What to see and do in Daytona Beach
Visit the Daytona International Speedway
NASCAR is like a religion in Daytona Beach – with the city’s passion coming to a head during the annual Daytona 500 race. This is the biggest event on the NASCAR racing calendar, with more than 100,000 fans filling the stands to watch 200 roaring laps of the track.
Plan the ultimate motorhead holiday with our NASCAR Homelands road trip.
Hit ‘the world’s most famous beach’
As the original racetrack in Daytona Beach, this sandy stretch is well deserving of its title. Drive underneath ‘the world’s most famous beach’ sign that arches over the highway and park your hire car in designated spaces on the sand. Stroll along the boardwalk or up the wooden pier to soak up the sun on the sugar-soft sand. Check out the line-up at the Daytona Beach Bandshell too, an oceanfront amphitheatre dating back to the 1930s.
Explore South Beach Street
South Beach Street is like stepping through a portal back to vintage Florida. Walk along the palm-lined high street, where turn-of-the-century buildings are shaded by quaint, striped awnings. Visit the Halifax Historical Museum (FL 32114) to embark on a journey through local history – followed by a stroll around the neighbouring boutiques, cafes and chocolate factory.
Best hotels in Daytona Beach
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
When it comes to beachfront hotels, the Hard Rock (FL 32118) is hard to beat. The Daytona Beach base of this world-famous hotel is about five minutes’ drive up the coast from the pier. Relax in poolside cabanas, dine on the rooftop against the backdrop of the ocean and then make your entrance at the famous parties. There’s also a kids’ club in the hotel – perfect for fun-loving families.
Streamline Hotel
Known as the birthplace of NASCAR, the Streamline Hotel (FL 32118) is at the centre of the city’s motoring history. The white and mint green tower gleams with old Floridian charm – its roof terrace a magnet on sunny days. Inside, the 1940s hotel has been given the modern touch with luxurious, crisp white rooms, an underground burger bar for post-beach feasting and a rocking schedule of live music.
The Shores Resort and Spa
For the ultimate luxury, book your stay at The Shores Resort and Spa (FL 32118) – a sunshine-yellow resort on the beachfront, less than 10 minutes’ drive south from the pier. Take a dip in the swimming pool, unwind in the bubbling Jacuzzi and enjoy tranquil treatments in the on-site spa. Round off your day with a trip to the Tiki Hut Barefoot Beach Bar for a spectacular view of the sunset.
Where to eat and drink in Daytona Beach
Racing’s North Turn
Another must-visit for NASCAR fans, Racing’s North Turn is the original front-row seat for racing in Daytona Beach. In the 1930s, cars would speed past on the hard-packed sand, giving visitors the ultimate after-dinner entertainment. Today, the restaurant is an Historic Landmark where you can enjoy juicy burgers, nachos and shrimp.
The Cellar
Treat yourself to an evening of Italian indulgence at The Cellar – a family-run restaurant serving fine dining in the Historic District of Daytona Beach. The starters are a celebration of fresh ingredients – creamy mozzarella and vibrant basil. Follow with silky dishes of homemade pasta made all the more delicious by the candlelit atmosphere of this underground venue.