Before we tuck into some turkey this holiday season, we’re going around the virtual table and expressing our gratitude for everything Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches has to offer. Here’s what we’re most thankful for in 2021:
Our Ample Outdoor Space
We’ve always appreciated our beautiful beaches, well-kept parks, and expansive trails—but even more so this year. The Great Outdoors became our big escape; a place we could safely catch-up with friends, stretch our legs, and center ourselves mentally. While many were feeling claustrophobic in concrete jungles, we exercised our dogs on pet-friendly beaches, paddled through estuaries, and basked in the sunshine. Fresh air never felt so good.
Our Pledge to Prevent Participants
Local restaurants and shop owners stepped up to the plate this year, promising to do their part to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Many of them joined our voluntary Pledge to Prevent program and committed to: properly using personal protective equipment, routine cleaning of surfaces and equipment, practicing social distancing, and keeping sick employees at home. We’re grateful for their dedication to keeping Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches a safe place for visitors and locals.
The Sea Turtle Hospital at Whitney Laboratory
Since 2015, the staff at The Sea Turtle Hospital has been dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing these beautiful ancient creatures. In fact, 54 different turtles have been nurtured back to health since the hospital opened in 2015—many of them with fibropapillomatosis, a mysterious tumor-causing disease that affects all sea turtle species. Before the hospital opened its doors, injured and sick turtles were transported to other areas in Florida, wasting critical time in transit. We’re thankful for all the work The Sea Turtle Hospital does in protecting these beloved Florida reptiles.
Free and Affordable Fun
In Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches, there’s plenty of free (or nearly free) fun for everyone. Visitors can explore public art like the Turtle Trail and colorful murals, bike or hike through local parks, or just kick back and relax on the cinnamon-colored beaches. We’re lucky that budget-friendly doesn’t mean boring in our little beach town.
Friendly Locals and Conscientious Visitors
Walk down any street in town and you’ll be greeted by a chorus of hellos and a flash of smiles. Our friendly locals are what make Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches so special—they truly care about the community and take pride in sharing it with others. We’re also grateful for our incredible visitors, who fall in love with our little beach town and treat it with TLC.
