An all-things-NASCAR destination on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach has much more to offer than just the famed Daytona International Speedway. Family fun can be found in the games and amusements on the Daytona Boardwalk, as well as the waterslides of the Daytona Lagoon water park. Beyond that, many things to do in Daytona Beach center on the sea and sandy shores, including fishing trips and kayaking tours to see local wildlife such as manatees, sailing lessons, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and surf classes.
Bike Week in February and the Daytona 500 in March make late winter the best time to experience Daytona. However, late spring is giving the year’s early months a run for their money with the Jeep Beach event in April and Florida’s annual Welcome to Rockville concert rocking the city in May. Locals will admit that a dark horse candidate for the best time to visit is certainly the holiday season, when the Speedway is illuminated with the drive-thru Magic of Lights event.
Cars aren’t just a necessity on the Speedway—they’re a way of life. The Votran bus routes will give you a lift around the beach and city interior, but the high heat and sun exposure will make you crave the convenience (and air conditioning) that a private car provides. Accommodations along the shoreline are ideal, as parking near the beach can be difficult on weekends during the summer months.
Racing fans who can’t get enough NASCAR should know that the Richard Petty Driving Experience lets you tear through the iconic Daytona International Speedway track—behind the wheel of an authentic NASCAR vehicle, in fact. A lesser-known gem for families and car fans is the Museum of Arts & Sciences. One section of the museum features Indy Series race cars while another has a children’s museum with interactive and educational exhibits.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 2 | Tours 58 | Reviews 3,816 |
Three main draws lure visitors to Daytona Beach: the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Bike Week, and the World’s Most Famous Beach. Daytona Beach’s waves are calm and consistent, providing excellent surfing and swimming. NASCAR races roar on the famous inland track while Bike Week brings hogs from across the country.
...MoreA weekend is enough to thoroughly enjoy Daytona Beach if you’re sticking to the city and coast. Fun in the sun like surfing, golfing, swimming, suntanning, and offshore fishing will keep you busy in the daytime while museums, beach bars, and nature preserves will fill the rest of your schedule.
...MoreYes, you can swim in Daytona Beach – it is known as the World’s Most Famous Beach for a reason! Daytona Beach is just one of many beaches along 23 miles of ocean shoreline. Along with swimming, some of the most popular water activities include surfing, skimboarding, and offshore fishing.
...MoreYes, Daytona Beach is party central, especially when it comes to spring break. College students from across the US bring their floaties, Solo cups, and good vibes to Daytona’s shores. Other rowdy annual events like the Daytona 500 and Daytona Bike Week also bring partygoers.
...MoreThe best part of Daytona Beach is the beach itself. Most agree that the smooth waves, warm sun, and miles of shoreline offer the perfect setting for year-round fun. The best part of inland Daytona is around the Daytona International Speedway where you’ll find ample shopping, dining, and indoor entertainment.
...MoreLocals soak up in the sun in Daytona Beach all year round. Museums within the city like the Museum of Arts and Sciences and the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse offer educational and engaging activities for families. Biker bars, seafood shacks, and surf shops cater to diverse local interests.
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