Marineland FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marineland, Florida.
1. Marineland Dolphin Adventure
SWIM WITH DOLPHINS
Marineland Dolphin Adventure is a renowned oceanfront attraction offering unforgettable experiences with bottlenose dolphins. Visitors can participate in interactive educational programs, swim with dolphins, and discover the history of one of the nation's oldest marine parks. The site also features Ambassador Park and a Sea to Shore Aquarium tour that highlights local marine life and conservation efforts.
2. River to Sea Preserve
PROTECTED NATURAL BEAUTY
River to Sea Preserve stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Matanzas River, preserving a rare Florida maritime scrub ecosystem. Guests enjoy nature trails, pristine beaches, and opportunities for birdwatching and kayaking in this scenic coastal preserve. The park is also known for its unique plant habitats and stunning ocean and river views.
3. Ripple Effect Ecotours
GUIDED KAYAK ADVENTURES
Ripple Effect Ecotours offers immersive kayaking and boating excursions through Marineland's estuaries and salt marshes. Naturalist guides take guests on tranquil journeys surrounded by mangroves, coastal wildlife, and occasional dolphin or manatee sightings. These environmentally focused tours provide insight into the area's diverse habitats and conservation practices.
4. Marineland Marina
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY STOP
Marineland Marina offers convenient access to the Intracoastal Waterway with over 20 transient boat slips for visiting sailors. Boaters enjoy calm waters, well-kept facilities, and scenic surroundings between Palm Coast and St. Augustine. The marina is a perfect launch point for fishing, coastal exploration, and wildlife watching.
5. Matanzas Inlet
HISTORIC COASTAL INLET
Matanzas Inlet is a picturesque stretch where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Matanzas River, just north of Marineland. Visitors admire the shifting sands, tidal pools, and abundant birdlife, making it a favorite spot for fishing, swimming, and photography. The inlet also offers striking views of Matanzas National Monument across the water.
6. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
HISTORIC GARDENS AND TRAILS
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is celebrated for its formal gardens, majestic oak trees, and unique coquina rock beach. The park invites exploration of shaded walking trails, rose gardens, and tranquil ponds filled with native plants and wildlife. Visitors can also picnic along scenic riverfronts and hike through lush coastal habitats.
7. St. Augustine Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORELINE
St. Augustine Beach is a beloved destination for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing along wide, sandy shores. The beachfront park appeals to families with its playgrounds, oceanfront restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers flock here for classic Florida fun and east coast sunrise views.
8. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
HISTORIC FORT LANDMARK
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, dating to the 17th century. Guests tour massive stone walls, explore period rooms, and watch historical reenactments and cannon firing demonstrations. The fort overlooks the Matanzas River and provides a rich glimpse into the region's military and colonial past.
9. Anastasia State Park
NATURAL ISLAND RETREAT
Anastasia State Park covers four miles of pristine beach, tidal marshes, and maritime forests just east of historic St. Augustine. The park is ideal for camping, kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking along scenic routes. Its diverse ecosystems feature rare flora and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Marineland Beach
QUIET OCEANFRONT ESCAPE
Marineland Beach offers visitors a tranquil and less-crowded shoreline ideal for shelling, tide pooling, and watching the surf. The beach is located adjacent to the River to Sea Preserve, ensuring natural and undeveloped surroundings. Nature lovers appreciate its raw beauty and opportunities for wildlife sightings along the Atlantic coast.
11. Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
ECOLOGICAL RESERVE & TRAILS
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve encompasses thousands of acres of protected salt marshes, mangroves, and coastal dunes. Visitors explore interactive exhibits at the Environmental Education Center, hike nature trails, and observe a variety of coastal and migratory birds. The reserve plays a vital role in preserving Northeast Florida's natural habitats and marine life.
12. Salt Air Farmers' Market
WEEKEND LOCAL MARKET
Salt Air Farmers' Market hosts local growers and artisans every weekend, showcasing fresh produce, homemade treats, and crafts. The open-air venue provides an inviting atmosphere to shop, taste, and mingle with residents and visitors. It is a great stop for experiencing the flavors and creative spirit of coastal Flagler County.
13. Bing's Landing
RIVERSIDE PARK & BOAT RAMP
Bing's Landing is a scenic county park along the Intracoastal Waterway featuring boat ramps, picnic areas, and historic sites. Guests enjoy fishing, birdwatching, and waterfront barbecues under shady oaks. The park is also home to the remains of a colonial-period plantation, offering a glimpse into local history.
14. Princess Place Preserve
HISTORIC LODGE & NATURE TRAILS
Princess Place Preserve boasts grand old-growth forests, scenic walking trails, and a historic hunting lodge dating back to the late 1800s. Visitors can picnic under ancient live oaks, paddle along the salt marsh, or explore the remains of Florida's oldest artesian spring-fed swimming pool. The preserve is a quiet refuge for wildlife and people alike.
15. St. George Street
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN WALK
St. George Street is the vibrant pedestrian heart of St. Augustine's historic district, lined with boutiques, cafes, and centuries-old architecture. Strolling along this lively avenue, visitors discover museums, street performers, and local flavors in a walkable area full of character. The street is a must-see for those seeking the charm and history of America's oldest city.