36 Hours in Daytona Beach
An Adventure-Filled Beach Getaway in 2 Days!
Only have a weekend to spend in Daytona Beach? Don’t sweat it!
Daytona is a great spot for two- and three-day getaways due to its central location and loads of attractions. You can arrive on a Friday and find lots to do before heading home on Sunday morning. We’ve rounded up the best things to do and spots to see for creating an unforgettable Daytona getaway—in just 36 hours!
Arrival Night
Shed the stress and kick off your weekend with casual drinks, live music and stunning beach views at the Daytona Beach Bandshell! Your first night will come alive with outdoor music as you watch the sun set over Daytona. Afterward, take a moonlit walk out on the Main Street Pier.
Day 1
Daytona Beach has a number of oceanfront accommodations perfect for couples and families. Wake up refreshed and ready for adventure after spending your night at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. Fuel up with breakfast at the Doc Bales’ Grill before heading south to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views atop one of the tallest lighthouses in Florida.
Ready for some fun in the sun? Grab the whole family and head out to the Daytona Lagoon waterpark for pools, water slides, go-karts, and a giant arcade! Sweet treats and adult beverages will keep you cool all afternoon.
If you have the need for speed, you cannot miss The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the famous Daytona International Speedway. Get behind the wheel and feel the thrill of being a real NASCAR race driver in this unforgettable experience. Daily tours of the Speedway are a slower-paced option as well!
Night 1
Unwind from the day with ocean breezes, cocktails, and a delicious menu at the Mai Tai Bar. Nestled in a vibrant patio with a fantastic view of the ocean, this is the perfect spot to experience the cool beauty of Daytona. Take a barefoot walk in the sand after dinner—the beach at Daytona is quiet and fairly empty after dark, making it the perfect place to wrap up your weekend.
Want to keep the fun going? Head to McCoys Rum Room for a large selection of rums and signature cocktails paired with more ocean views, of course. And if you’re here on a Friday or Saturday night, Don Ricos After Dark is a must-visit. Dance to a live DJ and enjoy midnight happy hours specials for plenty of late night fun in Daytona Beach.
Day 2
Sunrise usually happens around 6:30 a.m. in Daytona Beach. Early birds can experience the serenity of a yoga class on the beach to end this amazing trip. Pick up some souvenirs on the Boardwalk or at the Ocean Walk Shoppes just a short walk from Hilton Daytona before heading home!
Finding the best spots in Daytona isn’t hard when you follow our guide. Whether you’re seeking thrills or need a break from it all, Daytona Beach offers a weekend you won’t forget! Check out our Daytona Beach vacation special offers to start planning your trip.