10 Fun Cities Near Daytona Beach To Visit In 2024!

Cities Within A Short Drive Of Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, is in a great spot, with several cities nearby that are ideal for day trips or weekend adventures.

Each city on this list offers attractions that cater to a variety of interests, and the short drive allows more time to explore and less time on the road.

1. Ormond Beach

Just north of Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach offers a scenic loop drive, beautiful parks, and a quieter beach experience.

Travelers can enjoy the Casements, which is John D. Rockefeller’s former winter home.

2. Port Orange

South of Daytona Beach, Port Orange provides a blend of riverfront restaurants.

You can also enjoy various leisure activities at vacation spots and places like the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens.

3. New Smyrna Beach

A short drive south, New Smyrna Beach is known as one of the best small towns in Florida!

Its beaches are less crowded, and the historic Canal Street offers unique local shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

While in New Smyrna Beach, be sure to check out the Marine Discovery Center where guests can explore the indoor exhibits and aquariums. 

Or make your way outside to the butterfly gardens, nature trails, and lots more. 

4. DeLand

DeLand is a hotspot for art lovers and foodies.  Artisan Alley showcases the creative side of the city, from unique handcrafted goods to street performances.

This city also has a reputation as the “Skydiving Capital of the World”. Feel the rush of a skydiving experience and witness breathtaking views of Deland’s landscape.

5. Sanford

Sanford offers plenty of outdoor and waterfront activities with Lake Monroe!  Many come here for leisurely boat rides and other water adventures including jet skiing and kayaking.

Visitors can also wander through Historic Downtown Sanford, an awesome area lined with antique stores, and boutique shops, as well as local eateries and cafes with diverse options. 

Popular Attractions Nearby

6. St. Augustine

As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine is a treasure trove of historical sites and beautiful architecture. 

Visitors enjoy the Castillo de San Marcos and the picturesque streets in the historic district.

While in St. Augustine, you can also visit Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is an interactive marine park where guests can get close with dolphins and learn with their interactive exhibits. 

7. Titusville

Just an hour away from Daytona Beach, Titusville is home to Kennedy Space Center. 

Here, you can view historic spacecraft and possibly witness a live rocket launch.

8. Cocoa Beach

An hour and 20-minute driving distance south of Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach is known as the surfing capital of the southeast.

My favorite parts of Cocoa Beach are the great sandy beaches, waterfront restaurants, and of course, the Cocoa Beach Pier.

Grab a beer or frozen drink at Rikki Tiki Tavern at the end of the pier. 

9. Flagler Beach

This charming town, situated between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, boasts a three-mile stretch of pristine, sandy shores that invite both locals and visitors to unwind and relax in the sun. 

The iconic Flagler Beach Pier is a focal point, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and serving as a hub for fishing enthusiasts and sunset admirers alike. 

10. Orlando

Approximately an hour’s drive inland, the theme parks near Orlando are a major draw.

Here are the best attractions to visit in Orlando: 

Best Beaches In The Vicinity

When looking for sand, sun, and surf near Daytona Beach, vacationers have several appealing options within a short drive.

You can expect to find beaches perfect for relaxing, swimming, and other water activities.

✓ New Smyrna Beach: Just a 20-minute drive south, visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the charming, small-town vibe.

Ideal for families, surfers, and those looking to avoid the larger crowds often found at Daytona Beach.

✓ Ormond Beach: This beach is north of Daytona Beach and offers a quieter experience.

It features clean, soft sands and is known for its lovely parks and gardens by the shore.

✓ Flagler Beach: Located approximately 30 minutes north, this beach has an original, Old Florida feel, with uncrowded stretches of sand.

Visitors often spot dolphins and enjoy fishing off the local pier.

✓ Canaveral National Seashore: Situated about an hour south, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers.

This beach is part of a National Park and provides pristine sand dunes and a sanctuary for local wildlife.

Each of these beaches features unique characteristics the traveler may find appealing, from amazing piers and water sports to tranquil nature preserves.

When near Daytona Beach, a day of beachside relaxation or adventure is always within reach.

Cultural And Historical Sites

Several closer places and cities in close proximity to Daytona Beach are rich in cultural and historical landmarks.

Visitors can explore a variety of sites and popular destination that celebrate the diverse heritage and history of the area.

✓ St. Augustine is renowned for its historic charm. Notable sites include:

• Castillo de San Marcos: The oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.

• Flagler College: Known for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture.

• Saint Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Offers insights into the maritime history of the region.

✓ New Smyrna Beach has:

• Smyrna Dunes Park: Home to the Turnbull Ruins, the remnants of British colonial structures.

✓ DeLand boasts:

• Stetson Mansion: Florida’s first luxury estate and one of its most historic homes.

• DeLand Naval Air Station Museum: Celebrates the area’s WWII history.

✓ Sanford features:

• Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Not just a zoo, but also a place that captures the natural history of the region.

Each location offers unique insights into the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the culture that has shaped the area around Daytona Beach.

Outdoor Activities And Parks

Near Daytona Beach, visitors have an array of parks and outdoor activities to choose from, each offering unique experiences amidst Florida’s natural beauty.

✓ Tomoka State Park, just a short road trip away in Ormond Beach, allows visitors to immerse themselves in a serene environment with activities like kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.

With its abundance of wildlife, it’s a fantastic spot for nature photography as well.

✓ Blue Spring State Park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is a winter haven for manatees.

This park offers snorkeling, scuba diving, and riverboat tours. The spring is a key feature, providing a cool respite during the warmer months.

 👉 Here’s a quick look at some local parks and available activities:

• Tiger Bay State Forest: Hiking, horseback riding, camping

• De Leon Springs State Park: Swimming, paddle-boating, picnic areas

• Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens: Botanical gardens, historic ruins

✓ Visitors who seek adventurous pursuits can head to Ponce Inlet for parasailing and jet skiing.

This location is in close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and provides stunning views.

✓ For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens not only showcases artistic works but also features tranquil gardens for strolling.

✓ Active travelers can enjoy the numerous multi-use trails such as the Spring-to-Spring Trail and Crystal Springs, linking several parks and natural springs, ideal for cycling, jogging, or walking.

These areas emphasize recreational activities and environmental preservation, inviting everyone to explore and appreciate the scenic areas near Daytona Beach.

Local Events And Festivals

The area surrounding Daytona Beach is pumping with local events and festivals throughout the year. 

Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of cultural, musical, and sports events catering to diverse interests.

Speedweeks: Held at the iconic birthplace of Speed, the Daytona International Speedway, Speedweeks signals the beginning of the NASCAR season. Events span early to mid-February, culminating in the Daytona 500.

Bike Week: March witnesses tens of thousands of motorcyclists riding into the city. This 10-day event features motorcycle racing, concerts, parties, and main street festivals.

Daytona Beach Bandshell Concerts: Throughout the summer, the historic Coquina Amphitheater hosts free concerts. These are generally held on Friday and Saturday nights and include fireworks on Saturdays.

DeLand Art Festival: Annually in November, DeLand, a short drive from Daytona, showcases fine art exhibitions from artists around the country

Halifax Art Festival: One of the oldest art festivals in Florida, featuring hundreds of artisans and crafters in early November.

Each event offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and community spirit of the Daytona Beach area, providing both entertainment and economic benefits to the region.

Accommodation Options In The Area

Travelers to the Daytona Beach area will find a variety of lodging choices to suit a range of preferences and budgets.

They can choose from luxurious resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, well-appointed vacation rentals, and budget-friendly motels.

✓ Hotels and Resorts:

• The Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort offers beachfront access and upscale amenities, perfect for those looking to indulge.

• Ocean Breeze Club Hotel provides family-friendly accommodations with stunning ocean views.

✓ Bed and Breakfast:

• The Inn on the Avenue is known for its great location in Smyrna Beach and personalized service with delicious breakfast, ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

• River Lily Inn Bed and Breakfast sits along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a peaceful retreat.

Overview Of Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, located on Florida’s east coast, is renowned for its wide stretch of sandy shoreline and its association with motorsports.

Key Points:

✓ Beach Activities: Daytona Beach offers a variety of beach activities such as relaxing, swimming, and water sports.

Famous for its hard-packed sands, the beach allows for unique activities like driving on certain areas of Daytona Beach shores.

✓ Motorsports Heritage: It is home to the Daytona International Speedway, which hosts the iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR race, drawing fans from all over the world.

✓ Cultural Attractions: The city also boasts a number of cultural attractions, including the Museum of Arts & Sciences and the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.

Residents and visitors take part in festivals such as the Daytona Beach Bike Week and the Turkey Run car show. 

With diverse entertainment options and a friendly atmosphere, Daytona Beach serves as a hub of leisure and lifestyle on the World’s Most Famous Beach.