River to Sea Preserve

Where River Meets Ocean

Tucked away along Florida's Atlantic coast, the River to Sea Preserve spans 90 acres of natural beauty in Palm Coast. Straddling Highway A1A near Marineland, this coastal sanctuary does exactly what its name suggests - it stretches from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Matanzas River (part of the Intracoastal Waterway).

What makes this spot special is how it protects a maritime scrub environment that's quickly disappearing from Florida's landscape. It preserves a diverse range of coastal ecosystems. The eastern side rewards you with beach access via a scenic boardwalk that offers some pretty spectacular ocean views.

A Beach Unlike Others

Forget your typical Florida beach experience - the shore here comes with character. Coquina rock formations line the coastline, creating a geological feature you won't find at many other beaches in the state. Instead of the powdery white sand you might expect, you'll find a beach composed largely of crushed seashells - nature's own mosaic.

Shell collectors will find plenty of material to examine. The shoreline is often dotted with seashells just waiting to be discovered. Swimming is an option, but do watch out for those rocky areas in the water - they're beautiful but can be tricky to navigate.

Exploring Natural Pathways

On the western side, walking trails meander through oak scrub and hardwood hammock, eventually leading to overlooks that frame the Matanzas River beautifully. Whether you prefer hiking or biking, the inland trails offer plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, while the beach beckons those looking to swim, fish, or simply comb the shore for treasures.

A small freshwater pond on the river side makes a great spot for catch-and-release fishing. The area surrounding the pond offers a tranquil setting with picnic facilities where you can relax and maybe spot some local aquatic creatures going about their day.

Feel like paddling? Bring your canoe or kayak to explore the Matanzas River and Intracoastal Waterway. The diverse landscape accommodates many different outdoor activities.

Wildlife Haven

The preserve offers opportunities to learn about coastal ecosystems firsthand. As part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, it's a prime location for wildlife watching.

Keep your eyes peeled for ospreys circling overhead, elegant wood storks, and a variety of migratory songbirds depending on the season. This natural space is jointly managed by Flagler County and the Town of Marineland - a partnership that highlights their shared commitment to preserving these environments for both conservation and public enjoyment.

Comfort and Convenience

You can find all the essentials here: clean restrooms, outdoor showers to rinse off sandy feet, and plenty of free parking. A covered pavilion with picnic tables provides welcome shade for lunch breaks or family gatherings.

The boardwalk accommodates wheelchairs, although reaching the actual beach might be challenging for those with mobility limitations. Dog lovers will appreciate the water stations available for four-legged friends - leashed pets are welcome on both the trails and beach areas.

Beyond the Preserve

The preserve's location puts you near other worthwhile destinations like Marineland Dolphin Adventure and Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, making it easy to create a full day of coastal exploration. If you happen to visit on the first weekend of the month, you'll catch the small market that adds a touch of local flavor to your preserve experience.