With a population that has grown steadily over the past few years, Palm Coast and Flagler County are proving to be the softest patch of Florida’s many beaches in which to settle down.Visitors needn’t worry, either. This stretch of coastal delights between Volusia and St. Johns counties on Florida’s East Coast remains the most hidden of vacation hideaways, and you can still explore much of what the area has to offer in a long weekend. But why would you? About 75 miles north of Orlando, the Flagler beaches are built for breezy afternoons, not whirlwind tours.In the actual city of Flagler Beach, a colorful assortment of beach bars, restaurants and shops waits in lazy orbit around the hub of the Flagler Beach Municipal Pier. Constructed in 1928, the pier remains the best place to start planning the rest of your visit, though don’t be surprised if the day floats away while you’re fishing. (Daily fishing passes on the pier are $6 adults, $4 seniors and military, while walk-out admission is $1.50 adults, $1 for seniors and military.)
