Hipmunk City Love: Daytona Beach, FL

Daytona Beach lies on the East Coast of Florida, roughly an hour away from Orlando. Once famous as the “World Center of Racing” and home of NASCAR, today Daytona’s 23-mile stretch of white sandy beach draws even more families and R&R seekers than devoted NASCAR fans.

Eat Breakfast in an Authentic American Diner 9 a.m.

Image via The Cracked Egg Diner

Fuel up for the day at the Cracked Egg Diner on Atlantic Avenue, which serves fresh-brewed coffee and an extensive breakfast menu. Try the Chipotle Eggs Benedict or their famous Apple Fritters. If you’re in the mood for healthier fare, order a bowl of oatmeal or a plate of egg whites and sliced tomatoes.

Start Working on Your Tan by the Surf 11 a.m.

Image via Trover by TravelTess

Daytona Beach features a beautiful 23-mile stretch of sand. Relax, read a book, or doze off for a mid-morning nap. If you’ve got more energy, consider one of the more active alternatives, such as parasailing, surfing, or banana boating. If you’ve brought your bicycle (or decide to rent one), go for a ride on the sand to really challenge your muscles.

Grab a Table Overlooking the Ocean 1 p.m.

Image via LuLu’s Oceanside Grill

Don’t stray too far from the beach when you’re ready for a snack. LuLu’s Oceanside Grill is one of the local favorites and offers an extensive selection of seafood dishes and classic meat and salad choices that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Order LuLu’s Shrimp Avocado Salad and opt for an outside table so you can enjoy the soft ocean breeze.

Take a Ride on the Wild Side at the Daytona Beach Pier 3 p.m.

Image via Trover by Craig M.

Spend the afternoon at the Daytona Beach Pier, the city’s premiere entertainment center. It features outdoor and indoor rides, shops, and a classic arcade. It’s perfect for a few hours of fun for the family or a solo outing. Enjoy an afternoon drink with a view at Joe’s Crab Shack, which you’ll find toward the end of the pier.

Those looking for a more active way to spend an afternoon would enjoy theHistoric Ponce Inlet Walking and Biking Trail that stretches 3.5 miles from the southern outskirts of Daytona Beach to Ponce Inlet, passing through historic homes and parks in the Town of Ponce Inlet. Be sure to explore the botanic gardens and the famous Ponce Inlet Lighthouse!

Your Perfect Daytona Beach Evening Starts at The Cellar 6 p.m.

Image via The Cellar

The Cellar offers an exquisite culinary experience, featuring a great selection of fine Italian cuisine as well as traditional pasta dishes. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the extensive wine list, the impeccable service, and the unique charm of this five-star restaurant. It’s an excellent alternative to the touristy fast food restaurants in the area.

Experience Daytona Beach’s Party Atmosphere 8 p.m.

Image via Grand View Live

In Daytona Beach, the only difficult part about planning your evening is narrowing down the choices. Here you’ll find everything from casual dive bars and lively clubs to sophisticated wine bars and world-class comedy clubs. Start the night with a good laugh at Bonkerz Comedy Club at Grandview Live, a venue that often welcomes performers from the big screen for their Friday and Saturday night comedy specials.

Then grab a drink at the Boot Hill Saloon, a famous biker bar that’s popular among locals and visitors to the area. Or for something more sophisticated, spend a couple hours at the Ormond Wine Company, a wine bar, wine club, and wine shop all in one. End your night at one of the local nightclubs, like Razzle’s Nightclub on Seabreeze Boulevard or Rockin’ Ranch Night Club just north of Ormond Beach.

Must See: Pick Up Something Old at Daytona Beach Flea Market

Image via Daytona Flea & Farmers Market

No weekend trip to Daytona Beach is complete without a visit to the Daytona Beach Flea Market. The market, voted one of the Top 5 Markets in all the United States, features hundreds of vendors that sell jewelry, clothing, toys and, of course, lots of local produce and ready-to-eat food. Pick up an antique at one of the stalls or add to your collection of vintage stoneware. You’ll also find plenty of original art if your walls at home are a little bare.

Catch Your Zs in Style at Daytona Beach

There are many affordable hotels in Daytona Beach from $55. You’ll find everything from a Holiday Inn from $113 a night to a more luxurious Three Bedroom Oceanfront Penthouse from $375 per night. High season in Daytona Beach runs between February and August, so be sure to book your room in advance if you are visiting during these popular months.

Whether you prefer days on the beach or nights in the club, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy during your one-day trip to Daytona Beach.

This post was posted by thehipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on January 18, 2016.