Basics
- Location:
- This Byway is located on the southeastern coast of Florida
- Length:
- 7 miles (11 km)
- Time:
- 15 minutes.
Description
Driving the seven miles of A1A Ocean Shore Scenic Highway introduces the traveler to the pristine Flagler Beach and Beverly Beach where sea oats dance in the breeze and giant turtles bury their eggs in the sand. This is a forgotten stretch of tranquil beaches where the ruins of progress dare not enter and the beauty of nature rules.
This Byway is located on the southeastern coast of Florida along Route A1A from Beverly Beach to Flagler Beach
A playground, wild and free, this region offers the naturalist a front-row seat on all sorts of wildlife. The marshlands and estuaries are home to many endangered avian species such as the blue heron and osprey. It's also the nesting ground of the giant sea turtle. Other creatures inhabiting the region include the dolphin, armadillo, pelicans, ghost crabs, manatees, and box turtles, to name a few.
Hikers and cyclists have all sorts of trails to explore. A leisurely stroll along the nature paths and pausing for a picnic at one of the numerous parks en route makes for a perfect family outing. Of course, fishing is an all-time favorite here either from shore or from the popular Flagler pier. And, campgrounds are also available en route for those who can't tear themselves away at the end of the day.
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Flagler Beach Boardwalk and Pier (FL)
The Flagler Beach Boardwalk and Pier are located "downtown. "This is the center of many activities associated with a beachside community. The Pier offers one the opportunity to fish or to seethe ocean and beaches from a different perspective. One may observe the surfers and other beach activities or just relax and have a picnic at one of the shelters along the boardwalk.
The corridor reflects the community's ties to its recreational and natural surroundings. This is done with the "Old Fashioned Fourth of July at the Beach," "Columbus Day," and "Holiday at the Beach" festivals and parades. These events, along with special events such as surfing contests and fishing contests, offer the resident and visitor an opportunity to see and participate in the traditions of "Old Florida."
Directions
Within Flagler Beach city limits, on the oceanfront.
Flagler Beach Historical Museum (FL)
The City of Flagler Beach celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2000. As a result, the city established the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. The Museum is adjacent to City Hall and has been open since September 2001. The Museum depicts Flagler Beach's history, with pictures and artifacts dating back to its founding. It also displays artifacts found along the coast that are associated with the plantations within the corridor.
Directions
On the corner of South 3rd and South Central Avenues in Flagler Beach.
Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church (FL)
Another legacy of the Flagler Era (circa 1887-1913) of St. Augustine history, the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church offers a classic example of the Venetian Renaissance style. The building, designed by nationally renowned architects Thomas Hastings and John M. Carrere, was built by hotel entrepreneur Henry Flagler in memory of his daughter, Jennie Louise, who died at sea en route to St. Augustine in 1889.
The remains of Flagler and his first wife, Mary, lie beside those of his daughter in a mausoleum within the church. The copper dome of the building, modeled after St. Mark's Cathedral in Venice, reaches some 150 feet into the air. Elaborate capitols of old gold and white terracotta decorate the base of the dome.
Directions
In Flagler Beach.
Flagship Harbor/Moody Boat Launch (FL)
Flagship Harbor Preserve is a 300-acre preserve along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Preserve offers the visitor hiking trails, a 3000-foot boardwalk through saltwater marsh, restrooms,parking, and picnicking facilities. It connects with the Wickline Center and its additional active recreational opportunities of playgrounds, tennis courts, and a basketball court. Moody Boat Launch is located on the northern edge of the Preserve. Free boat launch facilities are available here, as are restrooms and a connecting boardwalk to the preserve.
Directions
Above Flagler Beach.
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach (FL)
A1A passes through Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area,which provides the visitor with a unique "river to sea experience. "The park provides visitors with the opportunity to observe nature within the various biological communities. The east side of the park offers an oceanfront camping area (34 campsites), bathhouse,and dune walkovers, as well as parking, picnic shelters, and restrooms for the beach swimming area. The west side of the park has a boat basin and launch area, picnic pavilions, and a nature trail.
Directions
Near the southern border of the byway.
Silver Lake Park (FL)
This 44-acre park further expands the opportunity to observe nature, to picnic, and to hike. With its extensive bays and estuary, the park may also be a destination for the cyclists who are exploring from the A1A cyclist/pedestrian path. Silver Lake Park provides another opportunity to explore coastal scrub and the estuarine tidal marsh. Located within northern Flagler Beach, it offers the residents and visitors access and a gateway to the greenway system within the municipality.
Directions
Proceed 17 blocks north of the junction of SR 100 and A1A.
