Daytona Beach, Florida, United States
Daytona Beach has been dubbed by some 'The World's Most Famous Beach.' Known for its stretches of smooth sandy beaches that have made driving and racing motorized vehicles a popular pastime for over 100 years, Daytona Beach impresses. The booming racing legacy continues to this day, with the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) and Grand American Road Racing Association establishing their headquarters here. Daytona Beach also beckons with activities for absolutely everyone.
Population:
68,055
Currency:
$1 US = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:
911
Opening Hours:
Most stores are open seven days a week 10am to 6pm, or later. Bars and clubs tend to close around 2am.
Newspapers:
Daytona Beach News-Journal
The City
Named after its founder Matthias Day, who built the city's first hotel on the shores of the Halifax River in 1874, Daytona Beach has grown into a major United States tourist destination in the last century. The numbers are really quite staggering–roughly 8 million people are drawn to the city each year. This is probably in part to Daytona Beach's subtropical climate, which can be hot in the summer with daily brief thunderstorms, but dry and mild in spring and summer with highs in the 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Daytona Beach grew up around the Halifax River, which runs through the center of the city. It is surrounded by the towns of Holly Hill and Ormond Beach to the north, and Daytona Beach Shores, South Daytona, and Port Orange to the south.
Do & See
Tourism is a major component of Daytona Beach's economy so you know that there will always be something to do. You could spend a day traveling to nearby communities like Ormond Beach, where John D. Rockefeller once spent his summers. Or take to the tracks to see what that's all about.
Dining
The Atlantic Ocean provides a ready source for fresh seafood, but seafood restaurants and steakhouses are just the beginning. A thriving Latino population means that excellent Mexican and Cuban food is in no short supply. You will also find restaurants featuring traditional American cuisine, barbecue, Jamaican food, and so much more.
Cafes
Most of the best coffee shops are located in Ormond Beach, but you can get a good cup of joe at many of the cafes. Breakfast is an institution, and there are several exceptional eateries vying for your business. If you crave something sweet, check out one of the area's specialty bakeries.
