Planning a few days in Daytona Beach? We’ve got you covered with the perfect three-day itinerary!
Daytona Beach may be small, but you can still squeeze in a lot, especially if you love being out on the water. From paddling and spotting dolphins to driving on the beach (yes, you heard that right!), ziplining through the treetops, enjoying a Polynesian luau, and exploring lighthouses and NASCAR speedways, you’ll find a bit of everything here.
Add beach cocktails and delicious seafood, and what more could you want? The best part is that you can fit all of this into three days without rushing. We’ve planned this itinerary to help you make the most of your time here, so let’s get into it!
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Our Top Choice

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our FAVORITE thing we did in Daytona Beach was this dolphin and manatee paddling tour! We spotted SO much wildlife while paddling through the beautiful waterways! Seeing dolphins and manatees up close made this adventure unforgettable.
- Our Top Choice
- Itinerary Overview
- Day 1
- Breakfast – The Cracked Egg Diner
- Morning – Drive along the sand and relax on Daytona Beach
- Lunch – Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar
- Afternoon – Walk along the Boardwalk and Daytona Beach Pier
- Dinner/evening – Watch Polynesian dancers at a dinner show
- Optional evening – Take a short walk along Beach Street
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Where to Stay in Daytona Beach
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Itinerary Overview


🏖️ Day 1: Beach Driving, Boardwalk & Polynesian Luau
Start your first day with breakfast and a drive on the beach, explore the Boardwalk, and finish with a Polynesian luau and an evening stroll along Beach Street or a nightcap back at your hotel.
🐬Day 2: Dolphins, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Beachside Dinner
Spend the morning spotting dolphins and manatees on a paddling adventure, explore Ponce Inlet’s lighthouse and marine life, and wrap things up with dinner and optional live music by the ocean.
🏁 Day 3: Speedway Tour, Rockefeller’s Home & Skyline Dinner
Tour Daytona International Speedway, explore Rockefeller’s former winter home in Ormond Beach or go ziplining through the treetops, and end your vacation with a memorable dinner high above Daytona.
Day 1
Breakfast – The Cracked Egg Diner


We’ll start the morning at The Cracked Egg Diner in Daytona Beach Shores. This casual neighborhood diner serves generous breakfast portions and a menu that goes well beyond the usual sunny-side-up eggs and toast.
You can order eggs Benedict, loaded omelets, Southern Scramble, shrimp and grits, or croissant French toast. If you prefer something sweet, definitely try the apple fritters. They’re delicious! And if you’re not big on breakfast, go for oatmeal, avocado toast, fresh fruit, or a simple egg dish.
It’s open daily from 7 am to 3 pm. Aim to arrive around 8 am, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday, when it can get really busy. That gives you about an hour to enjoy breakfast without rushing.
Around 9 am, head to the beach. The Dunlawton Boulevard beach entrance is only about a five-minute drive away, so you won’t have to go far.
Morning – Drive along the sand and relax on Daytona Beach

Around 9:15 am, you should be on Daytona Beach. If the Dunlawton Boulevard vehicular ramp is open that morning, you can drive straight onto the sand and find a spot to settle in for an hour or so.
Daytona’s firm, hard-packed sand has attracted motorists since the early days of automobile racing. Today, you can still park right by the water, which is especially handy if you’re visiting with kids. Keep towels, snacks, water, and half the house in the car, and you’re all set!
If you’re not a Volusia County resident, beach driving currently costs $30 USD per vehicle per day. From May 1 through October 31, you can generally drive on the beach between 8 am and 7 pm, or until sunset if it comes earlier. From November 1 through April 30, access is usually allowed from sunrise to sunset.
Remember a few rules while driving on the sand. Stay in the designated driving lanes, follow the 10 mph (16 km/h) speed limit, keep your headlights on, and leave at least one front window open. Check the tides, weather, and beach conditions before heading out, too, as these can affect access.
If you don’t feel like driving on the beach, park at Dahlia Avenue Park instead. It has restrooms, showers, picnic facilities, and pedestrian access to the beach. Around 11:30 am, pack up and head north along Atlantic Avenue. It’s about a 15-minute drive to lunch.
Lunch – Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar


By 11:45 am, we recommend stopping for lunch at Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar, right on the beach near central Daytona. This local favorite has been around since 1940, with open-air seating downstairs and an air-conditioned dining room upstairs. Personally, I’d always go for a table outside!
The menu covers everything from seafood and chicken to sandwiches and tacos. The flame-grilled mahi-mahi sandwich is a house special, and I definitely recommend it. The Cajun mahi tacos with mango salsa, Caribbean coconut shrimp, and Rasta chicken quesadilla looked just as delicious, though.
And whatever you do, save room for the Key lime pie! It was the perfect sweet and tangy finish to lunch, and we’d happily go back for another slice!
Ocean Deck opens daily at 11 am and doesn’t accept reservations, so aim to arrive before the lunchtime rush. It can still get busy on weekends and during major Daytona events, so you might have to wait for a table, but it’s worth it. Stay until around 1 pm before heading to your next stop.
Afternoon – Walk along the Boardwalk and Daytona Beach Pier


After lunch, take a 10-minute walk north from the restaurant to the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, or drive to the large Ocean Center parking garage instead. The Boardwalk and Main Street Pier are great places to walk off lunch, and they’re free to explore! You’ve got the beach, ocean views, restaurants, shops, and arcades, which kids will love (and kids at heart, too). Don’t judge, we love a good game!
And don’t leave without a photo by the famous beach sign near the end of International Speedway Boulevard. It’s pretty much an essential part of the Daytona Beach experience.
The Daytona Beach Bandshell is definitely worth a stop! It’s an oceanfront amphitheater built from coquina stone. Things get livelier in the evening, and during summer you might catch a concert, festival, or even fireworks near the Bandshell. But do check the events calendar before you go, especially if you’re visiting over a holiday weekend. We were lucky enough to catch the fireworks!
Just keep in mind that parking can be tricky on weekends and during events, so allow extra time to find a spot. I’d set aside about two hours for a relaxed stroll here rather than trying to fit in every attraction. The pier, ocean views, and a wander along the Boardwalk are enough to get a feel for the area without making the first day too tiring.
Around 3 pm, pick up the car and return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner/evening – Watch Polynesian dancers at a dinner show


Now that you’re feeling nice and refreshed, it’s time for dinner and a show! This Polynesian luau is perfect if you’re looking to do something a little different from your usual dinner out. You’ll get a buffet-style meal, live music, traditional dances from Samoa, Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga, and New Zealand, plus a Samoan fire knife show, all in just two hours. Now that’s what we call a night to remember!
When you arrive, the performers greet you with a lei, and you can grab a drink from the cash bar before the show starts. For a 5 pm booking, arrive around 4:30 pm to check in and get settled.
Expect everything from Polynesian chicken, kalua pork, fish, beef meatballs, fried rice, salads, vegetables, fresh fruit, and desserts. Tea, water, and soda are included, but alcoholic drinks cost extra. If you’re vegetarian, keep in mind there’s no separate vegetarian meal, so you’ll need to choose from the available sides, salads, and vegetables.
Live Polynesian music plays while you eat, followed by traditional songs and dances. But the highlight is definitely the Samoan fire knife performance, with performers spinning and handling flaming knives. It’s certainly not something you see every day at dinner! Better yet, the show takes place in an air-conditioned venue, which is a nice break from the Florida heat.
One thing to remember: the luau doesn’t run on Sundays or Mondays, so plan Day 1 between Tuesday and Saturday, or swap this evening with another day. You should be done by around 7 pm, leaving time for a short walk or a nightcap back at the hotel.
Optional evening – Take a short walk along Beach Street


If you still have some energy after the show, take a short walk along Beach Street in downtown Daytona Beach. There are shops and restaurants, and the Halifax River is right there, so it’s a great spot for a stroll.
We actually walked along the landscaped Riverfront Esplanade, and let me tell you, those river views were something else! Just keep in mind that the northern section closes at sunset, while the southern section currently stays open until 9 pm. Depending on the time of year, you might not have access to the whole walkway, so plan accordingly.
If you’re visiting on a Friday, visit the Riverfront Market. You can check out the local vendors, buy something that catches your eye, and, if you’re lucky, catch some live music.
Of course, after a full day out, you might be ready to call it a night. If so, head straight back to the hotel and get some rest. You’ll need it!
Day 2
Breakfast – Serra Doce Daytona Beach


Breakfast starts at 9 am today, so you have time to sleep in and get ready without rushing. When you’re all set, head to Serra Doce Daytona Beach, a Portuguese café with great coffee, traditional pastries, and light bites.
You can grab a filled breakfast sandwich, a house-made bagel, spinach pie, or an orange tart if you’ve got a sweet tooth. And if you love coffee, definitely try one of their specialty Portuguese brews or flavored lattes.
Best of all, the tour operator is right next door, so you won’t have to drive anywhere for your morning activity. The café opens at 7 am Monday through Saturday and at 8:30 am on Sundays, which works perfectly for our itinerary. Allow about an hour for breakfast, then head next door around 10 am to check in.
Morning – Paddle through Daytona’s wildlife-rich waterways


Next up, we’re heading out on the water! This dolphin and manatee paddling tour is one of our favorite ways to explore Daytona Beach, especially with the chance to spot some incredible wildlife along the way. And if paddleboarding isn’t your thing, you can hop in a kayak instead and enjoy the same beautiful scenery!
Don’t worry if you’ve never tried paddleboarding before, either. The tour starts with a quick lesson, and the boards are stable enough for beginners to get the hang of it. The pace is relaxed, too, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.
We seriously hit the wildlife jackpot on this tour! We spotted manatees, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, a sea turtle, stingrays, pufferfish, jumping fish, and tons of birds. All that in less than two hours! We barely knew where to look next, and honestly, we could have happily stayed out on the water all day.
We also appreciated our guide, Noah, who snapped photos throughout the tour and sent them to us afterward. Such a nice bonus, especially since we were too busy watching the wildlife to take many ourselves!
One quick tip: Wear comfortable clothes and bring plenty of sunscreen, as there’s very little shade out on the water. Water shoes aren’t essential, but we’d recommend them for extra comfort.
The tour wraps up back at Three Brothers Boards around 12:30 pm, giving you time to change into dry clothes before continuing your adventure. From here, it’s about a 30-minute drive south to Ponce Inlet, so allow a little extra time for traffic and parking.
Lunch – Hidden Treasure Bar & Grill


By around 1:15 pm, you’ll probably be ready for lunch, so head to Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill, right next to Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Marine Science Center. Follow the posted parking rules, and move the car to the official museum parking area if required.
This place has a colorful, laid-back Key West vibe, with an outdoor deck built around mature oak trees. Grab a table outside if you can, so you can watch the boats pass by. Don’t like to brag, but we spotted dolphins, so keep your eyes peeled!
As for food, start with the smoked fish dip, made with mahi-mahi, wahoo, and white fish, or share a plate of chargrilled oysters. They’re delicious! For your main course, you can choose from grouper sandwiches, seafood platters, burgers, pasta, steaks, and chicken wings. If you’ve had enough seafood for one day, go for one of their award-winning burgers or another land-based entrée.
The restaurant opens daily at 11 am. Allow around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes for lunch before heading to your next stop.
Afternoon – Explore Ponce Inlet’s marine life and lighthouse history
Around 2:30 pm, explore Ponce Inlet’s marine life and lighthouse history. The Marine Science Center and Ponce Inlet Lighthouse are close together, so you can visit them in any order.
Just keep in mind that the Marine Science Center is open Tuesday through Sunday. If you’re visiting on a Monday, you can swap it for the historic Pacetti Hotel instead. Try to wrap things up around 5:15 pm, so you have time to shower and freshen up before dinner.
Visit the Marine Science Center


After lunch, head to the Marine Science Center, right in the same waterfront complex. I think this is a lovely stop, especially if you’re interested in seeing some of Florida’s marine life up close.
The center cares for injured sea turtles and seabirds found along Volusia County’s coastline, helping them recover before releasing them back into the wild whenever possible.
Head to Turtle Terrace to see the turtles and learn about the threats facing local marine life. Then walk along the Bird Boardwalk to meet some of the permanent residents that can’t be released back into the wild.
Inside, there are aquariums, an artificial reef habitat, a touch pool, and educational exhibits about Florida’s coastal wildlife. If you’re visiting with kids, the touch pool will probably be a hit (although I won’t judge if you’re just as curious as they are!).
Admission costs $8 USD for adults, and you’ll need about an hour to see everything. The center opens from 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 12 pm to 4 pm on Sundays. If you’re visiting on a Monday, you can swap it for the historic Pacetti Hotel instead.
Explore the historic Pacetti Hotel


If the Marine Science Center is closed on the day you visit, or you’re more in the mood for history, walk across the road to the Constance D. Hunter Historic Pacetti Hotel Museum.
This former hotel takes you back to the days when Ponce Inlet looked very different from today. You’ll see restored rooms and old displays that tell the story of the area’s early tourism, fishing, transportation, and local community. It’s really interesting to see how people lived and got around before modern roads and beach resorts came along.
Outside, you’ll find gorgeous views of the inlet. Guided tours of the historic property are also available, but there are also several picnic tables where you can sit and watch the birds and enjoy the scenery instead. You’ll need about an hour to look around, and admission costs just $5 USD for adults.
Climb Ponce Inlet Lighthouse


If you’re up for a climb, head to Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Florida’s tallest lighthouse and the most popular of the three, so give it enough time. At 175 feet (53 meters) tall, it has 203 steps to the top. It’s quite a climb, but the views over the Atlantic Ocean, Ponce Inlet, and the Halifax River make it worth the effort, trust me!
You can still visit the Lens Museum, with its impressive collection of Fresnel lenses, and explore the historic grounds without going to the top. Your admission also covers the keeper buildings and museum exhibits open that day, where you can learn about lighthouse keeping, shipwrecks, and the area’s maritime history.
Adult admission currently costs $6.95 USD, and you normally don’t need to book in advance.
Dinner – Racing’s North Turn


Around 6 pm, stop at Racing’s North Turn for dinner by the ocean. The restaurant sits near the northern turn of Daytona’s old beach-and-road racing course, where stock cars and motorcycles raced between 1948 and 1958.
While you wait for your food, take a look at the old racing photos and memorabilia on the walls. It’s pretty interesting! The menu includes mahi-mahi, steaks, burgers, ribs, chicken, and seafood mac and cheese. If you’re curious about the mac and cheese, I say go for it. I mean, seafood and mac and cheese in one dish? Count me in!
If you’re visiting on a Monday, consider their prime rib special, or try the filet-and-shrimp dinner on Fridays. On a nice evening, grab a table on the outdoor deck for the ocean views.
The restaurant is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Plan to stay until around 7:30 pm, and book ahead if you’re visiting on a busy weekend, during a race event, or in peak season.
Evening – Stay for live music beside the beach


Some of our best nights have involved live music by the beach, and Daytona Beach was no different. And for this one, you don’t even have to go anywhere else! Racing’s North Turn regularly hosts live entertainment, so you can stay a little longer after dinner and enjoy the music.
Performance days, musicians, and start times vary, so check the current events calendar before your visit. If you manage to get a table on the outdoor deck, even better. You can listen to the music and enjoy the ocean views!
Of course, this is completely optional, especially after your morning paddle and the lighthouse climb. If you’re ready to call it a day, return to your hotel and get some well-deserved zzzs!
Day 3
Breakfast – First Watch


Start Day 3 with breakfast at First Watch, right next to ONE DAYTONA and across from Daytona International Speedway. It’s a convenient spot to fuel up before your big morning at the speedway, and you won’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to make it on time!
Expect all the breakfast favorites, from eggs with bacon or sausage and pancakes to avocado toast, plus some more unusual but just as delicious options, like lemon ricotta pancakes. For something lighter, try the A.M. Superfoods Bowl. They also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, plus fresh juices and coffee.
The restaurant is open daily at 7 am, so you can take your time over breakfast before leaving around 9:15 am. Weekend mornings can get busy, so consider joining the online waitlist before leaving your hotel.
From here, it’s just a short drive to the Daytona International Speedway Ticket and Tours Building. Park in the designated visitor area and remember to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour.
Morning – Go behind the scenes at Daytona International Speedway


Next, we’ll take an official Daytona International Speedway Tour and learn what goes on behind the scenes at the place known as the World Center of Racing. You’ll ride around the huge complex on an open-air tram while learning how Daytona’s beach racing days led to the Speedway’s construction and how the Daytona 500 became such a big deal.
And you don’t need to be a big racing fan, either. The experience alone was so worth it! For me, the track’s steep 31-degree banking was the highlight. It’s hard to imagine taking those turns at racing speed!
Depending on what’s happening that day, you might also get to see pit road, Victory Lane, the infield, or the start-and-finish line. Just keep in mind that access to these areas isn’t guaranteed, as the route can change when races or preparations are underway.
Standard Speedway tours begin at 9:30 am, with the final departure at 3 pm. For this itinerary, book a tour around 10 am to fit it into your morning. I suggest reserving online before your visit, especially around race weekends. The tour lasts about an hour, and remember to bring a bank card, as both the Speedway and Hall of Fame are cashless.
Late morning – Explore the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America


After your Speedway tour, stick around and visit the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, located inside the Ticket and Tours Building. The good news is that admission is included with your standard Speedway Tour, so you won’t need to buy another ticket.
You’ll see the winning car from the latest Daytona 500 on display until next year’s race. And it’s not just about NASCAR. The museum is a tribute to all kinds of motorsports, from stock-car racing and motorcycles to aviation, powerboating, and land-speed records. If it raced, flew, or went pretty fast, it’s probably here!
I thought the giant Budweiser boat was pretty cool, but there are a TON of interesting things to look at, even if you’re not a huge racing fan. Of course, you exit through the gift shop, which is packed with souvenirs and racing merchandise if you fancy taking something home. And I’m sure you’ll find something you like!
The Hall of Fame is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on major holidays. Allow about an hour here before heading across International Speedway Boulevard to ONE DAYTONA for lunch.
Lunch – 4 Rivers Smokehouse


Lunch today is around 12:15 pm at 4 Rivers Smokehouse, inside ONE DAYTONA. After all the seafood around Ponce Inlet yesterday, it’s time to switch things up with some good old-fashioned barbecue.
The menu includes 18-hour smoked Angus brisket, pulled pork, turkey, ribs, and burnt ends. We wanted to try a few different meats, so we shared a combination platter. For sides, you’ll find all the usual favorites, like mac and cheese, baked beans, collard greens, coleslaw, cornbread, and smoked jalapeños. Definitely go for the jalapeños if you’re a fan!
You won’t find many vegetarian options, but you can put together a meal from salads and meat-free sides. I do that sometimes, and it’s pretty filling. Otherwise, P.F. Chang’s nearby has more vegetarian mains.
The restaurant currently opens daily at 11 am. Leave around 1:30 pm for the drive north to Ormond Beach, which takes about 20 minutes.
Afternoon – Afternoon – Your choice: History, nature, or a treetop adventure
Now it’s time to choose your afternoon adventure! You can slow things down with historic homes and beautiful riverfront scenery in Ormond Beach, explore the peaceful trails at Tomoka State Park, or turn up the excitement with a ziplining adventure through Tuscawilla Park. There’s something for everyone, so pick whichever sounds most fun!
Tour The Casements and Rockefeller Gardens


The Casements is the former winter residence of oil magnate and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, and it’s without a doubt one of the nicest places in Ormond Beach to spend a few relaxing hours.
It’s interesting to think that one of the richest men in American history chose this spot as his winter retreat! Today, the house is a cultural center with restored rooms, historical exhibits, local displays, and changing art exhibitions.
You can explore it on your own for free or book a guided tour. It’s currently open from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, until 12 pm on Saturdays, and closed all day Sunday.
After your visit, stop by Rockefeller Gardens next door, right beside the Halifax River. It’s free to explore, too, and a nice spot for a few photos or a quiet break by the water.
Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours to see both the house and gardens without rushing. Donations are welcome and help support the property.
Enjoy the river scenery at Tomoka State Park


If you’re visiting on a weekend when The Casements is closed, or you’d rather spend the afternoon outdoors, drive to Tomoka State Park. It’s a peaceful spot, with forest trails, marshes, and river views. It might be exactly what you need after a busy morning at the Speedway.
Follow one of the short walking paths around Tomoka Point rather than attempting a long hike, and keep an eye out for herons, egrets, ospreys, and other birds along the water. You can also visit the site of the Indigenous village of Nocoroco and see the large Chief Tomokie statue beside the river. Benches and picnic areas are available if you’d rather sit and enjoy the scenery, so this doesn’t have to be a strenuous visit.
Just remember to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially on warm days.
The park is currently open daily from 8 am until sunset. Admission is $5 USD per vehicle for up to eight people, $4 USD for a single-occupant vehicle, or $2 USD for pedestrians and cyclists. Give yourself around 60 to 90 minutes to walk around and enjoy the river views, then head back to your hotel to freshen up for dinner.
Go ziplining through Tuscawilla Park


If you’d rather spend the afternoon getting your adrenaline pumping, this 2.5-hour ziplining adventure at Tuscawilla Park is right up your alley! It’s only a 10–15-minute drive from lunch at 4 Rivers Smokehouse, and with two aerial courses to tackle, you’ll definitely earn your dinner tonight!
Your adventure starts at the harness house, where you’ll get fitted with safety gear and learn the ropes during a practice session. Then it’s time to head into the trees!
The first course has 10 obstacles and four ziplines, including one stretching 300 feet (90 meters). You’ll navigate swinging bridges, hanging logs, and tight wires before taking a short break.
Then things get REALLY exciting! The second course has around 30 obstacles and six ziplines, with platforms reaching 45 feet (14 meters) high. Three ziplines stretch an impressive 500 feet (150 meters), so get ready to channel your inner Tarzan!
We recommend booking the 2 pm session, which fits nicely after lunch at 4 Rivers Smokehouse, just a 10–15-minute drive away. You’ll finish around 4:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.
Before booking, make sure everyone is at least 54 inches (137 cm) tall, and don’t forget your trainers! Tuscawilla Park also has a playground and disc golf course if you’ve still got energy afterward. Just remember that the tour runs on select days, so check availability!
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Dinner – Top of Daytona


For your last dinner, we’re sending you to Top of Daytona Restaurant and Lounge, up on the 29th floor of Daytona Beach’s tallest oceanfront building. I don’t think there’s a better way to wrap up your vacation! You get 360-degree views of the Atlantic, Daytona Beach, the Halifax River, and the city, so it’s definitely worth asking for a window table when you book.
The menu has a great selection of seafood, including Faroe Island salmon, grilled swordfish, scallops, Chilean sea bass, and lobster risotto. If you don’t eat meat, go for the vegetable stir-fry with linguine or gnocchi in a creamy vodka sauce. For dessert, the honey key lime tart and Grand Marnier crème brûlée both sound worth a try.
The restaurant is currently open from 4 pm to 10 pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 4 pm to 9 pm on Sunday. It’s best to book a table for around 7 pm, especially on weekends. Keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays, so if that’s your last evening, Chart House is another fantastic option.
Related Read: Have more time to explore? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Daytona Beach for even more fun activities, must-see attractions, and unforgettable experiences!
Where to Stay in Daytona Beach


Now that you’ve planned your Daytona Beach adventures, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! We recommend staying near the beach so you can easily enjoy the sunshine, ocean views, and all the fun attractions along the Boardwalk. Plus, who doesn’t love waking up just steps from the sand?
To help you find the perfect spot, we’ve rounded up our top three hotel picks in Daytona Beach for every budget!
Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort – $$$
If waking up to ocean views is high on your list, Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort is perfect! You can grab your towel, head downstairs, and be on the sand in minutes. And when you’re not by the ocean, you have great views of the Atlantic Ocean from the floor-to-ceiling windows in your room. Some have extra living space, which works great if you’re traveling with the family.
We really like the infinity pool facing the ocean, and when it’s time to eat, the on-site restaurant serves seafood, steaks, and other American favorites. You can also grab something lighter from the poolside bar.
Best of all, the Boardwalk, Main Street Pier, and Ocean Walk Shoppes are just a short walk away, so you don’t need to plan transport. Prices typically start at around $130 USD per night, which seems like a pretty sweet deal for a 4-star beachfront hotel. Check availability and book Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort here!
Ocean Walk Resort – $$
If you’re traveling with the family, Ocean Walk Resort could be exactly what you need. You’ve got pools, games, entertainment, food, a tiki bar, and ocean views, not to mention a lazy river and water slide for the kids. There’s also a fitness center and a volleyball court if you feel like squeezing in a workout. In other words, there’s a bit of everything to keep the whole family happy!
The resort organizes activities and entertainment too, so you might catch pool games or a DJ session, depending on the schedule. You’re close to the beach, gift shops, and lots of food spots, but with so much going on at the resort, you may not feel like going anywhere else.
Prices start at around $190 USD per night, so it’s a bit of a splurge, but the facilities and location make it totally worth considering for a family vacation. See current rates and lock in your dates here!
Boardwalk Inn and Suites – $
If you’re trying to save, Boardwalk Inn and Suites is definitely worth a look. You get direct beach access and an outdoor pool without paying resort prices! And that’s always a nice bonus!
You can choose from standard rooms and larger suites with a sofa bed and a balcony overlooking either the ocean or the city. Plus, Daytona Lagoon water park and family entertainment center are just steps away, which is pretty convenient if you’re traveling with kids.
As for the practical stuff, there’s an on-site bar with a good selection of drinks, and you can pick up a few basics, like cereal and milk, at reception. Better yet, getting from the pool to the beach is easy peasy! Prices start at around $115 USD per night, so it’s worth checking out if you want to stay near the beach without spending a fortune. Check your dates and book Boardwalk Inn and Suites here!
If these places are all booked up for your dates, check out more hotels for Daytona Beach here!
Book your Airport Taxi in advance
Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!
Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?
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Who knew you could pack SO much fun into just three days in Daytona Beach? Between spotting dolphins and manatees on the water, driving right onto the sand, and getting a taste of NASCAR history, we certainly weren’t bored for a second! Throw in delicious seafood, oceanfront cocktails, and a few unforgettable sunsets, and you’ve got yourself one incredible Florida getaway.
And if Daytona Beach has you craving more sunshine and adventure, why stop here? We’ve got tons of other USA travel blogs packed with our favorite destinations, travel tips, and exciting experiences. Be sure to check out the guides below for even more inspiration for your next trip!
10 Best Things to do in Clearwater Beach, Florida
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Key Largo, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary
10 Best Things to do in Key Largo, Florida
The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.

