From ocean sunrises and sunset cruises to upscale dining and one-of-a-kind experiences, a stay in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches is even better when shared with someone special. Whether you want to reconnect away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, seek a relaxing vacation or plan to pop the question, you can do it all here.
Here’s how to enjoy a romantic getaway to Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches.
Where to Stay
Watch the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the balcony of your luxurious room at Hammock Beach Resort. The top-rated resort has all the amenities you desire for a couple’s beach escape. Sip drinks by the pool, float down the lazy river, dine on a gourmet meal just steps from the surf or play a round of golf on the award-winning Ocean Course. For a stay that includes privacy and pampering, relax at the oceanfront Lodge at Hammock Beach, a 20-guest room boutique hotel where you’ll enjoy complimentary morning coffee, afternoon gourmet snacks and nightly turndown service.
A cozy seaside escape awaits you at Golden Magnolia Resort, located across from the beach. From the rooms’ unique ocean-themed décor to the historic Main House built in 1945, it’s an idyllic Flagler Beach hotel. As a bonus, the hotel is within walking distance to the shops and restaurants in the heart of the city. Take a dip in the heated mineral pool, relax in the courtyard or spend the day at the beach since the inn provides beach chairs, umbrellas and towels, plus bicycles for exploring the area. A full breakfast along with afternoon wine and appetizers are included in your stay.
Let the outside world melt away when you arrive at Island Cottage Oceanfront Inn. The charming, quaint hotel caters to couples with its peaceful, adults-only setting with fountains, tropical gardens and a heated pool. You’ll also have a private beach just steps away. Surprise your sweetheart with a dozen roses or chocolate-covered strawberries in your room, then snuggle in close by the fireplace or in your in-room Jacuzzi for two. From preparing a picnic on the beach to a private gourmet breakfast, the team at Island Cottage Oceanfront Inn will make your getaway one you’ll always remember.
What to Do
Begin your day of romance by watching the sunrise over the ocean. With more than 19 miles of beach in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches, you’ll have your pick of pristine viewing spots. Then, go for a walk along the cinnamon-colored sand or surprise your sweetheart with a horseback ride on the beach. Equestrian Adventures of Florida offers horseback rides on the beach at low tide. It’s a memorable way to enjoy each other’s company and take in the beautiful surroundings. The team at Equestrian Adventures can customize the ride to your interests and ensure riders of all experience levels are comfortable.
You won’t have to go far from your hotel room to refresh and recharge with a spa treatment for couples. The Spa at Hammock Beach is the ultimate destination for pampering with 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor spa and wellness space. Unwind with your sweetheart with a relaxing massage that blends multiple techniques and lets your mind drift to a secluded tropical beach.
At the spa at Golden Magnolia Resort, you can choose a treatment from the a la carte menu or let the trained therapists help you create a personalized spa journey. Couples massages are tailored to each person and include hydrotherapy, prenatal, aromatherapy and reflexology techniques. Or restore your energy balance with a couples Reiki therapy session. The Oceanfront Island Cottage Inn has a covered pavilion for open-air spa services. Share in a couple’s massage surrounded by lush vegetation while the tranquil sounds from the inn’s garden help you achieve mind and body relaxation.
End your day in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches with a private sunset cruise with Alex's Sailing Dream. Sip champagne as you sail alongside seabirds and playful dolphins and admire the dazzling colors of the sky reflected on the calm waters of the Intracoastal. A licensed captain will take you to the top places for viewing wildlife for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Where to Eat
From intimate dinners over candlelight to oceanfront restaurants, Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches have a plethora of spots for a romantic meal. For Old World ambiance with a Florida flair, head to La Piazza Café at the European Village. The upscale restaurant is family owned and operated and serves classic Italian dishes made with homemade sauces and house-grown herbs, along with seafood and steaks that are cut, cleaned and trimmed in-house. Get cozy at a table inside or dine alfresco under the grapevine-lined trellis and order a bottle of wine from La Piazza’s extensive menu. Dinner is not complete without sharing one or two of La Piazza’s rich and decadent desserts.
From the outside, you might mistake 386 as an Old Florida-style home, but once inside, you will be treated to a hidden gem. At this “fusion of fine eating,” a husband and wife created an inviting bistro to share a meal with your sweetheart. It’s a Southern take on international fine dining, all made with locally sourced and fresh ingredients. Start with wild-caught Florida alligator, Apalachicola oysters or sautéed Gulf shrimp served over grits. Whether you’re in the mood for surf or turf, 386 does both well, with entrees like seared sea scallops or sous vide pork chop. After your meal, linger longer to savor another glass of wine from 386’s impressive list.
In an ideal setting for dinner for two, Osteria Rustica serves traditional Italian food as well as seafood dishes inspired by the nearby coast. You'll find a strong selection of exquisitely prepared pastas and a robust menu of domestic and international wines available by the glass. Popular dishes include lobster ravioli, gnocchi and the filet of sole, which is prepared tableside. As a family-run establishment, don’t be surprised if the chef visits your table to ask if you enjoyed your meal. Insider Tip: You'll need reservations at this local favorite, so be sure to plan ahead.
