FLORIDA
New and Now — Fun Starts in Daytona Beach
By Stephanie Gray
With its 37 kilometres of white-sandy beaches, thrilling attractions and family-friendly adventures, this world-famous destination on Florida’s Atlantic coast is an oceanfront paradise welcoming exciting new hotels, dining options and activities for every type of traveller.
Now is the perfect time to visit Daytona Beach to experience the fresh (and iconic) offerings.
Coastal Bliss
Staying in an oceanfront property is a must, and the newly opened Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach checks all the boxes, with its state-of-the-art design and modern guest rooms angled for beach views, allowing you to enjoy soothing surf sounds. Head to the upscale Cast & Crew, a new “tide-to-table” dining experience from acclaimed Chef Olivier Koster. Plan to dine on freshly caught seafood, while gazing out at the turquoise waters.
Historic Hotspots
No trip to Daytona Beach is complete without a visit to Ponce de Leon Lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark at the southernmost tip of the peninsula. At 53 metres tall, it’s Florida’s tallest lighthouse where visitors can climb 203 steps for a spectacular 360-degree ocean view. Across the street is the newly opened Constance D. Hunter Historic Pacetti Hotel Museum, a 19th-century hotel showcasing one of the first examples of cracker-style architecture in Florida. The meticulously restored hotel is one of Volusia County’s oldest surviving structures, inviting visitors to explore well-preserved rooms and period furnishings.
Under the Sea
In the heart of the beachfront city is the newly opened Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure, the best spot to get up close and personal with your favourite furry (and slippery!) creatures. The area’s first aquarium offers an interactive educational experience showcasing sea creatures and land animals, including primates, sloths and tropical birds. The 5,110-square-metre facility features over 60 exhibits, including the impressive 416,395-litre shark exhibit and a 37,854-litre stingray touch pool. It’s sure to be a memorable adventure for the whole family.
Putt & Sip
Golf enthusiasts prepare to tee up as PopStroke, a miniature golf and family entertainment centre, opened its doors this past October at the Tomoka Town Center, a premier shopping destination. Co-owned by Tiger Woods, visitors can test their golf skills at one of two meticulously designed mini-golf courses (sand traps and tricky patches included), grab a bite at the full-service restaurant, or relax at the bar to watch a game while sipping on a handcrafted cocktail.
Heart-racing Thrills
Get your adrenalin racing at the upcoming Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, a 24-hour sports car endurance race that’s been around since the early ’60s. It’s revered as the first major U.S. automobile competition of the year. This supersonic feat pits dozens of international champion drivers battling over 3,219 kilometres of high-speed action in 24 hours. Picture Porsches, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and yes, the good old fashioned American Fords and Corvettes among others. The annual event will be held on January 24–25, 2026. Expect electrifying performances, heart-pumping racing and an action-packed schedule.
Travel Planner
For the latest stay-over deals in Daytona Beach, visit DaytonaBeach.com