There are serene walking trails, exciting zipline adventures, championship golf courses and more
DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA–OCTOBER 2025–The beautiful beaches and Atlantic waters of Daytona Beach may be what this vibrant destination is best known for, but there is a wealth of outdoor fun to be had beyond the beach, as well. Easily accessible via Interstates 95 and 4, Daytona Beach is located between St. Augustine and the Kennedy Space Center, and is just an hour east of Orlando. A growing number of flights into Daytona Beach International Airport (700 Catalina Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-248-8030) also make arriving by air convenient and affordable.
The beach is what draws many visitors here each year and the sun and surf of its 23 miles of oceanfront has long been the main attraction. It is home to the famous Daytona Beach Boardwalk (12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida, 32118; 386-253-0254) and Pier (200 Main Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114) along with activities for beach lovers of all ages. The Daytona Beach Bandshell (70 Boardwalk Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-671-8250) is an iconic spot for concerts and events. But those who love the outdoors have found there is a variety of options beyond the beach to get out and enjoy.
There is an impressive collection of hiking and biking trails here and the county has a Parks and Trails App for details on all the options. The area’s state parks offer excellent access to the area’s diverse and beautiful landscapes and natural habitats.
Tomoka State Park (2099 North Beach Street, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-676-4050) is a prime spot for birding, boating and camping along the Halifax River. For those who want to get out on the river, Tomoka Outpost (2099 North Beach Street, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-673-0022) offers kayak and canoe rentals, private guided cruises and custom excursions. Visitors can also relax and enjoy snacks and beverages in the outpost’s comfortable rocking chairs. From its harbor on Beach Street, World Famous Boat Tours (450 Basin Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-331-3483) also offers wildlife tours, sunset tours and private excursions on the Halifax River. Wildlife experts lead 75-minute boat tours, sharing fascinating facts and entertaining stories about the waterway and the plants and animals that call it home.
Just a short drive inland, Blue Spring State Park (2100 West French Avenue, Orange City, Florida 32763; 386-775-3663) is home to the largest spring on the St. Johns River. The crystal clear, 73-degree springs is a designated Manatee Refuge and viewing these mysterious creatures is the park’s number one attraction. Visitors can also hike along the spring or run on the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park, as are guided river boat cruises.
Ponce Preserve (4401 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-236-2150) is a 41-acre scenic park stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Halifax River. The preserve includes a varied terrain and is a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail and is home to the Green Mound State Archaeological Site, an ancient Indian midden. Nearby, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum (4931 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-761-1821) is a National Historic Landmark and Florida’s tallest lighthouse. Climbing to the top is an adventure and offers a spectacular view. Throughout the grounds, fascinating stories are told amid the artifacts and preserved buildings.
A city park, Tuscawilla Preserve offers opportunities for those who want a little competition or a high-flying thrill. The preserve is home to the challenging Tuscawilla Park Disc Golf Course (1000 Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-671-3400) and the Daytona Beach Zipline Adventure (1000 Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-882-8016). The aerial adventure courses are integrated with the natural environment, inspired by the trees and the flow of the terrain and flora.
Of course, there are a variety of fishing options at locations throughout Daytona Beach. From guided excursions through inland waters to a day of offshore fishing, there is a fleet of knowledgeable charter captains to satisfy any angler, novice or experienced. Rare Breed Charters (3226 Riverview Lane, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-341-0793) has trips for all types of anglers, offering inshore, nearshore and offshore fishing charters. Sea Spirit Deep Sea Fishing (4884 Front Street, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-763-4388) is known for its affordable offshore fishing excursions for the whole family. They offer half- and full-day charters for everyone from experienced anglers to first-time fishermen.
For those who want to hit the links, there is no better place than LPGA International (1000 Champions Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32124; 386-274-5742). This premier club is home to 36 holes of world-class golf on courses designed by Arthur Hills and Rees Jones. Yawning bunkers, natural marsh areas, beautiful lakes and undulating greens are all prominent features here. Since 1994, LPGA International has been the home course of the LPGA Tour and is now the host of the final stage of the LPGA Tour Qualifying School. It is also known for its world-class practice facility featuring a double-ended range, a Rees Jones designed three-hole championship practice course, short game areas and putting greens.
Where to stay
The list of Daytona Beach lodging options includes an amazing variety of accommodations, from traditional beachfront resorts to new, luxury hotels.
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (918 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7300) has 200 guest rooms and is known for its four-star service, Hard Rock Spa and oceanfront dining options.
Max Beach Resort (1901 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-999-2555), in Daytona Beach Shores, offers spacious vacation rentals that feel like home away from home, located just minutes from the hustle and bustle.
Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront (640 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-239-9800) has a stunning design, impressive amenities and oceanfront views.
Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort (2209 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-255-0581) has a history that began in the 1940s with 17 guestrooms. The resort now features 213 efficiencies and suites, a landscaped oceanfront lawn, two outdoor pools, one indoor pool and a whole lot more.
The Streamline Hotel (140 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7470) is a 1940s Art Deco boutique hotel in the heart of Daytona Beach and is said to be the Birthplace of NASCAR. Newly restored, the hotel features 44 guestrooms and two restaurant and bar venues. Its walls are adorned with NASCAR photos and mementos.