Daytona Beach became such a popular beach destination thanks in large part to its wide-open beaches and hard-packed sand that’s sturdy enough for stock-car racing. Of course, it’s been many decades since drivers left big sprays of sand in their wake, but a piece of the tradition lives on. Because of Daytona Beach’s incredibly expansive beaches, there are still some select sections where driving on the beach is allowed — at a very slow, safe pace. 

On-Beach Parking

Parking on the beach is a good option for many families, allowing quick, easy setup and a short “commute” from your car to your umbrella spot. For a nominal fee, you can get all-day access (plus one free same-day re-entry per vehicle). And, having the car close by while soaking in the salt air is simply an iconic experience that everyone should get to do once in their life.

If you are going to park on the beach, there are some rules to remember:

  • Park only in clearly marked, designated areas of the beach from sunrise to sunset (tidal conditions permitting) from April through November — and from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. the rest of the year.
  • The speed limit is strictly enforced — 10 MPH maximum.
  • Lights must be turned on, and windows must be rolled down.
  • No texting while driving.

There are various designated parking areas on the beach and entrances are well marked.        

Off-Beach Parking

For those who prefer to experience a traffic-free beach, another great option is the Ocean Center Parking Garage, located at Ocean Walk Shoppes and right across from Main Street Pier. These areas offer off-beach parking.

In fact, there are more than 3,500 public parking spaces at locations adjacent to and near all of the beaches in the Daytona Beach area. A great option for families is to park at one of the county’s oceanfront parks. Most offer convenient beach access, restrooms, playgrounds and even showers to rinse off sandy feet! And, most include a shaded picnic area and grills — the perfect place to eat some lunch and regroup.

Parking off-beach is easy at the following locations:

Ormond-by-the Sea
Bicentennial, North Shore and Tom Renick parks 
Ormond Beach
Andy Romano Beachfront Park
Daytona Beach
Sun Splash and Breakers Oceanfront parks 
Daytona Beach Shores
Frank Rendon, Van Avenue and Larry Fornari parks  
Wilbur-by-the-Sea
Heron Street, Toronita Avenue and Major Street  
Ponce Inlet
Winterhaven and Lighthouse Point parks and Inlet Harbor Road 

New Smyrna Beach

Smyrna Dunes Park and 27th Avenue Park

South of New Smyrna Beach
Bethune Beach Park 

Learn more about traffic-free zones and get a better visual understanding with this comprehensive parking map.

No matter where you park, Daytona Beach offers 23 miles of wide, open beaches for you and your family to relax, discover and play on. Don’t wait — start planning your trip today! Download our free official destination guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.