While different age demographics tend to want different things out of their vacation destinations, travelers of all ages can appreciate a hidden gem. And we have a new one for retirees to add to their bucket lists.
Midway between charming St. Augustine and Daytona Beach lies an overlooked Florida city that was recently deemed the best U.S. destination for senior travelers looking to enjoy a great vacation. After examining factors such as lodging, dining, bars, walkability, safety, and senior populations, the coastal enclave of Palm Coast beat out more than 160 other cities to take the No. 1 spot on Carewell’s 2024 list of “the best hidden gem destinations for seniors.”
And we can see why. Palm Coast provides a unique blend of affordability, community, and access to essential services that cater to the needs of older adults. Another huge plus? Miles of sandy beaches. Palm Coast offers a beautiful coastal setting with plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities that the older set will appreciate.
What To Do
Go To The Beach
Jungle Hut Park is a two-acre city beach with direct water access. Because it can be a bit too rocky for swimming, this beach is often less crowded than others in the area, making it ideal for relaxing on the sand. Here you can find a variety of shorebirds, gulls, and pelicans, as well as ruby-throated hummingbirds in the summer.
For the best swimming in the area, head a few miles north to Matanzas Inlet. Locals say this beach has some of the softest sand and calmest waters around.
Play Golf
Palm Coast is home to a number of world-class golf clubs. Schedule a tee time at Palm Harbor Golf Club or the seaside Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa.
Commune With Nature
Palm Coast’s numerous nature trails, including the Graham Swamp Trail, are a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty. The 425-acre Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a must visit. Though it is best known for its formal gardens, this waterfront park is also famous for its coquina rock formations along the Atlantic beach.
Visit Downtown
In the summer, the city plays host to numerous art festivals and a farmers’ market where visitors can enjoy the community atmosphere while shopping for treasures. Be sure to pay a visit to the European Village, a shopping and dining destination modeled after an Italian open-air piazza.
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Check Out St. Augustine
No visit to Flagler County would be complete without a trip to nearby St. Augustine. Just recently named the “most welcoming” city in the world, the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S. boasts historic Spanish architecture, brick-lined streets, a charming downtown, and more.
Where To Eat
Captain’s BBQ
Captain’s BBQ is a casual waterfront spot known for Southern barbecue favorites, homemade desserts, and finger-licking burnt ends.
captainsbbq.com, 5862 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137
The Funky Pelican
A few minutes down the road in Flagler Beach, The Funky Pelican offers incredible ocean views from its spot right on the Flagler Beach Pier. Try the 24-oz Bloody Mary and the Cajun fish sandwich, and be sure to save room for a slice of Key lime pie for dessert.
funkypelican.com, 215 S Oceanshore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Where To Stay
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
The four-star Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is conveniently located close to both the beach and downtown Palm Coast. Highlights here include two award-winning golf courses, a luxurious spa, and a 91,000-square-foot water park featuring a lazy river and water flume.
hammockbeach.com, 200 Ocean Crest Dr, Palm Coast, FL 32137
Rent A Condo
Many Palm Coast visitors choose to rent a condominium for their stay. Local rental companies like Cinnamon Beach Vacations offer a variety of options across different price points.
