Nearly a century ago…
Initially known as The Rocks Motor Court, the Palm Coast Villas has been continually operating since 1930. It predates all lodging between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, and was a popular inn, hosting aviation pioneer, Charles Lindbergh, and American author, Ernest Hemingway. Our unique property contains nearly 50,000 square feet of Coquina rock. Few structures in the world use more of this type of stone.
Across A1A, from the north end of the property, about 60 feet east of the bicycle path, is a picturesque quarry where the Coquina stone for the Villas was cut. Stone used in the construction of Marineland, as well as several other motels was also mined from this quarry. The Villas are the last of these lodging properties remaining. Soon after the Villas were built the quarry fell into disuse. It was reborn when Hollywood arrived and the site became a movie set for the early Tarzan films, and later on a petting zoo. This area is now part of the National Scenic Highway as well as the history of the Hammock.
Walking the five acres of Villas grounds, visitors will notice that the larger Live Oak trees throughout the property have trunks nearly four feet in diameter. These trees likely predate Columbus and the discovery of America. The grounds also include over a dozen varieties of palm trees, including some rare species. The flora and fauna included within the grounds of the property represent a unique opportunity to experience the Hammock as it has existed for centuries, and the staff and owners of the Villas do our best to maintain the property in its most natural state.
Marineland
Established as a town in 1940, the city was popularized by the world’s first “oceanarium”, which shares the town’s namesake, and sometimes called “The Original Sea World”. In 1938, “Marineland Dolphin Adventure” opened as Marine Studios, a place for Hollywood filmmakers to capture underwater footage for movies. It became a famous spot for visitors to check out marine life up-close.
Today, Marineland offers attraction for all ages, like swimming with dolphins, marine life exhibits, guided eco tours, and more. In true small-town fashion, many of the local businesses (including Marineland) work in close partnerships, and focus heavily on research and conservation.
Princess Place Preserve
Nestled in Flagler County, Princess Place Preserve is filled with history dating back to 1886, rested on a preserve of over 1,500 acres. Nature lovers can come and experience hiking trails, fishing in the salt marsh, horseback riding, or camping under the stars.
What was once named “Cherokee Grove” the name later became known as “Princess Place”, when the land owner’s daughter married an exiled Russian Prince.
Among the grounds, you can visit the original lodge from the late 1800s, and marvel at the state’s first inground swimming pool.
Flagler Beach
Established in 1925, Flagler Beach’s unique, small-town charm is home to about 4,500 residents and visitors alike. Often described as a “retro town with salty style”. With nearly 6 miles of uncrowded beaches, Flagler is a great destination for a relaxing day in the sun. When you’re in from the beach, you’re met with delicious beachside restaurants like High Tides at Snack Jacks, quirky gift shops, and friendly residents. The Flagler Beach fishing pier is a hotspot for photographs, fishing, and snacks.
At the Flagler Beach Historical Museum, you’ll find exhibits on the early days of Flagler, and the families that lived here and constructed what was then considered an oceanside resort town.