Last Updated on October 30, 2023
Looking for things to do in Ponce Inlet? You’ve come to the right place.
Just south of Daytona Beach on A1A is the charming town of Ponce Inlet.
Ponce Inlet, Florida, is a beautiful coastal community. The area is known for its pristine beaches and world-class fishing.
Authentic, Old Florida Charm
Ponce Inlet is home to the tallest lighthouse in Florida, the Marine Science Center, and an informative and interesting Historical Museum.
Although you can see its neighboring city of New Smyrna Beach to the south, you must cross the intercoastal waterway and drive inland and back over a bridge to reach it.
Finding things to do in Ponce Inlet is easier than you may expect, especially with some of these recommendations.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse was originally built in the 1800s. The plan was to reduce the number of shipwrecks because of the treacherous offshore reef.
Activated in 1887, the initial lighthouse was lit by a kerosene lantern within a Fresnel lens, and later in the 1930s powered by electricity with a third-order Fresnel lens.
The updated light is fitted with a modern rotating beacon and continues to operate.
Today, visitors can climb the 203-step lighthouse for a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and surrounding area.
Explore the full complex that includes historic homes of former lighthouse keepers, a lens exhibit, oil storage buildings, and also a pump house.
The complex provides insight into the life and times of those who toiled in this remote outpost.
General admission:
- Adults (age 12+): $6.95
- Children (age 3-11): $1.95
- Infants (age 0-2): Free.
- Free admission for Lighthouse Members, Ponce Inlet Residents, and FLA Members.
NOTE: The Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station is one of only 11 lighthouses on the prestigious National Historic Landmark list.
Learn more on the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Website.
Check out our list of Florida’s Historic Lighthouses!
Lighthouse Locker Gift Shop
The Lighthouse Locker Gift Shop at Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is a charming place to find unique gifts.
The shop offers a wide selection of souvenirs, jewelry, apparel, books, and more. There are also handcrafted items from local artisans for sale.
The shop has lots of lighthouse-themed merchandise like mugs and magnets to commemorate your visit.
In addition, you can purchase a Memorial Brick. Each brick or paver becomes a part of the lighthouse memorial walkway.
You’ll be sure to find something for everyone in this cozy shop! If you can’t make it to the shop, you can order from their online website.
The Marine Science Center
Next door to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is the Marine Science Center. The Center is an ideal stop for the whole family to experience local marine life.
The Marine Science Center serves as a sea turtle and migratory bird rehabilitation facility.
Visitors can get up close with Florida’s sea creatures and learn about the coastal environment and marine life ecosystems.
Don’t miss the “touch pools” featuring an array of marine life, including stingrays, fish, crabs, and sea urchins.
The Marine Science Center is open from 10 pm to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and also from noon to 5 pm on Sunday.
Admission is $8 for adults and teenagers, $7 for seniors, $5 for children ages 3 to 12, and free for children 2 and under.
Learn more on The Marine Science Center Website.
Marine Science Center Address: 100 Lighthouse Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Ponce Inlet Historical Museum
Before you leave the lighthouse, swing by the Ponce Inlet Historical Museum.
The museum is in two Florida Cracker-Style cottages that are restored to their original layout.
Learn about the history and culture of Florida settlers, Native American tribes, and African-American slaves who lived in this part of the state.
Plus, find out what makes this area so special to its current residents.
Museum hours are 10 am to 2 pm, Monday to Saturday.
Admission is free. A donation is always welcome.
Read more about the Ponce Inlet Historical Museum.
Ponce Inlet Historical Museum Address: 143 Beach St, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Where to Eat in Ponce Inlet
Down the Hatch Seafood Company
If you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite at Down the Hatch Seafood Company. Locals call it: “The Hatch”!
A classic waterfront restaurant, the diverse menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, seafood baskets/dinners, pasta, and more.
Don’t miss the smoked fish dip appetizer or also the Ponce Fish Reuben.
You may dine inside or also outside with a great view of the Intracoastal Waterway.
An outside table at sunset is ideal, but it’s first come first served, so plan accordingly.
Check their website for their Chef Selection Specials and a schedule of live entertainment: DownTheHatchSeafood.com
Down the Hatch Address: 4894 Front St, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor
This local hotspot is known for its stunning waterfront views, creative cocktail menu, and delicious seafood dishes.
The Grouper sandwich and shrimp tacos are great. Make sure to ask about their specials.
Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor Address: 133 Inlet Harbor Rd, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Looking for other things to do in the area? Check out:
- A Visit to Daytona Beach
- 14 Top Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach in 2023
- Best Places to Eat in New Smyrna Beach in 2023
- Visting What Remains of Bongoland Florida
- Things to Do on the Palm Coast and Flagler Beaches