If you ask someone what they know about Daytona Beach, chances are they will name one, if not all three, of the following things: the beach, motorcycles, and NASCAR. While each is integral to Daytona Beach's identity, there is so much more to experience in this beach town. Whether you're looking for quick getaways from Orlando, or you're visiting the area, these things to do in Daytona Beach will make it memorable.
Updated April 2024 by Brie Gorecki
Daytona Beach Hotels
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
918 N. Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118
This oceanfront Daytona Beach resort mixes its rock ‘n' roll-inspired theme with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Inside guests will find a sleek hotel and fun atmosphere, along with Hard Rock's signature memorabilia as the focal point of the hotel's decor.
Don't miss the Rock Spa with unique music-inspired treatments. And Brunch on the beach on Saturdays and Sundays is a must!
Besides a cabana-lined pool and a stretch of Atlantic beach line where no cars are allowed, Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach offers a series of upscale features and perks such as in-room Fender guitar loans, oceanfront Rock Royalty suites, the Rock Spa with music-themed treatments, and a fire pit terrace overlooking the ocean that's perfect for toasting to the day's end.
There's also a Hard Rock Roxity Youth Club filled with games and activities for families to enjoy together. In fact, there are a number of features families will appreciate. Explore Orlando-Parenting.com's 5 Kid-Friendly Activities at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach.
Look to see the hotel host a series of concerts and events throughout the year.844-745-1502; hardrockhoteldaytonabeach.com
The Shores Resort & Spa
2637 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
Staying at The Shores elevates your getaway into a truly lavish experience. The resort holds the prestigious AAA Four-Diamond rating and features upscale room amenities like oceanfront views, doorless Italian marble showers, four-poster feather beds, and 42-inch flat screen televisions.
The resort boasts a full-service day spa with a variety of services and packages including the Bliss Couples Spa. This package begins with an 80-minute Swedish massage in a couples suite followed by a relaxing foot soak while enjoying chocolates and sipping champagne and culminates with an Aphrodesia Pedicure.
Other activities include the opportunity to take surfing lessons from Pure Life Surf School and renting a Jeep for a day of beach cruising. Or, cuddle up around one of the resort’s beachfront fire-pits and enjoy your complimentary Shores S’mores kit.
Want to spend the day by the pool? Relax in one of the private cabanas, which include cabana service. The Shores is pet-friendly, so your furry friend(s) can tag along on your getaway. (386)767-7350; shoresresort.com
Playful Daytona Beach Activities
For Arts & Culture
Central Florida's largest art museum, the Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS), is also home to a planetarium that can seat 94 and a variety of exhibitions spanning across multiple galleries. Peruse Chinese art and International Decorative art in the North Wing, or visit The Cuban Foundation Museum in the West Wing, a comprehensive collection of Cuban history and art with items ranging from furniture to paintings and rare maps dating back to the eighteenth century.
Check out the monthly MOAS After Hours event featuring $5 admission, live music, happy hour drink specials and food for purchase. This event is typically held on the last Monday of the month from 5-7 pm but check the event calendar for exact dates. Regular adult admission is $12.95 per person. The first Tuesday of every month, Volusia County residents get in free with proof of residency.
Music lovers won't want to miss the Peabody Auditorium. With past performances from music giants such as Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Liza Minelli, Louie Armstrong and Tony Bennett, it’s no surprise the Peabody Auditorium is regarded as one of Central Florida’s premiere venues for the performing arts. The venue has been showcasing musical artists, comedy shows, dance performances, Broadway shows, and professional theatre since 1949.
Home to the Oceanwalk Shoppes and the Daytona Beach Bandshell, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier is a one-stop-shop for activities, dining, shopping and live entertainment by the beach.
Summer visitors are in for an extra special treat, as the weekly Daytona Beach Bandshell Concerts and Fireworks event series takes place Memorial Day through Labor Day. Concerts are held at the Bandshell every Friday and Saturday followed by a free firework show.
Friday shows are $15 and Saturday shows are free. The full concert line-up for this summer can be found here.
For Thrill-Seekers
The Daytona International Speedway is one of the most historic racetracks in the United States. While it’s only used a handful of times for NASCAR events during the year, you and your love can embark on one of three different tours anytime.
Interested in taking a lap around the track? The Speedway tour is perfect, coming in at $26 per person and 60 minutes.
For a splurge, book the NASCAR Ride Along to experience laps with a professional racing instructor at speeds you’ll never be able to reach on I-4. The cost is $193.59 for one person for the ride along experience, or you can DRIVE the car starting at $387.19.
For Fun in the Sun
After plenty of time spent lounging on the beach, partake in an active date to enjoy the sunny weather while bonding with your honey. Three Brothers Boards offers dolphin and manatee paddle board tours, each beginning with a demonstration and lesson. Navigate under bridges, through the Yacht Club, circle an island, and get the chance to potentially see manatees and dolphins closer than ever.
Tours are approximately 2 hours long and cost $65/person inclusive of the tour and gear.
Don’t let Daytona Lagoon‘s name fool you – this is more than just a waterpark. Activities range from go karts to laser tag and mini-golf to an arcade, a sky maze, and the Island Hopper ride.
You’ll be tempted to hop in the water after riding the rides, and the park not only features cabanas and a number of water slides, but also a lazy river for those looking to relax and soak up the sun.
Florida Resident waterpark admission is $38.99 (weekdays, $45.99 weekends), or you can get an All-Day pass to the waterpark, go-kart rides, miniature golf and island hopper ride for $64.99.
Pro Tip: Keep your receipt! If the waterpark has to close for more than 2 hours due to severe weather, present your receipt from that day at the Season Pass Desk next time you’re in to receive a free visit.
Nearby Parks:
- Andy Romano Beachfront Park: 4 acres, with beach access, a playground, picnic facilities, and restrooms
- Bulow Creek State Park: Free Florida state park with the Fairchild Oak, one of the largest live oak trees in the South
Daytona Beach Restaurants
Whether or not you and your love decide to stay at The Shores, you can have a superior date-night dinner at Azure Oceanfront American Kitchen, located inside the resort.
Azure offers two options as far as ambiance: dining in their romantic indoor dining room, or on the elevated outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean. Finish the night by enjoying drinks and an unforgettable view at the Oceanview Lounge. Valet parking is complimentary for guests of the restaurant.
Owned by a local Daytona family and operating since 1998, Dancing Avocado Kitchen prioritizes the quality of the food they prepare. You won't find processed foods, or artificial ingredients here. Their menu includes smoothies and fresh-squeezed juices, vegetarian and vegan options, and meat lovers can still get a burger.
Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory has been making candy since 1925 and is a staple on South Beach Street. They pride themselves on making quality handmade chocolates every day in their small factory. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of chocolatey treats and sample some along the way by taking part in one of their factory tours.
A fruity cocktail and the beach go hand in hand, and the Mai Tai Bar is conveniently located steps from the Daytona Beach Bandshell. Sip specialty Mai Tais available in flavors ranging from mango to lychee or opt for an Icy Mai Tai for a shaved-ice variation. The full bar also serves martinis, specialty cocktails, beer and wine. Hungry beachgoers can indulge in flatbreads, sandwiches, sliders, or salads. There is live entertainment daily beginning around 9 pm.
More Daytona Beach Restaurants
- Riptides Raw Bar and Grill: All you can eat crab legs
- Ocean Deck: One of the most famous Daytona Beach restaurants
- Landshark Bar and Grill: Margaritaville-inspired restaurant on the beach
Feature image credit: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach