Luxury accommodations, fine dining and world-class venues offer indulgent options in this classic beachfront destination
DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA–MAY 2024–Sometimes called the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” Daytona Beach, Florida, is known for its Atlantic shoreline, which is sure to be the focal point for any visitor. But this ever-changing destination has new appeal beyond its beautiful beachfront. It has a surprising collection of lodging, dining and entertainment venues that entice those who want to splurge on a truly memorable stay.
Located just an hour’s drive from Orlando, St. Augustine and the Kennedy Space Center, Daytona Beach is an easy drive destination and has excellent air service, too. Once here, visitors enjoy the beaches in their own way. From the action of frolicking in the surf to the serenity of yoga on a paddleboard. For even more serenity–and a whole lot of pampering–many choose to spend off-the-beach time at one of the many local spas offering a full array of indulgent treatments.
One such spa is at The Shores Resort & Spa (2637 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida 32118; 386-767-7350). Lauded for its laidback luxury, this boutique hotel is just one of the growing lists of upscale properties here. Private cabanas, beachfront fire pits and beach-view dining are all a part of the experience here. With more than 200 properties from which to choose, those looking for that luxury are finding more and more options, including the recently opened Max Beach Resort (1901 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-999-2555), which offers the option of “living large” in one- and two-bedroom units. The Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (918 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7300), has a luxurious spa of its own. It also stands out for its Rock Star suites, high-end amenities and unique services including individual playlists and in-room record players. At the Daytona Grande Oceanfront Hotel (422 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-271-7979), guests are invited to step into the gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The Grande’s impeccable service, impressive amenities and variety of dining options have earned it a four-star rating. Daytona Beach’s new hotel, the Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront (640 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118; 386-271-2050) offers modern hotel accommodations with private balconies, high-end seafood restaurant Cast & Crew, a state-of-the-art design, infinity pool, all with amazing views.
Daytona Beach is also a place to enjoy the arts. Performing arts take center stage in many forms at venues ranging from concerts at the beachfront 1930s classic Daytona Beach Bandshell (70 Boardwalk Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-671-8250) to musical performances and Broadway shows at the Peabody Auditorium (600 Auditorium Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-671-3460).
The museums and galleries of Daytona Beach are a celebration of art, history and culture. This is home to the Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts & Sciences (352 South Nova Road, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-255-0285), considered Central Florida’s premier museum. Visitors can experience the beauty of art, the wonder of science and stories of history, along with an amazing collection of Coca-Cola ® memorabilia. It is joined by the world’s largest collections of Florida art at the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art (352 South Nova Road, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-255-0285). A rotating collection of 2,600 Florida-themed oil and watercolor paintings keeps visitors returning again and again. Numerous retail galleries display the amazing work of local and regional artists, as well.
And of course, there is shopping. The Daytona Beach area has an array of shops and shopping districts to fill any need for retail therapy. The new One Daytona (1 Daytona Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-681-4816) lifestyle and entertainment center is a diverse shopping destination that offers popular brands for shopping, dining, services, retail and entertainment. The Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach, downtown in the historic Beach Street area, also offer a wide variety of shopping options, as well as dining and entertainment venues. And shoppers will want to take in the more than 75 stores at Tanger Daytona Beach (1100 Cornerstone Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32117; 386-843-7459) and Tomoka Town Center (1401 Cornerstone Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114), for a complete retail experience.
For an “only in Daytona Beach” encounter, race fans will want to have the elite NASCAR Racing Experience (1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 800-237-3889). Fans can drive or take a ride as a passenger in a race car at Daytona International Speedway, the “World Center of Racing!”
Where To Eat
The Daytona Beach area’s fine-dining scene will delight the senses. While seafood is a mainstay, the variety of top-notch cuisine is amazing here. A few fine dining options include:
31 Supper Club (31 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-275-1625) has a 1931 speakeasy vibe and specializes in freshly prepared award-winning fare and artisan cocktails.
Millie’s Restaurant (3218 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores 32118; 386-275-1492) is a best-kept secret located in a nondescript strip shopping center featuring the freshest in hook-to-table, farm-to-table, locally sourced food.
Mama Foo Foo (125 Basin Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-287-0180) has a waterfront view and a dine-and-dance atmosphere. Diners enjoy an eclectic menu and variety of signature cocktails.
Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar (43 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32176; 386-615-7673) features an eclectic menu of Southern-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails and extensive wine list. All served in a one-of-a-kind historic setting.
Alexander’s Prime (123 West Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-238-9228) is a steakhouse that offers prime dry-aged steaks, hamburgers, pastas and seafood along with plenty of character and art deco fixtures and decorations. The original Alexander’s Cafe operated in the same locations back in the 1980s and 90s.
Top of Daytona (2625 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida 32118; 386-310-7849) is a luxurious restaurant atop the tallest building along the Atlantic Ocean, with a 360-degree view from the 29th floor. The Cellar (220 Magnolia Venue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; 386-258-0011) is located in the historic summer home of President Warren G. Harding and is known for fine Italian dining.