Daytona Beach

Address: Daytona Beach, FL

Phone Number: 386-239-SURF

Web Site: http://www.daytonabeach.com/whattosee.cfm/mode/beach

Daytona Beach is the biggest city on the coastline of Volusia County, Fla., and has attracted vacationers for more than a century. The wide, flat, hard-packed surface of the beach made it a great surface for driving automobiles in the early 19th century. That led to speed tests and the beach races, which later gave rise to NASCAR. Beach driving continues in Daytona Beach and the neighboring cities, though environmental regulations have led to stricter management of beach driving.

The core tourist zone includes the Boardwalk, with its line of arcades, and the Main Street Pier. During the 1970s and 1980s, the beachside became a haven for crime, pedophiles and runaways, causing much of the core area to be declared "blighted." Redevelopment has brought in more high-rise condominiums and new beachfront businesses. The Boardwalk will soon undergo a $110 million redevelopment.

Daytona Beach remains one of the few Florida destinations where you can drive the minivan onto the sand, park it and unload for an easy family day in the sun and surf on lifeguard-patrolled beaches. But this traditional Atlantic Ocean vacation spot also boasts a boardwalk and pier, natural wonders and kid-friendly attractions, including new beachfront parks and a dazzling water park and family entertainment center just blocks off the beach. The Daytona Beach area also offers access to 23 miles of beaches with 11 of those open for vehicles. Nearby are the Daytona International Speedway,...

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