Daytona Beach Beyond the Races

Mention Daytona Beach, and most people's minds automatically gravitate toward the Speedway. With the Daytona 500 coming up next month and the other NASCAR races and events that are held throughout the year, they may be centerpieces of the event calendar but they are by no means the only attractions.

Even when NASCAR isn't racing, you'll find plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Daytona Beach beyond the races. In fact, with Spring Break right around the corner, you just might discover that Daytona is a Florida destination that you'll want to return to each year. Daytona Beach timeshares make this a breeze with their convenient locations, comfortable surroundings and beach access.

Daytona Beach and the Boardwalk

Billed as “The World’s Most Famous Beach”, its shoreline extends for 23 miles and is widely recognized as one of the finest stretches of coastline in the U.S. This is a family beach that offers something for everyone. Ten parks are dotted along the beach, each one with its own beauty and attractions. Virtually any water sport imaginable can be indulged here, and various seasonal festivals could be the highlight of any vacation.

NASCAR racing went mainstream largely because of the car racing that took place on the beach here beginning in the 1930s. Today you can still drive on Daytona Beach but look out for designated pedestrian-only sections of the beach created for the safety of everyone visiting the area.

Between the middle of May and late October, expect to see large sea turtles emerging from the surf to lay their eggs on the beach before returning to the sea. It's a sight that's not to be missed and one of the best things to do in Daytona Beach.

Another fun space is the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. Known simply as "the Boardwalk" to most, this is one of the city's main attractions. Along its length you'll find an extensive collection of quirky shops, unique restaurants and entertaining street performers.

Indoor and outdoor thrill rides are here too, and there is even a bandshell in which free concerts are given. With arcades, bars and more, the Boardwalk is a can't-miss attraction.

Main Street Pier

You may hear people referring to this spot as simply the Daytona Beach Pier. Regardless of what you call it, this is a quintessential attraction in the region. It was built in 1925 and extends nearly 750 into the ocean.

Open every day with free admission, Main Street Pier is a popular place to fish or just stretch the legs. It's the ideal spot for a sunrise selfie, and if you want great opportunities to view sea birds and dolphins, this is the place to be. A couple of restaurants are housed in the wooden structure on the pier. You can ask at one of the restaurants to have your own catch of the day prepared just the way you like.

A Game of Golf

With its predominantly warm and sunny weather, Daytona Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf. Players will appreciate the presence of 20 courses in the region. Rest assured that these are truly inspiring and challenging fairways. According to Golf Digest, Daytona Beach is one of the top 15 golf destinations in the country.

From the New Smyrna Golf Club to the Daytona Beach Golf Club and beyond, dedicated players will want to book stays at Daytona Beach timeshares year after year.

Daytona Beach Arts and Culture

In addition to the beach and golf, Daytona provides a fascinating arts and culture scene that many people who are new to the city don't expect. Visit the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art to take in one of the most comprehensive collections of Florida art found anywhere.

Daytona Beach's unique history can be uncovered with a tour of the Halifax Historical Museum. The exhibits span the area's entire past from Native Americans to the Speedway. Daytona also is the home of the state's only photography museum, the Southeast Museum of Photography.

Perhaps the most popular museum in the region is the Museum of Arts & Sciences. Affiliated with the Smithsonian, this institution boasts not only an incredibly diverse collection of art but also the Children's Museum with its impressive interactive experiences and cutting-edge planetarium. With fossils, bones and a nature trail, this is one museum that has something for every member of your party.

Additionally, Daytona Beach features the Peabody Auditorium. This performance venue is the place to be for offerings that range from ballet and opera to the national touring companies of Broadway musicals and internationally known music artists.

Check the Historical Sites for More Things to Do

Among the fascinating things to do in Daytona Beach is to spend a few hours exploring the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. Experts continue to debate whether or not famed explorer Ponce de Leon actually ever spent the night on this spot, but the name has stuck.

What's also known is that this is the state's oldest lighthouse. Built in 1887, the lighthouse and three keeper's residences still stand. All are open to the public and waiting to be discovered.

While you're exploring local history, make a stop at the Lilian Place Heritage Center. This is the city's oldest Victorian-era residence, and it is now an historic site that is open to the public. Guided tours ensure that visitors learn all there is to know about the home. Be forewarned that Lilian Place is reputed to be haunted. Keep your eyes peeled for ghostly sightings.

Visit Tomoka State Park