Florida Park Near the Sea Features Secret Rose Garden and Majestic Oaks

A Hidden Botanical Paradise on Florida’s Coast

Tucked away along a serene stretch of Florida’s Atlantic coastline, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. If you're planning a road trip along the eastern side of the state, it's worth taking a detour from the busy Interstate 95 to explore this hidden gem. The scenic drive along A1A will slow your pace, but the rewards of visiting this state park are well worth the effort.

Location and History

Located north of Flagler and south of St. Augustine, Washington Oaks Gardens is an elegant and unexpected destination. The land has had many owners throughout its history, including a relative of President George Washington, which gave the park its name. Today, the park was bequeathed to the state of Florida by industrialist Louise Powis Clark after the death of her husband, Owen D. Young. Her instructions were clear: the gardens filled with azaleas, camellias, roses, and exotic plants should remain in their current form.

The park now includes a rose garden, formal gardens, a Native American midden, and a 300-year-old live oak tree known as The Washington Oak. Beyond the gardens, the park sits on a rare and stunning beach that stands out among Florida’s coastlines.

What Makes the Beach Unique

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is situated on a coquina rock beach, which is the second-largest visible limestone shoreline in Florida. The first is Blowing Rocks Preserve in Jupiter. Coquina rock is formed from an ancient mix of shells, sand, and acid rain. When you visit, take a closer look and you may spot fossils of shells that could be tens of thousands, or even millions, of years old. This natural beauty makes the area a popular spot for weddings and photo sessions.

Why the Roses Are Special

One of the most impressive features of the park is its rose garden. An average of 150 rose bushes bloom here, which is quite remarkable. Most rose gardeners know that roses typically struggle in humid conditions and some varieties don’t do well in salty air. However, the circular rose garden at Washington Oaks has been carefully maintained, and blooms begin in May, continuing through the summer. For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the flowers are at their peak.

Things to Do While You’re There

Tour the Gardens and Coastline

If you enjoy formal botanical gardens or simply want a peaceful place to picnic during your Florida road trip, this state park is definitely worth the detour. In the spring, the roses are in full bloom, while in late fall and winter, the camellias take center stage. Throughout the year, the coastline remains a tranquil and untouched space, protected by its status as a state park.

Explore the Hiking and Biking Trails

Walking through the gardens is easy thanks to wide paths that wind past azaleas, ferns, bromeliads, large live oaks, and a reflection pond. For those looking for a longer adventure, the Bella Vista trails offer a 1.7-mile hike that takes you through the coastal hammock. These trails include the Timucuan hiking trail, Jungle Road hike and bike trail, and the Old A1A hike and bike trail.

Tips for Visiting

Washington Oaks Gardens is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset, every day of the year. Admission is $5 per vehicle. Leashed dogs are allowed in certain areas, but not in the formal gardens. Be sure to bring water, sun protection, bug spray (especially in the summer), and a camera—The Washington Oak is a fantastic spot for photographs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet escape, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park offers something for everyone. Its combination of beautiful gardens, unique geological features, and peaceful coastal setting makes it a must-visit destination along Florida’s Atlantic coast.