A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Beyond

Daytona Beach is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively boardwalk. It offers tourists and locals alike an array of exciting activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, shop for souvenirs, or indulge in some of the best seafood in Florida, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk has it all.

But there’s more to Daytona Beach than the boardwalk. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best Daytona Beach offers, from the boardwalk to beyond. We’ll explore the best local restaurants and bars, the top tourist destinations, and the hidden gems only the locals know about.

So please sit back and relax as we take you through this beautiful coastal city.

Introduction to Daytona Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk opened in the late 1920s and was originally called the Broadwalk. It is a classic seaside amusement park that has entertained visitors for decades. It is located off South Atlantic Avenue (A1A) at the intersection with Main Street on the eastern coast of Florida.

This iconic beachfront boardwalk offers something for everyone, from thrilling amusement park rides and games to fresh seafood and ice-cold drinks.

The boardwalk is right by the beach, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and miles of white sandy beaches. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, stopping to enjoy the many attractions and activities that line the way.

You used to be able to ride the Ferris wheel, race in go-karts, play on arcade machines, or challenge your friends to a game of mini-golf, but most of these attractions have now closed.

But the boardwalk isn’t just about the rides and games. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, selling everything from souvenirs and beach gear to fresh seafood and ice cream. If you’re looking for a break from the sun, you can head indoors to the Ocean Walk Shoppes, a multi-level shopping and entertainment complex on the boardwalk.

Whether visiting Daytona Beach for the first time or a seasoned visitor, the boardwalk is a must-see destination you won’t want to miss. So grab your sunscreen and flip-flops, and get ready for a day of fun in the sun on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk!

History of the Daytona Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk is more than just a place for tourists to visit. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The city built the Daytona Beach Bandshell in 1938. It regularly hosts music concerts and other types of performances. The boardwalk quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Soon, more attractions were added to the area, including the Joyland Amusement Center and the Oceanfront Theatre.

Over the years, the boardwalk has undergone several transformations and renovations, but it has always maintained its charm and appeal. It has served as a hub for beach activities, dining, shopping, and entertainment for generations. Today, the boardwalk and Pier are among the top attractions in the area, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

The boardwalk has played a significant role in developing Daytona Beach as a tourist destination. It has helped create jobs and has provided a fun-filled environment for families and friends to enjoy. As the boardwalk continues to evolve and grow, it remains an integral part of the community. It is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Daytona Beach.

The Attractions of Daytona Beach Boardwalk

Daytona Beach Boardwalk is a hub of attractions with various activities to suit every taste. Here are some must-visit places on the boardwalk. Also, look out for street performers like jugglers and sword swallowers.

Every Saturday from Memorial Day in May to Labor Day in September, the city puts on a fireworks display at 9:45 p.m.

Daytona Beach Amusements

Today, the boardwalk hosts the Mardi Gras Fun Center, Pizza King restaurant, and Michael’s on the Beach gift shop.

Opening hours are from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. on Sundays to Fridays and until midnight on Fridays.

Old-school arcade machines, such as Skee-Ball and air hockey, cost a quarter per play, whereas some of the newer video games cost a dollar per play.

From rides including a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster to classic arcade games, this amusement park used to have something for everyone.

Like the two Fun Spot attractions in Orlando, there was no admission charge on the boardwalk. In its heyday, you could pay per ride or buy a one-hour wristband for $22 or a two-hour wristband for $29.

In recent years, the attractions on the boardwalk have shrunk as the area undergoes redevelopment. Someone once proposed a new hotel, but they seem to have shelved those plans.

One of the star attractions was the Sand Blaster roller coaster. The Sand Blaster was a steel coaster with 12 riders per train seated in three cars, four in each vehicle in two rows of two. The track length was around 2,710 feet, with a height of up to 85 feet and a 65-foot drop. The ride time was around 2 minutes.

It was built by Pinfari in Italy in the early 1970s and started life as Super Italian Bobs at Adventureland Park, Addison, Illinois. After several different owners, it was bought and moved to Florida in 2012. Here, it was refurbished before being reassembled at Daytona Beach. The Sand Blaster required special treatment to cope with the ocean salt environment and the potential of hurricanes.

Governor Rick Scott opened Sand Blaster in August 2013, but it closed in 2018 following a non-fatal accident. The smaller Go-Gator kiddies’ coaster was subsequently demolished.

The Sand Blaster was the first roller coaster to be operated in Daytona Beach since the 1960s. It joined other carnival rides, including a Ferris wheel, go-karts, Tilt-A-Whirl, and a bungee slingshot.

The 100-foot-high Ferris wheel offered great ocean views, but in 2014, it was taken down for repairs and has never returned.

A second arcade, the Joyland Amusement Center, and Lisa’s Gift Shop were closed under eminent domain in late 2022 to make way for the new developments. The Joyland Amusement Center once housed a miniature golf course, a slingshot, and a bungee ride on its roof.

Screamer’s Park

If you are an adrenalin junkie, then you should head to Screamer’s Park just south of Daytona Beach Peer. The park is home to the Slingshot and Vomatron rides.

The opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. Monday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

The Daytona Beach Slingshot is a very fast slingshot bungee ride that can take one or two riders. A two-seater capsule sits suspended from two 180-foot high towers. You are propelled upwards from the mouth of a smoke-spewing volcano up to 365 feet. You are accelerated from 0 to 100 mph in under 2 seconds before bouncing up and down and spinning for around 90 seconds.

The cost is $35 per rider. You can also buy a Video or USB of your ride for $20 and/or a T-shirt for $20. A package including the ride, video, and T-shirt is $60 for one rider or $100 for two riders.

The Vomatron is an extreme swinging arm ride where you are spun around at up to 70 mph speeds while experiencing up to 5G force. Each arm of the ride can carry up to two riders, and the experience is similar to that experienced by fighter pilots and astronauts during training.

The cost is $30 per rider. You can also buy a Photo/USB of your ride for $15 and a T-shirt for $20. A package including the ride, photo, and T-shirt is $50 for one rider or $85 for two riders.

Both rides have no age limit, but the minimum height is 50 inches, and it is recommended that you have a strong stomach as G-forces can be up to 4 to 6G!

There are similar rides at Fun Spot Old Town.

Daytona Beach Pier

The pier is a landmark attraction on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, stretching 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. It was built in 1925 to replace an earlier wooden pier that burned down.

You can enjoy the pier’s breathtaking sunrise and sunset views or indulge in beach activities like fishing and surfing.

The pier is renowned for its fishing location. Amongst the many species of fish caught from the dock are black drum, bluefish, cobia, flounder, kingfish, pompano, sailfish, sheepshead, snook, Spanish mackerel, tarpon, trout, weakfish, and whiting.

At one time, car racing was held on the beach, and you could watch the races from the pier. The earliest known race was between two owners in 1903 to decide who had the fastest horseless carriage!

The long stretch of hard-packed sand was ideal for attempting to set world land speed records. In March 1935, the famous driver Malcolm Cambell reached 276.816 mph in his 36.7-litre Campbell-Railton Blue Bird at Daytona Beach. After that, they moved to the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah.

Alongside the speed records, a combined road and beach race track was established, and racing finally ended in 1958. Today, there are still stretches of the beach from Daytona to New Smyrna, where you can still drive on the beach.

Daytona Lagoon Waterpark and Fun Park

The Daytona Lagoon Waterpark and Daytona Lagoon Fun Park are just north of the boardwalk.

The Waterpark is seasonal and opens from early March until early September, while the fun park is open all year round.

Opening hours vary by day and park; checking the calendar before visiting is best.

The Waterpark opens at 11:00 a.m. daily and closes at 6:00, 7:00 or 11:00 p.m. The Fun Park usually opens at 11:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. and closes at 8:00, 10:00 or 11:00 p.m. On some days, it does not open until 5:00 p.m.

There are several food options in both parks, including hot and cold food and drinks, as well as a full bar in the Waterpark.

Daytona Lagoon Waterpark

The Waterpark is ideal for beating the heat and enjoying some splashing fun. With its thrilling water slides, wave pool, lazy river, and children’s play area, it will surely be a hit for kids and adults.

There are five water slides:

• Kraken’s Revenge – 50-foot tall 4-lane mat race slide
• Shaka Halfpipe – two-person inner-tube ride with a backward 50-foot drop
• Blackbeard’s Revenge – enclosed slide with slippery twists and turns
• Adventure Mountain – fully enclosed twin slides
• Poseideon’s Pass – three partially enclosed slides

Note that all water slides have a minimum height requirement of 42 inches, and Kraken’s Revenge and Shaka Halfpipe have weight limits.

There is the Pelican’s Drift Lazy River for those who want to chill. Kids will enjoy the Castaway Children’s Play Area with its shallow water, giant refillable bucket, and water blasters.

The Treasure Lagoon Wave Pool lets you bask in the sun at the pool’s edge or ride the waves.

Complimentary life jackets are available where necessary.

You can buy a one-day pass to the Waterpark, and 2023 online prices range from $37.99 (Monday to Thursday) to $44.99 (Friday to Sunday). Florida Residents, juniors (32” to 48” tall), and seniors aged 62+ can get discounted tickets. Gate prices are a few dollars more.

If you do not want to get wet, buy matinee admissions after 3 p.m. and spectator (non-water usage) tickets.

There is a Waterpark Season Pass, which gives you unlimited access to all the attractions for the whole season, or a Super Season Pass, which provides you access to both parks for all of 2023. Both passes offer discounts on food and merchandise and early weekend access to the Waterpark.

Daytona Lagoon Fun Park

The Daytona Lagoon Fun Park, which has a wide range of rides and attractions, is also on the site.

Amongst the many rides are:

• Bumper cars – the indoor ride features electric bumper cards surrounded by giant tubes
• Go-karts – the multi-level track has both single-seat and two-seat karts
• Laser Tag – fight your way through zones, pillars, and mazes with lights and sounds
• Sky Maze Ropes Course – tackle a rope course with zip lines and climbs
• Rock Wall – climb a sizeable indoor rock wall
• Island Hopper – 7-seater drop ride

Note that you must have a valid driving license to drive the two-seat go-karts, and the minimum height requirement for all rides is also minimum.

Fun for all the family is the 18-hole Miniature Golf Course.

There is also a Mega Arcade packed with over 70 games of skill, sports, racing, dancing, and shooting, as well as old favorites like Skee-Ball and air hockey.

You can either pay as you go by attraction or buy a wristband that gives you access to all the attractions.

In 2023, individual attraction prices range from $7.99 for three rock climbs to $14.99 for the Sky Maze Ropes Course. The go-karts are $10.99 for a single rider and $12.99 for a double rider.

Wristband prices for 2023 are:

• 1-hour – $26.99
• 2-hour $32.99
• twilight after 6 p.m. $23.99
• all-day $44.99
• all-day Florida resident – $39.99
• all-day Waterpark and Fun Park – $67.99

Daytona Beach Bandshell

The Daytona Beach Bandshell is an iconic open-air music venue located at the north end of the boardwalk, right on the oceanfront. It was built in 1937 from the local coquina limestone and can host up to 5,000 people.

The Bandshell is now on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is operated by the City of Daytona Beach.

It hosts many concerts and events throughout the year, making it a must-visit place for music lovers.

During the summer months, it features several tribute acts. General admission is free, and VIP tickets are $15.00 per person.

Ocean Walk Shoppes

Ocean Walk Shoppes is a great place to explore for those who love shopping. It has many shops selling everything from surfboards to clothing and accessories and several restaurants.

It is spread over several levels, and the restaurants include Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Cold Stone Creamery, Jonny Rockets, and Sloppy Joe’s.

It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.

These are just a few of the many attractions the boardwalk area offers. With so much to see and do, it is no wonder the boardwalk is still popular with Florida tourists.

Fun Activities to do on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk is a fun activity hub that caters to everyone’s tastes. From thrilling rides to delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For the adventure-seekers, the boardwalk boasts some of the most exhilarating rides in the area. If you’re feeling brave, try the Slingshot, which will shoot you high into the sky before dropping you back down to earth at high speed.

For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, stroll down the boardwalk. Enjoy a refreshing ice cream or savory snack from one of the many food vendors.

If you want something to do with the kids, the boardwalk has plenty of family-friendly activities. Take a ride on the carousel, or let the little ones play some old-fashioned arcade games. You can also rent bicycles and cruise along the beach.

Finally, no visit to the boardwalk would be complete without a visit to the iconic Bandshell. This open-air amphitheater hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and fireworks displays.

Whatever your age or interests, the boardwalk has something for everyone to enjoy. So come on down and join the fun!

Delicious Food at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk

When it comes to the boardwalk, it’s not only about the attractions and the view. The food options along the boardwalk and nearby areas are also something to look forward to.

If you’re in the mood for classic American cuisine, head to Joe’s Crab Shack on the pier. They serve delicious seafood dishes like crab cakes, fried shrimp, and signature crab buckets.

Other seafood spots include Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar, a local favorite since 1959, and Crabby’s Oceanside. Ocean Deck offers many seafood options, including oysters, clams, and fish tacos. At Crabby’s, you can experience alligator bites, conch fritters, New Orleans grilled oysters, and more.

You can’t go wrong with the boardwalk’s many snack shacks for a quick bite or a sweet treat. The boardwalk has several ice cream, popcorn, and candy shops that satisfy any sweet tooth. If you’re looking for something more filling, try the pizza at Pizza King or the burgers at Daytona Brickyard.

If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, several great restaurants are just a short walk from the boardwalk. One of the most popular is Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, which offers mouth-watering steak dishes and seafood options. For Italian cuisine, check out Rossellini’s Restaurant, which has been serving delicious pasta dishes for over 30 years.

Whether you’re looking for seafood, American classics, or something more upscale, the boardwalk and surrounding areas have plenty of food options to explore and enjoy.

So, come hungry and indulge in the delicious food scene!

Beyond Daytona Beach Boardwalk: Exploring Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is not just about the boardwalk. There are plenty of other things to explore in this vibrant city.

The Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS) is a must-visit for art lovers. Its vast collection of art, science, and history exhibits will keep you engaged for hours.

If you love racing, then the Daytona International Speedway is the place to be. This iconic speedway hosts various races, including the Daytona 500. You can also tour the speedway and learn about Daytona Beach’s racing history.

If you are looking for a nature retreat, head south to the Marine Science Center at Ponce Inlet. Here, you can learn about marine creatures and rehabilitation efforts.

While you are there, you can also visit the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States. You can learn about its history and significance in maritime navigation.

Head to the beach and soak up the sun, or stroll on the Daytona Beach Pier for a relaxing day. You can also visit the nearby beaches of Ormond Beach and New Smyrna Beach, known for their scenic beauty and water sports.

In conclusion, Daytona Beach has something for everyone. From museums to nature reserves, racing to beaches, there is no shortage of things to explore in this vibrant city beyond the boardwalk.

Daytona Beach Hotels and Resorts

When visiting Daytona Beach, there are many hotels and resorts. Each offers unique amenities and experiences.

For those who want to be close to the action, there are beachfront hotels that offer stunning views of the ocean. The 3-star Club Wyndham Ocean Walk and the 4-star Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort offer easy access to the boardwalk

Several other nearby 4-star hotels, like the Plaza Resort & Spa and Daytona Grande Oceanfront Hotel, exist.

These hotels often have beachfront bars, restaurants, pools, and other recreational activities. If you want a more secluded experience, several resorts and hotels offer private beaches, secluded pools, and spa services.

If you’re traveling with a family, some resorts cater specifically to families, with kid-friendly pools and activities.

Boutique hotels are a great way to experience the local culture. They offer unique, personalized experiences; some are located in the heart of Daytona Beach’s historic district.

No matter where you stay, research the hotel or resort’s amenities, location, and reviews before booking. Many hotels and resorts offer package deals with activities and local attractions, so be on the lookout for those.

By carefully choosing your accommodations, you can ensure a memorable and comfortable stay in Daytona Beach.

Events and Festivals in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is not only a beautiful destination with stunning beaches and a vibrant boardwalk. It is also home to various annual events and festivals throughout the year. From music festivals to food and wine events, there is always something happening in Daytona Beach that is sure to meet a range of interests and tastes.

One of the most popular events in Daytona Beach is the Daytona Beach Bike Week, which takes place in March. This event attracts hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world. They come to Daytona Beach to enjoy the beautiful weather, scenic roads, and exciting events and activities.

The Daytona Beach Food and Wine Festival is a must-attend event for foodies. Taking place in May, this festival features local chefs and restaurants showcasing their best dishes and pairing them with a variety of wines and spirits.

Another popular event is the Halifax Art Festival, which takes place every November. This festival showcases the work of over 250 artists, including fine art, pottery, sculpture, and more. It also features live music, food vendors, and children’s activities, making it a fun and family-friendly event.

Other events in Daytona Beach include the Daytona Beach Seafood Festival in April, the Daytona Beach Dream Cruise in October, and the Greek Festival in November.

With so many events and festivals happening throughout the year, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Daytona Beach.

Practical Information for Visitors

For visitors to the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, it’s important to have some practical information to make the most of your trip. There is no shortage of things to see and do, so planning and making the most of your time is important.

Firstly, consider the time of year you are visiting. Summer tends to be the busiest and most crowded, while fall and spring offer milder weather and a more laid-back atmosphere. Winter months tend to be quieter but still offer plenty of activities and events.

However, do be aware that during March/April, American and Canadian colleges are on Spring Break. Daytona Beach is a major destination for students, so the beaches and bars can become crowded.

When it comes to getting around, there are several options available. The boardwalk is a pedestrian zone, so walking is a great way to explore the area. Bicycles are also popular, and several rental companies offer bikes for all ages.

If you are driving, several parking options are available, including street parking, public parking lots, and private garages. Some hotels and resorts also offer parking for their guests.

Regarding food and drink, plenty of options suit all tastes and budgets. From seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants, there is something for everyone. And, of course, no visit to the boardwalk is complete without trying the famous Daytona Beach-style pizza.

Finally, it’s important to remember to stay safe and take precautions. Always watch your belongings, stay in well-lit areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings.

With these tips, visitors can enjoy a fun and memorable trip to the boardwalk and beyond.

Conclusion and Summary of Touring Daytona Beach Boardwalk

To conclude, exploring the boardwalk and beyond is an adventure that is worth experiencing. There is something for everyone from the area’s rich history to the endless activities and attractions available.

As you stroll along the iconic boardwalk, you can enjoy scenic views, delicious food, exciting rides, and games. Nearby, you can explore Oceanfront Park, relax on the beach, and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

Overall, touring the boardwalk is an experience that should not be missed. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this area has something for everyone. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable Daytona Beach adventure!

We hope you enjoyed our comprehensive guide to exploring the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and beyond. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to this beautiful destination can be overwhelming.

Our guide is designed to help you get the most out of your visit, whether interested in hotspots like the boardwalk or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.

Daytona Beach has everything from dining and shopping to attractions and entertainment. We know you will have a wonderful time exploring this sunny paradise!