If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to relax and play among the area’s wild beauty, explore one of Daytona Beach’s 10 beachfront parks. One of the most scenic of these oceanfront spaces is Lighthouse Point Park, a 52-acre preserve located just a few minutes’ drive south of Daytona Beach. Here, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, take a dip or do some hiking. Ahead, read about what all you can expect to find. 

WHERE TO FIND IT:

Address: 5000 South Atlantic Avenue, Ponce Inlet

Lighthouse Point Park is located at the southern tip of Ponce Inlet, near the Marine Science Center and Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill, and a variety of watersports rentals are also available nearby. An afternoon spent in the Town of Ponce Inlet can be filled with learning, laughing and plenty of fresh seafood! And, there’s a copious amount of parking available right by the park.

WHAT YOU’LL SEE:

Lighthouse Point Park has largely been preserved, resulting in vast areas of undisturbed land available for all to enjoy. Amongst the rugged natural beauty, you’re likely to come across an abundance of wildlife, too. From the dolphins that frequent the shoreline to the gopher tortoises that can often be spotted in sandy areas, it’s always an intriguing scene. Other wildlife on-site includes armadillos, raccoons, skunks and — for perhaps more pleasant viewing purposes — shorebirds and birds of prey. Birdwatchers from all over the nation enjoy this piece of paradise for spotting their winged friends. Whether you go for the sandy scenery or the animal observation, there’s plenty to keep curious minds occupied.

WHAT TO DO WHILE YOU’RE THERE:

The sprawling park features a number of activities that are fun for all ages. You can go fishing off the jetties, cool off with a swim, walk the nature trails or make your way to the observation deck and tower — the perfect place to take in all of the magnificent scenery. Recent renovations have restored the jetties and made them fully available, and the park is ADA-accessible.

And, Lighthouse Point Park is actually one of the few parks in Volusia County where dogs are allowed to frolic alongside the family at the water’s edge. Keep in mind that pets must be leashed at all times.

RESERVING A PAVILION:

Have a family reunion coming up? Want to secure space for your team-building picnic? No problem! You can easily reserve a pavilion for grilling out and gathering together at Lighthouse Point Park. The park features four large pavilions, each equipped with either six or four tables.

Groups of 50 or more people can easily obtain a special event form and pay a $25 application fee in addition to the rental fee. Keep in mind that alcohol is prohibited, per the Town of Ponce Inlet’s regulations.

Lighthouse Point Park offers daily admission from sunrise to sunset for $10 per vehicle, or you can get an annual inlet parks pass for $20. Anyone who’s spent some time there will tell you that it’s money well spent — the ideal spot to make memories among Florida’s preserved beauty.

Start planning your trip today! Enjoy a look at everything Daytona Beach has to offer and download our free official destination guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.