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A Visit to Daytona Beach: The World’s Most Famous Beach

Last Updated on November 13, 2023

Are you looking for things to do in Daytona Beach? Daytona Beach has a world-class race track but it has so much more to offer.

Daytona Beach
Source: Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, on Florida’s east coast, is known as “the world’s most famous beach” because of its 23 miles of stunning Atlantic shoreline. This destination has much more than a beautiful beach.

It is home to towns, neighborhoods, and unique districts that combine to create a community that gives visitors reasons to come back again, any time of year.

Things to do in Daytona Beach

Sign that reads Daytona Beach World's Most Famous Beach.
Daytona Beach, the “World’s Most Famous Beach”

Its location is just a one-hour drive from Orlando, St. Augustine, and the Kennedy Space Center, making it an easy-drive destination.

Table of Contents

    Daytona International Speedway

    Daytona International Speedway Finish line.
    Source: Daytona International Speedway

    No trip to Daytona Beach is complete without a visit to the Speedway. Visiting the speedway for a race isn’t all you can do there.

    Daytona International Speedway World Center of Racing Car in Victory Lane.
    Source: Daytona International Speedway

    While visiting the speedway, you can see statues of famous racers, walk through the Hall of Fame Museum, and even go on an amazing tour. This is a great stop for all race fans.

    Learn more about Daytona Beach: Race to Adventure in Daytona Beach

    Marine Science Center

    Marine Science Center in Daytona.
    Source: Marine Science Center

    The Marine Science Center goes above and beyond to care for sealife in the Daytona Beach area. Guests can see a variety of animals and learn more about their rescue efforts.

    Turtles on a rock at the Marine Science Center

    The center is a rehabilitation facility for sea turtles and birds. Visit the touch pool, see a living reef, and so much more.

    Marine Science Center Address: 100 Lighthouse Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

    If you enjoy this, don’t miss these Unique Animal Encounters in Florida.

    Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop

    Taffy Pull at Zenos Boardwalk Sweet Shop
    Source: Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop

    The Zeon’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop is your ideal place to find something sweet to enjoy. Zeno’s on the boardwalk features an automatic taffy pull-in window for passersby eager to see taffy being made.

    However, this taffy in the window stays on the pull all day and is for display only. (Normally, the taffy only needs to be on the pull for about 15 minutes.)

    Zenos try them all box of taffy
    Source: Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop

    You can visit Zeno’s factory store in Daytona for a self-guided tour throughout the day, or you can schedule a guided tour.

    Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop Address: 1103 Main St Bridge, Daytona Beach, FL 32118

    Learn more about Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop: An Authentic Florida Favorite.

    Museum of Arts and Sciences

    Museum of Arts and Sciences Entry.
    Source: Museum of Arts and Sciences

    If you are looking for something to do indoors while visiting Daytona Beach, don’t miss the Museum of Arts and Sciences. They have a variety of exhibits you are sure to enjoy.

    Daytona Museumof Arts and Sciences Display.
    Source: Museum of Arts and Sciences

    The museum has a fantastic display of art that rotates based on what curators choose. You can also enjoy a planetarium show to learn more about the stars, constellations, and the planets.

    Museum of Arts and Sciences Address: 352 S Nova Road, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    If you enjoy museums, don’t miss the 32 Florida Museums in the Time Travelers Network.

    Jackie Robinson Ballpark

    Jackie Robinson Ballpark.
    Source: Jackie Robinson Ballpark

    If you have a baseball fan in the house, you will want to make sure a trip to Jackie Robinson Ballpark is on your to-do list. During baseball season, you can watch the Daytona Tortugas play a game.

    Learn more about Jackie Robinson Ballpark.

    Jackie Robinson Ballpark Address: 105 E Orange Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    Where to eat in Daytona Beach

    Daytona Beach is more than just a great place to visit for a fun day out. It’s home to some incredible food options you don’t want to miss out on.

    Caribbean Jack’s

    Caribbean Jacks Restaurant Patio.

    Caribbean Jack’s is an authentic Florida restaurant you don’t want to miss out on. This beach-front location offers you beautiful views and a down-home feel you are sure to love.

    shrimp Tacos from Caribbean Jacks.

    They offer a variety of dishes but they are famous for their shrimp tacos. Build yourself a perfectly balanced shrimp taco with all of the fixings.

    Caribbean Jack’s Address: 721 Ballough Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    4 Rivers Smokehouse

    4 Rivers Smokehouse Building Exterior
    Source: 4 Rivers Smokehouse

    Are you looking for a meal that is packed with flavor without breaking the bank? 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a must-visit location.

    BBQ food items at 4 Rivers Smokehouse.
    Source: 4 Rivers Smokehouse

    This location is famous for BBQ items. Locals will tell you that everything on the menu is a must-try but they brag most about the brisket.

    4 Rivers Smokehouse Address: 1866 Victory Cir Suite J-100, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    More places to eat in Daytona Beach

    Casual Bird Restaurant Building Exterior.
    • Casual Bird: 109 Dunlawton Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32118
    • Mama Foo Foo: 125 Basin St Daytona Beach, FL 32114
    • Bethune Grill: 731 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL  32114
    • KB’s Kitchen: 1292 8th St Daytona Beach, FL 32117
    Ichi Ni San Sushi
    • The Red Bud Cafe: 317 Seabreeze Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32118
    • Polynesian Fire Luau: 180 N Beach St Daytona Beach, FL 32114
    • Ichi Ni San: 246 S Beach St Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    Where to stay in Daytona Beach

    Daytona Beach, with more than 200 properties, has lodging options to fit every need. Properties include a variety of accommodations on the Daytona Beach oceanfront, throughout its unique neighborhoods, and near inland attractions.

    Ms. Maggies’s Southern Inn

    Ms Maggies inn exterior.
    Source: Ms. Maggie’s

    While visiting Daytona Beach, you can find a home away from home. Ms. Maggie’s offers southern comfort in her inn.

    Bed at Ms. Maggie's inn.
    Source: Ms. Maggie’s Inn

    This B&B is bragged about by all who visit. The common encouragement is that you must stay for breakfast as it is some of the best you’ll ever have.

    Ms. Maggie’s Inn Address: 544 S Palmetto Ave Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    Nautilus Inn

    Nautilus Inn Building Exterior beachfront view from the beach.
    Source: Nautilus Inn

    If you are hoping to stay near Daytona’s famous beaches you can’t get closer than the Nautilus Inn. This beachfront resort is the perfect place to unwind on your vacation.

    Nautilus Inn Beach View from the window
    Source: Nautilus Inn

    Rooms are equipped with all of your favorite modern conveniences. You can even book a room with a stunning view of the beach.

    Nautilus Inn Address: 1515 S Atlantic Ave Daytona Beach, FL 32118

    More places to stay in Daytona Beach

    • The Shores Resort & Space: 2637 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
    • River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast: 558 Riverside Dr, Daytona Beach, FL 32117
    • Bahama House: 2001 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118

    Places to Shop in Daytona Beach

    While the area is known for a variety of experiences, you can’t beat a day of shopping. Don’t miss these unique shopping locations in Daytona Beach.

    Nicole’s Beach Street Mall

    Nicoles Beach Street Mall.

    Are you looking for a day of antiquing? Nicole’s Beach Street Mall has a large selection of antiques and gifts you won’t want to miss.

    Nicoles Beach Street Mall Products on display

    With over 14,000 square feet of decor, fine art, antiques, and so much more, you are sure to find something you love. Because of the size of this place, you will want to plan a few hours to explore all they have available.

    Nicole’s Beach Street Mall Address: 140 N Beach St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    Abraxas Books

    Abraxas Books on the shelf.
    Source: Abraxas Books

    Finding books that feed your soul can be a lot of fun. Abraxas Books sells books you might not be able to find in other stores.

    Abraxas Books on the shelf on display
    Source: Abraxas Books

    There are over 150,000 books on a variety of subjects. Stop into this location to find your next favorite read.

    Abraxas Books Address: 256 S Beach St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    More places to shop in Daytona Beach

    • Atlantic Sounds: 138 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach FL 32114
    • Daytona Flea & Farmer’s Market: 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32124
    • Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory: 154 S Beach St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

    Looking for more Florida fun?

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