When it comes to winter getaways, you’d be hard-pressed to find a destination better suited for the job than Daytona Beach — there’s a reason so many “snowbirds” head south for the season! A 70-degree January day is more the norm than the exception here. Mild temperatures make morning beach strolls, afternoon kayaking and outdoor exploration both possible and pleasurable. Even though the area is known for its agreeable, warm climate all year round, there are still plenty of ways to have fun should a cold snap or rainy day strike. Winter in Daytona Beach provides a long list of ways to make the most of your vacation — rain or shine. Keep reading for nine great ways to spend a winter day in Daytona Beach.
1) Meander Through Art Galleries
You could spend hours wandering through locally owned art galleries in Ormond Beach. Better yet, make your own, one-of-a-kind souvenir out of painted pottery at Whim Wham Art Studio. Or, view local and regional contemporary artwork as well as works by race artists from across the country at Gallery 500, which is located in the heart of ONE DAYTONA, the premier retail, dining and entertainment destination.
2) Dive Headfirst Into Adventure
Daytona Beach may be surrounded by water, but you and the kids can catch some major air at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. With over 16,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines, your family will be jumping for joy the rest of your trip.
3) Shop ’til You Drop!
Head to the Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach in the city's historic downtown area between Bay Street and Orange Avenue and enjoy perusing dozens of locally-owned stores. Or, shop for great deals at Tanger Outlets Daytona, ONE DAYTONA, Volusia Mall and more!
4) Get Hands-On With Your Adventure
Vacation crew members of all ages will enjoy the touch tanks, educational demonstrations and sea turtle rehabilitation unit at the Marine Science Center. Located in Ponce Inlet, it’s a fun place to explore local environmental and conservation efforts. You might even learn a thing or two on your vacation!
5) Relax and Unwind
Winter getaways should be about relaxing the mind AND the body. Luckily, the Daytona Beach area has a wide variety of spa offerings ranging from resort-style spas to individually-owned operations. A few of the available options include Bliss Wellness Spa in Ormond Beach, Remedy Spa at Pelican Bay and Rock Spa & Salon in Daytona Beach, The Spa at Riverview in New Smyrna Beach and The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach Shores.
6) Catch Some Live Performances
Daytona Beach has many theaters, playhouses and venues that allow music and art to transport you far, far away. Check out the line-ups at Peabody Auditorium, Athens Theatre and the Ocean Center to get an idea of all the indoor entertainment the area has to offer.
7) Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Enjoy spectacular, 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway and more at the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Florida. Completed in 1887, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark and a fascinating piece of Florida history. This majestic facility, tucked away in the charming town of Ponce Inlet, stretches 175 feet into the sky. Feeling adventurous? Climb the 203 steps to the top for some truly breathtaking scenery and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.
8) Witness History Unfold at Speedweeks
Go see legends in action at the biggest, most prestigious event in NASCAR during Speedweeks - the DAYTONA 500! Enjoy all the action, adventure and racing you can handle.
Whether you’re riding bikes with the family on 23 miles of white-sand beaches or enjoying an intimate date night at a local wine bar, Daytona Beach has a million ways to make your winter day brighter.
What are you waiting for? Plan your getaway today! Download our free official destination guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.
