Things to Do in Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach, Florida, isn’t just about racing — it’s a year-round destination that blends beachfront fun, motorsports, and coastal culture. With 23 miles of sandy shoreline, family attractions, art, and a lively downtown, there’s something here for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full-length vacation, here are the best things to do in Daytona Beach — organized by interest for easy planning.

1. Relax and Play on Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is world-famous for its wide, hard-packed sand — so firm that cars were once allowed to race directly on it. Today, you can still drive on designated beach areas for a small fee, making it one of the few places in the U.S. where beach driving is legal.

Top activities:

• Swimming and sunbathing along the Atlantic coast

• Surfing and paddleboarding (rentals available near the pier)

• Beach volleyball and sandcastle building

• Beach driving (small daily permit required)

Good to know: Lifeguards are on duty at major zones, and beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented near most access points.

2. Visit the Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk

The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier are at the heart of the city’s oceanfront excitement. Here you’ll find classic amusement rides, arcade games, and ocean-view restaurants. The iconic pier, built in the 1920s, remains one of the best places for fishing and photography.

Don’t miss:

• Joyland Amusement Center

• Screamer’s Park thrill rides

• Joe’s Crab Shack (at the end of the pier)

• Free summer concerts and fireworks

Tip: Visit in the evening for neon lights, live music, and cool ocean breezes.

3. Explore Daytona International Speedway

For motorsports fans, no trip to Daytona is complete without visiting the Daytona International Speedway — home to the legendary Daytona 500 and Rolex 24 races.

Even outside of major events, visitors can take guided tours that go behind the scenes of one of the most famous racetracks in the world.

Highlights:

• 90-minute Speedway Tour (includes Victory Lane photo)

• Motorsports Hall of Fame of America

• Official Daytona 500 Experience gift shop

Location: 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

4. Visit the Daytona Beach Main Street Area

Main Street is where Daytona’s coastal soul meets its classic biker charm. It’s especially famous during Bike Week and Biketoberfest, but year-round it offers great restaurants, bars, and live music venues.

Top spots:

• Boot Hill Saloon (a local landmark)

• Froggy’s Saloon for nightlife

• Cruisin’ Café for casual dining

• Weekly farmers markets and car shows

Pro Tip: Visit during sunset and enjoy live music from open-air patios.

5. Discover the Daytona Beach Bandshell

Built in 1937, the Daytona Beach Bandshell is a historic outdoor amphitheater overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It hosts free concerts, festivals, and movie nights throughout the year.

During summer, fireworks light up the sky every Saturday night, adding to the city’s festive energy.

Location: 70 Boardwalk, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Season: Concerts typically run from May through September.

6. Visit the Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS)

For a change of pace, head inland to the Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS) — Daytona’s cultural hub. The museum features a planetarium, art exhibits, and interactive science displays, making it perfect for families and rainy days.

Exhibits to see:

• The Root Family Museum (vintage Coca-Cola memorabilia)

• Cuban and American fine art collections

• Lowell and Nancy Lohman Planetarium

• The Charles and Linda Williams Children’s Museum

Location: 352 S Nova Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

7. Enjoy Ponce Inlet and the Lighthouse

A short drive south of the main beach brings you to Ponce Inlet, one of the most scenic and relaxing spots in the region.

Climb the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Florida’s tallest at 175 feet, for panoramic views of the coastline. Nearby, the Marine Science Center offers touch tanks and sea turtle rehabilitation exhibits.

Other things to do in Ponce Inlet:

• Eat fresh seafood at Hidden Treasure or Down the Hatch

• Go kayaking through mangrove channels

• Visit the jetty for fishing and photography

Location: 4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

8. Shop and Dine at One Daytona

One Daytona is a modern entertainment complex directly across from the Speedway. It’s home to upscale dining, boutique shopping, and family entertainment options — all in a walkable plaza setting.

Top picks:

• Cobb Luxury Theatres for a movie night

• Bass Pro Shops for outdoor gear

• Restaurants: Rock Bottom Brewery, P.F. Chang’s, and The Daytona Grill

• Live events and weekend music

Location: 1 Daytona Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

9. Explore Tomoka State Park

Just north of Daytona lies Tomoka State Park, a peaceful retreat filled with ancient oaks, marshlands, and wildlife. It’s ideal for kayaking, canoeing, or simply escaping the crowds.

Activities include:

• Canoeing along the Tomoka River

• Birdwatching and nature photography

• Scenic trails and picnic areas

• Campsites available with amenities

Location: 2099 N Beach St, Ormond Beach, FL 32174

10. Experience Daytona Beach Nightlife

After sunset, Daytona Beach transforms into a lively hub of music, dancing, and waterfront bars.

Popular nightlife spots:

• Ocean Deck Beach Club (live reggae and seafood)

• Razzle’s Nightclub for dancing

• Mai Tai Bar (Ocean Walk Shoppes)

• Daytona Taproom for craft beers

The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and perfect for couples or groups looking to unwind after a day on the beach.

11. Take a Scenic Drive on the Ormond Scenic Loop

For one of the most beautiful drives in Florida, explore the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail, a 34-mile route that winds through coastal forests, salt marshes, and ocean views.

Highlights:

• Multiple photo stops and hiking trails

• Nearby Bulow Creek State Park and Fairchild Oak

• Best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon

12. Visit the Daytona Lagoon Waterpark

Families with kids shouldn’t miss Daytona Lagoon, located just behind the Ocean Walk Shoppes. It features water slides, a lazy river, go-karts, laser tag, and mini golf.

Best for: Families, teens, and groups looking for all-day fun.

Location: 601 Earl St, Daytona Beach, FL 32118

13. Try Local Seafood and Coastal Cuisine

Daytona Beach has a vibrant dining scene that blends fresh seafood with classic Florida flavor.

Top restaurants to try:

• Chart House – upscale dining on the Halifax River

• Caribbean Jack’s – seafood with live music

• Ocean Deck – beach-casual with ocean views

• The Cellar – fine dining in a historic home

Best Time to Visit Daytona Beach

• Spring (March–May): Ideal weather, warm water, and fewer crowds

• Summer (June–August): Peak season with events and family activities

• Fall (September–November): Quieter, budget-friendly travel

• Winter (December–February): Cooler but still sunny, great for festivals

Where to Stay

Daytona offers a wide range of accommodations from beachfront resorts to family hotels.

Top picks:

• Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach

• Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort

• The Shores Resort & Spa

• Streamline Hotel (retro-style, near Main Street)

Final Thoughts

From the roar of the Speedway to the rhythm of the ocean waves, Daytona Beach offers endless things to do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or culture, the combination of sunshine, history, and hospitality makes Daytona one of Florida’s most diverse beach destinations.

Plan your visit, explore the attractions, and experience why Daytona Beach remains one of America’s most iconic coastal cities.