There is adventure on the water, in the water and below the surface
DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA–JULY 2026–Some say Daytona Beach is the “World’s Most Famous Beach.” Of course, no beach is complete without the waters lapping its shores. Here, the rolling waves of the Atlantic meet one of Florida’s widest and most iconic stretches of sand. But that’s only the beginning of what water-lovers find to enjoy in this diverse destination. The ocean is joined by inlets, rivers and the Intracoastal Waterway, and Daytona Beach offers a full slate of fun-filled water activities to keep that sense of adventure alive.
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. Arriving by air via flights to the Daytona Beach International Airport (700 Catalina Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-248-8030) is convenient and affordable, also. Once here, visitors find the Daytona Beach lodging options include an impressive variety of accommodations, from traditional beachfront resorts to new, luxury hotels.
Hitting the water is a popular way for many visitors here and there are plenty of ways to do it. Fishing and eco tours, paddling and snorkeling, jet ski rentals and parasailing are all popular ways to enjoy the diverse waters of Daytona Beach.
The variety of fishing options here means everyone can enjoy the thrill of the catch. An offshore fishing trip has long been the highlight of the visit for many anglers. Daytona Beach is home to a fleet of knowledgeable charter captains who welcome all, novice or experienced, to come aboard. For inland trips, Fishin’ Magician Guide Service (386-212-4661) is known for catching trout, snook, reds and bass. Many captains offer both inshore and offshore trips and a variety of options. Popular choices with Knot on Duty Sportsfishing Charters (3948 South Peninsula Drive, Port Orange, Florida 32127; 386-527-0470) include half- and full-day deep sea trips.
For a more relaxing boating experience, many choose an eco-tour or sunset cruise with providers like World Famous Boat Tours (450 Basin Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-331-3483). They offer wildlife tours, sunset tours and private excursions on the Halifax River with guides sharing fascinating facts and entertaining stories about the waterway and the plants and animals that call it home. Ponce Inlet Watersports (4958 South Peninsula Drive; Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-405-3445) is another convenient provider offering jet ski tours, pontoon rentals, parasailing, dolphin and manatee tours, kayaks, paddleboards, fishing and private charters.
Divers find the area’s many artificial reefs irresistible and there are plenty of instructors, guides and equipment rental shops to make exploring them an unforgettable experience. Atlantic Scuba Guide & Services (724 Ridgewood Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32117; 386-253-7558) is just one of a number of shops that offer equipment rental, dive trips and lessons.
For paddling, there’s no better spot than one of Daytona Beach’s amazing state parks. Tomoka State Park (2099 North Beach Street, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-676-4050) is a prime spot for paddling along the Halifax 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. 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 while viewing these mysterious creatures is the park’s No. 1 attraction, snorkeling is popular, as well. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park, too, as are guided river boat cruises.
Three Brothers Tours (212 South Beach Street, Suite 100, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-310-4927) offers top-rated eco tours on both kayaks and paddle boards. Options include clear kayak tours, paddleboard adventures, sunset paddles and seasonal bioluminescence experiences. Small-group tours focus on wildlife encounters, beautiful scenery and personalized experiences. Those who want to catch a wave will thrive during one of the Brothers’ premier surfing lessons. The experience combines expert coaching, Florida surf culture, ocean and water safety and personalized hands-on instruction.
Rentals from Southside Jet Ski (3226 Riverview Lane, #6218, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-760-3008) allow visitors to explore the Halifax River on their own via jet ski, speed boat or deck boat rentals, perfect for every group size. Exploring the waters and natural surroundings of Ponce Inlet is an adventure on a guided excursion with Ponce Inlet Jet Ski Tours (4936 South Peninsula Drive, Suite B, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-872-1157).
If you go
Those who love the water will also enjoy these Daytona Beach water-based attractions:
Daytona Lagoon (601 Earl Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-254-5020)–More than a million gallons of rushing water fill this water park and family entertainment center. Highlights include thrilling slides, chilling pools, a challenging ropes course and a 70-foot-high zipline. Twelve water rides, wave pools and the Castaway Children’s Play Area, along with an exciting arcade, offer fun for both the young and the young at heart.
Marine Science Center (100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-304-5545)–This is the perfect place to discover and learn about the variety of local marine life, its inhabitants and the ecosystems. The center is filled with aquaria and interactive exhibits, including a Raptor Education and Conservation Exhibit and sea turtle and shore bird rehabilitation areas and a hands-on teaching lab.
Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure (1008 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach Florida, 32114; 386-241-3144) is one of the newest area attractions and features animals from both land and sea within more than 60 exhibits. Among them are a 100,000-gallon shark exhibit and two touch pools, including a chance to encounter stingrays in a 12,000-gallon pool. There are also alligators, otters, sloths, frogs and lizards in their own, specially created habitats.