Things To Do
in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, located on Florida's east coast, is renowned for its 23 miles of beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. It is famous for hosting the Daytona 500, one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR. The city offers a mix of leisure and adventure, with a lively boardwalk and numerous water activities.

Whether you're relaxing on the beach or exploring local attractions, Daytona Beach has something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach Day and Boardwalk Fun
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the beach for sunbathing and swimming.

afternoon
:

Explore the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, visiting amusement rides and souvenir shops, and enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant and take a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Daytona International Speedway for a tour and learn about the history of NASCAR.

afternoon
:

Head to the Museum of Arts and Sciences to explore fascinating exhibits and the beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or club, enjoying live music or a DJ.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
🍕Pizza$15
🍽️Mid-range Restaurant Meal$25
Coffee$4
🍦Ice Cream$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches with plenty of activities.
  • Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Rich motorsport culture with events like the Daytona 500.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Summer humidity can be uncomfortable.
  • Limited public transportation options.

Places to Visit in Daytona Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

Daytona Beach Pier

Capture stunning sunset views and the bustling activity of the pier, with its iconic boardwalk and amusement park.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

The tallest lighthouse in Florida, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and perfect for panoramic shots.

Ormond Beach

A quieter beach area ideal for capturing serene sunrise photos and natural coastal beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach offers a diverse culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and local delicacies that reflect its coastal culture.

Daytona Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Shrimp

A local favorite, these succulent shrimp are breaded and fried to perfection, often served with a tangy cocktail sauce.

Must-Try!

Grouper Sandwich

This popular sandwich features fresh grouper fillet, fried or grilled, served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and a side of fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Daytona Beach Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Daytona Beach has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average around 85-90°F, often accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms. Winter temperatures can drop to around 50-60°F, making it a pleasant escape for snowbirds. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, offering comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Beach Respect

Respect the beach environment by cleaning up after yourself and being mindful of local wildlife.

Casual Dress

Daytona Beach has a relaxed dress code; beachwear is acceptable in many casual dining places.

Politeness

Use polite greetings and thank yous when interacting with locals; Southern hospitality is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Daytona Beach is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach, and be cautious about swimming in rough waters. Emergency services are readily accessible, and it's advisable to have a plan for contacting local authorities if needed.

Tipping in Daytona Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated in bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payments are increasingly popular. Cash is still accepted but not as common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Temperatures are mild, making it a popular time for tourists. Expect cool evenings and pleasant days, perfect for beach walks.

Spring

Spring brings warmer weather and blooming flowers, attracting visitors for spring break. The beach can be crowded during this time.

Summer

Summer is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. It's ideal for beach activities but can be quite crowded.

Fall

Fall offers comfortable temperatures and lower tourist traffic, making it a great time to visit for a more relaxed experience.

Nightlife Guide

Daytona Beach at Night

Daytona Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring beachfront bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. The Ocean Walk Shoppes and the Boardwalk are popular spots where visitors can enjoy everything from laid-back lounges to lively dance clubs. Many venues host live music events, karaoke nights, and themed parties, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Hiking in Daytona Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tomoka State Park

A short drive from Daytona Beach, this park offers scenic trails through lush forests and along the Tomoka River, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Bulow Creek State Park

Located about 15 miles south, this park features trails that wind through historical sites and beautiful natural landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Daytona Beach by plane.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)

Located just 4 miles from downtown Daytona Beach, this airport offers regional flights and convenient access to the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Daytona Beach is fairly walkable, especially in the downtown area and along the beachfront. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a vehicle to access more remote attractions or neighborhoods.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Daytona Beach has a significant population of retirees who enjoy the warm climate and relaxed lifestyle.

Tourists

The city attracts a diverse group of tourists, particularly during race events and summer vacations, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

NASCAR

Daytona Beach is home to the Daytona International Speedway, hosting the famous Daytona 500 race, attracting motorsport fans from around the world.

Beach Volleyball

With its endless beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport among locals and visitors, with many courts available along the shore.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Daytona Beach can become congested during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and holidays. Public transportation options are limited, with the local Votran bus service providing some routes, but most visitors find it easier to navigate by car. Parking is generally available, but it can be challenging near popular attractions during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Daytona Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Daytona Beach offer vegan and vegetarian dishes, ensuring options for those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, including salads and seafood dishes, catering to gluten-sensitive diners.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Daytona Beach has several healthcare facilities, including the Halifax Health Medical Center, providing a range of services. Emergency care is readily available, and many locals have health insurance. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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