Fun Things to Do in Daytona Beach: Beach & Activities
Daytona Beach is a top spot for fun and relaxation. It has 23 miles of beautiful Atlantic coastline. This place has something for everyone.
Enjoy the sun on the beach or try exciting water sports. Rent electric bikes to explore easily. You can also go on water bike adventures to see dolphins and sea turtles.
The Boardwalk & Pier is a key spot for fun. It has concerts and fireworks for families and visitors. A daily beach pass is just $20, letting you drive right onto the beach.
Kayak through the Halifax River for a chance to see manatees and dolphins. Stand Up Paddling Kayak Adventures offer guided tours to show off the marine life.
Daytona Beach is more than just beaches. Try the Zipline Adventure at Tuscawilla Park or join a small group sailing trip. There are many ways to make lasting memories here.
Explore the Beautiful Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach stretches 23 miles along the Atlantic coast. It’s a top spot for beach lovers and thrill-seekers. Known as “The World’s Most Famous Beach,” it offers both relaxation and excitement.
Daytona Beach beaches are perfect for many activities. The hard-packed sand is great for sunbathing and water sports.
Relax on the Scenic Shores
Visitors can relax on the wide, welcoming beaches. The sand is soft, and the waves are gentle. It’s ideal for:
- Sunbathing and beach reading
- Building sandcastles
- Collecting seashells
- Watching spectacular ocean sunrises
Engage in Water Sports
Thrill-seekers will love Daytona Beach’s water sports. Surf shops offer rentals and lessons for beginners. Popular activities include:
- Surfing on approachable wave sizes
- Jet skiing in designated areas
- Paddle boarding along the coastline
- Kayaking for scenic coastal exploration
Discover Beachfront Dining
Daytona Beach’s dining scene is right by the water. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood with ocean views. It’s a great way to enjoy local cuisine.
Visit the Daytona International Speedway
Daytona Beach sightseeing hits its peak at the Daytona International Speedway. It’s a motorsports paradise that wins the hearts of racing fans. This iconic spot is a symbol of speed, innovation, and American car culture.
The speedway has a 2.5-mile track with turns that bank at 31 degrees. Cars can hit speeds over 200 mph here. It can hold 101,500 fans, making it a huge venue for racing events.
Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Get a close look at racing with a guided tour. The VIP Tours last 2.5 hours and give you a special look at:
- Pit lane exploration
- Track-side access
- Historic racing facilities
- Multimedia presentations about racing history
Tickets start at $26 per person. It’s a great chance to see the heart of motorsports up close.
Attend a NASCAR Event
Feel the excitement of the Daytona 500, NASCAR’s top event. It draws over 100,000 fans each year. This race turns daytona beach events into a thrilling celebration of speed.
Experience the Racing Museum
The Hall of Fame at the speedway is a goldmine of car history. You can see:
- Stock cars
- Sports cars
- Trucks
- Motorcycles
- Powerboats
- Vintage racing planes
Whether you love racing or just want to see it, the Daytona International Speedway is unforgettable. It’s a top spot for your Daytona Beach sightseeing trip.
Discover Outdoor Adventures
Daytona Beach is a paradise for those who love nature and adventure. It has a wide range of outdoor activities that go beyond just beach fun. You can explore waterways, hike trails, and enjoy Florida’s beautiful natural scenery.
Kayaking the Halifax River
The Halifax River is perfect for kayaking. It runs through Daytona Beach, giving you calm paddling spots. On tours along the river, you’ll see wildlife and stunning views.
- Explore tranquil waterways
- Observe local wildlife
- Enjoy scenic river views
Hiking at Tomoka State Park
Tomoka State Park is a treasure for outdoor fans. Its trails take you through different landscapes, like salt marshes and hardwood hammocks. It’s a top spot for nature lovers.
| Park Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trail Length | Multiple interconnected trails |
| Ecosystem Types | Hardwood hammocks, salt marshes |
| Wildlife Viewing | Native flora and fauna |
Looking for a peaceful walk or a tough hike? Tomoka State Park has something for everyone. It’s a great place for outdoor fun in Daytona Beach.
Enjoy the Vibrant Boardwalk
Explore the heart of Daytona Beach entertainment on the iconic boardwalk. It’s a mile-long stretch filled with excitement and coastal charm. This historic spot offers an unforgettable experience with attractions that show the best of seaside fun.
Experience the Amusements
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk is fun for everyone. It started in the late 1920s and mixes old-school fun with new. You can find rides and activities for all:
- Classic Ferris wheel with breathtaking ocean views
- Go-kart tracks for racing enthusiasts
- Exciting carnival-style games
- Family-friendly amusement rides
Savor Local Treats at Food Stands
Food stands on the boardwalk offer culinary adventures. You can try fresh seafood or decadent ice cream. The smell of delicious food adds to the seaside experience.
| Food Type | Popular Options | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood | Fresh catch of the day | $10-$25 |
| Desserts | Homemade ice cream | $3-$8 |
| Quick Bites | Beach-style snacks | $5-$15 |
Check Out Live Entertainment
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk buzzes with entertainment all year. The historic Daytona Beach Bandshell, built in 1938, hosts amazing events. Highlights include:
- Weekly fireworks displays (Saturday nights from Memorial Day to Labor Day)
- Live music performances
- Street performers and cultural events
- Seasonal festivals and celebrations
The boardwalk, at South Atlantic Avenue and Main Street, is the top spot for fun. It offers thrilling rides, tasty food, and unforgettable shows. It’s a must-visit for all ages.
Experience Daytona Beach’s Cultural Scene
Daytona Beach is more than just beaches and racing. It has a rich cultural scene that offers unique experiences. You can explore world-class museums and historic venues, showing the city’s sophisticated side.
Discover the Museum of Arts and Sciences
The Museum of Arts and Sciences is a cultural highlight in Daytona Beach. It features a wide range of exhibits. You can see:
- Extensive Cuban art collections
- Interactive science displays
- Engaging planetarium shows
- Local historical artifacts
This museum is great for learning and exploring culture. It’s perfect for all ages, with exhibits that mix art, science, and local history.
Experience World-Class Performances at Peabody Auditorium
The historic Peabody Auditorium is a top spot for the performing arts. It hosts a variety of events, including:
- Broadway musical productions
- Symphony concerts
- Local theater performances
- Comedy shows
Its cozy setting and great sound make it unforgettable. Whether you love performances or just enjoy them, the Peabody Auditorium has something for everyone.
Explore Historic Landmarks
Daytona Beach sightseeing takes you on a journey through time. It reveals stories of the past in local landmarks. The area’s rich history invites visitors to explore sites that show Florida’s cultural heritage.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse: A Maritime Marvel
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is Florida’s tallest at 175 feet. It’s a key spot for Daytona Beach tours. Built in 1887, it lets visitors climb 203 steps for amazing views of the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway.
- Entrance fee: $6.95 for adults, $1.95 for children
- Offers stunning 360-degree views of the coastline
- Includes a museum showing maritime history
Jackie Robinson Ballpark: A Monument to Progress
The Jackie Robinson Ballpark is a symbol of social change in sports. It’s the 4th oldest ballpark in America. Here, Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier in 1946, making it a key stop for Daytona Beach sightseeing.
- Opened in 1914
- Significant civil rights landmark
- Continues to host baseball games and events
These landmarks offer more than just photos. They give deep insights into Daytona Beach and U.S. history.
Discover Local Wildlife
Daytona Beach is a haven for wildlife lovers. It offers amazing chances to see nature’s wonders up close. The area’s varied landscapes are perfect for exploring.
Wildlife watching in Daytona Beach is a top activity. It lets visitors see the area’s rich wildlife. There are special tours designed to show off the local animals.
Join a Manatee Watching Tour
Seeing manatees is a magical experience. These gentle creatures can be found in several places:
- Blue Spring State Park – A designated manatee refuge
- Halifax River – Prime viewing opportunities
- Guided boat tours specializing in wildlife observation
Explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
This vast protected area is a wildlife paradise. It has many different habitats. Visitors can see lots of species during their visit.
| Wildlife Species | Observation Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Birds | Over 500 species for breeding and migration |
| Sea Turtles | 5 different species, including loggerhead and green sea turtles |
| Alligators | Frequently spotted in natural habitats |
Daytona Beach is dedicated to wildlife conservation. It offers tours that are both fun and educational. These tours help visitors learn about the local ecosystems.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Attractions
Daytona Beach is full of amazing attractions for families. Its 23 miles of white-sand beaches are perfect for making memories. There are lots of fun activities for all ages.
Daytona Beach has something for everyone. Daytona Lagoon is a top spot for families. It’s a place where fun never stops.
Spend a Day at Daytona Lagoon
Daytona Lagoon is a dream come true for families. It has a water park with:
- Water slides over 50 feet high
- Wave pool for fun in the water
- Tubing river for a calm ride
- Dry attractions like go-karts and mini-golf
Visit the Marine Science Center
The Marine Science Center is great for learning. Kids can get up close to marine life. They can see:
- Stingray touch pool
- Living reef aquarium
- Sea turtle rehabilitation center
Daytona Beach is perfect for families. It has water parks and marine exhibits. There’s always something fun to do here.
Engage in Nightlife and Entertainment
Daytona Beach comes alive at night, with lots of fun for everyone. The city’s nightlife is buzzing, from dance clubs to cozy waterfront spots. These places offer nights you’ll never forget.
Check out Mai Tai Bar for live music during happy hour, Wednesday to Friday. For something different, try Polynesian Fire Productions for dinner theater. The Cinematique Theater also hosts cool events like improv comedy and poetry slams on Tuesdays.
Sunset cruises are a great way to enjoy a calm evening. Fun Cat Sailing offers a three-hour tour on a 50′ catamaran in Ponce Inlet. You’ll see amazing coastal views. The One Daytona complex adds to the fun, with shopping, dining, and activities all in one place.
Looking for something interactive? Try the Daytona Escape Room Experience. They have rooms like “The Black Jewel” and “Death Alley”. Whether you want to dance, see live shows, or just relax with a drink and the ocean view, Daytona Beach has it all.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Daytona Beach?
Daytona Beach is lovely all year. The best months are March to May. The weather is mild, and there are fewer people. You can enjoy the outdoors without a fuss.
Winter, from December to February, is also pleasant. Summer is the peak beach season. It’s warmer and the nightlife buzzes with energy.
Is Daytona Beach good for families?
Yes, it’s perfect for families! There are lots of fun spots like Daytona Lagoon water park and the Marine Science Center. Kids and adults can learn and have fun together.
The 23-mile beach is safe for swimming. Places like the Museum of Arts and Sciences offer learning experiences for everyone.
How much does it cost to visit the Daytona International Speedway?
Tour prices change, but they’re usually between and per person. NASCAR event tickets vary based on the race and seat. The museum tickets are about – for adults.
What water sports are available in Daytona Beach?
You can try surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. The Halifax River and Atlantic Ocean are great for all skill levels. Many places rent out equipment and offer lessons.
Are there any wildlife viewing opportunities near Daytona Beach?
Yes! There are amazing wildlife experiences. You can go on manatee watching tours or visit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Marine Science Center also offers marine life encounters.
Local parks and waterways are home to native wildlife. You might see birds, alligators, and marine creatures.
What is unique about Daytona Beach’s nightlife?
Daytona Beach’s nightlife is varied. You’ll find lively clubs on Seabreeze Boulevard and laid-back waterfront bars. The One Daytona complex has restaurants and entertainment venues.
Beachfront spots offer live music and beautiful ocean views. It’s a unique way to spend an evening.
Is Daytona Beach only about racing and beaches?
No way! While racing and beaches are big draws, there’s more to see. The city has a rich cultural scene, including the Museum of Arts and Sciences and historic landmarks like the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.
There are family attractions, outdoor adventures, and a lively arts and entertainment scene. There’s something for everyone.
