We are going just up the road, the highway that is, from where we live. Daytona Beach is about 4 hours from our home base, and we don’t get up there nearly enough.

Bob’s mom lives not too far away so hopefully she knows we’re thinking about her while writing this week.

Daytona is known for its motorsports and that doesn’t change even on the beach. It’s a beautiful place to sit and just be inspired by the sand, sun, and water but make sure you’re not in one of the spots where motor vehicles are allowed on the beach.

The Agua Dulce people were part of the Timucua Native Americans and were in this area when the British originally arrived. Sadly, many of these people were eliminated in the 18th Century and although there is plenty of documented history, the tribes are gone.

The area that is now Daytona Beach was acquired from Spain by Samuel Williams. It was a slave-labor plantation for some time. His family ran it after his death until it was burnt to the ground in 1835.

The name Daytona comes from Mathias Day, Jr. who purchased the land in 1871 and subsequently lost the land for financial reasons. People still decided to name it Daytona.

Henry Flagler, a well-known industrialist connected all of the towns in the area in 1886. The merger created Daytona Beach as we know it.

The beach motorsports started with an obsession over the land speed record. Some records and multiple deaths later, the first stock race was held on the beach coarse and eventually Daytona International Speedway was built.

It may not be at record speeds, but if you ever get a chance to see a live NASCAR race, those cars are flyin’! The Daytona 500, NASCAR’s biggest event, draws almost a half a million people for the week leading up to the race.

But you’re here for travel so let’s get to that…

When you think of a Florida beach vacation, you might picture soft sand, crashing waves, and warm sunshine. Daytona Beach gives you all of that, with a little extra excitement mixed in! Known as the World's Most Famous Beach, Daytona Beach is famous for its wide, hard-packed sand, racing history, lively boardwalk, and miles of Atlantic coastline. It is the kind of destination where you can spend the morning relaxing by the ocean and the afternoon exploring a completely different side of Florida.

Whether you love beaches, history, motorsports, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine, Daytona Beach has something waiting for you.

Of course, a trip to Daytona Beach should begin at the beach! Daytona Beach is known for its wide shoreline and firm, hard-packed sand. One of the area's most unique traditions is the opportunity to drive and park on designated sections of the beach when conditions allow. You can also enjoy the beach on foot or by bike, swim in the Atlantic, or simply relax and listen to the waves.

For a little classic beach-town fun, head to the Daytona Beach Main Street Pier and Boardwalk area. Stroll along the oceanfront, explore the shops and attractions, play games at the arcade, or see what is happening at the historic Bandshell. It is a fun place to spend an afternoon or evening, especially if you want to experience some of Daytona Beach's lively energy.

Daytona Beach and racing go hand in hand! A visit to Daytona International Speedway is a must for anyone interested in motorsports. The Speedway is home to some of the world's most famous racing events, including the Daytona 500, and it has helped earn Daytona Beach its reputation as the World Center of Racing. Even if you are not a huge racing fan, seeing this legendary venue is an unforgettable part of visiting the city.

Just south of Daytona Beach, you will find one of the area's most beautiful and historic destinations, Ponce Inlet. The star attraction is Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, the tallest lighthouse in Florida. If you are feeling adventurous, climb the 203 steps to the top for incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.

While you are there, take time to explore the beaches and natural beauty of Ponce Inlet. You can visit the Marine Science Center, explore the area's parks, or simply enjoy a quieter stretch of coastline. Ponce Inlet is a wonderful reminder that some of Florida's best adventures can be found just beyond the busiest attractions.

Daytona Beach is made for outdoor adventures! Spend a day surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, fishing, or taking a boat tour. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Halifax River and Intracoastal Waterway nearby, there are plenty of ways to experience the water.

There’s nothing like watching the sunrise over the ocean. It’s one of our favorite things to do in the Daytona area. We highly recommend a slow paced early morning walk along the beach. Watching the sunrise over the Atlantic is one of those simple vacation moments you will remember long after your trip is over.

Refer a friend using your referral link at the bottom of this email so they can see it too. In addition, you’ll get a copy of our “Wonders of the World” eBook if it’s your first referral.

Daytona Beach is conveniently located on Florida's east coast and is easy to reach by car. Interstate 95 (I-95) runs north and south through the area, while Interstate 4 (I-4) connects Daytona Beach with Orlando and central Florida.

If you are flying, Daytona Beach International Airport is located close to the city, the beach, and the Speedway. Orlando is another popular option for travelers, especially for those combining Daytona Beach with other Florida destinations.

Having a car is one of the easiest ways to explore Daytona Beach and the surrounding area, especially if you want to visit places like Ponce Inlet or explore beyond the beach. But once you are staying near the oceanfront, many attractions, restaurants, and stretches of the beach can be enjoyed on foot.

Daytona Beach is also a destination where the journey can be part of the fun. In designated areas, you can actually drive on the beach when conditions and regulations allow. Just be sure to pay attention to posted signs, tides, and beach safety rules.

Max Beach Resort - located right on the beach

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach - beautiful resort right on the beach

Bahamas House -on the beach, breakfast included

Organic Beach Retreat - on the beach, kitchen included

Come hungry because Daytona Beach has plenty of Florida favorites to enjoy! Fresh seafood is always a great choice, whether you are craving shrimp, fish, oysters, or a classic seafood platter. Waterfront dining is part of the experience, so try to find a table with a view and enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

For a classic Daytona Beach meal, Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar is a longtime oceanfront favorite, while Caribbean Jack's offers a fun waterfront setting along the marina. And if you find yourself near Ponce Inlet, fresh seafood with a view is always a good idea! The best meals in Daytona often come with salty air, sunshine, and a beautiful view of the water.

A Florida beach trip calls for plenty of sunshine essentials! Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, along with comfortable sandals or walking shoes for exploring the Boardwalk and other attractions.

Bring a beach bag, reusable water bottle, and something to protect your phone and camera from sand and water. A light jacket or sweatshirt can also come in handy during cooler evenings by the ocean. And if you plan to climb the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, comfortable shoes are definitely a good idea!

*Daytona Beach is more than just a place to put your toes in the sand. It is a destination where beach days, racing history, waterfront adventures, and Old Florida charm all come together. One day you might be watching the sunrise over the Atlantic, and the next you could be standing at the top of Florida's tallest lighthouse or exploring one of the world's most famous racetracks.

Come for the beach, but leave plenty of time to discover everything else Daytona Beach has waiting for you! 🌴☀️

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when at a beach or Daytona. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob