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National Girlfriends Day is right around the corner on August 1, and yes — it is a real thing. Have you made any plans to get together with your BFFs? Daytona Beach has endless fun activities for a girls’ night (and day) out, along with some of the most beautiful natural scenery you’ll encounter. So, why not plan a trip to the coast to spend the day getting out and about with your best girlfriends right here in Daytona Beach? 

Besides Daytona Beach’s famous speedway and deep, expansive beaches, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Daytona Beach Pier. The original pier constructed here was built entirely out of palm logs around the turn of the 20^th century. It extended 600 feet into the ocean, but sadly burned down in 1920 in a devastating fire. A few years later, the remains were sold and the pier was rebuilt. 

When you’re in an exciting vacation destination like Daytona Beach, adventure is around every corner. From paddling kayaks on the Tomoka River to rounding the racetrack at Daytona International Speedway, sometimes all of your exploring requires an extra energy boost!

While you can find a fine cake, sufficient brownies and passable cookies at nearly any grocery store — and even on the snack aisle at most convenience stores — sometimes nothing but fresh-baked goodness will satisfy your culinary cravings. And in the Daytona Beach area, there is no shortage of local shops baking up delicious Danishes, quintessential crullers, tempting turnovers and a whole lot more — with many of the shops even specializing in international delicacies. 

With its location right on eastern Florida’s Atlantic coastline, it should come as no surprise that the Daytona Beach area is a prime destination for seafood lovers. And the top reason the seafood is so good here is similarly unsurprising — whether grilled, broiled, fried, blackened or baked, seafood is always best when it’s fresh. 

In Daytona Beach, discovery happens daily. From kayaking in Tomoka State Park, to strolling through the Museum of Arts & Sciences, to renting bikes for a beach cruise, adventures await for all ages. Though these activities are as varied as they are fun, they all share one common theme: They shouldn’t be faced on an empty stomach! Beachside relaxation and area exploration alike require proper fueling up beforehand, and what better way to do that than with brunch at one of the area’s best restaurants? 

Right in the heart of town, Daytona Beach’s Main Street entertainment district pulses with energy in the evenings. The district serves as a major hub during the city’s world-renowned motorcycle festivals, but it’s alive and hoppin’ during the other seasons of the year, as well. A hot spot for live music, good food and weekly entertainment, the district annually welcomes more than 500,000 motorcycle enthusiasts and beachgoers from around the globe. 

When you’re by the beach and you get a hankering for BBQ, you won’t have to look far for a tasty solution in Daytona Beach. From old-fashioned, wood-smoked meats to innovative pulled-pork tacos, this area has it all. Whether you’re craving Texas-style cooking, mustard-based Carolina gold sauce or a rack of ribs almost as big as your appetite, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. For slow-smoked brisket, ribs, wings, chicken and more, hit these five top spots for BBQ in Daytona Beach. 

Fuel up for a day of water-filled adventures with a full breakfast, or recharge in the evenings with a hearty meal — Daytona Beach has a wide variety of locally owned restaurants that will keep your heart and belly full. From fresh seafood pulled right from our waters to authentic Asian cuisine, there are plenty of options for your hungry vacation crew.

Daytona Beach is known far and wide for its 23 miles of expansive beaches, but it also offers magnificent waterfront views on the side opposite the beach accesses. Bordering the peninsula’s western side, the Halifax River is one of the area’s best defining features — one brimming with wildlife, adventures and incredible sights. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal as the sun sets or a more formal sit-down meal with the whole family, Daytona Beach offers a variety of options suited to any palate.