walk from the parking area to the left to see the rocks! Theyre painful to walk on barefoot but the waves crashing on them is really cool.

Sh
Review №5

The gardens are filled with old oaks and palm trees. There were a number of flowers as well. We saw a racer snake hanging out in the vines. I would strongly suggest real shoes when you go beach side. The shells and rocks can be tough on your bare feet!

Je
Review №6

This is a must-see on the island! I would go everyday if it were closer. A beautiful park filled with giant oaks and other wild life. It looks like a magical, tropical ancient jungle. Great for walks, family outings, photo ops or a relaxing time in nature. The visuals alone are worth a trip. Be advised they charge for entry, about $5 a vehicle.

Ja
Review №7

We had a great day at Washington Oaks Garden! Easy to find parking and the trails were marked. The gardens and fountains were beautiful especially the roses. I plan to visit again in the spring.

Ja
Review №8

Such a gorgeous place! Plenty of places to walk around and have picnics. It’s not crowded at all. Can relax and watch the boats go up and down the river or walk the trails. Definitely come here again

Ch
Review №9

Very nicely kept and beautiful! Clean bathrooms. Loved the walk on the beach to the rock formations.

Am
Review №10

This is a magical place. I love visiting Washington Oaks and I am never disappointed. Beautiful gardens, very clean and has an area for fishing. Gorgeous sunsets, so if you like taking pictures you come to the right place.

Ci
Review №11

We were there several years ago when we were spending the winter in St. Augustine. There was a nest of great horned owls in a live oak tree. The nest was on a limb that was only about 10 or 12 feet off of the ground. The Mama owl was tending to the baby owlet and the Papa was sitting nearby. It was absolutely amazing to see this close up. This park is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Beautiful.

Ma
Review №12

This place is great! On the river side they have beautiful ponds, gardens, and walking paths. On the beach side there are so many shells and big rocks to climb on. So fun!

Ka
Review №13

What an amazing place!! Pictures will never do it justice. My family and I visited right after the Covid park lift and although there was a slight drizzle we had a wonderful time. There is such beauty in this place from the grounds to the flowers. We will definitely be back in the spring time when the flowers are in full bloom. No matter what direction you turn you will be surrounded by something spectacular. I cant praise the staff enough for keeping the flowers groomed and the grounds well maintained. If you are looking for peace and a great nature experience, this is it!

Fr
Review №14

Fun place to visit and tour both the beautiful gardens and the amazing rock formations on the beach. Parking is a bit limited - especially on the beach side!

An
Review №15

Really cool park a little over an hour south of Jacksonville. The gardens are beautiful with lots of flowers and oak trees. Also, the nature trail was enjoyable with some cool views of the intercostal. Its definitely worth going across a1a to the ocean side and seeing the rocks that line the beach.

De
Review №16

Such a peaceful area to be in. Nice clean paths. Learned about different plants and trees. We saw crabs and even dolphins off the water. We didnt get to see all of it, but even the half we did, we loved.

Ja
Review №17

First time there and what a surprise! I had no idea about this place. I had a great time walking the grounds with a friend whos giving me the tour. An excellent afternoon, cant wait to go back and show the family.

Ma
Review №18

Beautiful grounds on the banks of the river; very peaceful and serene. Was not crowded so we were able to take a leisurely stroll and fully appreciate the majestic oaks; rose garden and small fountains. The trail through the center of the grounds is very well maintained shell crush and only about a half mile long, with numerous benches to rest and appreciate what youre seeing.Like any riverside place with lots of foliage, yellow flies and other insects are a factor so plan accordingly.

Ad
Review №19

The place is nothing short of AMAZING! I honestly thought it was the most beautiful place Ive been to in Florida in a long time, and I love Jacksonville. It has so many beautiful places to take pictures and pretty trails. The rose garden is gorgeous and my wife and daughter both had such a wonderful time. I recommend going here if youre in the area and even if youre not. Go out of your way to go to this place. Itll be worth it. The water was pretty to look at and the areas to just take it all in are exquisite. I really look forward to taking my family back there as soon as we have an opportunity. My daughter loved to walk around the ponds and smells the pretty flowers. Shes 15 months so it was a real pleasure seeing her introduce herself naturally to the environment. Two beautiful things coming together is poetic in its own right. So many wonderful memories were created yesterday and I really am excited to make more in the future.

Em
Review №20

I did like this place. Very pretty. However it is not wheelchair accessible as they state. All dirt and very hard to wheel myself through the areas and also having someone help push it was way to hard and so we skipped a few things. So in the future they should advise this before paying to go to this park. Because those of us who are disabled like myself will have a tough time with a wheelchair and a scooter and probably will want to skip it.

Na
Review №21

This park had something for everyone. Hiking trails, formal gardens, Intracoastal and ocean access. Watched dolphins dance for awhile at the sea wall. Very relaxing environment.

To
Review №22

This place is beautiful. So much to see. Great place to walk and enjoy all the beautiful gardens.

Sh
Review №23

Went for the first time. I was not able to see everything because it began to rain. Overall the place is kept nice and clean. Pets are not allowed in most. Easy to walk. Plenty of shade. Parking space is also good. The restrooms are kept clean. Very pleasant place to come and relax. Has picnic tables with grills over looking the water. Things are marked so you know your location.

Ma
Review №24

Beautiful gardens, definitely worth the $5 car entry fee! Nice to sit and look at the water on the bay side, or the ocean across the street.

De
Review №25

For now everything was closed due to covid..you could hike the paths but there were too many restrictions for our dogs!! They were watching and we ALWAYS pick up after our dog and wouldnt think of letting them hurt anything...so...if theyre watching like hawks why wouldnt ask people who are walking theyre dogs and not following rules to leave? There is also a charge to get in, I dont mind that but if you miss more than half of why your there then theres so many better places to just hike!* they do give you an opportunity to forgo the tripbefore you pay...the sweet lady at the gate was awesome. We moved here from Colorado...there, you can do anything with your well behaved dogs...and for those of you thinking it...yes, we might go back where we and are dogs are wanted and can hike ANYWHERE

De
Review №26

What a beautiful place to visit! The gardens are delightful along with the posts about the history. The fishing area is wonderful to sit and relax and to fish.

Ca
Review №27

Beautiful. The drive is part of the adventure. Bring your hiking shoes, but also know that there are gardens to explore, and also a picnic area. Lots of photo opportunities, so bring some slight formal wear. Could be a good spot for wedding photos in the spring!

Th
Review №28

This is a great state park. Now the gift shop and plant sales is suspended due to pandemic. The family and I went through the rose garden which is beautiful. There are spots to fish on the intracoastal side. Lots of picnic tables which are spaces out great. Playground area is very clean and restrooms. I recommend for a nice day trip.

AB
Review №29

Amazing little garden and state park. Pack your lunch and enjoy an amazing park.

Ni
Review №30

HIKERS WITH PET BEWARE!!!! This state park is beautiful and has very nice trails with a spectacular garden. However, we took our dog to hike there during June and we found more than 15 ticks on our dog after the hike. Though not completely surprising given the humid hot temperature here in Florida, we just want to raise awareness that there is an abundance of ticks in this park. Things to do for you and your pets before hiking here is make sure you spray yourselves with bug repellent, make sure your dog is on a preventative tick medication monthly, and make sure you check for ticks after the hike, give your pet a bath after hike with tick shampoo, spray your car down with tick spray.

Ma
Review №31

Nice little state park with formal gardens and picnic area. Easy trails and handicap accessible.

Ge
Review №32

Quiet peaceful with big trees. Worth a visit if you want a quick escape

Ge
Review №33

What a beautiful place to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida as well as some well kept formal gardens as well.

Te
Review №34

My wife and I live in Jacksonville and this is one of our favorite places to go and also to take in town visitors.... Its magical and is what we call old Florida... The gardens are perfect in every season of the year... It seems there is always something blooming... Its beautiful pathways meander though magical rose gardens.. And beside water features and peaceful fountains and across walking bridges.. There are gigantic Oaks and various other trees and and plants all throughout the gardens... Plenty of nice restrooms..coverded shelters for family functions and lots of places to picnic and playground equipment for the kids... Theres beautiful Florida in every direction.... We have visited the gardens no less than 20 or so times and are never ever disappointed in its beauty

Sh
Review №35

Amazing and beautiful views, well kept grounds and photo opportunities. Definitely worth a trip and view if in the area.

As
Review №36

Great park with an amazing garden and beach. Admission was only $5, and was well worth it! Ill be coming back when it is a little bit cooler outside.

Tr
Review №37

Amazing park and garden! The nature trail is definitely a breathe of life and calming. I really love their garden area. From the gazebo to the yen like sculptures that are somewhat hidden, that area is perfect.Sometimes the aroma of the garden can smell foul but the stench doesnt last as the heavenly scents of the flowers will kick in.If youre around that way, definitely stop by. Its well worth it especially if youre looking for a scenic wedding locale.

Er
Review №38

Nice trail on the river side with amazing live oaks and lots of different flowers and foliage to see. Very wide and well kept paths. Beach side is great for shell hunting and the coquina is fascinating to see.

Je
Review №39

GORGEOUS paths to walk, a fragrant rose garden, water views and fishing is available too. Also a nice playground and decent restroom facilities. Bring sunblock and mosquito repellent.

Na
Review №40

Fantastic out-of-the-way place to get the best of the beach AND the best of the sound side. Biking, nature trails, gardens, picnicking, and oceanside fun. Rare chance to see rocky tidal pools on the Florida coast and all the marine life thats there... on the sandy beachs you find everywhere else you miss out on the minnows, crabs and crustaceans. Birds that normally stick to the salt marshes and mangroves come over to the rocky beach to fish. Enjoyed spending the whole day here, going from one section of the park to the other.

Tr
Review №41

Awesome Place to visit with family and friends.Entry Fees:$5 Car More than 1 person$4 Car Single Person$2 Bicycles/PedestriansBeautiful Gardens and Trees, I do wish the fountain ponds were cleaner and taken care of, because it Makes the area a little smelly.If You love photography, definitely come visit.

Ka
Review №42

I had no idea that this gem was here! It’s about an hour south of Jacksonville right on the border of St. Augustine and Palm Coast. It’s a beautiful place to take photos or just to spend some time connecting with nature. There’s a variety of areas including diverse foliage including grassy areas, trees, and gardens. There’s water toward the back as well. I will absolutely be spending more time here in the near future.

St
Review №43

This park is so beautiful. I cant believe Ive lived most of my life only 2 hours from there and never visited. I love all of the Florida state parks but this one is a jewel. Dont miss it.

Co
Review №44

First off there is a five dollar fee per car load to get access to both sections of the park. This is an absolutely beautiful park with some of the most well kept walking/biking trails I have seen. They are all light sand or gravel trails that make it easy by either foot or bike. Everything is clearly marked with access to several restrooms throughout the park. The garden area in the middle is an awesome sight and has many trees and plants that are labeled to learn about the different flora in the area. Would love to come back and check out the gift shop and visitor center but they were closed, I assume due to Covid.Across the street on the beach side is just as beautiful as the garden, maybe even better depending on your taste. When we went it was only very lightly used with you feeling like you have a huge section of the beach to yourself (this was a Monday where rain was expected). We were able to see a baby and adult sea turtle out in the ocean, along with some beautiful rock formations. The rocks are awesome, but do make it a bit challenging to walk out and play in some spots.Highly recommend this spot!

Ju
Review №45

Absolutely beautiful!! Worth the fee for entry. The grounds are AMAZING! And bonus across the street with beautiful beach!

Ke
Review №46

A peaceful park with beautiful gardens, foliage and natural areas affording hiking, picnicking, bicycle trails, fishing and relaxing niches.

Lu
Review №47

Very nice and peaceful place. We came during late winter so the flower weren’t in full bloom yet but overall a wonderful experience. Lots of facilities and paved roads. On the ocean side the coquina rocks are a must-see.

Ji
Review №48

This is a pleasant, relaxing place to visit. You can stroll through the gardens, explore the trails, have a picnic, or go fishing. Well worth the $5 daily fee.

Ja
Review №49

Didnt get to spend much time out here, but at $5 per car, this was truly a beautiful place! I posted a few photos, but there was more to see. Safe place to walk around. Even saw some people fishing out by the water at dedicated fishing areas! I will have to return when I have more time to spend and explore!!!

ka
Review №50

Beautiful place to visit. I’m so grateful I was told about this place, I was able to stop by 2 times on my vacation. Something I will never forget, the roses smelt like perfume! I hope to be back some day. Great place for friends & family

Do
Review №51

Excellent little park with a good sized pond that has a boardwalk across it and you will see several different types of turtles (dozens of them) and they love cheerios and if your lucky the gator will be out, hell of a skate board park to,enjoy

Su
Review №52

This was not a planned trip. We saw the sign and stopped. Best $5 we ever spent. The gardens were beautiful. The beach was very different from the beaches we had previously been to. It had large rocks that are part of the history of the area. Such a neat historical experience.

Lu
Review №53

This place was absolutely beautiful. Quiet and filled with nature at every turn. The stunning plans and the well-kept trails makes this a go to for any nature Enthusiast or person just looking for a nice quiet place to take a walk.Many of places to have a picnic or family celebration. Enjoy the barbecue grills and seating area down by the water or down at the picnic area.There are many seating areas throughout the gardens and many picture opportunities. Be sure to check out the gift shop as well as the plant cell every second Saturday of the month.Along with your admission to the garden, you get admission to the beach side on the Matanzas Inlet...the rocks and shells are intriguing.

ge
Review №54

Beautiful beach area very untypical of most of Florida east coast. Limestone formations, Coquina shell and sand, and not usually crowded. Gardens on the west side of highway are scenic, and a perfect place to wrap up the day with a picnic.

Me
Review №55

A fantastic places. No idea this places existed until we discovered by mistake and I couldnt be more delighted. Beautiful & extremely well cared garden. Dreaming with coming back to watch the sunset from their river deck.

Da
Review №56

Beautiful gardens and beach. The rocky beach is unique and a great contrast to the usual sandy normal beaches around.

Je
Review №57

A very unique beach for Florida! Reminds me of something you would find on a beach in New England. Bring your camera.

al
Review №58

Great place to be!!!!!!! I loved it here. The rose gardens, greenhouse, beach, and historic guide signs and development were pleasant and fun. The beach across the street that is part of the star park was the best!!!!!!! Found 2 shark teeth and took in the beautiful natural coquina rocks formations found there.I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND GOING!!!

Na
Review №59

Gardens are beautiful. It is a reminder of the beauty that was old Florida.e view of Matanzas River is gorgeous. Loved it.

Ka
Review №60

Beautifully preserved Real Florida park and trails. With both an ocean and inland side across A1A, you could spend a full day here. Inland you can stroll through the trails in the oak hammock and the well-kept Rose garden. These trails border the banks of the Intracoastal with amazing sunset views and the park allows fishing from the bulkhead. The ocean side is another gem when the Rocks are exposed. My kids explored for hours. You can easily spend a day here exploring and well worth the nominal entry fee.

An
Review №61

Such a BEAUTLFUL Place to be! Rose garden is spectacular. Seen 2 weddings! Will visit again!

Bu
Review №62

Probably one of the most beautiful State Parks I have visited in Florida. This place is a must visit especially during the spring season.

Ki
Review №63

Loved this park! Beautiful walking trails and gardens, intracoastal side has fishing, picnicking, trails, and more. Beach side has the coquina, ocean, jellyfish, shells. It was awesome! Next time will bring a lunch and some fishing gear and make a whole day of it!

De
Review №64

This us a very unique park in Dlorida where re you can wnjoy beautiful gardens, sulfur springs, hiking trails and the rock beach just across A1A.

Bo
Review №65

This the most beautiful part that I have seen. There is a coastline but you can’t swim in, well I didn’t anyone in the other than boaters. There are cute little Bambis running and grazing, a beautiful rose garden, and adorable brown bunnies . It’s a big park so bring your sneakers, and work up a sweat walking the nature trails and all the areas. Like the name of the park states there are beautiful majestic oak trees, and so many different species of other trees and plants . Make sure you make it bring an effective bug/ mosquito sprays because they will eat you alive on the trails .

Sh
Review №66

We love FL state parks! Beautiful, unique beach, gorgeous gardens and picnic areas across A1A

Sa
Review №67

This place was so peaceful and magical. It was a very nice cool breezy day but just a right amount of sun to pop thru the tree tops. Place is well kept and the gift shop is cute.

MJ
Review №68

It was so beautiful !

Ki
Review №69

Wonderful place Oceanside & intercostal! Nature & history! Great!

As
Review №70

What an enchanting place! The grounds are stunning. There are gardens, walking or biking trails, fishing spots on the river, family grill/picnic areas, a playground, several event locations and beach access across the street!Extremely well kept, the cleanest restrooms of any publicly maintained park weve seen. A great place to bring the family.

Ma
Review №71

Fairly short trail with a water feature and garden section. Nice fishing spot on the intercoastal as well. The coquina beach is fantastic as well.

Al
Review №72

Absolutely stunning! Washington Oaks has become our favorite park in the area. It’s well maintained and has beautiful overlooks everywhere. In fact, this place is so massive that we’re still exploring parts of it.We’ve done dates here, as well as family outings with a one year old. The only thing I’d suggest is to keep a good hand on little ones near the water. There’s no fencing so it can get dangerous right at the water’s edge.

Ma
Review №73

My wife and I have visited St. Augustine many times. This was a delightful discovery on our recent trip. Its really a treasure and the coquine rocks on the beach made for some great photos!

Me
Review №74

Beautiful scenery everywhere. I couldnt get enough. Very scenic.

Le
Review №75

A beautiful place to visit. Be sure to check out our video on YouTube @ Leboof. We discuss cost of admission and show you a portion of the place.

Jo
Review №76

Wonderful park! We had an amazing time. So much to see. Could have taken 100 more pictures. Very well maintained and colorful. The staff was also very friendly, thanks for sharing the beauty. #ecowaterfiltration #yourrentalbooked

Nu
Review №77

Family friend. beautiful gardens and trees. excellent for pictures

Ri
Review №78

Beautifully maintained gardens and a nice spot to rest by the river.

Bo
Review №79

Pretty wish we had more time to explore. The water and beach was peaceful and relaxing.

Ro
Review №80

This place is a hidden gem!!! Such magestic gardens and old growth trees. Well worth walking the trails and paths for an hour or two.

De
Review №81

The garden was gorgeous and comfortable. All of the trails were easily accessible and gorgeous. Great spots to fish and crab near the visitor center. The beach is the real highlight, across from the gardens. The sand is super soft and f you walk a short way up to the left theres a set of outcrops made out of coquina and is so cool. Also is only 10 minutes from st Augustine

Br
Review №82

A wonderful place to see the indigenous plants in Florida. The nature trail was interesting and informative.

He
Review №83

Love this place. Gardens are beautiful. There is a large picnic area, beach access and a fishing area on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Je
Review №84

I love this park so much! We did our wedding photos there and it was such a perfect setting! Beautiful trails and scenery.

Ja
Review №85

I love love LOVE this park. It is beautiful beyond belief. Its never too crowded which is amazing in this Florida state. The park is large enough for a nice walk but small enough not to get lost. There are all sort of gorgeous flowers and trees. Best of all, the scenery provides an epic backdrop for photos of all sorts! (Photos by Jasmine Treadway)

Ma
Review №86

Beautiful gardens, great trails and amazing views! Cool history, hike the old A1A road and see some wildlife.Spent the afternoon, and although it was chilly- it was worth it! In mid December the roses are still blooming, was very surprised!Will definitely return when I am back in the area! If you have a free afternoon and would like a nice walk, definitely stop by!

MJ
Review №87

Very nice state park. The gardens were a surprise. Only $5.00 admission to the park and I have paid more to visit horticultural gardens that werent as nice. These were well managed and beautiful. Very nice walking trails, good exercise but not taxing with steep hills or rocky paths.

Re
Review №88

A beautiful way to spend the day communing with nature. Be sure to visit both sides of the park.

Ma
Review №89

Wonderful romantic date location!!! Love love love the atmosphere. Makes me love florida!!!

Gl
Review №90

Peaceful place, and full of history .

Te
Review №91

Dont pass up this gem on the east coast of Florida. Nice walking trails through the vast beautiful gardens under the large live oaks draped with Spanish moss. Spare 2 hours from the beach scene and step into this large manicured garden that winds its path to the river. Awesome piece of history of this land.

Iz
Review №92

What a great place to visit. The entry fee of 5 bucks was well worth it. I found the facilities easily found and well maintained. And great place for surf fishing.

RL
Review №93

Beautiful gardens. Great for walking and hiking. Large shaded picnic area. Easy to take good photos.

Jo
Review №94

Super pretty and well spaced out

Ba
Review №95

Beautiful garden, water fountains, nice quiet state park. Hiking, fishing, picnic areas, camping, a small beach area. Nicely maintained. There is a $5 charge per car. Oddly I did not run into anyone who serviced the park, but atmosphere seems friendly. Lots of posted literature.

An
Review №96

Beautiful walking trails through gardens to the intercoastal nice benches to view boat activity. Lots of TRUMP 2020 flags on boats up and down the intercoastal

Ja
Review №97

One of my favorite state parks in FL.... Beautiful gardens and the beach!!!its a great experience!

Ka
Review №98

This park is a great little gem. We visited in the afternoon and spent about an hour walking around it. They charge $5 per car to get in and the park is well worth it. Be sure to check out the coquina rocks on the other side.

Ki
Review №99

This was my first visit and I absolutely loved it! The park and trails are very well kept. Rose bushes were just starting to wake up from their winter slumber,Fisherman at the back of the park, and historical anecdotes through the park.Beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful. It was a wonderful start to a Friday morning, and by the time we were leaving groups of people were coming in.If you like to feel like you have the place to yourself, get there early! Either way, this is a must visit park. Make sure you stop across the street and take a stroll among the rocky beach shore!

Ke
Review №100

Wonderful State Park! Only $5 for a full day of relaxation walking the trails and exploring the park. Great place for a picnic with the family. Fantastic photo opportunities. Definitely beautifully kept.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137, United States
  • Site:http://washingtonoaks.org/
  • Phone:+1 386-446-6780
Categories
  • State park
  • Tourist attraction
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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