If the “Climb to the Moon” celebrations at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse are any indication, the Daytona Beach night sky is worth a long gaze. Picture yourself climbing Florida’s tallest lighthouse just as the sun sets and the moon rises. Beloved by many, it’s an inspirational spot any time of day with wonderful views of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet, New Smyrna Beach dunes and surrounding inland waterways.
Of course, you don’t need to exert yourself for the 203-step climb to the top of the lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark. There are plenty of unencumbered views to stargaze along the area’s 23 miles of coastline from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet. As a pedestrian, you have free access to the beaches 24 hours a day and sunset is a particularly incredible time to visit the beach. Photographed often is the phenomenon where the sun’s setting rays in the west stretch to the east and bathe the beach in soft orange and pink. Makes for a fun photo op!
Look no further than the Museum of Arts & Sciences and its state-of-the-art Planetarium for weekly programs. Journey through exciting galaxies to learn about the universe or tap into one of the laser rock shows for a musical celebration of other sizzling stars, like Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson and more.
To be sure stargazing in incredible here, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, which acquired the largest research-grade telescope in Florida, offers programs about a multitude of space-related topics.
So grab your flashlight for an evening walk along the beach and a few comforts to enjoy the night sky! Let one of life’s simple pleasures add a wonderful quality to your Daytona Beach stay.
