Things To Do
in Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach is a quiet coastal city on Florida's Atlantic coast, just north of Daytona Beach. It features a sandy coastline, scenic waterways, and a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to families and outdoor lovers. The town blends historic charm with modern beach life, offering easy access to nature trails, parks, and cultural sites.

Visitors can expect mild winters, sunny summers, and a welcoming vibe along A1A and the Ormond waterfront.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in Ormond Beach, enjoying fresh pastries and robust coffee. Afterward, stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture of the early 20th century homes. Don't miss the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, where you can appreciate local art and serene landscapes.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in delicious seafood at a waterfront restaurant with stunning views of the Halifax River. Post-lunch, visit the Casements, the former winter home of John D. Rockefeller, to explore its historic grounds and exhibits. Spend the afternoon wandering the nearby scenic trails, taking in the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local bistro known for its farm-to-table cuisine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves and watching the stars emerge in the night sky. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a cozy beach bar, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café before heading to the expansive Ormond Beach. Rent a paddleboard or kayak and enjoy the calm waters as you explore the coastline and observe local wildlife. The morning sun provides the perfect backdrop as you engage in some invigorating water sports.

afternoon
:

After working up an appetite, grab a light lunch from a nearby beachside food truck, savoring fresh tacos or shrimp po'boys. Spend the afternoon lounging on the sandy beach, soaking up the sun, or playing beach volleyball with new friends. If you’re feeling adventurous, try parasailing for a thrilling perspective of the beautiful coastline.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach with gourmet snacks and your favorite drinks. Attend a local beach bonfire event if available, where you can socialize and roast marshmallows under the stars. Close out the evening with a refreshing dip in the ocean, making the most of your beach getaway.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee / café drink$3-5
🛏️Hotel night (mid-range)$100-180
🚗Gas per gallon$3-4
🧺Groceries (monthly)$350-700

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed beach atmosphere with easy access to nature and cultural sites
  • Good value for families and outdoor enthusiasts; variety of parks and trails
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Seasonal crowds can affect traffic and parking on weekends

Places to Visit in Ormond Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

Ormond Beach Pier and Boardwalk

Iconic long pier offering ocean horizons, dramatic sunsets, and silhouettes of fishing boats.

Rockefeller Gardens overlook

Lush waterfront park with palm trees, fountains, and sunset backdrops over the Halifax River.

Tomoka Riverfront, Tomoka State Park

Quiet marshland with birds, cypress trees, and reflective water scenes.

Bulow Creek State Park trails

Historic oaks and swamp scenery ideal for nature photography.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Climbable lighthouse with panoramic views of the coastline and inlet marshes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach's cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, Southern coastal flavors, and farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers.

Ormond Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shrimp and Grits

A classic coastal dish featuring creamy grits topped with seasoned shrimp and a light gravy, widely available at seafood shacks and waterfront eateries.

Must-Try!

Blackened Fresh Fish with Citrus Butter

Locally caught fish seasoned with bold spices and pan-seared, served with a bright citrus butter sauce.

Key Lime Pie

Florida's iconic dessert with tart lime filling and a graham cracker crust, often served with whipped cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ormond Beach Farmers Market (Rockefeller Gardens)

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts near the riverfront.

Volusia County Farmers Market

Regional market with fruit, vegetables, seafood, and ready-to-eat bites along the coast.

Beachside street vendors

Seasonal stalls along A1A offering conch fritters, local snacks, and refreshing drinks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ormond Beach experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers bring frequent thunderstorms and high humidity, while winters are comfortable with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s °F. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. The area is in the hurricane season from June to November, so plan accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Beach etiquette

Respect posted signs; keep noise levels reasonable; avoid feeding wildlife; clean up after yourself.

Greetings

A friendly hello or brief chat is common; casual attire is typical for casual venues; tipping norms apply.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of sun exposure and water safety on beaches; watch for rip currents and weather advisories; use insect repellent for marsh trails; lock up vehicles and keep valuables out of sight. In wildlife areas, follow guidelines to avoid disturbing habitats. Medical facilities are available nearby in Daytona Beach and Port Orange.

Tipping in Ormond Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tip 15-20% at most dine-in restaurants; 20% for exceptional service; tip bartenders separately. Do not tip at fast-food venues.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash for small vendors; mobile payments common in many shops; tax added at checkout.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and use sunscreen; beach crowds peak on weekends.

Fall

Milder temperatures and pleasant humidity; great for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Winter

Mild daytime temperatures; occasional cooling fronts; whale and bird watching opportunities.

Spring

Warm, sunny days with vibrant blooms; good for hiking and cycling; occasional storms.

Nightlife Guide

Ormond Beach at Night

The nightlife in Ormond Beach is laid-back, with beachside bars, relaxed pubs, and live music venues mostly along A1A and nearby Daytona Beach. Expect quieter evenings compared to bigger cities, with opportunities for sunset drinks, small gigs, and family-friendly venues open late on weekends.

Hiking in Ormond Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tomoka State Park Trails

Dense oaks and marshland with birdwatching and nature trails.

Bulow Creek State Park Trails

Historic trees and swamp scenery ideal for hiking and photography.

Airports

How to reach Ormond Beach by plane.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)

Closest airport with domestic flights; 15-25 minutes by car from Ormond Beach depending on traffic.

Orlando Sanford International (SFB)

Large regional airport about 1 hour plus drive; accessible by car or shuttle.

Jacksonville International (JAX)

Major hub about 1.5-2 hours drive; more flight options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ormond Beach is generally car-friendly with walkable neighborhoods along the beach and downtown, including the Ormond Beach area. The core tourism and shopping strips are walkable, but longer trips require a car or bike. The Ormond Scenic Loop & Trails is best experienced by car or bike with dedicated bike lanes in portions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families visit for beaches, parks, and kid-friendly attractions.

Retirees / Snowbirds

Calmer pace and longer stays attract seasonal residents.

Young professionals and students

Nearby colleges and job opportunities draw younger adults.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Auto racing

Daytona International Speedway hosts major events and tours nearby.

Surfing and beach volleyball

Popular on main beaches with local clubs and casual play.

Kayaking and fishing

Common water sports in the Halifax/Tomoka rivers and offshore areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Expect seasonal traffic near Daytona Beach on weekends and holidays; summer storms can affect travel times. Public transportation is limited; car rental or rideshares are common; some areas have bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ormond Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose veggie plates, salads, pastas, and seafood-free options; ask for plant-based substitutions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare options include urgent care centers and nearby hospitals in Daytona Beach and Port Orange; AdventHealth Daytona Beach and Halifax Health facilities provide emergency services and specialty care. Always have travel insurance for medical needs.

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