Cruising the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway

Nothing gets you into that Florida state of mind quite like rolling down the windows, turning up your favorite summer soundtrack, and cruising the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway. This isn’t just any road—it’s 72 miles of laid-back paradise along the Atlantic Ocean, winding through St. Johns and Flagler counties with views that’ll make you fall in love with the Sunshine State all over again. Don’t skip out on Florida’s ultimate coastal road trip when you visit Flagler Beach and the Beach Front Motel.

State Road A1A, which stretches 338 miles all the way from Fernandina Beach to Key West, is Florida’s iconic coastal highway. It connects beach towns all along Florida's east coast. But this particular stretch—from Ponte Vedra Beach through historic St. Augustine and all the way down to Flagler Beach—is something special. Officially designated a National Scenic Byway in 2002 and Florida’s second All-American Road in 2021, this mostly two-lane roadway is a dream come true for beach lovers, history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and anyone just looking to unwind.

To travel the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway is to travel a piece of Florida history. You’ll start your journey near Ponte Vedra Beach, a luxe oceanside spot known for golf courses and sea breezes. Then comes St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, where cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and centuries-old landmarks make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stop the car and stay a while.

As you head south, the road hugs the Atlantic, offering sweeping views of the ocean on one side and glimpses of marshes and inland waterways on the other. Don’t be surprised if you catch the scent of salty sea air or spot a pod of dolphins just offshore. Every curve in the road reveals another postcard-perfect stretch of Florida’s coastline.

Just when you think the views couldn’t get better, you’ll reach Marineland, home to the world’s first oceanarium. Originally opened in 1938 as an underwater film studio, it’s now a fascinating stop for marine life encounters and conservation education. Dolphins, sea turtles, and interactive exhibits make it a fun and meaningful place to explore.

A few miles down the road, pull into Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, one of the true gems along the byway. Known for its formal gardens and massive oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, the park also boasts a stretch of beach that’s unlike anything else in Florida. Coquina rock formations scatter the shoreline, creating tide pools that are perfect for exploring at low tide. It’s quiet, beautiful, and a little bit awe-inspiring.

Eventually, the road brings you to Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area in Flagler Beach, where this section of your A1A adventure wraps up on a high note. This seaside park is named after Florida folk music legend Gamble Rogers and offers some of the most peaceful, unspoiled views in the region. Watch the sun rise over the Atlantic or set over the Intracoastal—either way, it’s pure magic.

The beauty of driving the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway isn’t just in the Instagram-worthy sights—it’s in the vibe. There’s no rush. No wrong turn. Just you, the road, and that unbeatable coastal breeze. Take your time. Stop in the beach towns. Chat with locals. Grab fresh seafood. Let the rhythm of the coast slow you down.

As you plan your Florida getaway at the Beach Front Motel, skip the crowded interstates. Hop on A1A, roll the windows down, and cruise. You’ll be glad you did.

Need some more ideas for stops in Flagler County along the A1A? Check out this list of 15 must-see spots.