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Daytona Beach holidays

An aerial view of Daytona Beach in Florida

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Holidays to Daytona Beach are a wonderful blend of easy beach life and world-class arts and entertainment. Found on Florida’s east coast, this seafront city is known for its spectator sports, that’s when you’re not slowing things down on the sand. Families will feel right at home thanks to the bustling boardwalk filled with amusements, while couples are in the perfect spot for partying with an Ale Trail made up of 18 local craft breweries. 

Endless sands

Daytona’s sands are world-famous for good reason. With 23 miles of beautiful shoreline overlooking the azure Atlantic, you could easily spend your days relaxing under the sun. Daytona Beach is the first stop for most. Find all kinds of wet sports dotted along this 8 mile stretch, including fishing, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking - and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins leaping out from the waves. 

Need a break from the heat? Take a stroll down the oceanfront boardwalk! Crammed with entertainment options, there’s so much to do whether you want a bite to eat, fancy a shopping spree or want to ride the amusements. You’ll discover plenty more beaches close by, too, from the family favourite, Sun Splash Park, to the surfing hotspot, New Smyrna Beach.

Feel the rush

Petrolheads will be in their element at Daytona Beach! Not only is it home to one of the world’s most famous racing tracks - Daytona International Speedway - but you can take a ride in a real NASCAR car. Don’t want to get behind the wheel? Then, you can hit the track with a professional instructor. You don’t have to be a racing fan to appreciate this amazing venue either! With behind-the-scenes tours and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, you’re guaranteed a great day out. Those who come here in February shouldn’t miss out on a chance to witness all the trackside action at one of the biggest sporting events in the US, Daytona 500.

An entertainment mecca 

You’ll never run out of fun things to do in Florida! And Daytona Beach holidays are definitely up there with Orlando when it comes to entertainment. Find cultural spots like the Museum of Arts & Sciences, with its state-of-the-art planetarium to Charles and Linda Williams Children’s Museum with its interactive exhibitions. Or there’s the Marine Science Center, where little animal lovers can see how sick seabirds and turtles are nursed back to health. You can’t beat a day at Daytona Lagoon water park on those warm Florida days. Kids will love the spray guns and wave pool, while parents can make the most of the relaxing lazy river.

Unspoilt beauty

There’s plenty of chance to wander off the beaten track on your holidays to Daytona Beach. Just a few short miles south of here, at the southernmost tip of the peninsula, is Ponce Inlet, home to the tallest lighthouse in Florida. Climb to the top and take in those glittering Atlantic panoramas. Want to spot wildlife in their natural setting? Make your way to Tomoka State Park (20 minutes’ north of Daytona). A resting spot for around 160 species of bird as well as alligator and the West Indian Manatee, it’s a must-visit for rare sightings. 

More travel guides

Take a look at our other travel guides for this part of the States and beyond, including: California | Chicago | Crystal River | Florida | Florida Keys & Key West | Fort Lauderdale | Fort Myers and Sanibel | Hawaii | Kissimmee | Las Vegas | Los Angeles | Miami | New England | New York City | New York State | North East Corridor | Oregon State | Orlando | San Francisco | St Pete & Clearwater | Tampa Bay | Texas | The Deep South | Utah State | Washington State

 

15°C - 27°C

Thanks to Florida’s tropical climate, Daytona Beach stays warm all year with long, hot summers and short, mild winters.

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9 - 10 hours

Melbourne Orlando International, which takes just over 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Daytona Beach by car.

Map of Daytona Beach

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FAQs

What is Daytona Beach known for?

Daytona Beach is known for its wide, hard-packed sandy beach (so firm you can even drive on it!), its motorsport heritage including the Daytona International Speedway, and its lively boardwalk.

Is Daytona Beach good for families?

Yes, Daytona Beach's long, gently sloping beach and boardwalk amusements make it a popular choice for families, and it sits within reach of Orlando's theme parks for a combined trip.

What's the best time of year to visit Daytona Beach?

The time from spring right through to autumn offers the warmest sea temperatures for swimming, though Daytona also draws large crowds during motorsport events like Bike Week and the Daytona 500, so check the event calendar if you'd rather avoid the crowds.

How far is Daytona Beach from Orlando?

Daytona Beach is around an hour's drive from Orlando, so you can easily combine a beach stay with a few days at the theme parks.

How do you get to Daytona Beach from the UK?

Most holidaymakers fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), around nine to ten hours from the UK. From there, you can get to Daytona Beach by hire car or a private transfer in about an hour.