Daytona Beach
Billed as the “Original American Beach,” Daytona Beach is the quintessential Florida fun town. Part amusement park, part sports mecca, part historic landmark, Daytona Beach is a must-see Florida destination.
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier has exciting amusement park rides and activities. Hit some wild curves on the 2700-foot long Sandblaster Roller Coaster, get a bird’s eye view of the beach on the 100-foot Ferris wheel, or get shot into space on the Slingshot. Enjoy food, music and shopping on the historic Main Street Pier. Built in the late 1800s, the 1000-foot pier is a unique place to grab dinner and a drink while watching anglers catch fish or surfers ride waves.
Daytona Beach has long been a destination for festivals and events. Spring Break is hopping with college kids letting loose on the strip. Enjoy fantastic music at staged events such as the Blues Festival or Summer Concert Series. And there are plenty of motorsports events year round.
If you’re an engine head, Daytona will get you revved up. The newly renovated Daytona International Speedway packs in race fans for NASCAR events like the famed Daytona 500. While you’re there, try the Richard Petty Driving Experience, and burn up the track yourself. Or experience motorcycle heaven at Bike Week and Biketoberfest. Classic car fans will love the street rods and customized vehicles at the Thanksgiving Turkey Run.
Prefer some outdoor adventure? Why not play a couple rounds of golf? Home to the LPGA, Daytona has numerous golf courses including two four-star courses. Or zipline through the trees at ZoomAir Adventure Park.
Water sports are plentiful in the area. Catch some whoppers on a charter-fishing trip, or rent a surfboard and catch some great waves. With regular swells and soft sandy bottoms, Daytona Beach is a perfect spot for surfing, boogie boarding, or kite surfing. You can also rent paddleboards or sea kayaks. But the most popular beach-time activity is just hanging out on the shore. With 23 miles of sandy, clean beach to choose from, you can bike, play volleyball, or work on your tan.
Daytona Beach has a rich history. Nearby Deleon Springs is named for its discoverer Ponce de Leon, who was searching for the Fountain of Youth in 1513. The 625-acre park is a beautiful place for snorkeling, canoeing, hiking or birdwatching.
Climb the 203 steps to the top of the tallest lighthouse in Florida. The Ponce de Leon Lighthouse at beautiful Ponce Inlet has spectacular views of the surrounding beaches. The historic landmark also has a lighthouse and history museum at the top. Oh, and if you are ever need a Daytona Beach shuttle service for the airport or anything, go with that one.
