Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
paradise-filled gardens, although we also highly recommend saving some greenbacks for a
Hwy A1A; mains $8-20; 11am-9pm)
: cash only. The requisite valet parking (it's free) just
adds to the fun of this wonderfully laid-back, open-to-the-elements beachfront bar and
diner, loved by locals and visitors alike for its location, vibe and flavor. The original Jack's
has been been providing local surfers with beer and nourishment since 1947, but you'd
only know that by reading the menu: today it's as modern, clean and quirky as they come.
There's free wi-fi and the fried seafood platter is decadent but covers all bases. Ah-maz-
ing! Oh, and did we mention the view?
You might wish to spend a night or two at sleepy Flagler Beach as an alternative to gar-
ish Daytona - you'll have miles of sandy shores largely to yourself. Of several inexpensive
motels, the standout is the
Flagler Beach Motel
( 386-517-6700;
www.flaglerbeachmotelandvacationrentals.com
; 1820 S Oceanshore Blvd; studio from $65, 2-bedroom
from $130; )
. Its spotless studio and one- and two-bedroom motel-style units - many with
full kitchen facilities and views of the Atlantic - have been recently renovated, featuring
artworks by local artists. Located across the road from the beach, this is a wonderful place
to disappear for a while. Rooms have wi-fi, flat-screen TVs and there's a pool!
If romance is on the agenda, you can't go past the
Island Cottage Oceanfront Inn &
little pampering and indulgence. The decor won't be to everyone's taste, but the level of at-
tentive service offered is otherwise hard to come by and the included luxuries such as
plush four-poster beds and double Jacuzzis aren't difficult to enjoy.
Nature lovers can camp beachside at
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation
Area
( 386-517-2086;
www.floridastateparks.org/gamblerogers
;
3100 Hwy A1A; per vehicle $5,
camping $28; 8am-sunset)
, which straddles both sides of the A1A. Kayaks, canoes and bi-
cycles are available for rent at the ranger station.
St Augustine
The oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the US, St Augustine was foun-
ded by the Spanish in 1565. Today, its 144-block National Historic Landmark District is a
major tourist destination. For the most part, St Augustine exudes charm and maintains its
integrity, although there's no denying the presence of some tacky tourist traps in this work-
