Page 26 - DreamScapes Magazine | Fall/Winter 2023

Off the Beaten Path in DAYTONA BEACH
BY MADELAINE LAFRAMBOISE
With outdoor thrills, world-renowned
nating piece of history. At the on-site museum,
lennia. Known as the Tomoka State Park, this sporting events (think the Daytona
you can learn insights into the life of light-
Florida classic is a birder’s paradise. It also hap- 500 and home of the LPGA Tour),
house keepers and the critical role this beacon
pens to be where the Timucuan Native Daytona Beach has been a rite of passage for
played in guiding ships safely along the coast.
Americans once lived, living off the fish-filled many snowbirds who wish to snag some fun by
At 53 metres high, get your steps in as you
lagoons from which ancient shell mounds still the legendary 37-kilometre sandy shoreline.
ascend the 203 steps inside the tower’s spiral
stand as a testament to their heritage. These But Daytona Beach has so much more. Dive
staircase. At the observation deck, prepare for
days, wild critters call this state park home. into the past while embracing the natural
panoramic views of the surroundings and take
Pack a picnic and set aside ample time to beauty of the present as you find your groove
plenty of selfies. Its location at the southern
explore its trails, wildlife observation points, at these two local gems.
tip of the Daytona Beach peninsula offers
and river activities. Rent a canoe or kayak for a breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic
chance to see over 170 species of local and A BEACON OF FUN
Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and sur-
migratory birds. Birdwatching enthusiasts will Head to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for the ulti-
rounding landscapes.
find themselves in paradise, with a chance to mate 360-degree views of Ponce de Leon Inlet.
spot herons, ospreys, and even bald eagles. The heritage landmark, which was established
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Bottlenose dolphins occasionally surface in
in 1887, is the tallest in Florida and has a fasci-
There’s a green bounty that dates back mil-
the brackish Tomoka River, and then there are the American alligators, the endangered West Indian manatee, and the elusive, rarely seen
bobcat. Amid this untouched natural beauty, you can easily explore the park’s diverse
PHOTOS: DAYTONA BEACH AREA CVB
ecosystems, from the wetlands and saltwater marshes to the hardwood hammocks—all hallmarks of the state’s unique biodiversity.
There’s so much more to Daytona Beach when you explore these gems rich in history and nature. Whether you’re drawn to a mar- itime past or yearn for an outdoor escape, Daytona Beach promises an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left its shores. DS
Travel Planner
For more travel information about Daytona Beach visit daytonabeach.com
26 DREAMSCAPES FALL/WINTER 2023