Are you looking to spend a day in Daytona Beach? You’ve come to the right spot!
Whether you’re looking to come from Orlando or another place in Florida, a day trip to Daytona Beach offers a refreshing escape.
Visitors to Daytona Beach can expect to find a range of activities, whether it be relaxation on the sandy shores or looking to get on the water for activities.
Things To Do On A Day Trip To Daytona Beach
1. Explore Daytona Beach Boardwalk
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk is a fun destination known for its scenic views and entertainment options.
Stretching along the coastline, it offers easy access to the sandy shores and the Atlantic Ocean.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including arcades, shops, and dining options.
The boardwalk features classic amusements, making it a hit for families and thrill-seekers.
If you’re looking for excitement, check out the Slingshot!
Nearby is the pier, which provides opportunities for people to see fish and other marine life in the water, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Photo credit – Daytona Lagoon
2. Visit Daytona Lagoon Waterpark
Daytona Lagoon Waterpark features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, so it’s perfect for families and those who love thrilling rides.
Guests can enjoy Adventure Mountain’s slides, which provide an exciting experience for those seeking adventure.
For younger children, the interactive splash area is both safe and fun.
In addition to water attractions, Daytona Lagoon has arcade games and other entertainment options, such as Go Karts and Laser Tag.
Dining facilities are available on-site, providing convenience for families spending the day at the park.
Visitors should consider purchasing a combo ticket that includes both water park access and other attractions.
With its variety of activities, Daytona Lagoon Waterpark is an excellent stop on a day trip to Daytona Beach.
Photo credit – Unsplash by Tim Trad
3. Tour Daytona International Speedway
One of my favorite stops in Daytona, touring Daytona International Speedway offers a unique glimpse into the world of motorsports.
It is one of the most iconic racetracks in America.
Visitors can choose guided tours, which typically last about 30 minutes.
During the tour, they explore areas like the VIP suites, pit road, and the infield.
The experience includes a visit to the Motorsports Hall of Fame, showcasing racing history and memorabilia.
Guests can learn about famous drivers and noteworthy races.
For those interested, it is also possible to drive a race car around the track.
The speedway hosts various events throughout the year, including NASCAR races.
Tours are available year-round, making it convenient for any itinerary.
Looking for the best dolphin tour in Daytona Beach? Check out this Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour! 👈
4. Relax At Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation. Golden sands here stretch for miles, making this a perfect place to relax under the sun or take a walk on the smooth, packed sand.
Beachgoers can lounge in beach chairs or set up umbrellas for shade.
There are high-rise hotels that line up along the shoreline, making a stay at the beach convenient if you decide to stay longer than a day trip.
I stayed at Daytona Grande Resort earlier this year and it’s right on the ocean and next to Ocean Walk Village which is filled with shops and restaurants.
Nearby, Jackie Robinson Ballpark and Oceanfront Park are excellent choices for an afternoon in Daytona Beach.
Whether it’s reading a book in a beach chair or taking a leisurely stroll on the beach, Daytona Beach delivers as an ideal place for a quick getaway.
Photo credit – Wikimedia
5. Shop At Ocean Walk Shoppes
As mentioned, Ocean Walk Shoppes offers a fun shopping experience along Daytona Beach.
Visitors can explore a variety of stores, ranging from surf gear to beach apparel and souvenir shops.
In addition to shopping, there are lots of dining options available including WingHouse, Johnny Rockets, and Bubba Gump Shrimp.
The atmosphere is lively, with entertainment options close by, and there is live music at the Daytona Beach Bandshell on occasion.
Photo credit – Joe’s Crab Shack
6. Dine At Joe’s Crab Shack
Joe’s Crab Shack is a popular dining choice near Daytona Beach, known for its lively atmosphere at the pier, and seafood offerings.
The menu features a variety of seafood options, from crab buckets to shrimp dishes.
However, Joe’s does cater to different tastes, including non-seafood items, including salads, chicken sandwiches, and burgers.
Joe’s Crab Shack is casual dining and offers outdoor seating for those who wish to enjoy the views from the pier or you can dine inside.
Just a short walk from the Daytona Beach Pier is Ocean Deck, which is my favorite oceanfront restaurant in the area and they serve excellent seafood.
If you like oysters, an awesome place to go is Daytona Beach Oyster Bar, and it’s just a couple of blocks from the beach.
Looking for a memorable dining experience in Daytona Beach? Book the Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show in Daytona Beach! 👈
Photo credit – Wikimedia
7. Check Out The Museum Of Arts & Sciences
The Museum of Arts & Sciences in Daytona Beach offers a diverse collection that appeals to art and history enthusiasts.
Arguably, the best part of the museum is the Loham Planetarium which is all about space and tours of the sky.
Visitors can also explore exhibitions that feature American art, modern photography, and decorative arts.
In addition to visual arts, the museum showcases artifacts related to Florida’s history. It includes a significant collection of the state’s cultural heritage.
Kids can engage with interactive displays and there’s an area dedicated to youngsters with the Children’s Museum, so this is definitely a nice place to bring the whole family.
8. Discover Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a historic landmark located just south of Daytona Beach.
Standing at 175 feet, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States.
Visitors can climb the 203 steps to the top for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding areas.
The lighthouse, built in 1887, is an iconic symbol of Florida’s maritime history.
The site also features a museum showcasing the history of the lighthouse and its keepers.
Artifacts and exhibits provide insight into the challenges faced in navigating Florida’s coast.
The surrounding park offers scenic walking trails and picnic areas. This makes it an ideal spot for a family outing or a day trip!
Add some wildlife and nature to your Daytona Beach itinerary. Book the Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon! 👈
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Attractions For Couples Visiting Daytona Beach?
Couples can enjoy a variety of attractions in Daytona Beach.
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk offers a romantic setting for taking a stroll with its scenic views and entertainment options.
Another popular spot is Daytona Lagoon Waterpark, where couples can relax and enjoy thrilling rides.
For those interested in motorsports, a tour of Daytona International Speedway can be an exciting experience.
What Are Some Affordable Activities To Enjoy In Daytona Beach?
Daytona Beach provides numerous budget-friendly options. Relaxing at Daytona Beach itself is an excellent choice, as the natural beauty and atmosphere are free to enjoy.
Shopping at Ocean Walk Shoppes allows visitors to browse and enjoy the local scene without significant expenses.
Additional Daytona Beach Travel Posts
Me enjoying a cool winter day in Daytona Beach. 🌊
Always On The Shore contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you.
For more information, please read the disclaimer page.
Booking a last-minute trip to Daytona Beach?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!
Top Tours in Daytona Beach
Polynesian Fire & Dinner Show Ticket (Join The Hottest Dinner Show In Daytona Beach)
Dolphin & Manatee Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour (Fun Way to Explore Daytona Beach’s Coast)
Small-Group Sailing Tour Daytona Beach (Ride on the Halifax River In a Sailing Catamaran)
Segway Beach Ride In Daytona Beach (1-Hour Beach Run Ride In Daytona Beach)
Guided Wildlife Kayak Tour (Best Dolphin Cruise In Daytona Beach)
Top Hotels In Daytona Beach – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Daytona Beach?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗