Looking to spend a day on the central Florida east coast? Here's a few tips for a laid-back beach day. No big sights. No Mickey ears. No rockets. No roller coasters. No driving on the beaches. Just small towns and oceanside fun around Volusia and Flager counties.
To start, wake up and watch the sunrise near Flagler pier at Flager Beach.
Head out near the intersection of I-95 and Highway 40 in Ormond Beach for a great homestyle breakfast and friendly service at the Gourmet Kitchen.
Come back to Granada Bridge on Highway 40 in Ormond to stroll and watch dolphins, sit on a peaceful swing and look out over the Tomoka River, and wander into Rockefeller Gardens.
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| Berna Datema credits here |
Just south of the bridge on South Beach Street, beautiful small city parks line the riverside.
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| Berna Datema credits here |
Head east, back to the (no-drive) beach at Ormond-by-the-Sea for swimming, kiting, and relaxing. There's easy parking at Tom Renick park if you are there off-hours or off-days. Several public parking spots are located along A1A as you head north from Granada.
Near Tom Renick Park, head to Lenny's across the street from the beach (and a view of the ocean out the window) for laid-back pizza and the best garlic knots I've ever eaten.
Another option (or save this for supper), is to head to Hull's fish market and restaurant on Granada (Highway 40), for fresh, awesome seafood, then pick up some baklava for dessert across the street at Theia's Greek bakery.
Take Beach Street north just before the Granada Bridge. Stop, paddle, and have a stroll through the woods at the lovely Tomoka State Park.
Then, continue up Old King's Road until you hit Flagler Beach. Head east to the park that sits underneath Flagler bridge and walk the boardwalk. You really feel like you're away from it all. For a longer walk, the boardwalk stretches all the way to the beachside on the peninsula.
Head just north of Flagler Beach to sit near the surf as the sun sets lower in the sky; there are fewer people and friendly little birds.
This area of Florida is full of local gems and beautiful, orange beaches. Have you traveled here? If so, what are your thoughts and favorite activities?
